The Accession Day Gun Salute at Edinburgh Castle took place on Tuesday 8 September 2026, marking the anniversary of the accession of His Majesty The King. (And the death of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.)
The salute was fired at 1200 hrs from Mills Mount within Edinburgh Castle and was conducted by personnel from 47th Regiment Royal Artillery, who were supported musically by the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland and a solo piper from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
A ceremonial guard was provided by Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland.
Accession Day Gun Salute at Edinburgh Castle on Tuesday 8 September 2026, marking the anniversary of the accession of His Majesty The King. ALL PHOTOS © 2026 Martin McAdam.
Major General (Retired) Tim Hyams said: “It is an honour to be the Reviewing Officer at this Royal Gun Salute, marking His Majesty The King’s Accession to the throne. The King, and Her Majesty The Queen who is Patron of the Army Benevolent Fund, demonstrate the most evident care and attention for the Army and its people.
“In that context, it is a privilege to be representing the Army Benevolent Fund as today’s Reviewing Officer. As the Army’s national charity, we provide a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans, and their families when they fall into need, such they can live with independence and dignity.”
A Royal Gun salute is usually made up of 21 rounds, although the number can vary depending on occasion and location. Today’s salute at Edinburgh Castle brings together soldiers to perform precise ceremonial duties that take a great deal of practice and teamwork, keeping Scotland’s rich military traditions alive for future generations.
Ceremonial occasions like today’s are part of the Nation’s traditions and a reminder of the long and unbroken history of the British Monarchy. Accession Day provides the opportunity to show support for the Monarch and wish them a long and prosperous reign.
