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Living History

During your visit look out for our living history character. They will be on hand to tell you more about the site, the character and time period they are portraying as well as posing for photos!

A Living History Character holding a sword leaning against a castle wall

Living History at our sites

During your visit look out for our living history characters They will be on hand to tell you more about the site, the character and time period they are portraying, as well as posing for photos – although they may be a bit confused by your camera!

Our performers will be at various sites on selected days throughout the October holidays, between Monday 7 and Sunday 22 October 2023. We have various characters from throughout history ready to tell the tales of Scotland’s past, so come and say hello.

What's more, it is all included in the price of admission and free to members! Just book your ticket and pop along. Please check site information for opening times.

Site Dates
Aberdour Castle Mon 16 to Wed 17 October 
Blackness Castle Sat 14 to Mon 16, and Fri 20 to Sun 22 October
Caerlaverock Castle Sat 14, and Wed 18 to Sat 21 October
Craigmillar Castle Sat 14 to Tues 17, and Fri 20 to Sun 22 October
Dumbarton Castle Sat 14 and Sun 15 October
Dunstaffnage Castle Sat 14 and Sun 15 October
Edinburgh Castle  Everyday from Sat 14 to Sun 22 October. Performances are at 11.15am, 12.15pm, 2pm and 3pm.
Elgin Cathedral Sat 14 to Mon 16, and Thur 19 to Sun 22 October
Fort George Everyday between Sat 14 and Sun 22 October
Melrose Abbey  Sat 14 to Sun 15, and Fri 20 to Sun 22 October
St Andrews Castle  Sat 14 to Sun 15, and Wed 18 to Sun 22 October
Tantallon Castle Sat 14 to Sun 15, and Sat 21 to Sun 22 October
Urquhart Castle Everyday from Mon 7 to Sat 22 October

Living History at Edinburgh Castle 

As you wander round the castle this October, be careful you don’t get mistaken for a prisoner by Gilbert Savage, the Executioner! He will recount the nature of crime and punishment in Medieval Scotland, with all the grizzly bits left in! If you can stomach his gruesome stories, he will be at the Castle from Sat 14 to Fri 20 October with performances at 11.15am, 12.15pm, 2pm and 3pm in The Great Hall.

For something a bit lighter, on Sat 21 and Sun 22 October come and meet our Medieval musician and learn how important music was in medieval life.

We recommend booking your tickets online in advance for best price and to guarantee entry.

Not a Member? Join now to start enjoying benefits

If you would like more information on our Living History please contact the events team on 0131 668 8885 or events@hes.scot

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