The conferences and meetings are expected to bring nearly 54,000 delegates to the city and include several multi-year bookings extending through to 2031.
Medical conferences led the way, accounting for more than £17 million in economic impact during the period. This milestone is particularly significant in 2026, as the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Edinburgh celebrates its 300th anniversary. Finance and Investment, Charity, Education and IT & Technology events also featured strongly among the new bookings.
Major events confirmed to take place at the venue include the International Marine Conservation Congress 2026; World Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage Conference 2026; and The Aerosol Society – Drug Delivery to the Lungs, which has been a client of the venue for more than 21 years, has now booked a multi-year event from 2029 until 2031.
Amanda Wrathall, Chief Executive Officer of the EICC, said: “We are hugely encouraged by the venue’s strong performance over the last six months.
Every business event we welcome to the EICC represents more than a booking; it brings together delegates from around the world to enable knowledge exchange, foster collaboration, generate economic impact and showcase Edinburgh on a global stage.
“This continued momentum reflects the confidence our clients place in both the EICC and Edinburgh, demonstrating the city’s enduring strengths as a destination for business events and the value these events create for our economy, our innovation ecosystem and our global reputation.
“We are incredibly grateful to our clients for that confidence and to our team for delivering the high standards and trusted partnerships that make it possible.”
Since opening in 1995, the EICC has delivered more than £1 billion in total economic impact to Edinburgh supporting jobs, investment, knowledge exchange and commercial opportunities created by world-class events.
Blackhall Library has reopened in a new temporary facility next to Davidson’s Mains Primary School.
The service previously operated via a mobile library bus, following the closure of the original Blackhall Library building on Hillhouse Road in 2023 due to the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC).
The new temporary building is providing access to library services while work continues on a long-term plan for the library and other community services in the area.
The library sits within the school’s grounds, but has its own dedicated entrance and is separated from the school by fencing. Signage has been installed at the gates to help guide people to the new building.
The new library is open 10am to 8pm Monday-Wednesday, and 10am to 5pm Thursday to Saturday.
Regular events and activities for adults include:
Writing Group: Tuesdays 6pm to 7pm, monthly
Book Group: Wednesdays 6pm to 7pm, monthly
Library Link: Wednesdays and Fridays, fortnightly
Craft activities for children and young people are also available on Fridays from 2 to 3pm, with Bookbug sessions running on Tuesdays from 11am to 11.30am. The library will also be running a programme of activities and events over the school holidays.
The enclosed site includes relaxing and secure outdoor space for the community to enjoy.
Spacious community rooms are also available to book for meetings and events. Information on pricing and booking can be found on the Council’s website.
The process of developing the temporary library has included engagement with the Davidson’s Mains Primary School community to ensure the facility supports the needs of the school, its pupils and staff.
Additional works have been carried out at the school to support the delivery of the library, including new fencing and works to the playground to provide new fire safety spaces. New road safety improvement works are also underway outside the school, including pavement widening.
Culture and Communities Convener, Cllr Margaret Graham said: “The arrival of the new temporary Blackhall Library is fantastic news for the local community, bringing an exciting range of events and activities back at a convenient and central location.
“We’ve already had some excellent feedback from library users of all ages, and it’s been particularly pleasing to see young people and their families embrace the service as part of their regular school day.
“The original Blackhall Library was a very popular resource and provided a wide range of library services, community events and activities. We know it’s important that people across Blackhall, Davidson’s Mains and the local area have access to quality local services in places that are convenient and accessible, and this new building has been designed to fit that need while we continue to develop plans for its permanent replacement.
“We have an opportunity to develop a new range of modern and accessible services through the long term replacement, and we need to make smart choices to invest in the future of the area. We’re looking forward to announcing more details and public engagement soon.“
Work is ongoing to develop plans for the long term replacement facility. Council officers have been engaging through local community organisations and workshops with pupils at local primary and high schools.
An engagement display has also been set up in the new temporary library to present some of the feedback received and to gather views from library users.
This work is helping to build a detailed understanding of the types of services people across Blackhall, Davidson’s Mains and the wider local community would like to access in a future library facility.
