Upcoming family history talks and events in Scotland, 5 - 11 Sep 2016
Note that there may be a small charge for some of these events, and some may be for members only. We will be publishing lists of upcoming talks and events regularly - if you are organising a talk or event relating to Scottish genealogy or history, please let us know and we will be happy to add your events to our list. ​ Monday, September 5 2016, 10 am - 3 pm Dirleton Paddock Dig
Venue: Dirleton Green, next to the Old Manse East Lothian Antiquarian & Field Naturalists' Society Come and visit the excavation to see Gullane and Dirleton History Society uncover Dirleton’s past. The dig seeks to explore the history of the village, and to find remains of a building dating back to the 17th to 18th century. No booking required. Drop-in event. Free. Runs until 11 September. Monday, September 5 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Angus Archives Drop-In
Venue: Angus Archives, Forfar Drop into Angus Archives and explore historic buildings from ballrooms to castles. Craft activities and refreshments available. Monday, September 5 2016, 10:00am-3:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Coldingham Circular
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival Following the pathways of 12th century monks and nuns, we walk past Jacob's Well and the runaway Marriage House, along the salmon-fishing river Tweed to Lennel village and up to Oxenrig Farm. Along quiet roads, farm paths and tracks, joining the beautiful Hirsel policies at Dunglass Woods and back to Coldstream. Ticket price £4 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-2/ Monday, September 5 2016, 12.00 pm - 2 pm Secret's of Stirling's Old Town 2 Murray Cook, Stirling Council Archaeology Venue: Central Library, Corn Exchange, Stirling, FK8 2HX Stirling Council Explore Scotland's best preserved Medieval City, steeped in blood and battles with Dr Murray Cook, Stirling Council’s Archaeologist. Duration 2 hours. Easy going but steep hills, Booking essential, contact Murray Cook [email protected] Monday, September 5 2016, 6 pm - 7 pm Dundee Since The War - City Life Old and New Andrew Murray Scott Venue: Carnoustie Library, High Street, Carnoustie DD7 6AN An illustrated talk by Andrew Murray Scott, author of several local history titles. Andrew will consider familiar landscapes and aspects of city life over the year seven decades, and some new landscapes which have replaced them. Monday, September 5 2016, 6 pm - 8 pm Get started with your family history
Venue: 52 Overhaugh St, Galashiels, TD1 1DP Borders Family History Society Come with an idea of what you want to discover and bring your earliest family birth, marriage, death certificate or more certificates, if possible. Monday, September 5 2016, 7.30 pm The Gaiety Theatre Jeremy Wyatt Venue: John Knox Church Hall, High Street, Stewarton Stewarton and District Historical Society An Ayrshire favourite built in 1902. The Executive Director of the Ayr Gaiety Partnership tells of the theatre's history and its reopening as a charitable trust. Members £1 Non-members £2. Monday, September 5 2016, 9:00am-5:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Maxton to Cessford (St.Cuthbert's Way)
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival his is Day 2 of St.Cuthbert's Way. We follow a section of Dere Street, a Roman road, over Lilliardsedge and into the policy woodlands of Monteviot Estate, crossing the River Teviot before heading out through a good mix of woodland and farmland habitat with fine views across Teviotdale. Ticket price £10 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-2/ Monday, September 5 2016, 9:30am-5:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Coldingham Circular
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival We follow footpaths and a stretch of quiet road, then a path through the nature reserve to the cliff tops with spectacular views of the Berwickshire coastline, returning via Mire Loch and St. Abb's harbour village, finishing at Coldingham. Ticket price £10 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-2/ Monday, September 5 2016, 9:30am-5:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Burnmouth to Coldingham
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival We descend to the attractive fishing village of Burnmouth and follow the coast path to Eyemouth, passing by the harbour and then taking the coast path to Coldingham and its priory. Ticket price £10 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-2/ Monday, September 5 2016, All Day Book of Deer 2016
Venue: Old Deer village Cameron Archaeology Ltd Book of Deer 16 funded by Aberdeenshire Council will be carrying out further research around the village of Old Deer. We will be test pitting in various locations including the Old Deer Church, Kemp Hall, Episcopalian Church and various gardens. There will be an open day and visits from local schools. Come along and volunteer or visit and see what we are up to. Ticket price Free Tuesday, September 6 2016, 1 pm - 2 pm Celts: Art and Identity Dr Fraser Hunter, National Museums Scotland Venue: Smith Museum, Dumbarton Road, FK8 2RQ Stirling Council Join Dr Fraser Hunter, Principal Curator: Iron Age & Roman Collections, National Museums of Scotland in a lecture exploring Stirling’s Celts and their art! Free entry, no booking required, though donations to the Smith appreciated! Tuesday, September 6 2016, 1:00-2:00pm Tour of House and Garden with Head Gardner
Venue: House Of, Dun, Montrose DD10 9LQ Join us for a tour of the house gardens with the Head Gardener. If you are a keen gardener or would just like to find out more, this tour is a must. A small group will be personally guided by our head gardener through the policies surrounding the property, as an added treat a visit to the walled kitchen garden to see the work of the volunteers on the estate, the tour of the gardens will then move to our café and join the head gardener for afternoon tea. There will be a Q&A session for you to ask the expert any gardening questions Ticket price £15 Booking: For further information please call 01674 810266 Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/Events/House-Of-Dun-and-Montrose-Basin-Nature-Reserve/Angus-Heritage-week/ Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10 am - 1.30 pm Workshop Two: Mapping the changes in Inverness
Venue: Highland Archive Centre, Bught Park, Inverness Academy Street Townscape Heritage Project Explore the Archives collections of historic maps, census records, valuation rolls and sasine registers and more. Discover and share answers to the following questions: What are the earliest maps we have that show Academy Street? How has the street changed over time? Are the uses of buildings shown? What are the different trades? Is there a pattern to the use of the street? Who owned the buildings/rented them? £3.50, per workshop or £6 if booking for both together. Advance booking is essential, in person at Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, call 01463 237114 or email [email protected] Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Are your roots in the Borders ? Discover your family history or build your family tree
Venue: 52 Overhaugh St, Galashiels, TD1 1DP Borders Family History Society Build your family tree. Knock down a 'brick wall'. Explore your family history primarily in the Border counties (Berwickshire, Peeblesshire, Roxburghshire and Selkirkshire) of Scotland, though we'll still try to help you if your roots are elsewhere. Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Angus Archives Drop-In
Venue: Angus Archives, Forfar Drop into Angus Archives and explore historic buildings from ballrooms to castles. Craft activities and refreshments available. Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10 am - 5 pm Kirriemuir War Memorials
Venue: Gateway to the Glens Museum, High Street, Kirriemuir DD8 4BB Continuing the series of exhibitions over the four year centenary of World War 1, and to celebrate the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design, this exhibition will display designs and plans submitted by architects for the Kirriemuir War Memorial. The memorial was unveiled in 1923 by Mabel, Dowager Countess of Airlie. 6 Sep to 19 Sep. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10.00am – 12.30pm Hillforts to Mansions: A walk through the Grand Architecture of the North Berwick countryside
East Lothian Council Archaeology Service To help celebrate Scotland’s Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design, join the council’s Archaeology Service for a guided walk from North Berwick Law to the Balgone Estate, and explore the history and changing architecture of some of the ‘Grand Designs’ of the past! The walk takes in a section of the John Muir Way, woodland paths and some quiet country roads. Booking required. Free. email [email protected] Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10.30 am - 12 pm Kelso Past and Present – A town walk in Kelso Christine Henderson Venue: Kelso Town Hall, Kelso, Roxburghshire, TD5 7HF Join Four Border Abbeys U3A for Kelso Past and Present – A town walk in Kelso. Christine Henderson will lead a walk around the Historic centre of Kelso relating the History of the Town and the buildings old and new on the way. As the walk will be on a variety of terrain (grassed areas, riverside footpaths, pavements and some cobbles) sturdy footwear should be worn. Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10.30 am - 4 pm Highland Militia
Venue: Fort George, Inverness Terrace, Inverness IV2 7TD After the 1715 Jacobite uprising, Highland clans were forming militias in defence for the government. Ardent support for the king, at least in public. But were these militias pure of intent, or did the harbour Jacobite ambitions? Come along and find out today. At 10.45-11.30am, 12:00-12.45pm, 1.45-2.30pm, 3.15-4:00pm Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10:00am-2:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Extra Walk - Coldstream's Delights
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival Walk around Coldstream and its neighbouring paths. Pathways can be viewed on the community website www.coldstream.co Ticket price free Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-3/ Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10:15am-3:45pm Life in the Border 1914-1919 Exhibition
Venue: Borders Family History Society, 52 Overhaugh, St, Galashiels. TD1 1DP Borders Family History Society A fascinating exhibition about life in the Scottish Borders during World War I and afterwards. The exhibition is a joint venture between BFHS and Saving and Sharing Scottish Borders Stories of WWI Project Ticket price Free Website: http://www.bordersfhs.org.uk/ Tuesday, September 6 2016, 10:30-12:00am Four Border Abbeys U3A Walk - Kelso Past and Present
Venue: Kelso Town Hall Kelso, Roxburghshire. TD5 7HF University of the Third Age 10.30am outside Kelso Town Hall Kelso, Roxburghshire. TD5 7HF. Distance approximately 2 miles. Duration about 1½ hours with several stops. FREE. Join Four Border Abbeys U3A for Kelso Past and Present – A town walk in Kelso. Christine Henderson will lead a walk around the Historic centre of Kelso relating the History of the Town and the buildings old and new on the way. As the walk will be on a variety of terrain (grassed areas, riverside footpaths, pavements and some cobbles) sturdy footwear should be worn Ticket price Free Website: https://www.facebook.com/bordersheritagefestival Tuesday, September 6 2016, 2 pm HMS Argyll John Fulton Venue: Signal Tower Museum, Ladyloan, Arbroath DD11 1PU Fascinating talk on HMS Argyll, which hit the Bell Rock reef, by John Fulton. John Fulton is the author of the children's book about the HMS Argyll which struck the Inchcape Rock and sunk during the Great War of 1914-1918. Come along and hear some readings from John with a chance to have copies of the book personally signed. Tuesday, September 6 2016, 2 pm - 3 pm The Architecture of Montrose Sandy Munro Venue: Montrose Library, High Street, Montrose DD10 8PH Come along to the Montrose memories meeting, meet Sandy Munro and find out about the town’s architectural heritage. Tuesday, September 6 2016, 2 pm - 3 pm Bits of Old Arbroath Fiona Scharlau Venue: Arbroath Library, Gallery 1, Hill Terrace, Arbroath DD11 1AH Enjoy a talk with photographic images by Fiona Scharlau, Senior Archivist, looking at historic buildings past and present. Tuesday, September 6 2016, 6.00 pm - 8.00 pm Tasting Through Time: Free Cookery Course
