by Soniya Basu | Jul 18, 2025 | Edinburgh
The World’s Biggest Arts Festival
🎭 Bagpipes meet Bollywood, Shakespeare meets street food. Welcome to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where the city becomes a stage and every street corner hums with creativity.
Whether you’re a student, tourist, or part of the South Asian diaspora in Scotland, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to enjoy the Fringe like a pro.
What Is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?
The Fringe is the largest open-access arts festival in the world, with over 3,000 shows spanning comedy, theatre, dance, circus, music, and more.
It takes over Edinburgh for three weeks every August. In 2025, the festival runs from 1st August to 25th August.
📍 Where It Happens
Everywhere. Literally.
From pop-up stages on the Royal Mile to grand venues like the Assembly Hall, Fringe shows unfold in pubs, churches, gardens, parking lots and even hair salons.
🎪 Popular venues to bookmark:
- Pleasance Courtyard
- Assembly Rooms
- Underbelly
- Gilded Balloon
- Summerhall
- The Royal Mile Street Performances
💡 How to Plan Your Visit
1. Get the App or Guidebook
Download the Edinburgh Fringe App or grab a printed guide. You can filter by date, genre, free shows, or family-friendly events.
2. Book Early (but Not Everything)
Big-name acts sell out fast. But don’t over plan. You see half the joy is discovering unknown gems.
3. Be Ready to Queue
Especially for free shows or street performances. Come early and bring a light waterproof jacket (this is Scotland, after all).
🆓 Free Shows:
These are often pay-what-you-can. Drop a fiver (or more) if you loved it. It supports performers and a way of appreciation.
💷 Paid Shows:
Expect tickets between £8–£20. Combo deals or multishow passes are sometimes available.
Look for Desi and diaspora-themed acts under World Theatre, Spoken Word, or Comedy categories. In past years, we’ve seen:
- 🎙️ South Asian stand-up comedians riffing on identity and immigration
- 🎭 Bollywood-inspired musicals
- 🩰 Classical Indian dance fusions
- 💬 Spoken word on the immigrant experience
Tip: Use keywords like India, Pakistan, Punjabi, or diaspora when searching the Fringe listings.
Don’t forget to explore ScottishIndian.com’s Edinburgh Indian Food Guide for more spots!
📸 Fringe Tips from a Local
✅ Bring cash & coins – some venues and performers don’t take card
✅ Carry a foldable bag – for flyers, water, and snacks
✅ Follow #edfringe2025 on Instagram to catch surprise shows and ticket drops
✅ Don’t ignore the Free Fringe – hidden gems await
✅ Dress in layers – the weather changes as fast as the street acts
✅ Vegetarian here contains “Egg”. So if you are IndianVegetarian look out for ‘Vegan’ food options.
Don’t shy away from asking any dietary questions or requirements. You see precaution is better than 108 sorry chants.
South Asian families or visitors with elders?
Look for shows with:
- Relaxed performances
- Seated venues
- Family-friendly times (pre-6PM)
🌐 Ready to Fringe?
Whether it’s your first Fringe or your fifteenth, there’s always something new to discover.
👉 For more tips on navigating Edinburgh as a Desi local or visitor, check our guides on:
Got a show to promote or want to see more South Asian representation at Fringe Edinburgh?
Reach out to us at ScottishIndian.com. We’re here to amplify Desi voices across Scotland’s biggest stages.
by Soniya Basu | Jul 17, 2025 | Edinburgh
Tucked at the foot of Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands as a majestic symbol of royalty, history, and mystery. Once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, and now the official Scottish residence of King Charles III, this palace is more than just a royal residence. It’s a living museum steeped in drama, grandeur, and centuries of stories.
If you’re planning a visit to Edinburgh, a tour of Holyrood Palace is an essential stop for anyone fascinated by royal history, art, or architecture.
🏰 What Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse?
Often simply called Holyrood Palace, this 16th-century baroque residence has served as a principal royal residence in Scotland for hundreds of years. Today, it’s best known as the King’s official base when in Scotland and a key ceremonial venue for events like the Royal Week in July.
It’s open year-round to the public except when the King is in residence and offers one of the most immersive experiences of royal life in the UK.
What You’ll See: Highlights of a Visit
🌟 The State Apartments
Tour through a sequence of elegant rooms including the Throne Room, the Morning Drawing Room, and the Great Gallery where over 90 portraits of Scottish monarchs line the walls. Rich with 17th-century tapestries and fine furnishings, the apartments reflect both Stuart and Hanoverian tastes.For those who enjoy heritage interiors and royal culture, be sure to also check out our post on Day Trips from Edinburgh Under £20.
🏰 Mary, Queen of Scots’ Chambers
One of the most haunting and historically rich parts of the palace. Here, Mary witnessed the murder of her secretary David Rizzio in 1566. A moment that echoes through Scottish history.
