Easter Activity Day, Garden Family Trail and £1 Gallery tickets
On an Easter activity day during the holidays, families can take part in arts and crafts activities as well as exploring the gardens of Edinburgh’s Royal Palace with a special family trail.
After taking inspiration from the story of the beautifully decorated Fabergé eggs in the Royal Collection, budding young artists can use paint, glitter and sequins to decorate their own Fabergé-style eggs to take home. A trip to the Palace would not be complete without a crown and children can decorate their own Easter crown to wear as they explore the State Apartments.
The family trail takes children on a journey through the gardens as they begin to spring into bloom and will help them explore the royal history, nature and wildlife of these beautiful grounds. Children can learn about the sun and moon dial which was made for Charles I, as well as exploring the medieval ruins of Holyrood Abbey, one of the most important buildings in Scottish history.
Families can also visit the recently reopened The King’s Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Following a successful run in London, the exhibition Style & Society: Dressing the Georgians explores life in Georgian Britain through the fashions of the day. Items on display include rare surviving items of clothing such as a court dress and items of Queen Charlotte’s impressive jewellery collection.
Also on display is a sword made for George IV’s historic visit to Edinburgh and a full-length portrait commissioned to mark the occasion.
As part of the organisation’s charitable aim to ensure that as many people as possible can access and enjoy the Palaces and the Royal Collection, Royal Collection Trust has launched a new scheme of £1 tickets, available to those receiving Universal Credit and other named benefits.
The £1 ticket offer is available for up to six people per household when visiting The King’s Gallery in 2024, making this an affordable way for families to visit the Gallery during the Easter holidays.
The Extravagant Eggs craft activity will run in the Family Room on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the weeks Monday, 1 – Saturday, 13 April, 11:00–15:00.
The Easter activity day will be on Saturday, 30 March, 10:00–15:00.
With summer in full swing, there’s ample opportunity to get out and about this season. Being able to get out and explore is important for our physical, mental and emotional health. While this is true for people of all ages, it can be critically important for over 60s.
But getting out and about doesn’t need to break the bank. Many companies and UK institutions provide amazing concessions for older people. From museums and castles to historic homes and gardens, there are loads of discounts to take advantage of – and that can include travel too.
As a result, the team at New Care Homes has compiled an updated list of some of the best concessions to take advantage of this season.
The list covers a wide array of amazing discounts including travel, food and drink, national heritage sites, cinemas and more.
Great Outdoors
The National Trust of Scotland
The National Trust of Scotland owns and manages around 130 properties and 180,000 acres across the country which includes castles, ancient small dwellings, historic sites, gardens, coastline, mountains and countryside.
Historic Environment Scotland is a public body that plays a crucial role in preserving Scottish natural heritage. It functions in the same way as English Heritage does for England and Cadw for Wales, allowing millions of visitors the chance to experience Scotland’s national landmarks like Stirling, Edinburgh and Urquhart Castles and other heritage attractions across Scotland.
Tickets for HES landmarks have an admission price which can vary from location to location. However, there are concession discounts for over 65s. Ticket prices can be checked and booked online. There’s also a concession for annual membership starting at £42.00. Members will also be able to claim half-price entry to English Heritage and Cadw sites in their first year.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is the UK’s leading gardening charity. They provide a Senior Life Membership package for members over 60. Members will receive:
Unlimited entry to RHS Gardens
Free access to more than 200 RHS Partner Gardens
Privileged entry and discounted tickets to RHS Shows (including the Chelsea Flower Show)
Booking access
Monthly magazine
Gardening advice from experts
Special events
Membership packs also include a handbook, pin badge and engraved RHS Life Member secateurs.
A full list of information on the RHS locations in Scotland can be found here.
Cinema
Odeon
Odeon is a popular cinema chain which shows everything from the latest blockbusters to absolute classics- so there’s always something for everyone. As well as films, most Odeon cinemas will also have an onsite coffee and ice cream shop where you can enjoy a treat before your screening.
Odeon cinemas provide special screenings for patrons over 60 through their Odeon Silver events. These screenings tend to happen during quieter periods so you can avoid the rush, and they even provide tea, coffee, and biscuits with your ticket.
Silver Cinema Screening prices can cost as little as £4, but this will vary depending on where you are. Check online with your local Odeon to see the Silver Cinema schedule and ticket pricing. Tickets can also be bought on the day but might cost slightly more.
