July events at Historic Environment Scotland sites

Visit Clan MacAulay at the Caledonia Celtic Festival (Ontario) June 22nd

14 June 2019

Scotland Events July 2019 …

17 June 2019

Published by Joan McAulay on 15 June 2019

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For more information on any of these events visit Historic Environment Scotland here. Historic Environment Scotland Members’ discount available.

Paw prints and poos – Linlithgow Palace – Tuesday 2 July 2019

Get closer to our local wildlife and learn how to read the clues they leave behind to find out who makes the loch their home. Aimed at children aged between 8 and 12, must be accompanied by an adult.

Art in the Park – Holyrood Park – Wednesday 3 July 2019

Join the Rangers for a fun filled session of creative exploration in the outdoors! Aimed at children between 10 and 14.

Historical Holyrood Foraging – Holyrood Park – Sunday 7 July 2019

Join Anna Canning from Floramedica for this informative and fascinating guided walk to discover what natural foods and medicines people have used throughout history. Sure to be a delight for all the senses.

Get a Wriggle On! – Linlithgow Palace – Tuesday 9 July 2019

Join us on a hunt for all things that slither and slide. Aimed at children aged between 8 and 12, must be accompanied by an adult.

Natural Crafts – Holyrood Park – Wednesday 10 July 2019

Join the rangers for a session of natural crafting. Weave with willow and learn to make cordage from nettles. Aimed at children between 10 and 14.

A Comedy of Errors – Multiple venues – Friday 12 July 2019 and Saturday 13 July 2019

Folksy Theatre Company bring to life the Bard’s classic farce.

I Serve Robert Bruce! – Aberdour Castle and Gardens – Saturday 13 July 2019 and Sunday 14 July 2019

Meet Robert the Bruce and James Douglas who was an important supporter of the Bruce during the Scottish Wars of Independence. Wander through the living history camp, see the weapons of the time in the armoury, watch the cooks in the medieval kitchen, have a go at some games and try your hand at calligraphy with real iron gall ink!

Garrisoned in a Rebellious Land – Fort George – Select from 13 dates through to Sunday 14 July 2019

Not all Scots were supporters of the doomed Jacobite Cause. Some chose to join the British army and fight for King George. Meet one of King George’s loyal Scots who is garrisoned at the newest and most up to date Fort in Britain. Hear about his daily routine from protecting the area from Jacobite attack as well as digging ditches and building the defences. The soldier will be stationed at the Fort from 12pm-4pm on each of the days. Drop by and say hello at your convenience. Included in admission price.

Art Attack – Linlithgow Palace – Tuesday 16 July 2019

Make paint, dyes and sculptures – all from what nature has to offer! Suitable for children aged between 8 and 12, must be accompanied by an adult.

Citizen Science – Holyrood Park – Wednesday 17 July 2019

Calling all budding ecologists! Come and spend a session carrying out a number of citizen science activities, from water quality testing to tree health surveys. Aimed at children 10 to 14.

Scottish Chamber Orchestra – Stirling Castle – Thursday 18 July 2019

The Orchestra’s superb principal Cellist Philip Higham is soloist in Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations – a work that tips its hat to the eighteenth century, but is utterly Romantic at heart. The opening of Mozart’s ‘Paris’ Symphony is one of the grandest, most thrilling sounds, with Mozart making use of clarinets for the first time in a symphony. Conductor Philipp von Steinaecker continues the genial high spirits and passion in Haydn’s final Symphony, written when the conductor was staying in London.

Coastal Capers – Blackness Castle – Saturday 20 July 2019

Head to the beach for a fun afternoon of rockpooling, beach art and games! Aimed at children aged between 8 and 12, must be accompanied by an adult.

