April in Edinburgh

April is when spring really arrives in Edinburgh. Blossom is out along the streets, the evenings are long enough for a walk after dinner, and the Easter holidays bring plenty for families. The month ends with one of the city’s most extraordinary nights.

Edinburgh Science Festival (every April, venues across the city)

The world’s first science festival fills museums, galleries and gardens across the city for two weeks or so, with half of the programme made for children. It’s a brilliant rainy-day plan.

Edinburgh International Harp Festival (early April, George Watson’s College)

Harpers from Scotland and around the world gather for concerts, courses and workshops, and you don’t need to play to enjoy the evening performances.

Beltane Fire Festival (30 April, Calton Hill)

On the last night of April, the Beltane Fire Society welcomes the summer on Calton Hill with fire, drumming and performance. It’s a ticketed night on a steep, rough hill, so book ahead and wear good shoes.

Caley Spring Bulb Show (the first weekend in April, Saughton Park)

The Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society’s annual show fills the room at Saughton Park with spring bulbs and their scent. It’s open to all, whether you grow them or just want to look.

Dr Neil’s Garden (open daily, Duddingston, free)

Beside Duddingston Loch, under Arthur’s Seat, this peaceful garden is lovely in spring. It’s open every day from 10am until dusk, entry is free, and donations help keep it going.

At the Royal Botanic Garden, spring is the time for the famous rhododendrons, from the little alpine ones in the Rock Garden to the big species in the woodland.

Jazz Sundays (every Sunday evening, Söderberg Pavilion)

Söderberg Pavilion puts on live jazz every Sunday evening, and it’s a relaxed way to end a weekend in the city.

Edinburgh’s weekly markets carry on all year, so wrap up and make a morning of one. Edinburgh Farmers’ Market sets up on Castle Terrace under the castle every Saturday morning, with seasonal fruit and veg, locally sourced game and more. The Grassmarket Market runs every Saturday too, with baking, produce and local craftwork, and Leith Market is on Dock Place by the Shore on Saturdays, mostly food with a few local makers. On Sundays, head to Stockbridge Market on Saunders Street for street food and lifestyle stalls.

Edinburgh’s independent bookshops keep up a full programme of author talks, launches and book groups all year. Topping & Company, Lighthouse Bookshop and the Portobello Bookshop on Portobello High Street are the ones to watch, so check their events pages before you travel.

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