The National Museum of Rural Life in East Kilbride will celebrate a quarter century with a day of special activities on Saturday 4 July.
To mark the milestone, 25 new and vintage tractors will parade the grounds of the Museum in a special anniversary tractor run. Visitors can also enjoy a programme of tours, demonstrations and hands-on crafts around the Museum, historic working farm and 1950s farmhouse.
In the farmyard, visitors can vote for best in show as the Clydesdale horses, sheep and cows are dressed for competition. They can also meet the Museum’s newest arrivals, Eigg and Muck, the eight-week-old Highland calves, alongside rare breed Tamworth pigs, hens and the Ayrshire dairy herd, which is milked every afternoon.
Behind the scenes tours will showcase the Museum’s galleries and stores, exploring the land, people and ways of working that have shaped Scotland’s rural history. On display is Scotland’s largest collection of tractors, combine harvesters and farming machinery.
Vicky McLean, General Manager at the National Museum of Rural Life said: “In July July 2001, the museum opened on 170 acres of farmland just outside Glasgow.
“Now, 25 years and nearly two million visits later, the site has become a truly beloved attraction, offering an escape from urban life and a way to connect to Scotland’s rural heritage.
“We hope visitors of all ages will join us to celebrate this exciting milestone!”
National Museum of Rural Life’s 25th Anniversary Day takes place from 10:00-17:00 on Saturday 4 July.
The event is free with museum admission and Annual Pass Entry and visitors can enjoy delicious food and drink options from the Shielings café or grab a tasty bite and drink from the Really Awesome Coffee food van and cool down with a treat from Thorntonhall Ice Cream – both located in the picnic field.
Over the last four decades, we’ve had the privilege of being part of so many families’ journeys. Some people joined us for a few weeks, others for much longer, but every family has helped shape who we are today.
As we celebrate this milestone, we’d love to hear from you.
Maybe there was a group that made you feel welcome, a member of staff who made a difference, a friendship that started here, or simply a happy memory you’d like to share.
If Stepping Stones has been part of your story, we’d love to hear about it in the comments or send us a message.
Thank you for being part of the last 40 years. Here’s to the next chapter.
Landmark new report evidences the profound impacts of the Edinburgh Festivals, confirming them as one of the most remarkable demonstrations of cultural power in the world.
In the latest of a long line of internationally acclaimed impact studies, the Edinburgh Festivals are now publishing their most recent research across a series of cultural, social and economic indicators – which shows that at a fundamental level the festivals make life better – for residents, artists, visitors, and businesses.
The research identifies the Edinburgh Festivals as a unique civic asset that enhances wellbeing through creative and community engagement, an unrivalled international springboard for Scottish artists and companies, and a major attraction for those choosing to live, work, visit and invest in Edinburgh.
The findings clearly indicate that the Festivals define Scotland’s cultural identity on the global stage.
Introducing the latest Impact Study, Professor Daisy Fancourt, Director of WHO Collaborating Centre on Arts and Health and UNESCO Chair in Arts & Global Health as well as author of Art Cure: How the Arts Can Transform Your Health and Help You Live Longer said: “The Edinburgh Festivals have long stood as one of the world’s most remarkable demonstrations of the power of arts and culture.
“Shared cultural experiences create opportunities for dialogue, build understanding and challenge ideas. They bring people together across generations, backgrounds and perspectives, helping to build trust and social cohesion.
“At a time when many communities are grappling with social fragmentation and unrest, cultural participation offers powerful opportunities to strengthen civic life and nurture a sense of common purpose.
“The Festivals show what is possible when culture is placed at the heart of civic life, and this report provides a powerful case for the importance ofsustaining and investing in their future for generations to come.”
The research affirms that while the individual festivals are powerful brands in their respective fields, collectively they are both a unique national asset and a global phenomenon. They are an integral part of the cultural and social fabric of the country and provide an opportunity to showcase a 21st century nation.
The headline findings in this publication show the Edinburgh Festivals as:
cultural adventurers, with 90% of audiences acclaiming the festivals as unique places of cultural discovery
civic drivers, that enhance community well-being with 79% of local audiences stating that the festivals make Edinburgh a special place to live
national investors, spending more than £10m annually with event production companies and creative talent based in Scotland
economic powerhouses, calculated to have a gross economic impact of £4.26 billion over the next five years in Scotland.
Commenting on the publication of the Impact Study, the Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic, Màiri McAllan MSP said: “The Edinburgh Festivals are truly world class — and this research confirms their extraordinary cultural, social and economic value to Scotland.
“A projected national economic impact of £4.26 billion over the coming five years, 90% of audiences describing them as unique places of cultural discovery, and 79% of Edinburgh residents saying they make the city a special place to live — these are remarkable findings.