Cineworld
Cineworld cinemas show a wide range of films, including live and recorded events from National Theatre and Royal Opera House – and even international events.
Cineworld provides a senior citizen discount across its film screenings. The price of tickets can vary depending on the location and film type, but all ticket prices can be found online. Tickets can be booked online (with an additional 70p charging fee) or bought inside the venue before the show time.
Vue offers film fans who are 60+ discounts on ticket prices across all film screenings. Prices can vary depending on the cinema’s location and the type of film (2D, IMAX etc) but they can be quite cheap during off-peak show times (Monday-Thursday before 5 pm).
They also operate screenings for over 60s called the Senior Club. Tickets are discounted, and you’ll also receive a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit when you go in.
Museums and Galleries
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, Scotland and features exhibits and collections on Scottish antiquities, culture and history.
Entry is free for everyone, so there is no senior concession available. However, Individual memberships are available for repeat visitors which provide a host of benefits including:
Unlimited free entry to world-class exhibitions
Invitations to exclusive Member Previews for selected exhibitions
Invitations to exclusive events and experiences throughout the year
Behind-the-scenes news and in-depth articles in the members-only magazine Explorer
20% discount in our cafes
10% discount in our museum shops and online
10% off entry to Edinburgh Castle for the National War Museum
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle stands on Castle Rock in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. As one of the most important strongholds in Scotland and one of the oldest strongholds in Europe, Edinburgh Castle is an important part of Scottish history.
Concession tickets for seniors (65+) are available. Online concession prices are £15.50, while on-the-day ticket prices are £17.60. Pre-booking tickets can save a bit of money and will also guarantee entry in the event of a busy day.
Anyone who already has a Historic Environment Scotland membership will have free entry to Edinburgh Castle as well as a wealth of other perks.
Aberdeen Art Gallery (Archives and Museums)
The Aberdeen Art Gallery is home to one of the finest collections in the UK. For over 130 the gallery has acquired the best and most interesting contemporary artworks.
Spanning over 700 years, the collection includes works by important Scottish artists, designers and makers such as Henry Raeburn, Joan Eardley, Samuel Peploe, Rachel McLean, Bill Gibb and James Cromar Watt, as well as nationally and internationally acclaimed artists from all walks of life.
The gallery is free and is considered an exceptionally accessible venue for visitors from all walks of life. It’s also part of the Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums (AAGM) group which includes a wealth of other venues worth visiting if you’re visiting the city.
More information on The Gallery and other venues can be found here.
Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA)
GoMA is located in the heart of Glasgow city centre. It is a world-class art museum and a great place for people to gather, share ideas and enjoy art from around the world.
GoMA has four galleries, a well-stocked library and a gallery shop selling ranges inspired by installations and exhibitions. The gallery is currently running an exhibit from the elusive and internationally renowned graffiti artist Banksy entitled: Banksy: Cut and Run for July and August 2023.
Concession tickets are available for £10, and a membership scheme is available for repeat visitors starting at £28 which provides a whole host of benefits. If you ever find yourself in Glasgow this wonderful institution is well worth a visit
Sports
Scottish Football Association
Love to watch the footie? Well here’s some great news Following a campaign by Age Scotland and the Mail on Sunday back in 2019, the Scottish Football Association re-introduced discounts for football fans over the age of 65. Senior tickets will cost from just £15 depending on the match category, and will be available throughout Hampden Park – the home of the national teams.
The Scottish Supporters Club also operates a senior membership discount scheme, however, memberships have already sold out for the 2023/2024 season. But don’t fret – you’ll still be able to get access to general admission tickets when they’re released for specific matches.
Scottish Rugby
More of a Rugby fan? Then you’re in luck! Scottish Rugby provides senior citizen concessions on matches. Concession pricing can differ from event to event but ticket prices are always released in advance so it’s well worth checking in advance for matches this summer. Visit the Scottish Rugby Online Ticket Centre for information on upcoming matches.
The Scotland Supporters Club also operates a membership scheme. For £45 you’ll receive benefits such as:
Invitation to a Scotland training session
Digital Membership Pack
Pre-sale access to all Scotland home game ticket sales, including the 2023/24 Scotland Season Pass 2023, the Summer Tests: 3-Match & 2-Match Packages and individual match tickets, 2024 Guinness Six Nations: Individual match tickets to Scotland’s home games against England and France and Scotland Women & Scotland U20 ticket sales
Highland Games
Highland games are a series of much-beloved events held in spring and summer in Scotland. Although games are often centred around Scottish heavy athletics, they also incorporate entertainment and exhibits such as music, dancing, poetry, literature and food and drink.