Venue: 55 Victoria Street Larkhall ML9 2BW Clyde and Avon Valley Landscape Partnership Join the FREE Tasting Through Time Cookery Course! From 6 - 8 pm in Larkhall we will be testing out recipes from the past and learning a little bit about culinary history and archaeology. Join us in exploring the culinary history of the apple! How was it enjoyed throughout history, from the Roman period to today? This cookery course focuses on experimenting with historic recipes from multiple time periods, giving participants an opportunity to try flavours from the past and learn a little bit about how societies hundreds of years ago enjoyed food and how those foods impacted their lives. Have fun taste-testing recipes through time, all of which include the most famous of Clyde Valley produce! - See more at: http://www.clydeandavonvalley.org/events/item/tasting-through-time-free-cookery-course-copy-2-copy Tuesday, September 6 2016, 6:30-8:00pm Culross Heritage Walk
Venue: Culross Inner Forth Landscape Initiative Join our Cultural Heritage Office Kirsty McAlister for an informative walk around the historic town of Culross. The town is the most complete example in Scotland today of a Burgh of the 17th and 18th centuries and with the beautiful buildings and cobbled streets, it's not hard to imagine being there 200 years ago. This event is open to everyone and participants are advisd to dress appropriately for the weather. Please note that booking is essential and that the meeting place will be determined a the time of booking. To book, or for further information, please email [email protected] or call 01324 831568. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.innerforthlandscape.co.uk/eventscal/2014-11-04-09-43-23/25-leaving-a-legacy/26-developing-our-skills/76-researching-our-local-heritage/391-culross-heritage-walk Tuesday, September 6 2016, 7.30 pm The History of the City of Glasgow Police Alastair Dinsmore Venue: Fairweather Hall, Barrhead Road, Newton Mearns, G77 6BB Tuesday, September 6 2016, 9:00am-5:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Cessford to Kirk Yetholm (St.Cuthbert's Way)
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival This is day 3 of the St.Cuthbert's Way. A minor road is followed past Cessford Castle and on through the interesting village of Morebattle. After crossing the Kale Water we climb Wideopen Hill, the highest point on SCW with fine views into the Cheviot Hills and across the Tweed valley, descending to the Bowmont Water which we follow to Kirk Yetholm. Ticket price £10 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-3/ Tuesday, September 6 2016, 9:00am-5:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Town Yetholm, Curr Burn, Pennine Way, Schil and Kirk Yetholm
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival Initial easy low level walk to the Curr Burn. A clear path up the valley to join the Pennine Way, up to the Schil for wonderful views and the on to the Pennine Way, along the Border line, to Kirk Yetholm. Ticket price £9 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-3/ Tuesday, September 6 2016, 9:30am-4:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Norham to Coldstream
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival From the pretty village of Norham with its ancient castle, the route largely follows the side of the river Tweed, along farm paths and tracks to Cornhill and Coldstream Ticket price £6 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-3/ Tuesday, September 6 2016, 9:30am-4:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Twizel Bridge to Etal Village, Heatherslaw Mill (rail)
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival visit to Twizel Castle then a walk along the banks of the river Till from historic Twizel Bridge (re battle of Flodden 1513) to Etal village and another castle, a quaint pub and thatched roof cottages. A chance to see plenty of wildlife, including kingfishers and dippers. We can also offer a short train ride to Heatherslaw Mill (museum, craft shops, cafe). The train ride takes approx 20 minutes for a return journey. Ticket price £7 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-3/ Tuesday, September 6 2016, All Day Book of Deer 2016
Venue: Old Deer village Cameron Archaeology Ltd Book of Deer 16 funded by Aberdeenshire Council will be carrying out further research around the village of Old Deer. We will be test pitting in various locations including the Old Deer Church, Kemp Hall, Episcopalian Church and various gardens. There will be an open day and visits from local schools. Come along and volunteer or visit and see what we are up to. Ticket price Free Wednesday, September 7 2016, 1 pm House of Dun Mausoleum
Venue: House of Dun, Dun, by Montrose DD10 9LQ Enjoy a visit to the Dun Mausoleum, an award winning restoration, for a presentation by David Chouman, principle consultant on the works. Followed by afternoon tea. Numbers are limited, so booking is essential. £15 Wednesday, September 7 2016, 1 pm - 2 pm Celts: Art and Identity Dr Fraser Hunter, National Museums Scotland Venue: The McManus, Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee, DD1 1DA Dr Fraser Hunter, principal curator of Iron Age and Roman collections at the National Museums of Scotland will speak about the spectacular mirrors on loan to The McManus as part of the Reflection on the Celts Spotlight tour which accompanies the Celts : Art and Identity exhibition currently on at the National Museums Scotland. Before the talk there will be an opportunity to view the Reflection on the Celts exhibition. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 1 pm - 2 pm In the Hands of the Hammermen: Exploring recently acquired objects, their makers and the heritage of historic Highland silver Cait McCullagh Venue: Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, Castle Wynd, Inverness, IV2 3EB Inverness Museum and Art Gallery Curious about historic silversmithing? In this lecture, curator Cait McCullagh will share recent research and discoveries concerning a selection of historic silver pieces and associated items recently acquired into the IMAG collections. Discover the able minds and hands of Inverness’ ‘Hammermen’ and enjoy this examination of some exquisite and rare elements of Highland crafting. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 1.30 pm House of Dun Tour
Venue: House of Dun, Dun, by Montrose DD10 9LQ Enjoy a tour of the collection led by the head housekeeper with close up views of the ceramics and furniture, and conservation in action. Followed by afternoon tea. Numbers are limited, so booking is essential. £15 Wednesday, September 7 2016, 1:00-3:30pm Tour of House with Head Housekeeper
Venue: House Of, Dun, Montrose DD10 9LQ Join us for a private behind the scenes tour of the House of Dun. Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes? How the collection is looked after? What's behind the closed doors? Well this is the tour for you, our head housekeeper will be taking you on a private tour of the house showing you the behind the scenes work that goes on to preserve and present the house. Have a look inside pieces of furniture get up close to the furniture. Ticket price £15 Booking: For further information please call 01674 810265 Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/Events/House-Of-Dun-and-Montrose-Basin-Nature-Reserve/Angus-Heritage-Week-Tour-of-House-with-Head-Housekeeper/ Wednesday, September 7 2016, 1:00-3:30pm Restoration of Dun Mausoleum
Venue: House Of, Dun, Montrose DD10 9LQ David Chouman principle consultant for the project will be taking you through the challenges of restoring such a significant building. The talk will be presented in the library at Dun then over the den to the Mausoleum to seethe building and finally the cafe for afternoon tea. Ticket price £1.5 Booking: For further information please call 01674 810264 Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/Events/House-Of-Dun-and-Montrose-Basin-Nature-Reserve/Angus-Heritage-Week-Restoration-of-Dun-Mausoleum/ Wednesday, September 7 2016, 1:00pm-5:00pm Alyth Museum Open Days
Venue: Alyth Museum, Commercial Street, Alyth, PH11 8AF Alyth is a small rural Perthshire village overlooking the countryside of Strathmore. This is an area rich in farming, which is an inspiration and resource for the museum collection. Ground floor display Alyth. Enjoy a wealth of pictures and objects reflecting life as it was in and around Alyth. Don't miss the brilliant exhibition about the work of local Blairgowrie photographers, D Wilson Laing. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/6474/Alyth-Museum Wednesday, September 7 2016, 10 am - 12 pm Mysteries of Medieval Morham
East Lothian Council Archaeology Service Now a quiet picturesque hamlet, Morham was once an important place associated with some of the great events and people of Scotland’s past. Join East Lothian Council Archaeology Service for a guided walk to explore the hidden history of the village. Booking required. Free. email [email protected] Wednesday, September 7 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Angus Archives Drop-In
Venue: Angus Archives, Forfar Drop into Angus Archives and explore historic buildings from ballrooms to castles. Craft activities and refreshments available. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 10.30 am - 4 pm Highland Militia
Venue: Fort George, Inverness Terrace, Inverness IV2 7TD After the 1715 Jacobite uprising, Highland clans were forming militias in defence for the government. Ardent support for the king, at least in public. But were these militias pure of intent, or did the harbour Jacobite ambitions? Come along and find out today. At 10.45-11.30am, 12:00-12.45pm, 1.45-2.30pm, 3.15-4:00pm Wednesday, September 7 2016, 10:00am Standing Stones of Stenness and Barnhouse Village Walk
Venue: Standing Stones of Stenness Join the Ranger Service for a guided tour of our oldest stone circle and explore the fascinating links with the nearby Neolithic village of Barnhouse. Ticket price Free Booking: No booking required. For more information call 01856 841 732 or email [email protected] Website: www.historicenvironment.scot/events Wednesday, September 7 2016, 10:30am-3:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Hume Castle
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival The walk will go ahead if there is more than 8 walkers. It's a tour of the Hume area, with beautiful views, and a guided tour of Hume castle. Ticket price £7 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-4/ Wednesday, September 7 2016, 11:15am; 12:00pm; 12:45pm; 1:30pm; 2:30pm; 3:15pm; and 4:00pm Scotland’s National Hero