“As we approach the 80th anniversary of Edinburgh’s status as a festival city, the Scottish Government is proud to champion the festivals and committed to ensuring they continue to thrive for the benefit of people across Scotland and on the global stage.“
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener at City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Edinburgh’s festivals are at the heart of what makes our city so special, bringing together residents and visitors to enjoy thousands of shows and events throughout the year.
“This research highlights that these celebrations deliver significant cultural, social, and economic benefits, supporting local communities and businesses while enhancing the city’s global reputation.
“As we approach the 80th anniversary of our festivals, we remain committed to supporting their future while balancing the needs of residents, visitors, and business, ensuring Edinburgh continues to thrive as a world-leading festival city.”
Vicki Miller, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, said: “Edinburgh’s festivals are world renowned, and a key part of what makes Scotland a must-visit destination, drawing thousands of international visitors to the country each year.
“Cultural events like these provide authentic and immersive experiences for people across Scotland and from around the world and are vital in strengthening our international profile and supporting local businesses, artists, and performers.”
Lori Anderson, Director of Festivals Edinburgh stated:‘We are facing challenging times which call for boldness, direction, and vision – and the Edinburgh Festivals, through their pioneering collaborative work, focused strategic thinking, and hugely praised programmes, have these qualities in abundance.
“They have a powerful role to play in increasing the creative capacity, economic strength, and international reputation of Scotland. Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the birth of our world leading festival city, now is the time to champion and invest in the Festivals’ success.”
Further findings in the Impact Study include:
The Edinburgh Festivals have seen a major expansion in their community reach
Alongside its global scale, the report identifies a major expansion in the Festivals’ community footprint. They offer residents of the city and substantial audiences of all ages throughout Scotland, opportunities that support creative expression, social connection and wellbeing, while breaking down barriers, enhancing community cohesion and civic pride.
These core principles were fundamental building blocks of the PlaCE [Partnerships for Creative Excellence] programme, a pioneering three-way partnership between Edinburgh Festivals, Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council. Almost 76,000 community participants took part across the life of the programme.
Over the five years spanning 2018 to 2023, the Festivals delivered a 489% increase in engagement with community groups, a 39% increase in schools participation (from 497 to 694) anda 245% increase in partnership activity.
This growth reflects a significant development of year-round activity and more equitable access, with programmes increasingly reaching communities less likely to have engaged with the Festivals in the past.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a civic asset as well as a global platform
The report reinforces the Festivals’ role within the city itself. Edinburgh residents account for around one third of all attendances, with 79% of local audiences identifying the Festivals as central to the city’s identity and sense of place, making it a special place to live. And 89.9% of audiences say that the Festivals create a welcoming environment in the city.
This dual role – as both a global cultural gathering and a locally rooted civic asset – is identified as a defining feature of the Edinburgh Festivals.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a key investor in Scotland’s creative economy
Beyond audience impact, the Festivals continue to act as a major investor in Scotland’s cultural sector, supporting artists, production companies and creative organisations across the country.
Annual spend with Scottish-based creative talent and production companies exceeds £10 million, helping to sustain jobs, develop skills and build international connections across the sector.
The Edinburgh Festivals provide a platform for Scotland on the world stage
With participants from over80 countries and audiences from more than 100 countries, the Festivals play a central role in projecting Scotland internationally, showcasing a 21st century nation.
The report affirms the Edinburgh Festivals as a globally significant cultural marketplace, while remaining deeply embedded within Scotland’s communities and creative industries. Both a unique national asset, part of the cultural and social fabric of the country, and a global phenomenon making up part of the appeal that will drive Scotland forward.
The Edinburgh Festivals are economic powerhouses
The Edinburgh Festivals delivered an estimated £558 million in net economic impact for Edinburgh and £852 million across Scotland in 2025.
A central finding of the research is that this economic impact is driven by the quality and innovation within the Festivals’ cultural programmes which drive attendances. 90% of audiences acclaimed the festivals as unique places of cultural discovery.
The report concludes that investment in programming is the primary factor that attracts global audiences and generates wider economic activity across tourism, hospitality and the creative industries. With the right investment the future impact is expected to reach £4.26 billion over the next five years.
The findings underline the Festivals’ position as a major national asset, operating at a scale rarely seen in global cultural events.
With over 4 million attendances drawn from more than 100 countries last year, Edinburgh hosts one of the largest ticketed event programmes in the world every year, on a scale equivalent with less frequent major events such as the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup.
As part of the National Museum of Scotland’s Summer Family Fun, family visitors to the Museum on 29 June and 3 July are invited to help celebrate the 30th birthday of the world’s most famous sheep.
Visitors will have the chance to write in Dolly the sheep’s big birthday card, and can enjoy a special Dolly-themed cupcake, on sale in the Museum’s cafes from 29 June – 16 July.