A 12-week public engagement process will launch on the proposals later this year. The findings of this initial engagement work will be used to inform the design of the proposed long-term solution, which will then be presented for formal public engagement.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Giants Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Until 14 Sep Tickets from £13
Giants showcases the colossal prehistoric creatures that lived after the extinction of the dinosaurs, 66 million years ago. Discover life-sized 3D sculptures, skeletons, and fossils in this immersive, family-friendly exhibition. The Giants exhibition is designed and produced by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.
Scotland’s First Warriors Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 Opening 27 June Entrance into the museum and exhibition is free
Explore archaeological evidence for the origins of organised conflict, from the Neolithic (late Stone Age) to the Romans, through over 250 objects.
Scotland’s First Warriors explores how and why people fought, the impact of war, and the legacy of prehistoric conflict. Internationally significant discoveries from Scotland will be on display for the first time, including the Carnoustie Hoard.
Dolly at 30: The Life and Legacy of a Cloned Sheep 16 Jul 18:30-20:30 Free, booking required
To coincide with her 30th birthday in July, join us for an evening exploring the history and legacy of Dolly the sheep, the first cloned mammal ever to be created from an adult cell.
Creative Workshops for Kids: In the Footsteps of Giants 22 & 29 Jul, 09:30 – 12:00 or 13:30 – 16:30 Tickets from £25, Members and concessions available
Led by theatre-maker and arts educator Marion Geoffray, children will have the chance to uncover fossils and learn some of the key skills palaeontologists use. They will then embark on a guided exploration of our Giants exhibition.
Creative Workshops for Kids: Storytelling Through Collage Animation 22 & 29 Jul, 09:30 – 12:00 or 13:30 – 16:30 Tickets from £25, Member and concessions prices available
Join animator and visual artist Dominika Jackowska for a creative workshop just for kids, inspired by our Giants exhibition. After a guided visit to the exhibition, children will get an introduction into stop-motion animation in our Learning Centre. They will have a chance to explore their own ideas and create their own short animation.
Museum Late: Festival Ceilidh 7 & 14 Aug Tickets from £26
Museum Late: Festival Ceilidh makes a stomping return this August. Grab your pals for a night of reels and revelry and join the party in Scottish style. The fantastic Jacobites Ceilidh Band will get you twirling and birling through Strip the Willow, Dashing White Sergeant and other traditional dances in one of Scotland’s biggest ceilidhs.
Creative Workshop: Egyptian Ceramics 22 Aug Tickets from £30, Members and concessions available
Explore Egyptian pottery with writer and ceramicist Mohamed Tonsy. Create your own decorative piece, inspired by historical objects from the National Collection. Mohamed will be joined by one of our Curators of the Ancient Mediterranean, who will share their knowledge about Egyptian objects in the collection.
Morning Curator Tour: Scotland’s First Warriors 26 Aug & 18 Sept Tickets from £10
Join exhibition curator Dr Matthew Knight for an exclusive early morning tour of ‘Scotland’s First Warriors’.
Featuring the incredible Carnoustie Hoard, ‘Scotland’s First Warriors’ is a unique exhibition which will take you on a 4000-year journey to explore the origins and impact of conflict in prehistoric Scotland.
Museum Socials Third Friday of the month 10:30–12:00 Free, booking required
Museum Socials events are designed for people living with dementia, their relatives, friends, carers, and supporters. Relaxed and informal, each session explores a different museum theme through various interactive activities, including curator talks, object handling, and creative crafts. Tea, cake and a warm welcome are always provided.
National Museums Collection Centre 242 W Granton Rd, Edinburgh EH5 1JA
Collection Centre Tours 25 Aug, 10:30 – 12:00 or 13:00 – 14:30 Tickets from £10, advance booking required
Discover the secrets of how we store and research our collections. Find out how our collections are used in international research and see objects rarely on public display.
National Museum of Rural Life Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Tractor Tots 3, 6 & 8 Jul Learning Centre £25 per child for block of 3, £20 per Member child for block of 3
Running in blocks of three sessions, Tractor Tots offers a fun, focused experience for younger visitors, introducing them to rural life through interactive creative play. Each session will feature handling objects from learning boxes, singing, storytelling, rhymes, actions, and sensory play to learn all about life in the countryside
Archaeology Weekend 25 & 26 Jul 10:30-15:30 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Take part in a family-friendly Archaeology Weekend at the National Museum of Rural Life. On Sat 25 Jul, meet the team from Treasure Trove Scotland and find out about their work investigating and assessing new archaeological discoveries.
