The most refreshing cultural experiences to have in Edinburgh this summer

Curious about textiles? Visit the Pauline Caulfield Textiles exhibition at Dovecot Studios in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Caulfield is a textile artist who creates large-scale panels using the screen printing process and pigment dye dabbing and rolling. Her work in this exhibition spans 20 large pieces ranging from fabric panels to fans, among other “architectural interventions” that are pretty impressive to behold. 
Now-Jul 20

It’s the summer of music, and we’re here for it. Grab a curiously refreshing Hendrick's Gin and party through the night with your favourite musicians among 8,500 fans. Ranging from Madness and Paul Weller to the Manic Street Preachers, the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade Concerts is a foolproof way to kick off your summer holiday in style. And despite the iconic music ringing through the acoustic haven of the esplanade, the views are pretty spectacular, too. 
Jul 5-13

If you’re keen for a boogie (and a refreshing G&T) in Edinburgh this summer, look no further than the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival 2024. Featuring renowned artists such as Jools Holland and his rhythm and blues orchestra, this is one local festival not to be missed. As the 45th edition of the EJBF, you can expect to see up to 130 incredible jazz and blues performances over 10 days. Cheers to that. 
Jul 12-21

Boo! Ghouls got you feeling intrigued? Enjoy a unique tour of Lauriston Castle – mixed with tales of terror and the downright bizarre. Guided by a professional tour guide (and ghostbuster, frankly), you’ll see a whole new side to the castle, lightly sprinkled with a spooky story or two. Just come prepared: You’ve been warned.
Jul 27

Creative juices need a refresh? Join the Uniquely Edinburgh Adult Creative workshop with artist Tessa Asquith-Lamb for an expert walkthrough of artist Adam Bruce Thomson’s layered landscape work, The Quiet Path. As Tessa walks you through the work and the unusual perspective of Edinburgh it portrays, you’ll learn how the artist took familiarity and created something new from it – before ending the workshop by experimenting with watercolours to create your own little painted perspective of the city. 
Jul 6

Explorers unite! Learn how to capture Lauriston Castle in ink and watercolour drawings with Mark, also known as the Edinburgh Sketcher. On your 2.5-hour sketching tour, Mark will take you on a “magical” journey through the elements, with a strong focus on nature and the sea. If the weather permits, you’ll work outdoors, drawing inspiration from your picturesque surroundings – or if the weather gets a little too typically Scottish, there’s a cosy cafe inside to enjoy. 
Jul 24

Although the Edinburgh Ceilidh Club runs events all year round, its weekly traditional Scottish Ceilidh experiences – complete with live band – really pop off in the summertime. Located at the super central Summerhall, these Tuesday dance parties offer various musical acts to ceilidh to – just be sure to book well in advance as tickets are limited to 70 per event. 
Weekly, year-round

Just outside the city of Edinburgh, Jupiter Artland is an otherworldly outdoor contemporary sculpture garden and art gallery. While you’re here, be sure to check out the latest exhibitions ( including Laura Aldridge’s uber-quirky LAWNMOWER installation) and if you fancy a night to remember, book a stay at The Artist’s House – where you can enjoy a refreshing gin-spired sundowner after a day spent in nature. Dreamy.
Open all year

Keen to find more curious goings-on around the UK? Discover the Hendrick's Gin hub here. Or if you are in more of a stay-at-home kind of mood, discover where to buy Hendrick's Gin here.