Venue: The National Wallace Monument Who was William Wallace? Listen as a costumed actor gives you an insight into the life of Scotland’s National Hero – who he was, where he came from, and how he fought to free the people of Scotland from oppression. Ticket price Admission Prices: Adults: £9.99, Children £6.25 Website: http://www.nationalwallacemonument.com/ht_event/scotlands-national-hero/ Wednesday, September 7 2016, 2 pm Bell Rock Kirsten Coupar Venue: Signal Tower Museum, Ladyloan, Arbroath DD11 1PU A presentation by Kirsten Coupar, full of interesting Bell Rock and Signal Tower images not often seen. There will be an opportunity to ask questions after the event. Refreshments will be provided. Spaces are limited to please book in advance. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 2 pm - 3 pm Dundee Since The War, City Life Old and New Andrew Murray Scott Venue: Forfar Library, West High Street, Forfar DD8 1BA An illustrated talk by Andrew Murray Scott, author of several local history titles Andrew will consider familiar landscapes and aspects of city life over the year seven decades, and some new landscapes which have replaced them. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 2 pm - 3 pm Guided Tour of St Rules Church and Graveyard Margaret Copland Venue: St Rules Church, Church Street, Monifieth, DD5 4JG Enjoy a tour led by Margaret Copland of Monifieth Local History Society and hear the story of those who lived in the town in the past. The present church dates from 1812 and during its construction, famous Monifieth Pictish stones were discovered. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 2 pm - 4 pm Local and family history drop-in
Venue: Barrhead Foundry East Renfrewshire's Heritage Collection Have you hit a family history brick wall? Do you need help with local history research? Or would you just like advice on using the heritage resources at Giffnock and Barrhead Libraries? Pop along to our local & family history drop-in where the local studies librarian will be on hand to point you in the right direction. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 3 pm - 4 pm Guided Walk of Kirriemuir and its Historic Buildings
Venue: Meet outside Gateway to the Glens, 32 High Street, Kirriemuir DD8 4BB Meet at the Gateway to the Glens Museum and enjoy a guided walk around the streets and closes nearby, our short tour will include a brief history of the development of the town and notable buildings. Please note the walk is weather dependent. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 6 pm - 8 pm Witch Walk
Venue: The Meffan, West High Street, Forfar Discover the 17th century witches of Forfar and hear their story in the places associated with them. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 7 pm Union Street: College to Citadel' Talk Dr Bill Brogden Venue: Town and County Hall, Town House, Aberdeen Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland This year, the ACHT is inviting AHSS members to its annual lecture and drinks reception, to mark the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design 2016. Free but please book your place by contacting Douglas Campbell on 01224 522755 or [email protected] Wednesday, September 7 2016, 7.30 pm The ‘Kingis’ Palace: A Medieval Palace revealed
Venue: The Trinity Centre Church Street, Haddington East Lothian Council Archaeology Service Find out how digging in the early records revealed a forgotten medieval royal palace in Sidegate, Haddington. Helen Robertson will retrace her research, which suggests that ‘Sydgait’ was once an important royal centre, probably dating back to King David I of Scotland. This talk is provided by the Haddington and District Amenity Society. No booking required. Free. Wednesday, September 7 2016, 9:00am-5:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Kirk Yetholm to Wooler (St.Cuthbert's Way)
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival This is Day 4 of St.Cuthbert's Way and it is the hilliest section of SCW, a traverse through the Cheviot Hills following generally good paths and tracks but crossing some quite exposed country before finishing at the old market town of Wooler - 'The 'Gateway to the Cheviots'. A good opportunity to see upland wildlife and iron-age settlements. Ticket price £10 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-4/ Wednesday, September 7 2016, 9:00am-5:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Akeld, Carey Burn, Wooler
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival Leaving Akeld, the walk skirts Humbleton Hill (battle of Homildon Hill 1402) with panoramic views of Milfield Plain and beyond. Heading along paths and tracks to the narrow valley of the delightful Carey Burn, The route then leads us along gorse-flecked paths, a short rocky scramble, and through woods and farmland to the town of Wooler. Ticket price £9 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-4/ Wednesday, September 7 2016, 9:30am-5:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Choicelees to Duns
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival Starting at Choicelees Farm, the walk is along a quiet road, then along a good track towards the masts and Snuffy Hole. From here good tracks take us along Langton Edge with lovely views and down through Duns Castle woods to Duns. Ticket price £8 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-4/ Wednesday, September 7 2016, 9:30am-5:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Edin's Hall Broch to Duns
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival : A scenic walk along the Whiteadder river to Edin's Hall Broch, one of very few ancient brochs in the South of Scotland, and over Cockburn Law with wonderful views over Berwickshire. We make our way through Duns Castle woods, past the lake, to Duns Law and Duns. Ticket price £9 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-4/ Wednesday, September 7 2016, All Day Book of Deer 2016
Venue: Old Deer village Cameron Archaeology Ltd Book of Deer 16 funded by Aberdeenshire Council will be carrying out further research around the village of Old Deer. We will be test pitting in various locations including the Old Deer Church, Kemp Hall, Episcopalian Church and various gardens. There will be an open day and visits from local schools. Come along and volunteer or visit and see what we are up to. Ticket price Free Thursday, September 8 2016, 1:00pm Ring of Brodgar Walk
Venue: Ring of Brodgar Explore the area around the Ring of Brodgar during our guided walk with a ranger and find out the special significance of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Ticket price Free Booking: No booking required. For more information call 01856 841 732 or email [email protected] Website: www.historicenvironment.scot/events Thursday, September 8 2016, 1:00pm-5:00pm Alyth Museum Open Days
Venue: Alyth Museum, Commercial Street, Alyth, PH11 8AF Alyth is a small rural Perthshire village overlooking the countryside of Strathmore. This is an area rich in farming, which is an inspiration and resource for the museum collection. Ground floor display Alyth. Enjoy a wealth of pictures and objects reflecting life as it was in and around Alyth. Don't miss the brilliant exhibition about the work of local Blairgowrie photographers, D Wilson Laing. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/6474/Alyth-Museum Thursday, September 8 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Are your roots in the Borders ? Discover your family history or build your family tree
Venue: 52 Overhaugh St, Galashiels, TD1 1DP Borders Family History Society Build your family tree. Knock down a 'brick wall'. Explore your family history primarily in the Border counties (Berwickshire, Peeblesshire, Roxburghshire and Selkirkshire) of Scotland, though we'll still try to help you if your roots are elsewhere. Thursday, September 8 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Angus Archives Drop-In
Venue: Angus Archives, Forfar Drop into Angus Archives and explore historic buildings from ballrooms to castles. Craft activities and refreshments available. Thursday, September 8 2016, 10 am - 5 pm Jim Ratcliffe Photo Day
Venue: Signal Tower Museum, Ladyloan, Arbroath DD11 1PU Jim Ratcliffe was a well known Arbroath photographer working in the 1970’s and 1980’s. Drop into the museum and help to identify the people and places in his many pictures. Refreshments will be provided. Thursday, September 8 2016, 10.30 am - 11.30 am Brew and Blether
Venue: The Meffan, West High Street, Forfar Reminiscence session looking at the Forfar Times photographs from the 1970’s. Come along and help identify the people in the photographs and enjoy a chat about 1970’s Forfar. Refreshments will be provided. Thursday, September 8 2016, 10.30 am - 4 pm Highland Militia
Venue: Fort George, Inverness Terrace, Inverness IV2 7TD After the 1715 Jacobite uprising, Highland clans were forming militias in defence for the government. Ardent support for the king, at least in public. But were these militias pure of intent, or did the harbour Jacobite ambitions? Come along and find out today. At 10.45-11.30am, 12:00-12.45pm, 1.45-2.30pm, 3.15-4:00pm Thursday, September 8 2016, 10:00am-2:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Another but different tour of Coldstream & district
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival Around Coldstream and district pathways. These can be viewed on the community website www.coldstream.co Ticket price Free Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-5/ Thursday, September 8 2016, 10:00am-5:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Etal, Roughting Linn, Ford
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival The walk starts at Etal and passes the Old Smithy, Hay Farm to Ford village. We descend through woods to Ford Moss, where the tall chimney is the remains of a former mining community, to Roughting Linn (prehistoric cup and ring markings) and back to Ford via country lanes, moorland and farmland. Ticket price £8 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-5/ Thursday, September 8 2016, 10:15am-3:45pm Life in the Border 1914-1919 Exhibition
Venue: Borders Family History Society, 52 Overhaugh, St, Galashiels. TD1 1DP Borders Family History Society A fascinating exhibition about life in the Scottish Borders during World War I and afterwards. The exhibition is a joint venture between BFHS and Saving and Sharing Scottish Borders Stories of WWI Project Ticket price Free Website: http://www.bordersfhs.org.uk/ Thursday, September 8 2016, 10:30am-1:00pm Museum of Banff Open Days
Venue: Banff Library AB45 1AE Banff Preservation and Heritage Society Banff Museum was founded in 1828 as the museum of the Banff Institution and is the oldest museum in Scotland north of Perth. The Banff Institution was dissolved in 1875 and the collections passed to Banff Town Council. The present museum and library building were built in 1902. Banff Preservation and Heritage Society currently run the Museum in partnership with Aberdeenshire Museums Service. The Museum is on Banff High Street, in the same building as Banff Library. The postocde is AB45 1AE. The exhibits show a vast range of interesting artefacts from the Celtic period up to the modern day. They reflect life in Banffshire and show some stunning examples of our historical past in Banff and Macduff. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.bphsmob.org.uk/ Thursday, September 8 2016, 10:30am-2:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Coldstream Circular
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival A walk along the banks of the river Tweed to Fireburn Mill where we cross into the Hirsel estate grounds, home of former Prime Minister Sir Alec Douglas-Home, and still lived in by the family. Through the woods, on good paths, past the Hirsel Lake and then on to Coldstream. Ticket price £4 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-5/ Thursday, September 8 2016, 2 pm Tour of JM Barrie's Birthplace
Venue: JM Barrie's Birthplace, Brechin Road, Kirriemuir DD8 4BX A tour of JM Barrie’s Birthplace led by an expert guide. A real must for any Barrie fans. Numbers are limited so booking is essential. £6.50 Thursday, September 8 2016, 2.30 pm - 5 pm Discover Eyemouth Fort
