The forces of the Young Pretender, Bonnie Prince Charlie are swarming through Scotland’s capital city, but the castle is holding out against them!

On Sunday 8th July, there is the chance to meet the clansmen and hear tales of the Jacobite uprising of 1745.

Costumed performers take on the roles of clansmen who felt victory was within their grasp when they successfully overran Edinburgh and set about trying to conquer the great fortress at its heart. The event takes place at Edinburgh Castle and will reveal whether Bonnie Prince Charlie’s men ever actually made it inside.

Sheena Garden, Interpretation Manager at Historic Scotland said:
‘The entry into the capital was a great triumph for the Jacobites and they celebrated heartily, but it was not long before they discovered that true victory would be much tougher than they imagined. Their forces were lightly armed and the castle garrison had artillery and mighty stone walls to protect them. The only hope for the besiegers was that the garrison might give up if they ran out of food and ammunition.

This event is a great chance for visitors to find out how it felt to be among the clansmen and what became of their uprising. It is a truly fascinating story.’

The Jacobite Trail is one of a series of events and activities being staged by Historic Scotland as part of the Highland 2007. Performances take place at noon, 1.00pm, 2.00pm and 3.00pm on Sunday 8th July and are included in the normal ticket price to Edinburgh Castle.

• Edinburgh Castle is open 7 days a week from 9.30am - 6.00pm. Admission: Adult £11.00, Child £5.50, Concession £9.00.
  
  
• A majestic landmark which dominates the capital city's skyline just as it has dominated Scotland's long and colourful history Edinburgh Castle is the best known and most visited of our historic buildings. Perched on an extinct volcano and offering stunning views, this instantly recognisable fortress is a powerful national symbol, and part of Edinburgh's World Heritage site.
  
  
• The Historic Scotland Legendary Days Out summer campaign was launched this week promoting Historic Scotland membership as a great value for money way to experience a fabulous range of activities at heritage attractions across the country, including jousting, falconry, a celebration of the 1940s, a festival of magic and lots of living history events.