Events include the caber toss, stone put, Scottish hammer throw, weight throw, weight over the bar and the sheaf toss among others. Women also take part in the events, and competitors are known to wear a traditional kilt when taking part.
A full list of upcoming Highland Games events can be found here.
Spring/Summer Shopping
Boots
Beloved UK retailer Boots offer an Over 60s Rewards Card as part of their Advantage Card Scheme. This allows cardholders over 60 to earn 8 points for every £1 spent on brands such as Boots, No7, Soap & Glory, Botanics, Liz Earle, Champneys, YourGoodSkin and more. This can come in handy when it’s time to pick up some sun tan lotion and holiday bits for the season.
Over 60s can also access discounts from Boots Opticians when buying a pair of glasses or prescription sunglasses, and will receive 200 points with a free Hearing Health Check at Boots Hearingcare. All you need is an existing Advantage Card which you can sign up for free here.
Specsavers
Specsavers is one of the biggest opticians in the UK. The Specsavers over 60s discount provides 20% off a pair of glasses from their £69 range or above which includes frames, lenses and any extra car options. The offer also includes sunglasses so you can pick up a flash new pair to enjoy in the sun.
Food and Drink
Dobbies
Bright and bustling, Dobbies is a great day out for those who like to get out and about. The garden centre offers a Senior Citizens Lunch. Visitors can enjoy a delicious main course & a cake for just £11.95 Monday to Friday from 12-3 pm.
They also have a fantastic afternoon tea service and are dog friendly, making it a great choice for a visit this season. Find your nearest Dobbies garden centre online with their store locator.
Patisserie Valerie
Patisserie Valerie is well-known for creating wonderful baked treats that are perfect for a spot of afternoon tea.
Seniors over 60 are eligible for a 10% discount at all Patisserie Valerie stores as well as online orders. To be able to access the discount, simply visit the seniors discount section on the Patisserie Valerie website to enjoy money off a delicious assortment of cakes, biscuits, selection boxes and afternoon tea options.
Greene King
Greene King is one of the UK’s leading pub retailers and as part of their food and drink options, their locations offer a Senior Menu which provides manageable portions at reasonable prices. With over 3,100 locations nestled in areas across the country, it’s well worth visiting for an afternoon lunch or a quiet evening dinner. To find your nearest Greene King pub, visit their Pub Map on their official website.
Waitrose
Waitrose has brought back its incredibly popular ‘free coffee’ scheme for MyWaitrose cardholders. You don’t need to spend a certain amount to qualify for the ‘freebie’ – You just need to swipe or scan your myWaitrose card at the self-service drinks machine after checkout. It’s perfect if you’re popping in for a paper or a drink during a walk around town.
Cardholders will also get access to exclusive savings and members-only rewards which can come in handy if you’re planning a picnic or need a snack for a day out.
Travel
Senior Railcard
Over 60s qualify for a Senior Railcard which allows cardholders to get 1/3 off train travel on all franchised train operating companies in England, Scotland and Wales. A 1-year Railcard is just £30, but you can also buy a 3-year Senior Railcard for just £70 which is great if you plan to do a lot of travelling in 2023.
You’ll be able to enjoy discounts on Standard and First Class Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance tickets. And if you’re living in/visiting London, you can link it to an Oyster Card to get ⅓ Off-Peak travel around London too. Check out the Senior Railcard FAQs for more information.
National Express
If coach travel is more your thing, National Express have a Senior Coachcard offer that’s available for over 60s. Cardholders can save a 1/3 on standard and fully flexible fares to hundreds of locations across the UK.
A Senior Coachcard is only £12.50 a year (+ £2.50 postage), meaning the savings will start to outweigh the costs pretty quickly. For a list of all destinations covered by National Express, visit the website for more information.
Older Persons Bus Pass
Older people’s bus passes are available across the UK, although each country has rules and regulations.
In Scotland, you can apply for a National Entitlement Card (AKA a ‘saltire card’) once you turn 60. To qualify you must be over 60 and a resident in Scotland. You can apply online, or through your local post office and local council.
If your card was issued by the City of Edinburgh Council, you’ll also be able to use them on trams throughout the city.
City Sightseeing Bus Tours
Although NEC cards aren’t valid on City Sightseeing Bus Tours for free travel, concession tickets are available and can save older travellers £1 on their travel.