Venue: Eyemouth Museum, Manse Road, Eyemouth, TD14 5JE Gullane and Dirleton History Society Discover the fascinating history of Eyemouth’s 16th century fort. Friends of Eyemouth Fort will take you for an escorted walk followed by a museum visit where you can experience the Borders’ only virtual reality room. Inside, you’ll be transported to the fort as it was in the 16th century. Great fun for all the family. Thursday, September 8 2016, 2:00-3:30pm Castle Paintings Tour
Venue: Brodick Castle, Garden & Country Park, Brodick, Isle of Arran KA27 8HY Join us at Brodick Castle for a specialist tour on the paintings and the stories behind them. Every picture tells a story and our paintings tour unveils a host of tales using Brodick's collections and their artists as a framework. Ticket price £6 Booking: For further information please call 01770 302202 Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/Events/Brodick-Castle-Garden-and-Country-Park/Castle-Paintings-Tour/ Thursday, September 8 2016, 7 pm Friends of Low Parks Alan and Allan Venue: GLO Centre, 78 Muir Street, MOTHERWELL. ML1 1BN Lanarkshire Family History Society Thursday, September 8 2016, 7 pm - 8 pm Three Towers Tour 1: Kirk of the Holy Rude
Venue: Church of the Holy Rude, St John Street, Stirling, FK8 1EA Stirling Council An extremely rare chance to explore the Kirk’s medieval tower: from James IVth to Cromwell! NB there are lots of steps, Booking essential, contact Murray Cook [email protected] Thursday, September 8 2016, 7.30 pm Old Orkney Customs: Births, Marriages & Deaths Tom Muir Venue: St Magnus Centre, Kirkwall Thursday, September 8 2016, 7.30 pm The Princess, the Slave and the Weaver: From prehistory to potting sheds Dr Daniel Rhodes Venue: Haddington Town House East Lothian Council Archaeology Service Dr Daniel Rhodes (NTS) will talk on recent archaeological research by the National Trust for Scotland. No booking required. Cost £2 (free to Haddington History Society members). Thursday, September 8 2016, 7.30 pm Bennet House Restoration Culross Brian Wilkinson Venue: Queens Hall, Charlestown, KY11 3EG £2 for non-members Thursday, September 8 2016, 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm The Kilmarnock I Remember Frank Beattie Venue: Johnnie Walker Bond, Strand Street Kilmarnock East Ayrshire Family History Society Thursday, September 8 2016, 9:00am-5:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Wooler to Ford via Doddington
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival Following the St. Cuthbert's Way out of Wooler we cross the moor to Weetwood Bridge and take the path over Doddington Moor with its ancient settlements and marked stones. Then we follow the river Till and take farmland paths to the quaint village of Ford. Ticket price £9 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-5/ Thursday, September 8 2016, 9:00am-5:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Wooler to Fenwick (St.Cuthbert's Way)
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival This is Day 5 of the St.Cuthbert's Way. From Wooler we climb up to and cross Weetwood Moor (iconic views over Glendale and the Cheviot hills) and descend to Weetwood Bridge over the river Till, then by way of West Horton and Old Hazelrigg, we arrive at St. Cuthbert's Cave. We then go on woodland paths by Fawcet Hill and Blaewearie to Fenwick. Ticket price £10 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-5/ Thursday, September 8 2016, All Day Book of Deer 2016
Venue: Old Deer village Cameron Archaeology Ltd Book of Deer 16 funded by Aberdeenshire Council will be carrying out further research around the village of Old Deer. We will be test pitting in various locations including the Old Deer Church, Kemp Hall, Episcopalian Church and various gardens. There will be an open day and visits from local schools. Come along and volunteer or visit and see what we are up to. Ticket price Free Friday, September 9 2016, 1:00pm-5:00pm Alyth Museum Open Days
Venue: Alyth Museum, Commercial Street, Alyth, PH11 8AF Alyth is a small rural Perthshire village overlooking the countryside of Strathmore. This is an area rich in farming, which is an inspiration and resource for the museum collection. Ground floor display Alyth. Enjoy a wealth of pictures and objects reflecting life as it was in and around Alyth. Don't miss the brilliant exhibition about the work of local Blairgowrie photographers, D Wilson Laing. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/6474/Alyth-Museum Friday, September 9 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Are your roots in the Borders ? Discover your family history or build your family tree
Venue: 52 Overhaugh St, Galashiels, TD1 1DP Borders Family History Society Build your family tree. Knock down a 'brick wall'. Explore your family history primarily in the Border counties (Berwickshire, Peeblesshire, Roxburghshire and Selkirkshire) of Scotland, though we'll still try to help you if your roots are elsewhere. Friday, September 9 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Angus Archives Drop-In
Venue: Angus Archives, Forfar Drop into Angus Archives and explore historic buildings from ballrooms to castles. Craft activities and refreshments available. Friday, September 9 2016, 10:30am-1:00pm Museum of Banff Open Days
Venue: Banff Library AB45 1AE Banff Preservation and Heritage Society Banff Museum was founded in 1828 as the museum of the Banff Institution and is the oldest museum in Scotland north of Perth. The Banff Institution was dissolved in 1875 and the collections passed to Banff Town Council. The present museum and library building were built in 1902. Banff Preservation and Heritage Society currently run the Museum in partnership with Aberdeenshire Museums Service. The Museum is on Banff High Street, in the same building as Banff Library. The postocde is AB45 1AE. The exhibits show a vast range of interesting artefacts from the Celtic period up to the modern day. They reflect life in Banffshire and show some stunning examples of our historical past in Banff and Macduff. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.bphsmob.org.uk/ Friday, September 9 2016, 10:30am-2:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Guided Tour of Flodden 1513 battlefield
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival You will start at the Branxton village car park and be guided to the Flodden memorial, then along designated pathways with interpretation boards every 200 yards. Then we steadily climb Branxton moor where the Scottish fatally rushed down, we see more interpretation boards, telling more about the logistics of the battle, then an ascent into the Branxton village where you can visit the unique garden with animal scupltures etc. We finish with a short tour of the medieval Branxton church. Ticket price £7 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-6/ Friday, September 9 2016, 11:00am-12:30pm Brodick Castle Secrets Tour
Venue: Brodick Castle, Garden & Country Park Come along to the castle and join the Secrets Tour. We will tell you a few things that the 'ordinary visitor' does not get to know, and let you see things that you would not usually see. A more in depth look at various castle tales, places and objects. Ticket price £8 Booking: For further information please call 01770 302202 Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/Events/Brodick-Castle-Garden-and-Country-Park/Brodick-Castle-Secrets-Tour/ Friday, September 9 2016, 11:30am-5:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Fenwick to Holy Island/Lindisfarne (St.Cuthbert's Way)
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival This is Day 6 and the final day of the St.Cuthbert's Way. The last short stage of St. Cuthbert's Way goes across farmland to the beginning of the Causeway to Holy Island/Lindisfarne at Beal. If the weather is clement the last part of the walk is along the pilgrims path, following stakes, over the sands to Holy Island village and the Priory. Ticket price £10 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-6/ Friday, September 9 2016, 12:00-4:00pm Conservation in Action
Venue: Alloa Tower, Alloa Park, Alloa FK10 1PP Come and see Conservation in Action as we clean three 18th century paintings throughout August and September. Take a peek behind-the-scenes to see how paintings are cleaned at the historic tower. We'll conserve three paintings by Alloa-born 18th Century painter David Allan. Friday, September 9 2016, 2 pm - 4 pm Close Encounters - Discover Dunbar: Summer Foot Tours
Venue: Sparkly Frog boutique, 92 High St, Dunbar The Dunbar Trades Association in conjunction with Local Historian Roy Pugh bring you FREE history tours of Dunbar, every friday afternoon throughout summer. This is a unique opportunity to find out more about the history of the town and ask any questions you have always wondered about. Friday, September 9 2016, 6.30 pm - 8 pm Bullets, Ballistas and Burnswark: Exhibition Preview and Talk John Reid Venue: Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura, The Observatory, Rotchell Road, Dumfries, DG2 7SW Dumfries and Galloway Museums and Galleries For the last five decades, archaeological debate has surrounded the extraordinary complex of Roman earthworks at Burnswark Hill, near Middlebie. During the last half century, the two Roman camps which hold the largest native hill fort in Dumfriesshire in a vice-like grip, have been believed to be a Roman practice works. Now after a year of investigations supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, exciting new evidence is emerging of what really took place on this dark and foreboding hill. Friday, September 9 2016, 7.30 pm Summer Finds
Venue: German Speaking Church, Chalmers Crescent, Edinburgh, EH9 1TW Friday, September 9 2016, 9:30am-3:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Flodden to Coldstream via Pallinsburn
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival From Branxton village the route, on country lanes, farmland and moorland goes round part of the Flodden battlefield, where the historian will give a short explanation, then past Pallinsburn House (built 1763 in Jacobean style), down Muggers' Loan (an old traders' lane) and back to Coldstream. Possible finish at Cornhill, for those who wish. Ticket price £6 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-6/ Friday, September 9 2016, 9:30am-4:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Flodden to Coldstream via Moneylaws
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival This is the battle of Flodden (1513) commemoration day and the walk starts at Branxton (Flodden) memorial car park. The memorial is only 400 yards away. The walk takes in a probable escape route for Scottish soldiers escaping from the battle field. We take in Moneylaws hill, Downham, Piper's Lonnen and Learmouth, before passing through Cornhill and on to Coldstream. The walk entails an initial climb-off path, the remainder of the walk is undulating but with a section of the old railway line. Possible finish for those who wish to end their walk at Cornhill shop. Ticket price £6 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-6/ Friday, September 9 2016, 9:30am-4:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Bowden Doors, St.Cuthbert's Cave, Belford
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival The walk begins alongside rough crags with panoramic views before climbing gently to forest tracks heading for St. Cuthbert's Cave. With views of the Cheviots and the coast the route is over rough heather, forest tracks and rich pastoral farmland to reach the former coaching town of Belford. Ticket price £10 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-6/ Friday, September 9 2016, All Day Book of Deer 2016
