As part of the new summer offer for visitors, Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has launched Castlefest, a new immersive opportunity to experience over 700 years of history.
Comprising a series of themed, live performance events at castles across the country, as well as online, virtual elements, CastleFest will run until Sunday 1 August with visitors able to enjoy and interact with costumed historical characters from the past from Jacobite soldiers and knights to musketeers.
The events also include an online offer, with a series of free streams from virtual storytelling sessions being offered by Carnegie Medal winning author Theresa Breslin, to comedians lining up to take part in Historic Fact or Fake News?, an after hours special which takes a very different look at Scotland’s past. An interactive virtual behind the scenes tour will also come direct from the iconic Edinburgh Castle, whilst the castle kitchens at Stirling will invite you to experience court life of the past.
Castlefest will take place physically at the following sites with interactive sessions running at other participating sites.
- Aberdour Castle: Daily from 5 July to 11 August
Daily from 17 July to 1 August at the following sites:
- Blackness Castle
- Caerlaverock Castle (activities will not take place in castle whilst essential maintenance work is ongoing but instead will be in the castle grounds)
- Craigmillar Castle
- Huntly Castle
- St Andrews Castle
- Stirling Castle
- Urquhart Castle
Stephen Duncan, Director of Commercial and Tourism at HES said;
“We’re encouraging everyone with an interest in Scotland’s rich history to take part in CastleFest and enjoy everything it has to offer.
With great live performances as well as online events, we’re looking forward to an exciting summer of fun, as we run a range of events to provide visitors of all ages with the opportunity to immerse themselves in over 700 years of history.
“We’re delighted to have so many collaborators involved in the programme, in what is a really strong line up and would encourage people to visit our website for a chance to book for a historical experience of your choice.”
As part of Castlefest and to coincide with the Scottish school summer holidays and the Scottish Government’s Get Into Summer campaign, kids under 16 accompanied by an adult, can get free entry by pre-booking online to enjoy a historical summer of fun.
Find out more about CastleFest
About Year of Coasts and Waters 2021
The Year of Coasts and Waters (#YCW2021), led by VisitScotland, will be showcased throughout 2021. Activities and ideas will shine a spotlight on the impact our waters have had on Scotland, from the formation of beautiful natural features to the creation of our national drink – whisky.