Water Safari – Linlithgow Palace – Selected dates through to Sunday 21 July 2019 (booking essential)

Discover Linlithgow Loch by Canadian canoe with the assistance of fully qualified instructors. Experience a different view of the Palace, loch and its wildlife from duck level. Suitable for beginners or those with some paddling experience. Families and groups of two or three can share a canoe. Not suitable for children under 8yrs old. 8-16 year olds must be accompanied by an adult. Members get a 10% discount. Meet at Low Port Reception. Bring a change of clothes and footwear.

A Loyal Man – Urquhart Castle – Select from 13 dates through to Sunday 21 July 2019

Meet a Jacobite clansman and find out more about his life and the role he played during this turbulent period in Scotland’s history. Get hands on with the weapons and equipment from the period.

Highland Militia – Fort George – Select from 12 dates through to Monday 22 July 2019

After the 1715 Jacobite uprising, Highland clans were forming militias in defence for the government. Ardent support for the king, at least in public. But were these militias pure of intent, or did the harbour Jacobite ambitions? Come along and find out today. Our performer will be on hand from 12pm-4pm. Come and say hello at any time. Included in admission price.

Big Butterfly Count – Linlithgow Palace – Tuesday 23 July 2019

Help the Rangers take part in this year’s nationwide Big Butterfly Countthen take away some fact sheets so you can carry out your own one at home. Aimed at children aged between 8 and 12, must be accompanied by an adult.

The Tempest – Elgin Cathedral – Tuesday 23 July 2019

Shakespeare’s final play, is also believed by many to be his finest comedy, presented in Illyria’s slick, physical and imaginative style. A magician marooned on an island with his daughter conjures up a storm to shipwreck his enemies on the shore of the island. Which is greater – his desire for revenge or his aptitude for forgiveness? Historic Scotland Members get 10% discount.

Fire from the Sky – Duff House – Tuesday 23 July 2019 and Wednesday 24 July 2019

On the anniversary of the bombing of Duff House, hear the story and learn about the weapons and equipment used by a Scottish soldier stationed at the house.

Holyrood Rocks! – Holyrood Park – Wednesday 24 July 2019

Join a ranger and travel back in time 350 million years to discover the fascinating story behind the rocks of Holyrood Park, from volcanoes to an ancient beach! Aimed at ages 10-14yrs.

Spectacular Jousting (Caerlaverock) – Caerlaverock Castle – Saturday 27 July 2019 and Sunday 28 July 2019

Caerlaverock Castle is once again set to host this spectacular jousting tournament. Get ready to cheer on your favourite as the chivalric knights ready their noble steeds. Buy your event tickets online in advance to save 10%. Historic Scotland Members: Entry to the event is free so please do not buy tickets. Please have your valid membership cards ready to scan as this will speed up waiting times.

Enemy at the Gate – Urquhart Castle – Select from 8 dates through to Sunday 28 July 2019

Meet a Jacobite Soldier and hear his tale of attacking the castle and why the castle now lies in ruins.

Survival Secrets – Linlithgow Palace – Tuesday 30 July 2019

Learn how to survive in the wilds of Linlithgow! Build a shelter, light a fire and maybe even cook a snack. Meet at the Bonnytoun Road gate to the path around Linlithgow Loch. Aimed at children aged between 8 and 12, must be accompanied by an adult.

Trinity House Tuesdays – Trinity House – Select from 15 dates through to Tuesday 30 July 2019

Once the base of the Incorporation of Mariners and Shipmasters, the elegant Georgian Trinity House holds an outstanding collection of maritime treasures. Your tour will begin in the 16th century vaults where a short video will introduce you to Trinity House and its place in the history of Leith. You will then be guided through the house and its contents by the House Manager before the tour culminates in the impressive Convening Room where Raeburn portraits adorn the walls and an eclectic collection of maritime and local history objects can be seen. Tours are free, but booking is essential. Book your place now

Finding Your Way – Holyrood Park -Wednesday 31 July 2019

A session for budding orienteers! Come and develop your map skills or learn some new ones as the rangers challenge you to find your way in the park. Aimed at children between 10 and 14.