Dolly was born on 5 July 1996 at the Roslin Institute just outside Edinburgh, the first cloned mammal ever to be created from an adult cell.
Affectionately named after country music legend Dolly Parton, her inception changed what scientists thought was possible and opened new possibilities in medicine and biology. She spent her entire life in Roslin where she gave birth to six healthy lambs and died in 2003 aged six.
On 16 July, the Museum will host an adult event exploring the history and legacy of Dolly. Dolly at 30: The Life and Legacy of a Cloned Sheepwill bring together an expert panel to explore the historical significance and ongoing cultural impact of Dolly.
Director of Edinburgh Science Hassun El-Zafur will chair a panel conversation exploring the scientific innovation, historic significance and ongoing cultural impact of Dolly the sheep. Panelists include experts from the Roslin Institute, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Cambridge, and National Museums Scotland. The discussion will be followed by an audience Q&A.
On the night there will also be the opportunity to see recent Dolly-related additions to the museum’s contemporary collections.
Professor Andrew Kitchener, Principal Curator of Vertebrate Biology at National Museums Scotland said: Thirty years on, Dolly remains an icon of modern science whose story captures the public’s imagination.
“Dolly has been on display at the National Museum of Scotland for over 20 years and remains one of our most popular exhibits. We look forward to welcoming visitors in July to help us celebrate this milestone birthday for Dolly.”
Dolly at 30: The Life and Legacy of a Cloned Sheep Thu 16th July
18:30 – 20:00: Panel discussion in the Auditorium, 20:00 – 20:30: Pop-up display of newly acquired objects related to Dolly the sheep.
National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street This event is free, but booking is required. This event is for ages 16+.
A campaign to highlight the criminality of buying alcohol for minors has been welcomed by the Scottish Government.
Scottish Minister for Community Safety Kirsten Oswald MSP praised the collaboration between Police Scotland, retailers and the alcohol sector to tackle the issue which leads to underage drinking and street disorder.
The “It’ll Cost You” is a campaign fronted by Police Scotland which will run in communities across Scotland during the summer months.
Ms Oswald said: “This campaign by the Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership is a welcome addition to the efforts in confronting underage drinking.”
The clear message of the campaign is that buying alcohol for minors could land you with a fine, a jail sentence or both.
Police Scotland is working with retailers and alcohol companies to drive home the stark message that buying alcohol for children, proxy purchase, is a criminal offence.
Evaluations of the previous campaigns have shown a steady increase in awareness about the implications of supplying alcohol to minors, but it remains a serious issue with detections being made by police across Scotland during the course of last year’s campaign.
The “It’ll Cost You!” campaign is a collaboration between Police Scotland, the Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership and Community Alcohol Partnerships.
This year’s campaign will run from Monday 29 June in communities across Scotland.
Kirsten Oswald MSP, Minister for Victims and Community Safety said: “Buying alcohol for anyone under 18 is a criminal offence and could result in a fine, imprisonment or both.
“It can put young people at risk of harm, increase their vulnerability and contribute to antisocial behaviour. This campaign highlights the value of partnership working to tackle underage drinking and help keep our young people safe.
“I welcome the continued efforts of Police Scotland, retailers and the alcohol industry to promote and reinforce this message.
“While awareness is growing, every detection shows that proxy purchasing remains an issue in communities across Scotland. I urge anyone considering it to think carefully about the consequences – for themselves and the young person involved.”
Chief Inspector Michelle Grant, Police Scotland, said: “This campaign showcases the benefits of key partners working together to inform the public of dangers associated with underage drinking, as well as the criminal consequences for supplying those under 18 with alcohol.”
Luke McGarty, Chair of the SAIP Campaigns Group and Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Scottish Grocers Federation, said: “Retailers are successfully stopping underage alcohol purchase through the Challenge 25 scheme.
“It is vital, therefore, that adults buying alcohol for them instead are fully aware that it is a criminal act. The “It’ll Cost You!” campaign fits perfectly with SGF’s position of promoting responsible community retailing.
“We look forward to continuing to work with our partners on the campaign again this year.”
Tam Cassidy, Community Alcohol Partnership, said: “The campaign gives us an opportunity to spread the “It’ll Cost You!” message in local communities, highlighting the dangers of buying alcohol for young people.
“We look forward to working with Police Scotland and the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers to make sure that this messaging is carried through all our engagement activity this summer.”
Come along on Monday to our breakfast cafe, 9 – 10:30am – a great way to get the kids out and start off the summer holidays, with plenty of breakfast options for everyone!
We have beautiful gardens here that the young ones can play in afterwards, including the football/basketball dome, and there’s plenty of space for you to relax and take in all the beautiful flowers blooming.