🌿 Holyrood Abbey Ruins
Step into the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Holyrood Abbey, originally founded in 1128. Despite centuries of decay, its gothic arches still stir the imagination. Don’t miss a quiet moment here — it’s one of the most atmospheric places in Edinburgh.
📍 How to Visit the Palace
- 📍 Location: At the base of the Royal Mile, opposite the Scottish Parliament
- 🕒 Opening Times: Open daily. Find opening hours and ticket info via the Royal Collection’s official page.
- 🎟️ Tickets: Entry includes an audio guide. Book online for discounts and skip-the-line access.
- 🚆 Nearby: Arthur’s Seat, Dynamic Earth, Scottish Parliament
Did You Know?
- The King stays here during official engagements like Holyrood Week, where he hosts garden parties and ceremonies.
- The name “Holyrood” means “Holy Cross”, referencing the abbey’s original religious function.
For Culture Lovers and History Seekers
Whether you’re a royal buff or a casual traveller, the Palace of Holyroodhouse offers a window into the grandeur and grit of Scottish royal life. Pair your visit with a walk up Arthur’s Seat or explore more Scottish heritage gems in our Travel & Culture section.
Make your way down the cobbled Royal Mile and end your day with a peek into the King’s Scottish sanctuary. Don’t forget to check out Edinburgh Castle at the other end of the Mile — creating the ultimate royal walking route through the city.
by Soniya Basu | Jun 20, 2025 | Edinburgh
Saturday, 21 June 2025 – tomorrow is the date! One of Edinburgh’s most loved local events is back: the Edinburgh Canal Festival 2025 is set to transform the scenic Union Canal into a buzzing celebration of community, culture, and outdoor fun.
From Lochrin Basin to Harrison Park, this vibrant event offers something for everyone—whether you’re a local, a Desi family looking for a summer day out, or just a tourist soaking in Scotland’s capital.
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re here to highlight experiences that bring together people, culture, and a little bit of sunshine (hopefully).
🌊 What’s Happening at Edinburgh Canal Festival 2025?
This free, all-ages event will turn Edinburgh’s canal into a playground packed with exciting, interactive activities. Here’s what’s in store:
✨ Canoe Polo Tournament – Watch high-energy matches as teams compete on water
✨ Kingfisher Boat Shuttle – A gentle canal cruise for families and seniors
✨ Kayaking & Canoeing Sessions –Try it for the first time with help from Scottish Canals
✨ Food & Drink Stalls – Local bites, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks
✨ Live Bands & Street Performers – Music, dance, and pop-up shows for the whole day
🎉 It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and yes—Instagram-friendly too!
📍 Location & Timings
🗓 Date: Saturday, 21 June 2025
🕘 Time: All-day event, 10AM to evening
📌 Location: Union Canal (from Lochrin Basin to Harrison Park)
🌞 Why It’s Perfect for the ScottishIndian Community
The Edinburgh Canal Festival is more than a scenic hangout—it’s a chance to explore Scotland’s urban outdoors in a relaxed, community-led way. For ScottishIndian families, it’s a summer day out that combines:
- 🚴 Active fun (bring the kids for paddleboarding or kayaking)
- 📸 Cultural colour (live music, food, arts & crafts)
- 👨👩👧👦 A wholesome vibe for all ages—from toddlers to grandparents
You don’t need to spend a fortune or go far to experience something new—just follow the canal!
🌐 Planning Your Visit
No tickets needed—just show up and enjoy. Public transport is easy: take a bus to Fountainbridge, cycle along the canal, or walk from Haymarket or Bruntsfield. Don’t forget your sunblock, water bottle, and maybe a waterproof jacket (this is Scotland after all).
Check the official event page for updates:
🔗 Edinburgh Canal Festival Event Info
🧭 Travel tip: Use Traveline Scotland to plan your route
👟 Comfortable shoes recommended
🧺 Feel free to bring your own picnic
📸 Use #EdinburghCanalFestival2025 and tag us @ScottishIndianUK
In a city full of castles and closes, the Edinburgh Canal Festival 2025 offers something different—a celebration of water, wellness, and neighbourly spirit. Whether you’re paddling, dancing, or just chilling by the canal, this is summer in Edinburgh at its best.
For more events, weekend plans, and local Desi-friendly guides, follow ScottishIndian.com/events.
by Soniya Basu | Jun 18, 2025 | Edinburgh
In the heart of Princes Street Gardens, something truly beautiful is blooming—the Edinburgh Floral Clock 2025. This iconic living timepiece isn’t just about telling time this year; it’s a heartfelt tribute to Braille, marking the 200th birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the creator of the tactile writing system that transformed accessibility forever.
Location: West Princes Street Gardens (near The Mound)
Best time to visit: June to August 2025
For the ScottishIndian community—where culture, compassion, and design often go hand-in-hand—this year’s clock speaks volumes. It’s not just about pretty flowers; it’s about visibility, inclusivity, and celebrating human innovation.
