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The Fringe Festival tends to be more off beat than the main festival and is made up of all manner of professional and amateur performers. As a result it tends to appeal to a younger audience. The Fringe side of the Edinburgh Festival is now regarded by the stage industry as so cutting edge and innovative that it is viewed by many as a showcase for new talent.
The Film Festival also dates back to 1947 and so is the oldest such festival in the world. It is now an established part of the film industry's calendar and features both mainstream and independent films. The Book and Jazz Festivals, whilst smaller, also attract big names in their respective fields. These are more recently established off-shoots of the main festival, but nevertheless have become equally popular. And of course, one of the biggest attractions during the festival is the army's contribution - famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which is held on the Esplanade of the Castle. Held since 1950 this is the single most popular event in Edinburgh's International Festival, with over 200,000 people watching it each year. One of the International Festival's highlights is the huge open air concert held in Princes Street Gardens, accompanied by a massive firework display from the castle ramparts. This event takes place on the final day of the Festival and is essentially the closing ceremony - but best of all, it is free.
The Edinburgh International Festival is held annually in mid-August or early September. The programme is usually available from around May time, and if there is something you particularly want to see make sure you book in advance (especially for the Military Tattoo). And whilst the Festival is naturally a great time to visit Edinburgh, it is also worth remembering that accommodation is booked out months in advance so make sure you get your hotel sorted before you arrive! Edinburgh's is only the second Royal Botanical Gardens in the whole of the UK.
Edinburgh's Royal Botanical Garden was first started in the 1670s during the reign of Charles II and was located in the gardens of the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Charles' physician Sir Robert Sibbald had an active interest in the medicinal qualities of plants and so he began a physic garden in order to conduct research. In 1823 the collection was moved to its present position in Inverleith Row to the north east of the city centre. The gardens are now home to over 2,000 species of plant, spread over 72 acres. The result is a peaceful haven right in the heart of the city where, as well as admiring the greenery, you can get some fantastic views of Edinburgh. Among other things the gardens contain the biggest collection of rhododendrons in the UK and an excellent rock garden. However, for many the highlight of the gardens are the Glasshouses, particularly the Palm House, where some of the more exotic plants are housed.
Also situated within the gardens is Inverleith House, former home of the National Gallery of Modern Art. Nowadays the house is used as a venue temporary art exhibitions throughout the year. The gardens are open daily throughout the year, however times vary according to day and month so check in advance. Admission is free but you are expected to give a donation if you want to go in the Glasshouses.