Venue: Old Deer village Cameron Archaeology Ltd Book of Deer 16 funded by Aberdeenshire Council will be carrying out further research around the village of Old Deer. We will be test pitting in various locations including the Old Deer Church, Kemp Hall, Episcopalian Church and various gardens. There will be an open day and visits from local schools. Come along and volunteer or visit and see what we are up to. Ticket price Free Saturday, September 10 2016, 1 pm Commemoration at Pinkie Cleugh Memorial Stone
Venue: Pinkie Cleugh Memorial Stone, off Salter's Road, Wallyford East Lothian Council Archaeology Service Annual commemoration of the Battle of Pinkie Cleugh (1547) at the memorial stone (off Salter’s Road, Wallyford, at the A1 junction). This event is arranged by the Old Musselburgh Club. No booking required. Free. Saturday, September 10 2016, 1:00-3:00pm Family Day
Venue: Baird Institute 3 Lugar Street Cumnock East Ayrshire KA18 1AD Creative activities for all ages including Victorian Selfies and Arts & Crafts. The Baird Institute lies in the centre of the town of Cumnock and was opened in March 1891 to provide leisure facilities for local people and included a museum, billiard room and reading rooms. Today it holds collections of Mauchline Ware of world importance complimented by many items of Cumnock Pottery as well as a wide range of resources which relate to the history of Cumnock and the Doon Valley area – museum collections, archives, photographs, audio visual materials, books, maps and newspapers. One room is also dedicated to James Keir Hardie, founder of the Labour Party and contains many of his personal belongings. Combine this with a continually changing catalogue of contemporary art exhibitions and a range of events and workshops taking place throughout the year and a visit to the Baird Institute will be worthwhile, whatever your interest. Ticket price Free Website: http://eastayrshireleisure.com/index.php?a=eventdetail&id=4&eventid=2683#.V7QsUrgrKUl Saturday, September 10 2016, 1:00-4:00pm Blair Drummond House
Venue: Cuthil Brae, by Doune, FK9 4UT Take the access marked ‘’Cuthil Brae’’, near Kincardine parish church, off the A84 between Stirling and Doune. Stirling Council This grand Category B Listed baronial mansion, designed by architect J.C. Walker dates from 1872 and is set in its own ‘natural style’ designed landscape which dates from the late 1700s. Since 1977 it has been run by the Camphill Trust and is a home-from-home environment providing residential care, meaningful activities and friendship for people with learning disabilities in a unique family setting. There is good access to the mansion house and grounds. Have a guided tour of the house and grounds. Teas, coffees and delicious home baking will be available (funds for this go to Camphill’s Capital Development Appeal). Limited Disabled access; stairs and gravel drive. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 1:00-4:00pm Port of Menteith Parish Church
Venue: FK8 3RA on the B8034 next to the Lake Hotel Stirling Council Port of Menteith is a Category B Listed church with a small, friendly congregation who are enthusiastic about encouraging and maintaining a Christian presence by the Lake of Menteith. The Lake islands have been a center of Christianity since mediaeval times and the historic ruins have a strong sense of the spirituality which infused worship there. Conscious of this precious heritage, we keep the flame of faith alive in the Kirk. The Port Kirk has served the people of Menteith for hundreds of years and the present building dates from Victorian times. Unfortunately no disabled access is available Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 1:00pm-5:00pm Alyth Museum Open Days
Venue: Alyth Museum, Commercial Street, Alyth, PH11 8AF Alyth is a small rural Perthshire village overlooking the countryside of Strathmore. This is an area rich in farming, which is an inspiration and resource for the museum collection. Ground floor display Alyth. Enjoy a wealth of pictures and objects reflecting life as it was in and around Alyth. Don't miss the brilliant exhibition about the work of local Blairgowrie photographers, D Wilson Laing. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/6474/Alyth-Museum Saturday, September 10 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Logie Old Kirk
Venue: Logie Old Kirk, Stirling, FK9 4LB Stirling Council Logie Old Kirk has been a centre of Christianity for over 1500 years: explore its history with the Volunteers of the Logie Old Graveyard Group. No booking required! Saturday, September 10 2016, 10 am - 4 pm Putting on the Blitz
Venue: Newbattle Abbey College To celebrate the final stages of our exciting Heritage Lottery funded project at Newbattle Abbey College we welcome you to step back in time to share our fascinating World War II history. The day will feature an exhibition, documentary screening, curator’s talk, WWII vehicles, pop-up from the Mobile Military Museum, NAAFI, 1940s entertainment, storytelling and children’s activities. Free entry. Disabled access and lift available. Saturday, September 10 2016, 10 am - 4.15 pm Ben Lomond Clanscape
Venue: NTS Ben Lomond Ranger Base, Ardess Lodge, Rowardennan by Drymen, G63 0AR Step Back in Time! Once upon a time, not so very long ago, there were small villages on the slopes of Ben Lomond. Ardess, just north of Rowardennan was one such place. The land was farmed, crops were grown, the woodlands were worked. People lived closer to nature using skills that aren’t commonly used today. Join us in learning some of these old ways. Saturday, September 10 2016, 10 am - 5 pm Family History Day: Your History in Pictures & Film
Venue: John Gray Centre East Lothian Council Archaeology Service Join the council’s Archive and Local History team for Family History Day. This year we’re looking at your family photographs and screening local films. Kids can come along too to try out our photobooth, watch vintage cartoons and get crafting. Find out how to care for your family photographs and papers; watch East Lothian Shorts – film footage taken from our collections; view our Memoryscape – memories collected for our oral history projects. Dr Hanita Ritchie will talk about going to the cinema in East Lothian and the day will finish with a Scottish feature film. Popcorn provided, why not bring along a jeely jar and reminisce! No booking required. Free. To find out more email [email protected] or call 01620 820695. Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm St Saviour’s Church
Venue: 21 Fountain Road, Bridge of Allan FK9 4AY Stirling Council St Saviour’s, Bridge of Allan started in 1854, when a handful of people came together to form a congregation of the Scottish Episcopal Church ( ‘Piskies’ ). John Henderson was the architect of the original church on a Tractarian ( Oxford Movement ) early decorated nave & chancel formula and even the rectory next to the church was designed in a matching neo-gothic style with trefoil headed windows. On entering the church there is a fine font, made by William Pirret of Glasgow in 1873 & St Saviour’s also has particularly attractive stained glass. The piece de resistance is the West Window, believed to be designed by Robert Anning Bell and made at Stephen Adam Studio, Glasgow in 1922. In 2006 a member of the congregation, Malcolm Allan, wrote a book called, St Saviour’s at 150 - these are available at the back of the church which gives considerably more information about St Saviour’s. Unfortunately there is no disabled access. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm Bridge of Allan Parish Church
Venue: 12 Keir Street Stirling Council This Category B Listed building was built in 1860 to designs by James Henderson, it was later enlarged by Robert Baldie. The church contains furnishings designed in 1904 by the eminent Scottish architect, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. There is an attractive timber roof and excellent stained glass windows and an organ by Lewis dating from 1884. Stirling Young Carers and Neuro Central will both take part in Stirling’s Doors Open Days in this venue, come along and find out about all the good work they do. Limited disabled access. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm Cowane’s Hospital
Venue: 49 St John Street, Stirling FK8 1ED Stirling Council Cowane’s Hospital, dating from 1637, is an amazing Category A Listed historic E-plan building with its own bowling green and gardens. Saturday is not to be missed. This is your opportunity to see all your favourite Bloody Scotland crime writers take part in a competitive football match on the bowling green!!! Kick-off is at 1.30. Sunday is Cake Fest day. The national Festival of Architecture is in Stirling Doors Open Day 2016 11 and the day will be spent at Cowane’s creating a huge progressive map with models of Scotland’s most iconic buildings - on Scotland’s oldest known bowling green – all made entirely out of cake! As well as the history talks and a display all about the future restoration of this prominent Stirling building visitors can enjoy teas & coffees or stop for lunch if the cake fest and football make you hungry. Disabled access to ground floor. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm Stirling Council Archives at the Engine Shed at Forthside
Venue: Viewfield Place, Stirling FK8 1NH Stirling Council The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling FK8 1QZ (over the spiky bridge footbridge from the train station) Find out the history of your house? Learn about the past of your local area? Search for your ancestors? The friendly and knowledgeable staff from Stirling’s Archives will help you start, whatever you’re researching. This year we are showcasing some of the older building plans that we hold at the Archives. Staff there on the day will be happy to tell you all about what we hold and how you can get started on research into whatever interests you. Limited disabled access Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm The Battle of Bannockburn
Venue: NTS The Battle of Bannockburn Glasgow Road, Whins of Milton, Stirling, FK7 0LJ Stirling Council Prepare for battle! 700 years after the Battle of Bannockburn, the multi award winning Battle of Bannockburn experience puts you right at the heart of the action. Stand shoulder to shoulder with medieval soldiers. Take command of your troops and control your own Battle of Bannockburn. Our comfortable café with mouth-watering menu, mini soft play and views to the surrounding countryside The centre will also be running Archery 11.00am - 4.00pm (small charge for charity), weapons handling and dressing up. Important. The exhibition has a timed performance entry similar to a Cinemas or Theatre. Spaces on this occasion will be allocated to a first come first served basis. Each session lasts for around 80 mins. Session times are 10.00am, 10.45am, 11.30am, 12.15pm, 1.00pm, 1.45pm, 2.30pm, 3.15pm & 4.00pm. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm, 1:00pm-4:00pm Bruce Memorial Church
Venue: St Ninian’s Road, Cambusbarron FK7 9NU Stirling Council Designed by prominent local architects, McLuckie & Walker, and built in1910 of rough-faced Polmaise stone, this art nouveau gothic church was originally a United Free Church. Visit this beautiful church at the heart of the village and discover its historic connection with Robert the Bruce. On Saturday and on Sunday afternoon enjoy the stunning Flower Festival with the theme: A Celebration of Village Life and take the opportunity to learn about all our church activities including our Connected Life vision and the projects we are running for the benefit of the whole community. On Sunday morning, everyone is welcome to join us for a Back to Church Sunday service with a mix of traditional and contemporary worship led by our minister Rev Graham Nash. There will be tea, coffee and home baking in the Church Hall on Saturday from 10am-12noon and on Sundy from 1-4pm. For more information visit http://www.cambusbarronchurch.org/ or send us a friend request on facebook. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm, 12:30pm-4:00pm Holy Trinity Episcopal Church