City Sightseeing buses are available in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, the Isle of Bute and more.
For more information on City Sightseeing tours and experiences check out the official website.
Wherever you’re at on the map or in life, the city’s biggest sports and leisure provider has lots of activities to keep the kids active and entertained this summer.
Edinburgh Leisure is offering a range of sports camps and fun activities for children and families to enjoy at different venues across the city. Whether your child is crazy about climbing, silly about soft play or they simply love to swim, Edinburgh Leisure has it covered.
Their summer activities programme covers swimming, diving, tennis, soft play, climbing, gymnastics and more geared towards ages 3 to 18 years. From week-long sports camps to just a fun way to spend an hour, there’s something for everyone.
Looking for a fun-packed week of sport, arts, games, and activities from a trusted provider? Each of their clubs has a sporting speciality, including multi-activity, multi-sports, aquatics, gymnastics, and racquets. Bookable by the day or the week, Edinburgh Leisure offers an early drop off and late pick up available at no extra cost.
Don’t need full day camps? Don’t worry! Edinburgh Leisure has week-long half-day holiday clubs running from 9am – 1pm.
Edinburgh Leisure’s Multisport Camps, at Gracemount Leisure Centre, is aimed at 8 years+, and puts the emphasis on the ‘multi’. Children can look forward to trying a range of sports, as well as trying out different arts, challenges, games, and educational activities.
Edinburgh Leisure’s Gymnastics Camp – Stage 2, is available at Tumbles at Portobello. This half-day gymnastics camp is for the more experienced little gymnast and will allow your budding ‘Beth Tweddle’ or ‘Max Whitlock’ to develop their skills on vault, beam, bars, and floor, as well as having fun on trampolines, a fast track, a tumble run and in foam pits.
If you’re looking for your child to perfect or learn a new skill, then their summer coaching offering is for them. There’s everything including climbing, gymnastics, Gym Nippers (perfect for pre-schoolers), swimming, diving, tennis and match play.
And it isn’t just the kids who get to have all the fun. This summer, Edinburgh Leisure is offering Adult Beginner and Improver swim lessons at Ainslie Park Leisure Centre and Leith Victoria Swim Centre.
And for adults who want to dive into something more challenging, they’re offering hour-long bookable adult-dive sessions, suitable for divers currently attending the Edinburgh Leisure Adult Divers and Masters sessions. Divers will work with a qualified level 2 coach on a variety of skills and techniques on the poolside at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, and on the 1m, 3m and platforms.
Wherever you’re at on the map, Edinburgh Leisure has something fun and active for all the family to enjoy together including Aquadash, Badminton, Clip ‘n’ Climb, Soft Play, Family Swim Sessions, Taster Climbing sessions, Table Tennis and Tennis, across lots of our venues in Edinburgh.
You can even try your hand at Pickleball, the world’s fastest growing sport. New to Edinburgh Leisure, it’s a hybrid of ping pong, tennis, and badminton. Book on the Edinburgh Leisure app under social sports or online. Pickleball can be played at Ainslie Park Leisure Centre, the new Meadowbank Sports Centre, and Craiglockhart Tennis Centre.
As the biggest club in town, with50+ venues across the city, which includes 1 world-class climbing centre; 12 superb swimming pools, 32 tennis courts; and 141 sports pitches, Edinburgh Leisure has built a reputation as a trusted sports and leisure provider who will guarantee your kids an adventure of fun this summer.
Join ‘The Broken Book – Mythical Monster Hunt’ and Protect the Realm from Legendary Creatures!
The grounds of Borders stately home Floors Castle are soon to transform into a world of interactive monster-hunting fun for all the family this summer, with an educational and exciting summer trail set within the magnificent grounds.
John Kerr, 3rd Duke of Roxburghe lived in Floors Castle until his death in 1804, over 220 years ago. Duke John was a great collector of many things, but his favourite thing to collect was books.
In the years following the duke’s death, most of the library was sold, but there was one book – The Great Book of Monsters, that was never accounted for. This book was very old indeed, and very valuable, and contained ancient knowledge on how to defeat and imprison many dangerous and terrible monsters.
Recently, around the Gardens and Grounds of Floors Castle, many of these beasts have been spotted. Somehow, they have escaped from the book …
From the 7th July and running 7 days a week (10am until 5pm) until 31st August, Floors Castle Summer Trail, promises monstrous thrills for adults and children alike, as they help to find them, capture them, and imprison them once again safely within its pages.
