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Inspired by the Past

Explore old stories, new stories and story-making activities in celebration of Scotland's Year of Stories. Visit us throughout 2022 to discover even more stories and activities!

  • Stories to watch

    Listen in to storytellers Mara Menzies and Gauri Raje as they each share tales of place and belonging.

    Composite image with photos of two storytellers and the words Inspired by the Past - stories
  • Story-making activities

    Here are some story-making activities to enjoy with family and friends or as creative time to yourself.

    Composite image with an outline of a knight, a girl drawing and the words Inspired by the Past - Stories
  • Mary Queen of Scots' Return

    Author Maisie Chan imagines the thoughts of Mary Queen of Scots when she returned to Scotland from France aged 18 - ahead of schedule!

    Illustration with an excerpt of the writing from the Mary Queen of Scot's Return short story
  • Top tips for great storytelling

    In this short video, storyteller Mara Menzies shares her top tips to help your inner storyteller shine.

    Photo of storyteller Mara Menzies
  • If These Walls Could Talk

    Calling all young storytellers, authors, and creators of legends! Celebrate Scotland’s Year of Stories and submit your tales about Historic Scotland sites to be in with a chance of winning a fantastic prize.

    Photo of two children and storyteller Mara Menzies on the grass near Craigmillar Castle

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Stay in touch

General enquiries
0131 668 8600

Contact us

Historic Environment Scotland Head offices:

Longmore House
Salisbury Place
Edinburgh
EH9 1SH
John Sinclair House
16 Bernard Terrace
Edinburgh
EH8 9NX

Visitor app

Our app is your one-stop shop for information on Scotland’s iconic historic attractions.

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Historic Environment Scotland is the lead public body established to investigate, care for and promote Scotland’s historic environment.

© Historic Environment Scotland - Scottish Charity No. SC045925