This summer, history won’t just be something to read about, it’ll be something to meet in person.
From the battlements of Fort George to the iconic ruins of Urquhart Castle, historic characters are making a lively return to the Highlands, ready to welcome visitors of all ages as part of Historic Environment Scotland’s Living History summer programme.
The much-loved event begins on Saturday 28 June and runs until Sunday 17 August, bringing the past to life with vibrant, costumed performances in two of the region’s most dramatic settings.
At Fort George, visitors can dive into centuries of military heritage by encountering characters from legendary regiments including the Black Watch and the Seaforth Highlanders.
These living links to the past will be on site every Wednesday to Sunday from 2 July, offering stories, skills and stirring tales of duty and tradition.
Meanwhile, over at Urquhart Castle, perched on the banks of Loch Ness, the mood shifts to medieval times.
From Monday to Friday, a resident knight will take visitors back to castle life in the Highlands, sharing what it meant to live, fight and serve in a world of stone walls and swordplay.
Weekends will feature a rotating cast of characters, each offering fresh stories and perspectives from Urquhart’s long and colourful history.
Gillian Urquhart, Events Manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said the programme has become a true highlight of the season.
“Living History is a much-loved part of our summer programme,” she said.
“Kids absolutely love meeting the characters, and adults do too.
“From knights and musicians to skilled craftspeople, these interactive encounters bring Scotland’s history to life in a way that’s hands-on, entertaining and completely unique.”
The Living History programme is included with standard admission and is also free for Historic Scotland members.
Visitors with the Explorer Pass can enjoy access not just to Fort George and Urquhart Castle, but to dozens of other sites across the country, discovering 5,000 years of history in just a couple of weeks.
With 16 sites across Scotland participating in this summer’s programme, it’s the perfect time to step away from the screens, stretch the imagination and connect with the stories that shaped the nation.
Because sometimes, the best way to understand history is to walk right up to it and shake its hand.
The Historic Scotland Explorer Pass also allows visitors to explore 5,000 years of history over just 14 days.
Entry to Fort George and Urquhart Castle, as well as sites across Scotland, is free for Explorer Pass holders.