Adult Workshop: Willow Basket Making 22 & 23 Aug Prices from £95
Choose from two full-day basket making workshops at the National Museum of Rural Life.
Each workshop led by willow artist and forager Max Johnson features a different style of basket to make and take home. In the Saturday workshop make a traditional berry picking basket. In the Sunday workshop, make a beautiful Zarzo flower gathering basket.
Relaxed Afternoon: National Museum of Rural Life Last Tuesday of every month 14:30-17:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Relaxed Afternoon is for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with neurodivergent children; neurodivergent 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.
National Museum of Flight East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF Open Weekends only, 10:00–16:00
Expert Talks Concorde Theatre 10 Jul & 7 Aug 11:00-11:20 Free with museum admission
From April to October, learn more about the collections and history of East Fortune Airfield with a series of free expert talks at the museum. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of each talk. In July, join Ian Brow for ‘East Fortune Attacked’ and in August, Eilidh MacKenzie will discuss ‘The Work of Poppy Scotland.’
Escape From France Puzzle Room 13 Jul –7 Aug (weekdays only) 11:30-16:00 Free with museum admission, drop-in
Work together as a family in the puzzle room and see if you’ve got what it takes to escape from France. Can you disguise yourself, speak French well enough to fool a German and find the right money to pay your rail fare to the coast?
Moth Hunters 18 Jul 9:00 -12:00 Free with museum admission
Discover the variety of local moths in the National Museum of Flight grounds with an early walk with entomologist Katty Baird and enjoy moth-themed family friendly activities.
From stunt shows and pedal-powered activities to interactive sessions and STEM science, there’s something to set everyone’s head spinning. See amazing 360° stunts and bike parkour from cycling experts, The Extreme Mountain Bike Show, get involved with hands-on activities in the aircraft hangars and have a go at some cycling fun.
Relaxed Morning: National Museum of Flight Every second Sunday of the month, 10:00-12:00 Free with museum admission
Relaxed Morning at the National Museum of Flight is for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore the museum without noisy interactives and videos to create a more relaxed environment.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Giants Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Until 14 Sep Tickets from £13
Giants showcases the colossal prehistoric creatures that lived after the extinction of the dinosaurs, 66 million years ago. Discover life-sized 3D sculptures, skeletons, and fossils in this immersive, family-friendly exhibition. The Giants exhibition is designed and produced by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.
COMING SOONScotland’s First Warriors Special Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 Opening 27 June Entrance into the museum and exhibition is free
Explore archaeological evidence for the origins of organised conflict, from the Neolithic (late Stone Age) to the Romans, through over 250 objects.
Scotland’s First Warriors explores how and why people fought, the impact of war, and the legacy of prehistoric conflict. Internationally significant discoveries from Scotland will be on display for the first time, including the Carnoustie Hoard.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Magic Carpet Learning Centre Event Space, Level 2 11, 18 & 25 May 10:30-11:15 & 11:45-12:30 Tickets £4
Our Magic Carpet sessions introduce you and your little one to some of the fascinating objects and themes in the museum in a fun and interactive way. Each month we explore a different theme using song, rhyme, movement, play and handling objects. This will help you and your little one discover more about our topic.
Gordon Buchanan: Giants of the Land Auditorium, Level 1 16 May 14:00 Tickets from £12
Join award-winning wildlife filmmaker, presenter and author Gordon Buchanan as he makes his first-ever appearance at the National Museum of Scotland. In this auditorium talk, Gordon will reflect on 30 years of taking part in daring expeditions, pushing boundaries, and raising awareness of the world’s most endangered species and habitats.
Centre for Open Learning: the History and Culture of Colour Various galleries 21 May–18 Jun 14:00-15:30 £80 per person
The University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Open Learning invites you to take your learning beyond the classroom. Explore artifacts in the museum’s remarkable collections and uncover stories linking the history of colour with culture, society and art. Focusing on specific colours, you will explore their histories and examine the impact these colours have had, and continue to have, on specific cultures and the world as a whole. Through gallery-based teaching, trace the effects of colour on culture and society throughout history up to the present day.