Venue: Albert Place, Stirling FK8 2RG Stirling Council Holy Trinity, Stirling, dating from the late 1878 is a stunning Category A Listed church. Converted by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson in 1921 to commerorate the fallen of World War 1, the building and it’s interior are in near original condition. This church has particularly good examples of stained glass windows. On Saturday 10th the church will be open to visit from 10.00 and there will be guided tours at 14.30, 15.00 & 15.30. On Sunday 11th there will be guided tours every half hour. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:30am-1:00pm Museum of Banff Open Days
Venue: Banff Library AB45 1AE Banff Preservation and Heritage Society Banff Museum was founded in 1828 as the museum of the Banff Institution and is the oldest museum in Scotland north of Perth. The Banff Institution was dissolved in 1875 and the collections passed to Banff Town Council. The present museum and library building were built in 1902. Banff Preservation and Heritage Society currently run the Museum in partnership with Aberdeenshire Museums Service. The Museum is on Banff High Street, in the same building as Banff Library. The postocde is AB45 1AE. The exhibits show a vast range of interesting artefacts from the Celtic period up to the modern day. They reflect life in Banffshire and show some stunning examples of our historical past in Banff and Macduff. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.bphsmob.org.uk/ Saturday, September 10 2016, 10:30am-2:30pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Coldstream to Castlelaw Motte (The Mount) and return
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival A walk through the Hirsel policies, past the Hirsel House to Dunglass Bridge and on to Charterpath Bridge where a path takes us up to The Mount, Castlelaw Motte and bailey standing high over the countryside, and back along the edge of farmland to Coldstream. Ticket price £4 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-7/ Saturday, September 10 2016, 11 am - 1 pm Pinkie Cleugh Battlefield Walk
East Lothian Council Archaeology Service A guided walk over the site of the Battle of Pinkie Cleugh (1547). The tour will start from the ‘Roman’ Bridge over the Esk in Musselburgh, and take the route followed by the Scottish forces in the approach to their fateful encounter with the invading English Royal army. The walk will end at the battlefield Memorial Stone off Salter’s Road, Wallyford, in time for the annual commemoration ceremony of the battle, led by the Old Musselburgh Club. Walking is mostly on paved footpaths, but includes a section of steep steps leading up to St Michael’s Church, Inveresk. This event is provided by the Pinkie Cleugh Battlefield Group. Booking required. Free. email [email protected] Saturday, September 10 2016, 11.15am-12:00pm, 12.15-1:00pm, 2:00-2.45pm, 3:00-3.45pm Music through the Ages
Venue: Edinburgh Castle Meet King James V’s musician. He has been asked by the King to explain some of the music and instruments that the King expects in his court. He will also tell tales of these instruments, some of which may even be true! Ticket price: This performance is included in the Edinburgh Castle admission price. Booking: [email protected], 0131 668 8885 Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/whats-on/event/?eventId=9bb5e630-4494-474b-b918-a5f600e503bf Saturday, September 10 2016, 11:00am-3:00pm Doors Open Day
Venue: Engine Shed Visit the Engine Shed during Door Open Day and take a look ar the range of artefacts recovered from some of Scotland's most famous sites. Learn how to protect and conserve these artefacts and discover what they can reveal about Scotland's dynmanic heritage. Ticket price Free Booking: http://conservation.historic-scotland.gov.uk/engineshed Website: For more information email [email protected] Saturday, September 10 2016, 11:00am-4:00pm, 12:00-4:00pm Church of the Holy Rude
Venue: 51 St John Street, Stirling FK8 1EA Stirling Council The highly visible Category A Listed Church of the Holy Rude is one of Stirling’s most important and imposing historic buildings. This beautiful building has been a place of worship for the past six hundred years and the dedicated staff will be happy to tell you all about its long and exciting history including the crowning of a king and why it has lots of shot-holes in the tower. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer have a chat with one of the staff while you’re visiting. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 11:am-3:00pm Leighton Library
Venue: The Cross, Dunblane FK15 0QA Stirling Council At the centre of Old Dunblane is Scotland’s oldest purpose-built library still in existence. This Category A Listed building dates from 1684, it retains original internal furnishings and houses a large collection of books and information. Visit beautiful Dunblane and come and talk to the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers and learn about this wonderful old building. Unfortunately no disabled access as the building has forestairs Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 12.00 pm - 1 pm John de Graham's Castle Tour
Venue: Carron Valley Stirling Council Sir John de Graham, Wallace’s ally, a veteran of The Battle of Stirling Bridge, who died at the Battle of Falkirk 1298, lived here! A guided tour of the medieval castle of one of Scotland’s heroes! Duration 1 hour, steep and uneven ground. Booking essential, contact Murray Cook [email protected] Saturday, September 10 2016, 12.00 pm - 4 pm Open Days at Cousland Smiddy
Venue: 31 Hadfast Road, Cousland, Dalkeith, Midlothian, Scotland. EH22 2NZ In by-gone days, in its heyday, the Smiddy was at the centre of the village’s working and social life. It was much frequented by locals and visitors. The smiddy remains at the heart of the village as a work-base for a rural craft and home to a heritage hub for the local community. Stop by on our Open Days to learn more about the Smiddy complex Saturday, September 10 2016, 12:00-4:00pm Athaneum/Steeple
Venue: 65 King Street, Stirling FK8 1DT Stirling Council A rare chance to see inside one of the most photographed buildings of Stirling Town. The Steeple was designed by William Stirling as a Doors Open Day 2016 7 gentlemen’s club and completed in 1816/7, the porch surmounted by a statue of William Wallace was added in 1859. See the beautiful original staircase and learn about the history of this prominent building at the top of King Street. Ticket price Free Booking: Booking is essential and places are limited, to book your place please call 01786 233 617 or email [email protected] Limited disabled access, lots of spiral stairs to access interior. Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 12:00-4:00pm Conservation in Action
Venue: Alloa Tower, Alloa Park, Alloa FK10 1PP Come and see Conservation in Action as we clean three 18th century paintings throughout August and September. Take a peek behind-the-scenes to see how paintings are cleaned at the historic tower. We'll conserve three paintings by Alloa-born 18th Century painter David Allan. Saturday, September 10 2016, 2.00 pm - 3.30 pm Become an archaeologist!
Venue: Scottish Fisheries Museum, St Ayles, Harbourhead, Anstruther, Fife KY10 3AB Pick up your spade and trowel as we become archaeologists for the day! Discover how we can use historical artefacts to learn about the past as we plan and carry out our own mock excavations. What objects will we discover? Ages 7-12; £3 per person. For bookings and enquiries call 01333 310628 or email [email protected] Saturday, September 10 2016, 2.00pm-4.00pm Brickwalls: bring one along
Venue: Activities Room, Elgin Library, Cooper Park, Elgin, IV30 1HS Aberdeen and North East Scotland Family History Society Saturday, September 10 2016, 2.00pm-4.00pm Scottish Non-conformist records pre-1855 Bruce Bishop Venue: Dumbarton Room, Royal Scots Club, 29 Abercromby Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6QE Aberdeen and North East Scotland Family History Society Saturday, September 10 2016, 2:00-4:30pm Scotland and Celtic Identity
Venue: National Museum of Scotland, Auditorium, Level 1 Can we say that Scotland is a Celtic nation? Join us for an engaging panel discussion on Scotland and Celtic identity chaired by Scottish journalist and author Neal Ascherson. This event will explore the history of our national, cultural and linguistic identities and their resonance for those in Britain, Ireland and the global Celtic diaspora. In association with The University of Edinburgh’s Department of Celtic and Scottish Studies. Ticket price £10, £8 members and concessions Booking: Book online atwww.nms.ac.uk/Scotland or call 0300 123 6789 Website: http://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland/whats-on/scotland-and-celtic-identity/ Saturday, September 10 2016, 2:00-5:00pm Mugdock Castle
Venue: Mugdock Country Park, Craigallian Road, Nr Milngavie G62 8EL (Located within Mugdock Country Park.) Stirling Council The lovely Mugdock Country Park is one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions. Within the park is the ruinous Mugdock Castle which dates back to the 1300’s and is a scheduled ancient monument. Come and learn about the castle and find out about all the other on-site heritage or stop for a break and some lunch. There’s always lots going on. http:// www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk/ Disabled access to grounds, there is no access to tower Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 7:00-8:00pm Cromarty Ghost Walk
Venue: Hugh Miller's Birthplace Cottage & Museum Walk in the company of ghosts ... or at least ghost tales. Join a Cromarty Ghost Walk with chilling tales from Hugh Miller and others retold by your costumed Ghost Guide. Ghost walks start at 7pm from outside Hugh Miller’s Birthplace Cottage in Church Street, Cromarty on Saturdays in July, August and September. The walks are led by Timemasters' costumed Ghost Guide Duncan Cook and last approximately 1 hour, so wear comfortable shoes. There is a minimum age of 15 years. Advanced booking essential, contact [email protected] or [email protected] Or by telephoning 01381-600-245 for details. Ticket price £5 Booking: For further information please call 01381 600245 Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/Events/Hugh-Millers-Birthplace-Cottage-and-Museum/Cromarty-Ghost-Walk/ Saturday, September 10 2016, 7:30pm Magical Twilight Tours
Venue: Abbotsford house As the sun sets, take a beautiful twilight tour of the house and gardens. Soak up the atmosphere as you enjoy a refreshing iced Pimm's or soft drink to finish off the evening. These tours are part of the Borders Heritage Festival, so take this special opportunity to see the house as well as the walled gardens out of hours and listen to our knowledgeable guides who have fascinating stories to tell. Tours start at 19:30 and will last 1 1/2 hours to give you plenty of time to experience the magical atmosphere. Ticket price Adults £15 / Friends of Abbotsford £13.50 Booking: To book, please call us on 01896 752043 or buy your tickets in person at our Visitor Centre. Booking early is advised, as places are limited Website: http://www.scottsabbotsford.com/whats-on/view/magical-twilight-tours Saturday, September 10 2016, 8:30am- 8:00pm Trip and tour of Cragside House and the Anglo-Saxon Site of Maelmin
