Visit Edinburgh in March

Visiting Edinburgh: March 2024

Spring arrives in March, and there is plenty to look forward to here in Edinburgh. So let’s take a closer look at what to do this March during a stay with us at Parliament House Hotel.

March festivals and events

The month starts with comedy, as the Edinburgh International Improv Festival is on until 3rd March. Tickets are now on sale for shows by some of the funniest improvisers from across the world! This is the sixth year for this festival and it’s shaping up to be a good one!

For long-distance runners, the Meadows Marathon will be held on 3rd March. This annual student-organised event raises money for local and worldwide charities. There’s a choice of races; a 5K, 10K, relay, half marathon and full marathon. So get your running shoes on and sign up here.

On 30th March, the Edinburgh Science Festival kicks off with the theme “Shaping the future”. This festival is a celebration of science and technology for all ages, with a programme featuring many fascinating events, such as discussions, debates, workshops, screenings and more.

This year, Easter weekend falls from Friday 29th March to Monday 1st April. So look out for special events and shows over the holiday weekend too.

Theatre breaks this March

Our hotel is just around the corner from, Edinburgh Playhouse, a fantastic theatre with a packed programme of live shows on throughout the year. This month, highlights include Bill Bailey: Thoughtifier on 11th March and Professor Brian Cox – Horizons: A 21st Century Space Odyssey on the 15th. Ellen Kent’s opera company will be live at the Playhouse with Bizet’s Carmen on the 13th and Puccini’s Madama Butterfly on the 14th. See full listings here.

Attraction of the month: Royal Yacht Britannia

For March, our attraction of the month is the Royal Yacht Britannia, voted the best UK historic attraction (joint first place) by Which? members. This former royal yacht is now a five-star visitor attraction, berthed in Leith, Edinburgh. It’s easy to reach by bus from the city centre. Here, you can climb aboard and explore five decks, from the luxurious State Apartments to the shining Engine Room. You can also tuck into some elegant refreshments in the Royal Deck Tea Room. Open throughout March, this is a must-see attraction during a visit to Edinburgh. Plan your visit here.

Offer of the month: Afternoon Tea Break

Our Afternoon Tea Break hotel package is available on selected dates from January to April. This fantastic city break includes 2 nights in a twin or double room at our central Parliament House Hotel, with a voucher for a Victorian Afternoon Tea for two and a glass of fizz, or a Chandon Garden Spritz, at nearby Brewhemia. Perfect for a shopping break in the city. Full details and T&Cs.

Afternoon Tea served in china cups

Day trip of the month: Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands

Edinburgh is a great base from which to explore the rest of Scotland. There are plenty of organised coach trips, which you can join for a wonderful day out. For example, Rabbie’s Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Tour, which takes you to some of the most beautiful places in the Scottish Highlands. This includes the legendary Loch Ness, where there is the option to take a boat cruise and keep an eye out for Nessie herself! You’ll also learn about the history of this magnificent region, from a knowledgeable guide. Book your trip.

Our top March blogs

Our Edinburgh Blog features news, guides and travel information to help you plan your visit. Check out our pick of the best blogs for March:

  1. What’s on in Edinburgh this spring?
  2. Best festivals in Edinburgh this spring/summer
  3. Spending a spring day in Edinburgh
  4. On the hunt for hidden gems in Edinburgh
  5. Your Edinburgh questions answered
Daffodills in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh

Visiting us this March

So, book your stay at Parliament House Hotel in Edinburgh and start planning your adventures. Remember, we have further information on attractions, shopping, itineraries, road trips and more in our Edinburgh Guide. And we are always here, should you need any help planning activities during your stay.