A Sword for my Chief – Urquhart Castle – Select from 12 dates through to Saturday 3 August 2019

Meet one of the loyal clansmen of the Lord of the Isles as he prepares to join his fellow Highlanders in the siege of Urquhart Castle. This presentation incorporates a weapons and costume demonstration involving members of the public. Included in admission price.

In the Footsteps of John Muir – Multiple Venues – Selected dates through to Tuesday 6 August 2019

Exploring the landscape that inspired John Muir, a leading Scottish American environmental conservationist and known in America as the “Father of the National Parks”, this photography exhibition traces Muir’s travels from his childhood in Dunbar to the American National Parks he helped to establish. Presented by the American Scottish Foundation, the works of Scottish photographer Ken Paterson shares the beauty of both Scottish and American wilderness that John Muir was so passionate about.

James Watt: Power to the World – Engine Shed – Select from 104 available dates through to Friday 23 August 2019

Explore the life, work, and legacy of James Watt and his reinvention of the steam engine in our new exhibition. On 25 April 1769, James Watt patented the ‘seperate condenser’. This invention revolutionised the steam engine, and became the driving force behind the Industrial Revolution. In our new exhibition ‘James Watt: Power to the World’, learn all about who James Watt was, and how he worked hard to create a more effective steam engine. Discover the impact he had on Britain’s industry, architecture, and engineering, which you can still see today.

Arthur’s Adventure – Holyrood Park – Select from 12 dates through to Monday 26 August 2019

Come along on a more challenging guided walk to learn about Arthur’s Seat’s turbulent past, created by fire and ice! Find out about the people who lived and worked in the Park from 7000 years ago up until the present day and learn more about the rare wildlife that makes the Park so special. This is a strenuous walk and will involve steep inclines, declines and rough terrain.

Arthur’s Secrets – Holyrood Park – Select from 45 available dates through to Tuesday 27 August 2019

Join us on a guided walk to learn more about Arthur’s Seat’s turbulent past, created by fire and ice. Find out about the people who lived and worked in the Park from 7 000 years ago up until the present day and learn more about the rare wildlife that makes the Park so special.

Man at Arms – Dirleton Castle – Selected dates through to Wednesday 28 August 2019

Join us at Dirleton Castle for one of our special ‘Man at Arms’ talks, which tell tales of siege warfare and castle life, with a selection of medieval weapons on show. No booking required.

Arthur’s Amble – Holyrood Park – Select from 22 available dates through to Saturday 31 August 2019

Come along on a gentle guided walk around Hunter’s Bog and St. Margaret’s Loch where you’ll learn more about Arthur’s Seat’s turbulent past, created by fire and ice. Find out about the people who lived and worked in the Park from 7,000 years ago up until the present day and learn more about the rare wildlife that makes the Park so special.

Seven Waves – St Clement’s Church – Saturday 1 June 2019 to Sunday 1 September 2019

Seven Waves is a visual art installation by Erlend Brown and Dave Jackson. Suspended from the ceiling, seven beautifully painted canvas waves respond to George Mackay Browns’s poetic cycle Tryst on Egilsay.

British Sign Language Tour – Edinburgh Castle – Select from 2 dates through to Saturday 21 September 2019

Join Edinburgh-born Deaf historian John Hay for a BSL tour of the castle. Explore the Castle with Deaf tour guide John Hay, whose BSL tour will be translated into English by interpreter Linda Duncan. Carers and Historic Scotland Members go free (valid membership card required for each ticket).

St Vigeans Open Days – St Vigeans Stones and Museum – Select from 6 available dates through to Sunday 22 September 2019

It’s hard to believe that sleepy St Vigeans was once the centre of a royal estate and of huge religious importance. Yet the Angus village bustled with pilgrims and monks more than 1,000 years ago. Tickets can be purchased on arrival.

Standing Stones of Stenness Walk – Stones of Stenness Circle and Henge – Selected dates through to Wednesday 25 September 2019

Join the Orkney Ranger Service for a free guided tour of our oldest stone circle, and explore the fascinating links with the nearby Neolithic village of Barnhouse.