Everyone (adults & children) will need a ticket to participate in the Mythical Monster Hunt. Children’s tickets are £2 and adults will need either a valid Annual Pass, Castle Gardens & Grounds Broken Book Ticket (£18 online or £19.50 onsite) or a Gardens & Grounds Broken Book Ticket (£8). Last trail admission is 4pm.
All customers who have pre-purchased tickets online are advised to enter via the main Golden Gates (TD5 7RL) and pick up their trail booklets from the Gate Ticket Kiosk on arrival – these are essential for taking part in the trail.
*Adult Annual Pass Holders will receive unlimited free entry to the Mythical Monster Hunt as part of their Annual Pass scheme, however, ALL children taking part in the trail will require a trail ticket.
Monster Hunt tickets do not need to be booked in advance, tickets will be available to purchase on the day from both the Garden Ticket Kiosk and Golden Gates Ticket Kiosk.
The weather forecast is looking good for the Summer Festival tomorrow at Granton Parish Church from 10am – 4pm.
Food all day from breakfast rolls in the morning, soup at lunchtime and finishing off with a burger BBQ at 3pm. Music from Granton Youth and Ukranian folk singers
Food available all day breakfast rolls in the morning, soup at lunchtime and finishing off with a burger BBQ at 3pm.
• LIVE MUSIC FROM GRANTON YOUTH MUSIC & UKRANIAN MUSIC GROUP
Celebrate Easter with Edinburgh Science Festival this weekend! Visit the Festival’s premier family extravaganza at City Arts Centre – featuring five floors of hand-on science workshops and activities for children between 3 and 12.
Families can explore the chemistry behind producing your own slime in Splat-tastic, delve into the world of motion in Speedy Sails, uncover the mysteries of dinosaurs which roamed the Earth millions of years ago in Dig Up a Dinosaur or perform a surgery using real-life equipment in E.R. Surgery.
PICTURES: Dorothy (4), James (1.5) and Kofi (1.5 ) getting eggsperimental with Imagination Playground, one of the City Art Centre activities.
Scotland’s largest conservation charity has thousands of experiences to share with supporters this spring
Easter trails, the re-opening of the House of the Binns, spring blooms in stunning gardens and new tours are amongst the highlights
The National Trust for Scotland is calling on the people of Edinburgh and the Lothians to protect, share and enjoy nature, beauty and heritage this spring by visiting the places everyone loves in Scotland, such as House of the Binns and Gladstone’s Land, and enjoying thousands of experiences, including events like the Festhailes music festival.
Across Edinburgh and the Lothians this spring, visitors can explore the first signs of the season at Malleny Garden and Inveresk Lodge Garden or admire the architectural grandeur of the magnificently restored Georgian House in Charlotte Square. For the first time since before the pandemic, the historic House of the Binns in Linlithgow opened its doors again on 1 April following an extensive period of repairs and refurbishment to conserve over 400 years of heritage.
Members of the conservation charity enjoy free access to more than 100 places, including Malleny Garden, Georgian House, Inveresk Lodge and Preston Mill.
Events planned for the coming months include tailored tours such as Tables Through Time: Food in Gladstone’s Land, a guided event showcasing the lives of three women that lived and worked in the property on Friday 14 April.
Newhailes is providing visitors with a range of fun-filled events – from the Newhailes Big Top Circus Showcase and circus skills workshop on Saturday 8 and 9 April to Festhailes 2023 music festival on Saturday 13 May, and Doghailes on Sunday 30 July.
More information on the events and tickets can be found on the Trust website.
The National Trust for Scotland’s family Easter Egg Trails are also back this year. Taking place across 32 Trust places throughout the country, including House of the Binns and Newhailes House & Gardens, between Friday 7 and Monday 10 April solve clues hidden around the grounds, before claiming a chocolate treat. With Trail sheets available at each venue for just £4, more information can be found on the Trust website.
Philip Long OBE, Chief Executive at the National Trust for Scotland, said: “It is fantastic to see just how popular our places proved with people last year, as we all started to recover from the impacts of the global pandemic and the uncertainty that followed.
“It is our charity’s privilege to share Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage with everyone, and we are very grateful to all our supporters who make this possible. By being part of the National Trust for Scotland, they are helping protect, share and enjoy the places where memories are made.
“Over the coming months, we have some exciting projects coming to fruition which will give all our supporters even more experiences to share this spring and summer.”