What’s the Floral Clock?
If you’re new to Edinburgh or just visiting, here’s the tea: the Floral Clock is a fully working timepiece made entirely of living plants. First planted in 1903, it’s the oldest of its kind in the world, and it changes theme each year—becoming a seasonal statement of art, history, and civic pride.
From Harry Potter to the Queen’s Jubilee, the Edinburgh Floral Clock continues this tradition with a timely tribute to accessibility and equal access to communication.
For more stories that celebrate tradition and creativity, browse our Culture section.
What’s New in 2025?
The Floral Clock 2025 is more than an aesthetic marvel—it includes Braille script embedded in the flowerbeds, making it readable through touch. Designed with help from local accessibility groups, it’s not only symbolic but also interactive. This is the first time Braille has been physically represented in a floral landmark, and it’s right here in the Scottish capital.
💡 Fun Fact: Over 50,000 plants were used in this year’s display, including sustainable species grown locally.
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re always highlighting stories that reflect cultural depth with modern relevance. Inclusion is a universal value—something that echoes through both Indian and Scottish communities. Whether it’s traditional storytelling, spiritual symbols, or tech accessibility, visibility matters.
This tribute reminds us how design and history can empower those who are often excluded. It’s also a great conversation starter about disability inclusion in Desi households and broader British society.
If you’re looking for that perfect “stop and stare” moment in Edinburgh this summer, the Floral Clock is your spot.
Snap a selfie, run your fingers across the Braille design of the Edinburgh Floral Clock 2025, and share your visit with #ScottishIndianVibes.
Want more local gems and cultural events? Check out our latest Travel & Lifestyle blogs.
As Scotland continues leading the way in inclusive public art, projects like the Floral Clock show how cities can celebrate both beauty and belonging.
Edinburgh’s Floral Clock 2025 isn’t just a photo-op—it’s a symbol. A celebration of inclusion, design, and human connection. For the ScottishIndian community, it’s a reminder that when we blend tradition with innovation, everyone finds their place.
🗞️ Stay updated on more cultural happenings by subscribing to our ScottishIndian Newsletter.
by Soniya Basu | May 26, 2025 | Edinburgh, Travel
Looking for the perfect Sunday outing in Edinburgh? Stockbridge Market Edinburgh is your go-to destination for local charm, global flavors, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re a foodie, a craft enthusiast, or part of the ScottishIndian community seeking a blend of cultures, this market has something special for you.
📍 Stockbridge Market Edinburgh – Location & Opening Hours
- Address: Saunders Street, Edinburgh EH3 6TQ
- When: Every Sunday, year-round
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM(sometimes extends to 5p.m)
🍽️ What to Eat at Stockbridge Market Edinburgh: Street Food & Global Flavors
Stockbridge Market is a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse range of cuisines:
- Street Kitchen: Savor authentic Indian street food, from spicy samosas to flavorful curries.
- Harajuku Kitchen: Enjoy Japanese delicacies like gyoza and sushi rolls.
- French Connection Creperie: Indulge in sweet and savory crepes made fresh to order.
- Giant Paellas: Watch as massive pans of paella are prepared right before your eyes.
For those with a sweet tooth, the market offers:
- Handmade Chocolates: Artisanal chocolates in various flavors.
- Home Bakes: Delicious cakes, cookies, and pastries.
Forever Edinburgh
🎨Local Crafts & Handmade Finds
Beyond food, Stockbridge Market features a variety of handcrafted goods:
- Jewelry & Accessories: Unique pieces perfect for gifting or personal use.
- Home Decor: Handmade candles, soaps, and art prints.
- Pet Products: Tartan accessories and treats for your furry friends.
Edinburgh Food Safari
🌿 Fresh Produce & Gourmet Goods at Sunday Market
Support local producers by purchasing:
- Organic Fruits & Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal produce.
- Artisan Breads & Cheeses: From crusty loaves to creamy cheeses.
- Specialty Meats & Fish: High-quality cuts and smoked options.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Moments
The market’s vibrant stalls and picturesque setting along the Water of Leith provide the perfect backdrop for your social media posts. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your delicious finds.
💡 Visiting Stockbridge Market: Tips for a Perfect Sunday in Edinburgh
- Arrive Early: To avoid crowds and get the best selection.
- Bring Cash & Card: While many vendors accept cards, some are cash-only.
- Reusable Bags: Help the environment and carry your purchases in style.
Tripadvisor
🌟 Why Stockbridge Market is a Must-Visit
Stockbridge Market offers a unique blend of Scottish and multi cultures. It’s a place where you can enjoy traditional Scottish products alongside authentic cuisines from around, reflecting the diverse tastes and traditions we celebrate.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Stockbridge Market this Sunday and immerse yourself in a cultural and culinary adventure. Looking for more weekend ideas? Check out our Day Trips from Edinburgh blog.
