Kilts are an integral part of Scottish culture and heritage, so you will see plenty of lads and lassies braving the cold in knee-length tartan patterned skirts. It’s an acquired sound to listen to, but the bagpipes are played by truly skilled musicians worthy of praise, so instead of covering your ears and shuffling on as quickly as possible, why not stand, listen and leave them a tip? Local delicacies include haggis and deep-fried mars bars, and, of course, you’ll have to sample a dram or two of local whiskey.
The world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world and it transforms Scotland’s capital every August. Thousands of performers take to hundreds of stages all over the city to present everything from comedy and theatre to dance, circus and spoken word. Other popular festivals include Edinburgh International Film Festival, Edinburgh International Science Festival and Scottish International Storytelling Festival.