125 bands from across the UK gathered at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, for the 2026 British Pipe Band Championships on Saturday 30 May.
Hosted by the Royal Highland Centre and the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA), the event attracted almost double the number of competing bands and spectators compared to its debut at the venue in 2025, including a significant increase in Grade 1 entries.
One of the biggest events in the piping calendar, more than 2,300 visitors enjoyed a full day of world-class piping and drumming, drum major competitions and family entertainment.
Mark Currie, Managing Director, Royal Highland Centre, said: “The growth of the Championships in just its second year at Ingliston has been fantastic to see.
“Welcoming almost double the number of bands and spectators demonstrates both the strength of our partnership with the RSPBA and the Royal Highland Centre’s capacity to host major cultural and sporting events.
“The atmosphere throughout the day was incredible and the Championships are becoming an increasingly important fixture in our events calendar. We look forward to building on this success in the years ahead.”
Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: “The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association was absolutely delighted with the success of the British Pipe Band Championships at The Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston.
“The event showcased the very best of pipe band competition, with outstanding performances from bands across all grades, creating a fantastic atmosphere for competitors, supporters, and spectators alike.
“The Royal Highland Centre proved to be an excellent venue, providing first-class facilities and a superb setting for one of the major championships in the pipe band calendar. We are extremely grateful to all the bands, adjudicators, volunteers, staff, partners, and attendees whose commitment and enthusiasm contributed to such a memorable day.
“Following the success of this year’s event, The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association is delighted to confirm that we will be returning to The Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, on 29 May 2027 for the British Pipe Band Championships.
“We look forward to building on this year’s success and welcoming the pipe band community back to what has become a truly outstanding championship venue.”
The British Pipe Band Championships will return to the Royal Highland Centre on Saturday 29 May 2027.
