David Tennant, Head of Show for RHASS, said: "The first day of the Show saw us welcome more than 50,000 visitors through the gates of the Royal Highland Centre, including thousands of pupils from across Scotland visiting the RHET Discovery Centre to learn more about farming and rural life.
"Among the highlights of the day was a visit from the First Minister, who met some of Scotland's finest food and drink producers exhibiting in Scotland's Larder, including producers of haggis and ice cream.
"More than 6,000 livestock have started competing across the Show and we're gearing up for an extremely busy Friday and weekend as we stage the first Royal Highland Show presents The Reeling, a traditional Scottish music festival on Saturday, and our dedicated family day on Sunday, featuring everything from hobby horsing to milking demonstrations.
"For anyone planning a visit over the coming days, we encourage the use of public transport wherever possible, with the dedicated Service 98 bus coming to the Royal Highland Centre from the city centre and the Edinburgh Tram stop nearby.
“We look forward to welcoming you at the Show soon!”
1. Royal Highland Show Thursday
Sampling some of the Mackies produce at the Royal Highland Show onThursday Photo: Ian Georgeson
2. Royal Highland Show Thursday
Sampling some Scottish fayre at the Royal Highland Show on Thursday Photo: Ian Georgeson
3. Royal Highland Show's opening day at Ingliston in Edinburgh.Credit: Euan Cherry for The Royal Highland Show
Judging in the sheep rings at the Royal Highland Show's opening day at Ingliston in Edinburgh. Credit: Euan Cherry for The Royal Highland Show Photo: Euan Cherry