Venue: Boyd Orr Building, University Avenue Glasgow Archaeological Society The coach will leave from outside the Boyd Orr Building, University Avenue at 8.30 a.m. After a brief stop en-route we should arrive at Cragside House, approximately 12 miles south of Alnwick, in time for lunch. Members may bring their own packed lunch or enjoy a meal or snack in one of the tearooms in the Visitor Centre. In the early afternoon we shall begin our tour of Cragside House, the extraordinary home of the Tyneside industrialist and innovator Sir William Armstrong. In 1878 it was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. Cragside House is now in the ownership of the National Trust and after a tour of this fascinating house members will have the opportunity of exploring the extensive grounds including woodlands, formal gardens, lakes and rocky crags. Later in the afternoon our coach will head for the modern day village of Milfield. Here, in Anglo-Saxon times was the royal township of Maelmin. At this site we’ll be able to view a series of reconstructions of local archaeological structures. We should arrive back in Glasgow approximately 8.00 p.m. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Places on the coach are limited and priority will be given to Society Members although non-members can be accommodated subject to a modest supplementary charge. Please contact Margaret King via the contact form to request a booking form. Members of National Trust must bring their Membership Cards. Ticket price Free for members, small donation for non-members Website: http://www.glasarchsoc.org.uk/index.php/activities/excursions/icalrepeat.detail/2016/09/10title=cragside-house-and-the-anglo-saxon-site-of-maelmin-northumberland/0/-/-?rp_id=28 Saturday, September 10 2016, 9:30am-12:30pm, 2:00-4:00pm St Columba’s Church
Venue: Park Terrace, Stirling FK8 2NA Stirling Council With its tall square tower, this church is a landmark feature of the King’s Park area of Stirling. Come and visit this beautiful Category B Listed building. Built in 1902 by Messrs B Reynolds, a number of alterations have been made to this building, most recently the main hall has been refurbished with aid of a grant from CCF and now has a wellinsulated hall with underfloor heating supplied from an efficient heat exchange system. This is a fine example of a well-loved church with an active congregation and local community. Teas, coffee and cakes will be on sale during opening hours (any proceeds in aid of church funds). Disabled access with ramp Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Saturday, September 10 2016, 9:30am-5:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Westnewton, Elsdonburn Shank, Kirknewton
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival From Westnewton Bridge we take the path to Elsdonburn Shank, a remote farm near the Border and back over the hill by Ringchesters, an ancient fort, to join St.Cuthbert's Way and back to Kirknewton. Ticket price £8 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-7/ Saturday, September 10 2016, 9:30am-5:00pm Scottish Borders Walking Festival- Kirknewton, College Valley, Hethpool Linn
Venue: Coldstream Scottish Borders Walking Festival From Westnewton Bridge we take the path to Hethpool Linn, along the College Burn to the memorial and back along the other side to Kirknewton, passing Hethpool Linn, a pretty waterfall. Ticket price £8 Website: http://www.borderswalking.com/walks/day-7/ Saturday, September 10 2016, All Day The Battle of Stirling Bridge Anniversary
Venue: The National Wallace Monument On the 11th September 1297 Wallace’s army was victorious at The Battle of Stirling Bridge. On 10th and 11th September the anniversary will be marked with a programme of special medieval themed activities at The National Wallace Monument including: Performances by costumed actors portraying key moments in the battle and in Wallace’s life Weapons demonstrations Dress-up costumes, face painting and special activities just for kids Falconry display (Saturday 10th only) Archery (Sunday 11th only) With special activities taking place on both days – it’s a great reason for visiting and enjoying everything which The National Wallace Monument has to offer. PLUS! We’re slicing 20% off admission prices over The Battle of Stirling Bridge Anniversary weekend – tickets can be booked online in advance, or purchased at the Monument. Ticket price Admission Prices: Adults: £9.99, Children £6.27 Sunday, September 11 2016, 1:00-4:00pm Port of Menteith Parish Church
Venue: FK8 3RA on the B8034 next to the Lake Hotel Stirling Council Port of Menteith is a Category B Listed church with a small, friendly congregation who are enthusiastic about encouraging and maintaining a Christian presence by the Lake of Menteith. The Lake islands have been a center of Christianity since mediaeval times and the historic ruins have a strong sense of the spirituality which infused worship there. Conscious of this precious heritage, we keep the flame of faith alive in the Kirk. The Port Kirk has served the people of Menteith for hundreds of years and the present building dates from Victorian times. Unfortunately no disabled access is available Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 1:00pm-5:00pm Alyth Museum Open Days
Venue: Alyth Museum, Commercial Street, Alyth, PH11 8AF Alyth is a small rural Perthshire village overlooking the countryside of Strathmore. This is an area rich in farming, which is an inspiration and resource for the museum collection. Ground floor display Alyth. Enjoy a wealth of pictures and objects reflecting life as it was in and around Alyth. Don't miss the brilliant exhibition about the work of local Blairgowrie photographers, D Wilson Laing. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/6474/Alyth-Museum Sunday, September 11 2016, 10 am - 2 pm In Wallace's Footsteps Dr Murray Cook Venue: Meet Legends Café, National Wallace Monument, Causewayhead, FK9 5LF Stirling Council Explore The Battle of Stirling Bridge on the Anniversary of Wallace's most famous victory, with Dr Murray Cook, Stirling Council’s Archaeologist. Duration 2 hours, some rough ground and lots of steps, wear appropriate clothes. Booking essential, contact Murray Cook [email protected] Sunday, September 11 2016, 10 am - 4.15 pm Ben Lomond Clanscape
Venue: NTS Ben Lomond Ranger Base, Ardess Lodge, Rowardennan by Drymen, G63 0AR Step Back in Time! Once upon a time, not so very long ago, there were small villages on the slopes of Ben Lomond. Ardess, just north of Rowardennan was one such place. The land was farmed, crops were grown, the woodlands were worked. People lived closer to nature using skills that aren’t commonly used today. Join us in learning some of these old ways. Sunday, September 11 2016, 10:00am-2:00pm Stirling Youth Hostel
Venue: St. John Street, Top of the Town, Stirling FK8 1EA Stirling Council Take this opportunity to explore one of Scotland’s most popular hostels, a great base for discovering the Stirling area and meeting like-minded people with similar interests. This Category B Listed building was formerly the Erskine Church of 1824, which was destroyed in a fire, only the front facade remains. For more information about the Scottish Youth Hostel Association visit http://www.syha.org.uk/ Limited disabled access Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm The Battle of Bannockburn
Venue: NTS The Battle of Bannockburn Glasgow Road, Whins of Milton, Stirling, FK7 0LJ Stirling Council Prepare for battle! 700 years after the Battle of Bannockburn, the multi award winning Battle of Bannockburn experience puts you right at the heart of the action. Stand shoulder to shoulder with medieval soldiers. Take command of your troops and control your own Battle of Bannockburn. Our comfortable café with mouth-watering menu, mini soft play and views to the surrounding countryside The centre will also be running Archery 11.00am - 4.00pm (small charge for charity), weapons handling and dressing up. Important. The exhibition has a timed performance entry similar to a Cinemas or Theatre. Spaces on this occasion will be allocated to a first come first served basis. Each session lasts for around 80 mins. Session times are 10.00am, 10.45am, 11.30am, 12.15pm, 1.00pm, 1.45pm, 2.30pm, 3.15pm & 4.00pm. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm Stirling Council Archives at the Engine Shed at Forthside
Venue: Viewfield Place, Stirling FK8 1NH Stirling Council The Engine Shed, Forthside Way, Stirling FK8 1QZ (over the spiky bridge footbridge from the train station) Find out the history of your house? Learn about the past of your local area? Search for your ancestors? The friendly and knowledgeable staff from Stirling’s Archives will help you start, whatever you’re researching. This year we are showcasing some of the older building plans that we hold at the Archives. Staff there on the day will be happy to tell you all about what we hold and how you can get started on research into whatever interests you. Limited disabled access Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm, 1:00pm-4:00pm Bruce Memorial Church
Venue: St Ninian’s Road, Cambusbarron FK7 9NU Stirling Council Designed by prominent local architects, McLuckie & Walker, and built in1910 of rough-faced Polmaise stone, this art nouveau gothic church was originally a United Free Church. Visit this beautiful church at the heart of the village and discover its historic connection with Robert the Bruce. On Saturday and on Sunday afternoon enjoy the stunning Flower Festival with the theme: A Celebration of Village Life and take the opportunity to learn about all our church activities including our Connected Life vision and the projects we are running for the benefit of the whole community. On Sunday morning, everyone is welcome to join us for a Back to Church Sunday service with a mix of traditional and contemporary worship led by our minister Rev Graham Nash. There will be tea, coffee and home baking in the Church Hall on Saturday from 10am-12noon and on Sundy from 1-4pm. For more information visit http://www.cambusbarronchurch.org/ or send us a friend request on facebook. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 10:00am-4:00pm, 12:30pm-4:00pm Holy Trinity Episcopal Church
Venue: Albert Place, Stirling FK8 2RG Stirling Council Holy Trinity, Stirling, dating from the late 1878 is a stunning Category A Listed church. Converted by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson in 1921 to commerorate the fallen of World War 1, the building and it’s interior are in near original condition. This church has particularly good examples of stained glass windows. On Saturday 10th the church will be open to visit from 10.00 and there will be guided tours at 14.30, 15.00 & 15.30. On Sunday 11th there will be guided tours every half hour. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 11.15am-12:00pm, 12.15-1:00pm, 2:00-2.45pm, 3:00-3.45pm Music through the Ages
Venue: Edinburgh Castle Meet King James V’s musician. He has been asked by the King to explain some of the music and instruments that the King expects in his court. He will also tell tales of these instruments, some of which may even be true! Ticket price: This performance is included in the Edinburgh Castle admission price. Booking: [email protected], 0131 668 8885 Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/whats-on/event/?eventId=9bb5e630-4494-474b-b918-a5f600e503bf Sunday, September 11 2016, 11:00am-3:00pm Doors Open Day
Venue: Engine Shed Visit the Engine Shed during Door Open Day and take a look ar the range of artefacts recovered from some of Scotland's most famous sites. Learn how to protect and conserve these artefacts and discover what they can reveal about Scotland's dynmanic heritage. Ticket price Free Booking: http://conservation.historic-scotland.gov.uk/engineshed Website: For more information email [email protected] Sunday, September 11 2016, 11:00am-3:00pm Stirling Council Play Services
