13 March 2023
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Jousting, living history performances and easter trails are just some of the treats history lovers can look forward to this summer at Historic Environment Scotland sites across the country.
As part of this year's fun packed programme, Easter sees the much loved Unicorn back at Stirling Castle (April 8-9), celebrating Scotland’s mythical national creature with a weekend of family friendly activities around the iconic castle; while annual favourite Spectacular Jousting will again take place in the grounds of both Linlithgow Palace (July 1-2) and Caerlaverock Castle in Dumfries and Galloway (July 29-30).
The Easter holiday weekend (April 7-10) will also see a range of HES sites and attractions across the country host the annual Easter Eggsplorer Trails where younger kids and their families can enjoy fun themed historical challenges and have the chance to pick up some chocolatey treats as well.
A series of Living History events are also planned at many HES sites, where costumed historical performers will be on hand to tell visitors about the history of the site and the characters they portray. The programme will take place at attractions including Edinburgh Castle, Melrose Abbey, and Elgin Cathedral on selected dates from April 1-16.
Fort George near Inverness again hosts Celebration of the Centuries, (August 12-13), HES’s largest re-enactment event providing a living timeline of Scotland’s history where visitors can wander through the Living History camps boasting everything from Picts and Romans to Vikings, Jacobites and First World War soldiers as well as being able to dance along to a big band and Swing dancers in the 40s Zone. The two-day spectacular will also see stunt horse riders from the TV series Outlander performing a show inspired by the events of the ’45 Jacobite Rising.
DRAMATIC EVENTS FROM SCOTTISH HISTORY - NEW HISTORY SCOTLAND SOUVENIR BOOKLET
Stephen Duncan, Director of Marketing and Engagement at HES, said: “Our fun packed annual events programme provides a wonderful opportunity for our visitors to experience some of our iconic sites and enjoy a range of fantastic, historically themed live performances and interactive experiences, while exploring and learning about Scotland’s rich heritage.
“Our events offer something for all ages to enjoy and we again look forward to welcoming visitors new and returning as we bring the stories of our past alive against the dramatic backdrop of many of our world-renowned historic sites.”
Tickets for the events can be bought in advance online and daytime events are free for Historic Scotland members.
(images copyright Historic Environment Scotland)
