I was delighted to have my first opportunity to watch ‘Beating Retreat’ in Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and on Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. I had also been asked to take a few shots, which I was of course delighted to do. This was the 58^th annual event and it is organised by the local Boys Brigade organisation in Edinburgh, bringing together groups from across Scotland.

This was a spectacular spine tingling show performed by 150 young and old people within the organisation, who performed brilliantly throughout the whole evening. I in particular loved the moment they played Highland Cathedral in front of the Edinburgh City Chambers, before they made their way to the Castle Esplanade.

We were joined by The Lord Griffiths of Burry Port, who is President of the UK Boys Brigade and the Edinburgh Lord Provost.

The story behind the ‘Beating Retreat’ dates back several hundred years within the British monarchy. This was originally a parade to gather the troops from the local streets after last orders at the bars and Inns. This was done at sunset and showed that the gates to the castle were closing and that the flags were being lowered.

Here is my experience of the event, shown by photographs from the start of the evening till the end. If you are in or visiting Edinburgh during this annual event (almost like a mini Tattoo, for one night only), I would highly recommend you took time out to watch it! Enjoy!

To learn more or plan to visit next years event, visit http://www.thebb-edinburgh.org.uk/news/latest-news/58th-boys-brigade-beating-retreat-2015/