Ross Bandstand, Edinburgh 1977

The Ross Bandstand, located in West Princes Street Gardens beneath the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, is one of the city’s most iconic outdoor venues. Originally built in 1877 and later replaced in 1935, the current Art Deco-style amphitheatre was designed by city architect Ebenezer James MacRae and funded by distiller William Henry Ross.

With seating for around 2,500 people, the bandstand has long played a central role in Edinburgh’s cultural calendar. It hosts concerts, community events, and key parts of major festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, Hogmanay celebrations, and the Festival Fireworks Concert.

In 1949, it was the site of the military display that later inspired the creation of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Despite proposals in recent years to redevelop the space, the Ross Bandstand remains an important and much-loved feature of the city’s public life and landscape.