Venue: The Boy’s Club, 36 St John Street, Top of the Town, Stirling FK8 1EA Stirling Council The Boys Club is a well-loved Category B Listed building. Stirling Council has just had some repair works completed to the small gabled pediment and an original carved lintel above the mullioned window to Spittal Street, go along and have a look at the work. Play Services will be running a children’s event in the Main Hall and using the outside space. They will encourage the children to use photography & art activities to capture the child’s Doors Open Day 2016 19 perspective of buildings & architecture in the Top of the Town and create a presentation of the final images. They are currently researching the history of the Boys Club to be able to answer questions from visitors. Just drop in as all children’s activities are ongoing. Disabled access. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 11:00am-4:00pm, 12:00-4:00pm Church of the Holy Rude
Venue: 51 St John Street, Stirling FK8 1EA Stirling Council The highly visible Category A Listed Church of the Holy Rude is one of Stirling’s most important and imposing historic buildings. This beautiful building has been a place of worship for the past six hundred years and the dedicated staff will be happy to tell you all about its long and exciting history including the crowning of a king and why it has lots of shot-holes in the tower. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer have a chat with one of the staff while you’re visiting. Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 12.00 pm - 4 pm Day at the Museum - See Behind the Scenes
Venue: Eyemouth Museum & Tourist, Information Centre. Auld Kirk, Manse Road, Eyemouth. TD14 5JE Visit us on any Sunday in September to get an exclusive guided look behind the scenes to see how items in our collection are acquisitioned, stored and displayed. Find out more about our historic Eyemouth Fort through our brilliant 3D visual reality room and from local experts on hand to share their knowledge and inside information! www.eyemouthmuseum.org www.eyemouthfort.org Sunday, September 11 2016, 12:00-3:00pm Stirling Sheriff Court
Venue: Viewfield Place, Stirling FK8 1NH Stirling Council A great building for all ages, this impressive Category B Listed Gothic/ early Renaissance Sheriff Court building opened in 1875 and is always popular, especially with children (and big children). Tours of the court building, including the courtrooms, cells and other areas not normally open to visitors will be available for small groups as and when required, tours will last approximately 30 minutes. Disabled access Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 12:00-4:00pm Athaneum/Steeple
Venue: 65 King Street, Stirling FK8 1DT Stirling Council A rare chance to see inside one of the most photographed buildings of Stirling Town. The Steeple was designed by William Stirling as a Doors Open Day 2016 7 gentlemen’s club and completed in 1816/7, the porch surmounted by a statue of William Wallace was added in 1859. See the beautiful original staircase and learn about the history of this prominent building at the top of King Street. Ticket price Free Booking: Booking is essential and places are limited, to book your place please call 01786 233 617 or email [email protected] Limited disabled access, lots of spiral stairs to access interior. Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 2 pm - 4 pm Three Towers Tour 2: Cambuskenneth Abbey Tower
Venue: Cambuskenneth Abbey Tower, Cambuskenneth, FK9 5NH Stirling Council A rare chance to have a guided tour of the tower’s interior: from Pictish logboats to 17th century snipers and secret masons’ marks! NB there are lots of steps, Booking essential, contact Murray Cook [email protected] Sunday, September 11 2016, 2 pm - 5 pm Logie Old Kirk
Venue: Logie Old Kirk, Stirling, FK9 4LB Stirling Council Logie Old Kirk has been a centre of Christianity for over 1500 years: explore its history with the Volunteers of the Logie Old Graveyard Group. No booking required! Sunday, September 11 2016, 2.30pm-4.00pm A walk around old photographs of Gullane
East Lothian Council Archaeology Service Join Gullane and Dirleton History Society for a guided walk around the centre of Gullane finding the spots from which old photographs have been taken and observing and discussing the changes which have taken place over time. Booking required. Free. email [email protected] Sunday, September 11 2016, 2.30pm-4.30pm Bridges of Musselburgh walking tour
Musselburgh Conservation Society A walk visiting the seven bridges over the River Esk at Musselburgh. The route explores the relationship of Musselburgh with the river, how this has shaped the physical form of the town and the historical changes that have occurred. This 3 km walk mostly follows paved pathways, but there are steps leading up the Roman Bridge. This event is provided by the Musselburgh Conservation Society. Booking required. Free. email [email protected] Sunday, September 11 2016, 2:00-4:00pm St Andrew’s Episcopal Church
Venue: Leny Rd., Callander FK17 8AL Stirling Council This stunning little Category B Listed Gothic church dates from 1857 is definitely worth visiting. The church is set back from the street and has a lovely lawn and large cedar tree with a sweeping driveway the main road. It has a cruciform-plan with a later 19th century half-octagonplan sanctuary. Full disabled access Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 2:00-4:00pm Lecropt Church
Venue: Bridge of Allan, FK9 4NB (The entrance to the car park is just over ¼ of a mile west out of Bridge of Allan and ¾ of a mile from Junction 11 of A9/M9, Keir Roundabout) Stirling Council Bridge of Allan, FK9 4NB (The entrance to the car park is just over ¼ of a mile west out of Bridge of Allan and ¾ of a mile from Junction 11 of A9/M9, Keir Roundabout) This landmark Category A Listed building, is seen daily by thousands of people travelling on the M9. The tower protrudes from the treetops just north of Stirling near the Keir roundabout. The church, designed by William Stirling, was built in 1826. Don’t miss this chance to visit and see the spectacular windows and learn about the interesting history of this lovely church. Disabled access Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, 2:00-5:00pm Mugdock Castle
Venue: Mugdock Country Park, Craigallian Road, Nr Milngavie G62 8EL (Located within Mugdock Country Park.) Stirling Council The lovely Mugdock Country Park is one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions. Within the park is the ruinous Mugdock Castle which dates back to the 1300’s and is a scheduled ancient monument. Come and learn about the castle and find out about all the other on-site heritage or stop for a break and some lunch. There’s always lots going on. http:// www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk/ Disabled access to grounds, there is no access to tower Ticket price Free Website: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/find-a-building/?area=7529 Sunday, September 11 2016, All Day The Battle of Stirling Bridge Anniversary
Venue: The National Wallace Monument On the 11th September 1297 Wallace’s army was victorious at The Battle of Stirling Bridge. On 10th and 11th September the anniversary will be marked with a programme of special medieval themed activities at The National Wallace Monument including: Performances by costumed actors portraying key moments in the battle and in Wallace’s life Weapons demonstrations Dress-up costumes, face painting and special activities just for kids Falconry display (Saturday 10th only) Archery (Sunday 11th only) With special activities taking place on both days – it’s a great reason for visiting and enjoying everything which The National Wallace Monument has to offer. PLUS! We’re slicing 20% off admission prices over The Battle of Stirling Bridge Anniversary weekend – tickets can be booked online in advance, or purchased at the Monument. Ticket price Admission Prices: Adults: £9.99, Children £6.27
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Kirk Session records are a fantastic resource, not just for family history, but for Scottish history more generally. Along with the information more generally sought by genealogists - interrogations of unmarried mothers as to the paternity of their children (which we've written about here) - and the occasional panic about witchcraft and Sabbath breaking, they sometimes contain snippets of more general interest. The following appears in the West Calder Kirk Session minutes on 1 September 1678 [2]: A communication from the Privy Council being read for a voluntary contribution for the relief of Robert Williamson skipper in Montross [Montrose] and the rest of his company captives with the Turks in Algiers, the Session ordains a collection to be made through the several houses of the Parish & intimation publickly to be made before the collection thereof. This was a reference to what are known as the Barbary Pirates - privateers operating from North Africa, attacking European shipping and mounting coastal raids in the Mediterranean and further afield (Baltimore in County Cork had been raided in 1631, and even Iceland had been attacked in 1627). The purpose of the raids was to acquire captives, either to be sold as slaves or, for the lucky ones, to be ransomed. Presumably the Privy Council were hoping to pay a ransom for Robert Williamson and his crew. England had sought relief from pirate attacks through a series of attacks and gunboat diplomacy in previous years. In 1675 Sir John Narborough, commanding a Royal Navy squadron, had negotiated a treaty with Tunis, and also - following a bombardment - with Tripoli, in modern-day Libya. The next year, peace followed with the Republic of Salé (opposite Rabat in Morocco). A peace deal had been negotiated with Algiers in 1671, but this was broken in 1677 and a large number of ships from Britain were captured by corsairs operating out of Algiers. Janeway [3] lists over 80 ships captured by Algiers corsairs in 1677-1679. Evidently the men appointed to raise a collection for Robert Williamson were not particularly assiduous in carrying out their task, as seven weeks later we again read in the session minutes [4]: October 22 1678 We hear nothing more about the collection until finally, three months after the initial call to raise a collection, we read [5]: December 8 1678 Although it's not explicitly stated, it seems reasonable to assume the intention was to pay a ransom to recover Robert Williamson. Sadly, Janeway notes that it was not to be, recording that the ship (the Isabella) was lost, with all twelve crew having died. It's not clear what happened to the money raised, evidently not just in West Calder. It may well have been paid to the families of the unfortunate crew of the Isabella, but there is no mention of that in the West Calder records. Sources: [1] By Workshop of Willem van de Velde the Younger - Christie's, LotFinder: entry 5080190, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=18420790 [2] Kirk Session of West Calder, Minutes, September 1 1678, CH2/366/1, Records of Church of Scotland Synods, Presbyteries and Kirk Sessions, National Records of Scotland, Edinburgh [3] A list of ships taken since July, 1677 from his Majesties subjects, by the corsairs of Algier. With their names, masters names, and places to which they belong'd, and time of taking : with a modest estimate of the loss. London: Printed for Richard Janeway, 1682. [4] Kirk Session of West Calder, Minutes, October 22 1678, CH2/366/1, Records of Church of Scotland Synods, Presbyteries and Kirk Sessions, National Records of Scotland, Edinburgh [5] Kirk Session of West Calder, Minutes, December 8 1678, CH2/366/1, Records of Church of Scotland Synods, Presbyteries and Kirk Sessions, National Records of Scotland, Edinburgh |
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