Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal will be one of around 300 people who take part in the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches tomorrow (Sunday 14 September).
The Edinburgh Riding of the Marches is an annual re-enactment of the centuries-old tradition of checking the city’s boundaries on horseback.
Originating in the 16th century, the yearly event took place to ensure the landed gentry were not building on land belonging to the common people.
Today, participants will follow a 26-mile route which starts in the Edinburgh countryside and finishes on the Royal Mile. Thousands of spectators are expected line the route.
People’s Procession
This year the event will denote the culmination of the Edinburgh 900 celebrations – a series of events to mark the 900th anniversary of the city – and feature a ‘People’s Procession’ comprising 900 citizens.
“This event is a living connection to Edinburgh’s past,” said Sam Lockhart, press officer for the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches.
“It will be bringing together riders from across Scotland and beyond, uniting communities in celebration of tradition, resilience and the beauty of our city.
“We are honoured that Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal will be joining the event on horseback, marking the culmination of the Edinburgh 900 celebrations. We look forward to sharing with Her Royal Highness the spirit, pride and community that has woven the historical and cultural tapestry of the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches.”
Spectator friendly
The Edinburgh Riding of the Marches has evolved into one of the capital’s most vibrant public events and draws large crowds, particularly along the Royal Mile, to see the procession which is led by pipe bands and the Edinburgh Captain and Lass.
The riders, who hail predominantly from the 29 Scottish Common Riding Towns, will be dressed in traditional uniform, along with coloured sashes representing their towns, whose own Marches and festivals run each year from April through to September.
Leading the cavalcade of horses will be the 2025 Edinburgh Captain Adam Geehan carrying the Edinburgh City Banner accompanied by Edinburgh Lass Kirsten Lees.
“The People’s Procession is a living tribute to the people who have shaped Edinburgh across centuries,” said Iain Whyte, chair of the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches.
‘A day to remember’
“If you’re in town, this will be a day to remember. We are delighted that Scottish broadcaster, actor and Pantomime legend, Grant Stott, will be leading the procession and we will be welcoming groups from across Edinburgh, including schools, community organisations, charities, volunteers, music, dance, theatre and more.
“Expect to see everything from surgeons to sporting institutions, bus drivers to paramedics, school pupils to military veterans. What better way to celebrate Edinburgh’s 900th year as a city, than to put our citizens at the forefront of the stage.”
Event Highlights
- Starting point for the horses: Drum Estate at 9.30am
- Entertainment: Royal Mile, starting at 12.30pm
- Edinburgh 900 People’s Procession: From Queens Drive, Holyrood Park up the Royal Mile at 2.30pm
- Grand cavalcade of horses: Royal Mile, approximately 3.45pm
- Flag Ceremony: Mercat Cross, Royal Mile, approximately 3.55pm
- Free to attend: Spectators are encouraged to arrive early for best viewing spots
Images © Phunkt.
