Plan your day
We want to make sure that all visitors to The Big Event Edinburgh have a fantastic day, that's why we do our best to make our events as accessible and inclusive as possible. Here is some information that we hope will help you plan your visit.
Scooter hire
We have a number of scooters and manual wheelchairs available to borrow free of charge – these can be booked here. All scooters and wheelchairs can be collected outside the foyer at the entrance to the event.
Free to attend
The Big Event Edinburgh is free to attend. There is no need to pre-book your place, simply turn up on the day - everyone is welcome!
The venue
The Big Event Edinburgh is taking place at the Royal Highland Centre. Royal Highland Centre is on one level and is fully accessible to both scooters and wheelchairs. This event is indoors.
Free parking
Designated free parking is located close to the entrances of all our events. On arrival, you will be directed to the closet available car parking spaces by our car parking stewards. Once you have parked your vehicle, car park assistants will be on hand to help you if needed. There is also an accessible car park shuttle service running from the car park to and from the main entrances.
Toilets
We provide additional fully accessible toilets along with a High Dependency Unit equipped with adult and child changing facilities within the hall.
All our events are autism friendly
- Quiet / Sensory Room – Our quiet room with sensory products available to use at all our events. If you would like to access this room, please ask a member of the event team.
- Quieter times of day - As our events can get quite busy, you may be interested in attending the events at the quieter times which are generally between 2pm and 4pm.
- Ear defenders - We have a limited number of ear defenders available to borrow on request.
- Loud speaker announcements - These will be kept to a minimum and are only used for emergencies. There will be planned announcements at 3:45pm onwards to let guests know the show is closing at 4pm.
- Music - No music is played at any of our events.
We’re here to help - if you need any extra assistance on the day simply ask one of the Motability team.
Free refreshments
On arrival at our events, you’ll be given a token that you can exchange for a free tea, coffee or soft drink. There will be a range of hot and cold food options available to purchase.
Kids zone
All our events are designed to be a fun day out for the whole family. There will be a children’s play area with free face painting, free balloon modelling and much more. Plus, you'll get the chance to meet the Motability Scheme mascot, Billy the Bear!
Assistance dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome at Royal Highland Centre however any other dogs or pets are not allowed and will be refused entry. Please do not leave your dogs in your car while you attend our events.
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at all our events. Just ask one of the Motability Team on the day if you can't gain access.
More information
If you are looking for more information about all our events, why not try our Event FAQs page.
COVID-19 update
Following the UK Government's easing of COVID-19 "Autumn and Winter Plan B" restrictions, we want to assure you that the safety of visitors attending our One Big Day events is still our number one priority.
Do NOT attend One Big Day, Edinburgh if you:
- Are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 (a high temperature, new and persistent cough, or a loss of/change in sense of taste or smell), even if these symptoms are mild
- Have been asked to self-isolate because you have been exposed to a person with COVID-19
- Live with an individual who has symptoms of COVID-19
COVID-19 safety measures and protocols
We encourage visitors to follow public health guidance when attending our One Big Day events, including wearing face coverings when indoors or in crowded areas, unless exempt.
ocial distancing
We have widened aisles around the vehicle displays as much as possible and provided more space between tables and chairs in catering areas.
Hygiene measures
Hand sanitising stations will be frequently positioned throughout our One Big Day events. We would recommend maintaining good hand hygiene by using these stations after you have visited each stand and regularly wash your hands.
COVID-19 protocols remain subject to any change in Government guidance.
If you would like any further information or have additional questions concerning event safety, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Simply call 0800 953 7000 or email us at events@motabilityoperations.co.uk.
First time at one of our events
If this is your first time attending a Motability Scheme event, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible. Watch this short video so you can experience first-hand what to expect from the day.