Following the launch of its 10-year strategy, Nature, Beauty and Heritage for Everyone, in March last year, the National Trust for Scotland has focused on caring for Scotland’s special places, providing access and enjoyment and being a sustainable charity, including restoring and regenerating woodland and peatlands at Mar Lodge Estate, creating sustainable visitor facilities at Corrieshalloch National Nature Reserve and unveiling an innovative new garden at Pitmedden which is adapted for a changing climate.
This work is possible thanks to the support of members and donors.
To support the conservation charity’s work to care for Scotland’s special places, join at www.nts.org.uk. Prices start from £3.20 for those aged 16 to 24, £5.50 for adults and £4.85 per month for those aged 60 and over.
For more information on the National Trust for Scotland, or the events taking place in your area, visit: www.nts.org.uk.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Half Term: Galleries and Galaxies 13 – 18 Feb 2023 Grand Gallery Free, drop in Orbit around our out-of-this-world Space themed activities. Make a space monster at our craft station and drop by our Spark Cart for some intergalactic demos and object handling.
Madlab Electronic Workshops 13 – 14 Feb 2023 (various times) Studio One £15, Child 7 -14 £13.50, Members & Concessions Solder your own flashing alien or Space Screwdriver with Madlab. Learn the secrets of soldering, find out how electrical circuits work and make your own electronic gizmo to keep.
Pop up Planetarium Shows 17 – 18 Feb 2023 Event Space 10:30, 11:15, 12:00, 13:30, 14:15, 15:00 £2.50, Adult £2.00, Members & Concessions £2.00, Child 0 – 14 years Be amazed by the wonder of Space in these spectacular shows from Cosmos planetarium. Cosmos planetarium is a state of the art, fully digital, 360° immersive multi-media experience. There will be three exciting shows to choose from, one specifically for under 5s and the other two shows suitable for 5+. One of the shows will be a relaxed session suitable for children with additional support needs.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Bernat Klein: Design in Colour Until 23 Apr 2023 Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 Free entry Marking the centenary of his birth, Bernat Klein: Design in Colour will celebrate the work of the influential émigré textile designer. Visitors will be able to explore Klein’s creative process and varied career, from providing couture fabrics for fashion designers to his influence on modernist architecture and interior design in the UK and Scandinavia
Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder Until 1 May 2023 Ticketed (concessions available) Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder features eight zones filled with immersive, hands-on experiences. Travel through the Time Vortex Corridor, discover Sonic Screwdrivers, teleportation technology and much more in a TARDIS Tech room, and get up close with some of the series’ weird and wonderful creatures in the Monster Vault.
Join us for the Scottish premiere of this ground-breaking exhibition. It’s bigger on the inside!
COMING SOON Beyond the Little Black Dress 1 Jul – 29 Oct 2023 Special Exhibition Gallery, Level 3 Ticketed (concessions available) From design classics to cutting-edge catwalk creations, this exhibition deconstructs the little black dress and examines the radical power of the colour black in fashion.
The exhibition will chart a century of fashion in a series of themed, immersive displays. Iconic early pieces by Yves Saint Laurent, Dior and Jean Muir will be juxtaposed with recent looks by ground-breaking contemporary designers and brands like Gareth Pugh, Simone Rocha and Off-White.
Japanese Contemporary Design Until 30 Jul 2023 Exhibition Gallery 3, Level 1 Free entry From striking statement jewellery to prints and porcelain vases, this new free display considers how Japanese contemporary makers have combined innovative and traditional art, craft and design elements over the past five decades.
The star object is Hitomi Hosono’s A Large Pine Tree Pool, a sculptural porcelain bowl with complex hand-carving made and acquired in 2019. Further highlights include Junko Mori’s intricate New Pinecone Silver Organism, and colourful body adornments by jeweller Suō Emiko’s adapted from metalworking and engraving techniques traditionally used in the making of Japanese sword fittings.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00, daily
Relaxed Morning 5 Feb 2023 10:00 – 12:00 (quiet space open until 12:30) Join us for our monthly Relaxed Morning for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with autistic children; autistic young people and adults; adults living with dementia; adults and children with mental health problems; and any other visitors with sensory needs or who may prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers.
Gaelic Week Edinburgh 22 – 25 Feb 2023 Enjoy live music and storytelling during Gaelic Week | Edinburgh at the National Museum of Scotland. Running from 20-26 February, the wider festival celebrates the theme of “Coming Together / A’ Tighinn Còmhla”, inspired by post-pandemic recovery.
