Viewing the cavalcade

The cavalcade forms up on Waverley Bridge, near the station, then parades west along the whole length of Princes Street to St John's church. At the church, it turns briefly left onto Lothian Road, before heading down Castle Terrace and disbanding around the back of the castle. You can find a map of the route on the cavalcade's website (see "Also on the web", below).

Crowds line the roads along the whole length of the procession. The section along Princes Street is always very popular, and you'll need to be in place early if you want to stand near the front. For the clearest view for the least effort, head for the second half of the route, where the crowds are much thinner - though be warned that the procession is likely to string out a bit by the time it reaches you.

Commentary is provided by local radio presenters from stations along the route. Some attendees seek out the loudspeakers; others, with different tastes, flee just as quickly in the opposite direction.