We also have a lovely summery lunch planned, from 11:30am – 12:30pm. Italian Sausage Stew with Garlicky Mash, followed by Apple Pie for dessert!
The Monday Cafe is open to everyone, and all meals are free; a small donation is appreciated if you are able.
Please share to spread the word and help keep the centre busy this summer!
POLICE in Edinburgh are appealing for information after a man was seriously assaulted on a cycle path.
Around 10.20pm on Saturday, 20 June, 2026, we were called to a report of a man injured after being assaulted on the Innocent Railway Cycle Path, between the Bingham tunnel and Duddingston Road West area.
He suffered a serious leg injury and was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment.
Detective Constable Christopher Stewart of CID said: “We are looking to trace three men wearing dark clothing and balaclavas who were riding together on a white motorbike.
“We are keen to speak to anyone who was in area at the time or thinks they might know who the men are.
“We would also be eager to hear from anyone travelling in the area who have a dash-cam. Please check the footage, as it may have captured something which could prove vital to our ongoing enquiries.
“Any small piece of information could assist our enquiries, so please pass it on. Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting 4051 of 20 June, 2026.”
Don’t forget about our INSECT WEEK CELEBRATIONS TOMORROW at Granton Castle Walled Garden.🦋
22-28 June is Insect Week. We are celebrating in the garden as part of our Citizen Science project in collaboration with the National Museums Scotland
The event will honour insect week with a focus on what insects can be seen locally.
Insect experts Ashleigh, Dorothy & Alyx will demonstrate how to identify common insects and how we can support them via recording and encouraging habitat creation.
Join us for a relaxed morning with refreshments and bring all your insect-related questions! No need to book, just show up. Everyone welcome.🪲 📷️ by Alyx
Proposals focus on prevention, reducing reoffending and strengthening community justice
Proposed reforms to ease the high prison population, support rehabilitation, reduce reoffending and improve public safety have been published for public consultation.
Justice Secretary Neil Gray told Parliament that despite a range of measures taken to reduce numbers and maximise capacity, the prison population is at a critical level and is projected to rise further.
He said further action is necessary to ensure prisons can function safely and effectively, allowing prison staff and others to focus resources on prevention and rehabilitation, helping to reduce reoffending and keeping communities safe.
The plans, which are subject to an eight-week consultation, set out proposed changes to community justice and supervision of long term prisoners on release, with public safety remaining paramount. The Scottish Government will continue to engage with victims’ organisations throughout the process.
The proposals build on the recommendations of the independent Scottish Sentencing and Penal Policy Commission and include:
extending the presumption against short sentences from 12 to 24 months
amending the definition of a short-term prisoner from those serving less than four years to those serving less than five years, more closely aligning with sheriffs’ sentencing powers in solemn cases
making Community Payback Orders more flexible and effective as a robust alternative to short custodial periods
strengthening the bail test in courts to ensure that remand is used proportionately and is focused on protecting public safety
amending release arrangements for some long-term prisoners so they serve a greater portion of their sentence under supervision and licence conditions in the community
As well as the measures outlined in the consultation, work is underway to rapidly develop plans to expand the prison estate, including through consideration of temporary modular accommodation and new houseblocks at existing prison sites.
There will also be continued expansion of the use of Home Detention Curfew and a pilot where GPS-tracking technology is used to monitor individuals on bail curfew as an alternative to being remanded in custody ahead of trial or sentencing, where it is safe to do so.
The Justice Secretary highlighted evidence that community-based sentences and interventions are more effective at reducing reoffending than short custodial sentences – which can lead to the loss of employment, housing and family access that might otherwise provide stability for those at risk of re-offending.
Mr Gray said: “Protecting victims and the public is my top priority, and I am clear that prison will always be necessary.
“It is absolutely crucial, however, that our prisons function safely and effectively. If not, rehabilitation breaks down, reoffending rises and more people become victims. With the sustained population pressures we have seen over recent years, that is the reality we are facing, and that is why we must act.
“The planned reforms build on the recommendations of the independent Sentencing and Penal Policy Commission, which recognise that Scotland must rethink its approach to community sentencing and imprisonment.
“Alongside expansion of the prison estate, they will strike the right balance across custodial sentences, community sentencing and the need to robustly protect victims and the public – ensuring prisons house those who pose the greatest risk and rehabilitate them effectively, with the ultimate goal of reducing crime.
“We will consult on our proposals over the summer and engage with victims’ organisations throughout the consultation process and beyond.
“Clearly the best way to tackle the prison population is by stopping crime happening in the first place, which is why we will continue our preventative work to intervene early to steer people away from crime, with a focus on addiction, health, poverty, homelessness and employability, which are all significant contributing factors to offending and reoffending.”
