The Big Four Venues of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Every August, the city of Edinburgh is transformed by one of the world’s most iconic festivals, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. With thousands of shows offering high-profile, diverse, and entertaining performances, venues across the city open their doors to welcome the world. Among them, four major venues stand out as the heart of the action. Here’s your guide to the Big Four and why you should make them part of your Fringe experience.

Assembly
Main hubs: Assembly Hall on The Mound, Assembly George Square Gardens and Assembly Roxy.
From dance to comedy and theatre, Assembly is a hub for top-tier talent and produces a rich and varied program, hosting performers from around the world. They make use of some of the city’s impressive historic and charming venues. George Square Gardens, one of their key locations, hosts open-air bars, food stalls and outdoor spaces perfect for getting into the festival spirit.

 
Gilded Balloon
Main hub: Teviot Row House at Bristo Square.
Fans of cabaret, theatre, and comedy will find plenty to enjoy at the Gilded Balloon, which showcases a wealth of emerging talent and has helped launch the careers of many well-known performers. Their main hub is located at the heart of the festival action, the venue has numerous performance spaces and a lively courtyard to enjoy the buzz of the Fringe.

Pleasance
Main hubs: Pleasance Courtyard, Pleasance Dome at Bristo Square.
As a true Fringe institution, Pleasance is known for its strong line-up of comedians, as well as its entertaining family shows and experimental theatre. The Courtyard is a great space to socialize, relaxing over food and drinks while swapping show recommendations with friends old and new.

 
Underbelly
Main hubs: Underbelly George Square, Cowgate and Circus Hub on the Meadows.
Underbelly’s main venues are hard to miss, their signature purple cow tent is a Fringe staple, showing off their playful spirit. Known for providing high-energy, bold and immersive performances, they specialise in physical theatre, circus and comedy, offering audiences an unforgettable experience.

Whether it is your first time visiting the Fringe or a regular, the Big Four venues are essential stops in your Fringe experience. It is wise to book your tickets in advance to shows at these venues as they tend to sell out quickly. 


Image copyright: 
VisitScotland/Kenny Lam