Scotland’s castles are preparing to turn back the clock this October as knights, craftspeople and characters from centuries past return to some of the country’s most remarkable historic landmarks.
Big Living History Week begins on Saturday 10 October and runs until Sunday 18 October, inviting families to discover Scotland’s extraordinary history through encounters with the people who might once have walked its castle halls and courtyards.
Organised by Historic Environment Scotland, the programme will bring history to life at five locations, including Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness and Fort George near Ardersier.
For children enjoying the October school holidays, it offers something rather different from a traditional history lesson, with opportunities to meet costumed characters, hear their stories and discover what everyday life was like hundreds of years ago.
At Urquhart Castle, visitors will have the chance to meet a knight against the spectacular backdrop of Loch Ness, where the ruins of one of Scotland’s largest castles still stand as a reminder of centuries of conflict and change.
The castle played an important role during the Wars of Independence, changing hands between Scottish and English forces as control of the Highlands became part of the wider struggle for Scotland’s future.
Today, its dramatic setting and remarkable history make it a fitting place for families to encounter a character from its turbulent past.
Fort George will also welcome historic characters, giving visitors an opportunity to discover more about the lives of those who inhabited the great military fortress overlooking the Moray Firth.
Elsewhere in Scotland, Linlithgow Palace will offer an insight into traditional craftsmanship, with a historic embroiderer known as a broidster demonstrating skills associated with an earlier age.
The palace, famous as the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, provides another remarkable setting for bringing the stories of Scotland’s past to a new generation.
Caerlaverock Castle and Doune Castle complete the five participating locations, with living history characters sharing stories and offering glimpses into the lives of people who occupied these historic places.
Shona Burns, Assistant Visitor Events Manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said:
“We’re thrilled to be bringing Big Living History Week back to our sites this October.
“It’s always a highlight for us and such a joy to see history coming to life again this half term.
“We hope that visitors have fun discovering more about these historic Scottish places, meeting people from the past, getting stuck into stories and, of course, posing for a few photos with the characters they meet!”
The living history activities are included with normal admission, while children under seven can visit free of charge.
Young people aged seven to 25 can also take advantage of a special £1 admission offer at Historic Scotland sites by presenting a Saltire National Entitlement Card or Young Scot Card and selecting the Scottish Young Person discount when booking.
Historic Scotland members receive free daytime admission, while Explorer Pass holders can visit all five participating locations as part of their pass, although advance booking is required.
For families looking for an October adventure, Big Living History Week offers the chance to explore beautiful places, discover fascinating stories and perhaps find that history becomes considerably more interesting when a medieval knight is standing right in front of you.
For more information and to plan you visit head to historicenvironment.scot/whats-on
