Historic Scotland line-up of living history events taking place at historic properties up and down the country.

At castles, palaces and monuments across Scotland visitors will have the chance to come face to face with historic figures from the past including Mary Queen of Scots, Highland Clansmen, and Cromwellian Soldiers from the 1650s, and there will be the chance to enjoy medieval music and renaissance dance.

Last year thousands of visitors joined in the fun and this year promises to be just as popular.

The living history events aim to bring Historic Scotland properties to life, with many events transporting visitors back to times when famous Scottish legends called these properties home.

Highlights from this year’s programme include:

Harp Recitals at St Andrews Cathedral – for one Tuesday a month between June and September (10th June, 8th July, 12th August and 9th September), St Andrews Cathedral will provide an atmospheric backdrop for harpist Simon Chadwick who will bring the cathedral to life with medieval church music.

Falconry – for several weekends in June, July and August visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about falconry with talks, demonstrations and displays at a number of Historic Scotland properties, including Stirling, Tantallon and Blackness castles.

Balvaird Castle Open Day – the late 15th-century Balvaird Castle in Perthshire is only open to the public on special open days; and 29th June is one of these days. Visitors will gain a rare insight into this fascinating property and find out about the recent work taking place there.

Perthshire Archaeology Month – the open day at Balvaird Castle is part of Perthshire Archaeology Month which features events taking place across the region.

This includes an insight into excavations at Stanley Mills, a talk and object handling session at Huntingtower Castle and the mysteries of Elcho Castle will also be revealed.

Sheena Garden, Historic Scotland Interpretation Manager, said:

“The programme of living history events taking place this year promise to add that little bit extra to those visiting Historic Scotland properties.

There is a real range of events on throughout the year which will really bring our attractions to life.

We are also involved in a number of nationwide initiatives including the Scottish Storytelling Festival and The Big Draw to ensure visitors of all ages can get involved.”

• All living history events are included in the cost of admission or free of charge where there is no admission charge applicable.
• Full details of the programme of events can be found online at Historic Scotland Events
• For the best value, Historic Scotland membership offers free entry to all sites and free entry to day events. Membership can be purchased from as little as £6 a month for a family package.