Ring of Brodgar Walk – Ring of Brodgar Stone Circle and Henge – Selected dates through to Thursday 26 September 2019

Explore the area around the Ring of Brodgar during a guided walk around Scotland’s largest stone circle which forms part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site. Meet in the car park by 1pm.

Romantic Scotland – Duff House – Through to Sunday 29 September 2019

Bringing together treasures from the National Gallery of Scotland’s and Historic Environment Scotland’s collections, Romantic Scotland contrasts the romantic depictions of Scotland’s changing landscapes created by artists and writers in the 19th century, with the reality of ordinary life. The exhibition includes works by renowned painters Sir John Lavery, Patrick Nasmyth, and Sir James Guthrie, whose dramatic landscapes continue to shape perceptions of Scotland, and stunning early photography and historic objects that reframe these works in their historical contexts.

Explore your Local and Family History – HES Archives and Library – Select from 2 dates through to Monday 30 September 2019

Discover more about how to use our online services to find out more about Scotland’s past. After a basic overview of Canmore, Scran, NCAP and Britain from Above, you will have the opportunity to experiment yourself with expert staff on hand to help and answer your queries.

British Sign Language Tour (Stirling) – Stirling Castle – Select from 2 available dates through to Saturday 5 October 2019

Join us to explore the Castle with Deaf tour guide John Hay, whose BSL tour will be translated into English by interpreter Linda Duncan. The tour at Stirling Castle is included in the admission price. Carers and Historic Scotland Members go free (valid membership card required for each ticket). You can buy your tickets on the day, or book your place in advance. On the same day at 3pm, we’re running a free BSL tour of the Engine Shed – Scotland’s national conservation centre.

Biggar Gasworks Steam Days – Select from 8 dates through to Sunday 20 October 2019

Enter the last remaining town gasworks in Scotland – the only surviving example of a once familiar sight. For more than 130 years, this industrial plant made coal gas for Biggar and beyond before the advent of natural gas in the 1960s. See the coal fired boiler put to work and the steam driven machinery in action. Learn the secret of how gas was produced from coal from our guides on site.

Guided Building Tours – Engine Shed – 12 dates through to Saturday 7 December

Join us for a free guided tour of our building – Scotland’s dedicated building conservation centre. Our building in Stirling was once a military goods and transfers shed, built sometime between 1896 and 1913. The exact details of its construction were subject to an information blackout and are still unknown today. In 2017, after an extensive restoration, we opened our doors to the public. During the guided tour, you’ll learn more about our building including how it was made using traditional materials in a contemporary way and how we’ve recycled or restored many other traditional materials during the restoration.

Wee Builders – Engine Shed – Select from 5 dates through to Thursday 12 December 2019

Join us for our exciting under 5’s sessions. Wee Builders will explore a monthly theme through creative play in a fun, child-led and sometimes messy environment! For wee-er builders, a sensory area will be available. Wee Builders take place on the second Thursday of the month (term time only, excluding September). Please note: Parental/guardian supervision is required for the duration of the activity.

Relaxed visiting hours – Engine Shed – Select from 7 available dates through to Saturday 14 December 2019

Our Relaxed Visiting Hours are a time for young people with autism to explore and enjoy our conservation centre. During these times adjustments will be made to lighting and sound, and a quiet space with sensory toys will be available. Relaxed Visiting Hours take place on the second Saturday of the month (excluding September). Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.

Scotland from the Sky – Multiple Venues – Select from 275 dates through to Sunday 19 January 2020

Scotland from the Sky brings a selection of the breathtaking aerial photography, featured in the book of the same name, on a tour of some of our most atmospheric properties. See Scotland from the Sky at: Fort George from 12 April to 7 July; Arbroath Abbey from 11 July to 6 October; Blackness Castle from 10 October 2019 to 19 January 2020