Famous Spiegel Tent, The

Due to the limited number of sizeable Fringe venues in Edinburgh, there are always a number of big tops and tents that are hoisted at the beginning of August. The Spiegel Tent (venue 87) - an old-style big top dating from the 1920s with its mirrored, kabaret interior - has been one of the mainstays of the Edinburgh Fringe for many years. Music (folk, roots, blues), comedy and cabaret are on the bill each night. Beer under the stars in the elegant setting of the university's George Square is the added pull.

In 2009, the Spiegel tent didn't make it to the festival as its owner decided to use the economic downturn as an opportunity to make necessary renovations to the 89-year-old tent. It returned in 2010 but not 2011, although George Square Gardens remains a lively tented village in festival season.