A Night of Science and Wonder 2 – 3 Mar 2023 18:30 – 22:30 £18 – £22 including talk and exhibition entry Two exclusive evenings celebrating our Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition. Our adult-only events will explore the creative innovation and cutting-edge science behind the global hit television series, Doctor Who. Each night will feature an expert perspective on either space science or Doctor Who, plus themed hands-on activities. Tickets also include entry to our Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition.
Refuge Britain: Stories of Émigré Designers 4 Mar 2023 14:00 – 16:00 Auditorium, Level 1 Age 14+ Ticketed, concessions available Inspired by our exhibition, Bernat Klein: Design in Colour, join curator Lisa Mason and Dr Anna Nyburg to explore the work of revolutionary émigré textile designers, Bernat Klein and Tibor Reich. This event features an exclusive screening of the 2017 documentary film, Refuge Britain: Stories of Émigré Designers. There will also be the chance to view our free exhibition Bernat Klein: Design in Colour before or after the event.
BSL Access Evening – Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder 7 Mar 2023 17:30 – 19:30 Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Standard exhibition entry princes apply Join us after hours for a Deaf-led BSL tour of key objects in the Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition. Step inside the TARDIS to discover the science behind the global hit television series Doctor Who.
Explore hands-on immersive experiences and see amazing props from across the programme’s history in this must-see exhibition.
Bernat Klein: Design Matters 28 Mar 2023 Free, with optional donation Join curator Lisa Mason to discuss the legacy of visionary textile designer Bernat Klein and discover how his design ethos is inspiring designers working today with contemporary designers Kirsty McDougall and Sam Reich to discuss Klein’s legacy as a designer, educator and theorist, as well as his enduring belief in design as a force for good in society.
Audio Described Access Evening – Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder 28 Mar 2023 17:30–19:30 Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Standard exhibition entry prices apply Join us after hours for an audio-described tour of key objects in the Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition. Step inside the TARDIS to discover the science behind the global hit television series Doctor Who. Explore hands-on immersive experiences and see amazing props from across the programme’s history in this must-see exhibition.
Relaxed Access Evening – Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder 18 Apr 2023 17:30–19:30 Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Standard exhibition entry prices apply Join us for a relaxed after hours visit to Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder for anyone who would prefer a calmer visit to the exhibition. During this opening, numbers will be reduced and wherever possible, sounds will be lowered and light levels adjusted to provide a more relaxed experience. A quiet, breakout space will also be available. A visual welcome guide will be provided in advance to help you prepare for your visit.
National Museum of Flight East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF Open daily 10:00 – 16:00
Operation Sabotage 18 & 19 Mar 2023 Age 14+ event Ticketed The year is 1942 and you are stationed at the RAF base at East Fortune. There has been an act of sabotage and one of the aircraft is unknowingly carrying live ordnance with instructions to bomb the town. Solve a series of fiendish puzzles to call off the flight and save North Berwick! Operation Sabotage is an escape room experience for 4-8 people that lasts up to an hour. Working together as a team, you must race against the clock in two Second World War-themed rooms to decipher the identity of the saboteur before it’s too late.
Test Flight 10 –14 Apr 2023 11:00 –16:00 Follow the Wright brothers and design your own aeroplane, drawing inspiration from the collection at the National Museum of Flight. Nearly 120 years ago the Wright Brothers flew the first powered and controlled aeroplane. Take inspiration from our Civil Aviation collection and make your own flying machine.
Families can test their sea survival skills at the National Museum of Flight this half term. Supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, special workshops and activities will take place at the museum in East Lothian on 15 & 16 and 22 & 23 October.
Sea Survival will offer visitors the opportunity to get hands-on and discover skills and equipment used by RAF’s Coastal Command.
Outdoor workshops will teach children aged 7 and up how to survive on a desert island, from safely lighting a fire to bushcraft.
Families can also climb aboard a real-life raft in the Concorde Hangar and handle equipment used by the RAF from the Second World War to the modern day, before exploring the historic airfield and hangars filled with fascinating aircraft and interactive displays.
The support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery means that Sea Survival is free with museum admission.
Steve Mclean, General Manager at the National Museum of Flight, said: “We are delighted to offer free family activities this half term, thanks to the generous support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery.
“We hope our young visitors will enjoy diving into the stories and skills of the RAF’s Coastal Command while exploring everything the National Museum of Flight has to offer.”
Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “This Sea Survival event is a fascinating and fun way to learn about the history of the RAF’s Coastal Command.
“We are thrilled that players of People’s Postcode Lottery are supporting this brilliant programme of family activities at the Museum this half term. Player support has enabled many such initiatives. To date, players of People’s Postcode Lottery have raised over £900 million for thousands of good causes”
Visitors to the National Museum of Flight this October can also take part in Operation Sabotage, Scotland’s only escape room experience on an historic airfield. Taking place on 29 and 30 October, the experience is suitable for those aged 14 and over.
The Museum is home to Scotland’s only Concorde and visitors can see an example of the iconic Supermarine Spitfire that played such an important role in the Second World War.
The attraction houses the family-friendly Fantastic Flight gallery with its interactive exhibits where visitors can explore the science of aviation and discover how aeroplanes fly.
They are also able to learn about East Fortune’s wartime heritage in the Museum’s Fortunes of War exhibition.
Cash strapped families are being offered tips on free summer holiday activities to keep the kids entertained.
The team at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have identified ten enjoyable, engaging and completely free activities for children of all ages.
From spending quality time outdoors, or staying inside on rainy days, all ten activities engage the whole family and combine imagination and entertainment for those ‘no spend’ days.
During school holidays and at weekends, finding things to do with the kids can soon become expensive and tiresome.
These activities are perfect for keeping the whole family entertained at no cost.
John Stirzaker from NetVoucherCodes.co.uks aid: “It can become costly to keep the kids entertained especially through the summer holidays.
“A lot of people aren’t aware of some great activities you can put together for your kids at no cost – it just takes a little imagination.
“As well as coming up with some creative tasks at home, there are also some days out that allow kids to go free.
“If you do some research on your local area, you’ll probably find that there are free events worth taking advantage of like crafting, and sports days.”
10 free activities to do with kids:
Go Geocaching
This is a brilliant way to explore new parts of your local area with the kids. Geocaching is essentially a modern-day treasure hunt: simply download the free app and follow the directions to the nearby location, to then find and log the hidden geocache.
Become ‘Mad Scientists’ in the kitchen
It is really easy to make fun science experiments with ingredients found in the kitchen. Mix cornflour and water to make slime, or drop food colouring onto baking soda, and use a straw to drip white vinegar to create a bubbly volcanic eruption.
Visit free local museums
It takes just a quick look online to find many nearby museums with free entry which cater to families. Explore history, science, and culture during the bad weather, and take part in the free interactive events which many museums put on for kids.
Potato stamp art
A great way to use up any old potatoes, stamp art is a fun entertainment for the kids at home, completely for free. Just cut the potato in half (or anything else in the cupboard needing to be used up), cover with paint, and let the kids create their artwork. For older ones, let them carve out a shape in the potato for a patterned veggie stamp.
Free local events
Check the local council website for kid-friendly entertainment, such as crafting, library and sports days. Especially during the summer holidays, engaging with the local community in these events is a great way to do something different for free.
Obstacle course
Be inventive with things around the house! Use buckets, mops, tin cans and chairs to set out an obstacle course for the kids to let off some energy. A low prep, but highly entertaining activity inside or out with endless opportunities.
Home cinema
Amplify those cosy film nights on the TV with fort making: use pillows and blankets to create a free evening-in with the kids. Grab popcorn and sweets from the cupboard for a no cost cinema experience at home.
Treasure hunt
An alternative to Geocaching, use pens and paper to create a free treasure hunt for the kids. A good way to get outside, hide a small reward and draw out a simple map of the surrounding area with a ‘X’ to mark the treasure. To involve the kids even more, get them to colour in the trees, rivers, and other landmarks, on the map, and wipe the map over with a used tea bag for an old-fashioned pirate treasure map feel.
Tie-dye old clothes
A great way to revamp unworn clothes, tie-dying is a free activity to entertain older kids. Tie elastic bands in small sections to the clothes, and submerge into a bucket with half water, half bleach. Let the clothes sit in the mixture for 10 minutes, remove the elastic bands and rinse thoroughly. Wash the clothes, and then the kids can show off their new colourful items, without having spent a penny.
Colours scavenger hunt
Simply shade colours onto some paper and get kids to find flowers, stones, and other outside materials, which match the colours. A fun and easy way for younger ones to learn their colours whilst spending time outside at absolutely no cost.
