The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association announced yesterday, December 19, that the UK Pipe Band Championships will be held in Edinburgh at Royal Highland Centre Ingliston on July 12, 2025.
The venue change means it is the first time the UK Championships has been held outside of Northern Ireland since its inception in 2014. The creation of the UK Championships seen it replace the Cowal Highland Gathering as a major competition.
Yesterday’s announcement means only the British Championship has still to be confirmed for the major pipe band competitions in 2025. Last year’s British Pipe Band Championship was held in Forres, on June 8, 2024.
The RSPBA Working Group announced on their Facebook page on November 1, the three confirmed 2025 venues and dates at that point were the Scottish on July 26 at Dumbarton; the European on August 9 at Perth; and the Worlds at Glasgow Green on August 15-16.
The full statement from RSPBA is below.
The Royal Highland Centre is delighted to announce a new collaboration with the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) to host the UK Pipe Band Championships on 12 July 2025.
This prestigious competition will bring together some of the finest pipe bands from across the UK to compete, celebrating both music and tradition. The event will feature various categories across different grades, allowing bands of all levels to showcase their talent and compete.
This celebrated event is not just about competition, it is also a gathering for enthusiasts of traditional Scottish music, featuring performances, workshops, and opportunities for camaraderie among musicians and spectators alike.
The championships serve as both a showcase of musical talent and a celebration of cultural heritage, highlighting the rich tradition of pipe bands in Scotland and beyond. It offers a platform for bands to demonstrate their skill and dedication while fostering a sense of community among participants and spectators.
This new partnership with the Royal Highland Centre offers a unique opportunity to showcase Scotland’s piping heritage in Edinburgh. The Royal Highland Centre is Scotland’s largest indoor and outdoor venue, and its excellent location and outstanding facilities provide an ideal setting for this prestigious competition.
Tickets for the UK Pipe Band Championships will be available for purchase through the Royal Highland Centre website starting early next year.
Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of the RSPBA said, “We are delighted to partner with The Royal Highland Centre to host the 2025 UK Pipe Band Championships. This event is a celebration of the dedication and artistry of pipers and drummers, and we look forward to welcoming bands and audiences from near and far.
Mark Currie, Director of Venue, Royal Highland Centre said, “We are delighted to be partnering with the team at Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association for this exciting national event. Royal Highland Centre has always been dedicated to giving a platform for homegrown organisations like the RSPBA, we couldn’t be prouder to be hosting their UK Championships and there is no better venue to do so. We look forward to welcoming both musicians and audiences in July of next year for what is sure to be a competition to remember.