Expect big crowds and colourful streets this weekend; Pride Edinburgh’s march and celebration on Saturday, June 20 will close large parts of the Old Town and reroute several Lothian Bus services, so plan ahead if you’re driving, catching a bus or meeting friends in the city centre.

Essential takeaways

  • When: Parade and event on Saturday, June 20; key closures from 11.30am–3.30pm and 12.30pm–3.30pm.
  • Where: March from the Scottish Parliament up the Royal Mile to Bristo Square; major Old Town streets will be shut.
  • Buses: Multiple Lothian Bus routes (including services 2, 9, 12, 23, 27, 35, 45 and 47) will be diverted between roughly 12.30pm–3.30pm. Expect delays and altered stops.
  • Senses & mood: Streets will feel lively and loud, with music, banners and big crowds , give yourself extra time and patience.
  • Practical: Walk, cycle, or use park-and-ride / alternate bus routes where possible; check council and operator updates before you travel.

What’s closing and when , the practical map you need

If you’re heading into the Old Town, note the staggered timings: some roads close from 11.30am to 3.30pm, and a larger set from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Expect Horse Wynd and Queen’s Drive southwards to be off-limits early, with the full length of Canongate, High Street, George IV Bridge, Bristo Place and several more streets blocked from mid‑day. The sight will be vivid , rainbow flags, drum beats and a steady human tide.

The council published the closures to keep people safe and the march flowing. According to the city’s event pages, organisers and police coordinate these to protect both participants and bystanders. If you’re driving, treat the perimeter roads like you would for a festival: full, slow and likely to have stewarding.

Buses: which services change and how to adapt

Lothian Buses has announced diversions affecting many key routes. For instance, service 2 will be routed via Lothian Road and Melville Drive eastbound, while services 23 and 27 will avoid the Royal Mile and use George Street and Princes Street instead. Service 9 will be diverted through George Street and Waverley; other services will follow longer loops around the closed area.

That means a stop you normally use might be out of action for the afternoon. The quick tip: check the Lothian Buses app or the council’s travel pages before you leave, and build in an extra 15–30 minutes for connections. If you can, walk a short distance to an unaffected route , often that’s faster than waiting for a diverted bus.

Best ways to arrive and leave , avoid the biggest headaches

Walking or cycling will be the easiest options for most nearby residents and visitors; the atmosphere is part of the experience, and foot access is prioritised. If you need to drive, consider using park-and-ride or parking a bit further out and walking in. Taxis may struggle in the Old Town, so book in advance or head to a taxi rank on the edge of the closed area.

For families, elderly visitors or anyone who needs step-free access, plan a specific meeting point outside the closures , somewhere on George Street, Leith Walk or near Haymarket is usually reliable. And don’t forget water and sunscreen; crowded events get warm quickly and queues are part of the day.

Why these changes matter and what to expect on the day

Pride is a large, celebratory public event and these closures are about safety as much as crowd control. The parade route from the Scottish Parliament to Bristo Square lets marchers pass through the city’s most historic streets, which also concentrates footfall and needs clear stewarding, first-aid access and vehicle-free zones.

City officials have used this approach for recent large events, and the trade‑off is temporary inconvenience for a controlled, inclusive celebration. Locals often say the atmosphere makes the disruption worthwhile , but a little planning turns a stressful commute into a relaxed day out.

Quick checklist before you head out

  • Check the council’s Pride Edinburgh page and Lothian Buses updates for any last-minute changes.
  • Leave earlier than usual or pick an alternate route if you must drive.
  • Agree a meet-up point outside the closed area if you’re with a group.
  • Carry a map, show tickets or contact numbers for anyone with access needs.
  • Enjoy the parade, but keep valuables close and be prepared for loud music and big crowds.

It’s a small change to your travel plans that helps make the day safer and more joyful for everyone.

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