Creative Workshop: Paper Creations Learning Centre Studios, Level 4 23 May 10:30-13:00 and 14:00-16:30 Tickets from £45
Join paper folding artist Kate Colin for a bespoke workshop, inspired by our Giants exhibition and fossil collections. You will learn paper folding techniques and create a collection of handcrafted paper sculptures inspired by spiral forms and fossil structures.
Curiosity Club Learning Centre, Level 4 23 May 10:30-12:00 £10 (Members and Concessions £9)
Inspired by some of the Museum’s most exciting collections, our Curiosity Clubs are a chance for kids to explore the museum without their adult helpers through games, activities, and gallery visits.
Relaxed Curiosity Club Learning Centre, Level 4 23 May 14:30-15:30 £10 (£9 Members and Concessions)
Relaxed Curiosity Club sessions are particularly aimed at children with additional support needs, neurodivergent children, and children with disabilities. Parents/carers (up to two per participating child) are invited to stay and either join in with the activities or enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the foyer of the activity area.
Festival Family Day Grand Gallery 30 May 10:00-16:30 Free, drop in
Edinburgh International Children’s Festival Family Day returns for 2026. Experience exciting pop-up performances and creative encounters with local artists – from theatre and dance to walk-about characters – there is something for the whole family to enjoy.
James Hutton at 300: A Celebration of Geology 5 Jun 13:30-16:15 Free, drop in
Discover the legacy of James Hutton, the ‘father of modern geology’. Celebrate his tercentenary with free, drop-in short talks, mini tours and object handling.
Audio Descriptive Tour: Giants Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 16 Jun 17:30-19:30 Tickets from £13, concessions available
Join us after hours for an audio-described tour of the Giants exhibition. Discover life-sized 3D sculptures, skeletons and fossils in this immersive exhibition with audio descriptions and tactile opportunities.
Summer Family Fun Grand Gallery Every Monday and Friday in July 10:00-16:00 Free, drop in
Join us on Mondays and Fridays in July for a range of exciting, drop-in activities for the whole family. Each week, we’ll explore a new theme – from Scottish stories to around-the-world-adventures, there will be something new to discover.
Museum Socials Learning Centre Seminar Room, Level 4 Third Friday of the month 10:30–12:00 Free, booking required
Our Museum Socials events are designed for people living with dementia, their relatives, friends, carers, and supporters. Relaxed and informal, each session explores a different museum theme through various interactive activities, including curator talks, object handling, and creative crafts. Tea, cake and a warm welcome are always provided.
National Museums Collection Centre 242 W Granton Rd, Edinburgh EH5 1JA
Collection Centre Tours 19 May & 16 Jun 10:30 – 12:00 or 13:00 – 14:30 Tickets from £10, advance booking required
Discover the secrets of how we store and research our collections. Find out how our collections are used in international research and see objects rarely on public display.
National Museum of Rural Life Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Relaxed Afternoon: National Museum of Rural Life Last Tuesday of every month 14:30-17:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Join us for our monthly Relaxed Afternoon for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with neurodivergent children; neurodivergent 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.
Woolly Weekend Museum and farm 23 & 24 May 10:30-16:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Celebrate all things woolly with a weekend of family fun at the National Museum of Rural Life. See woolly farm friends up close and take part in wool-themed crafts, storytelling, and activities in the museum. Then take a walk to the farm to watch YouTube sensation Cammy Wilson shear our flock. Cammy will explain how, when, and why sheep are sheared, and will demonstrate traditional and modern shearing techniques.
Tractor Tots 29 May Learning Centre £25 per child for block of 3, £20 per Member child for block of 3
Running in blocks of three sessions, Tractor Tots offers a fun, focused experience for our younger visitors, introducing them to rural life through interactive creative play. Each session will feature handling objects from our learning boxes, singing, storytelling, rhymes, actions, and sensory play to learn all about life in the countryside
East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF Open Weekends only, 10:00–16:00
Expert Talks Concorde Theatre 15 May & 12 Jun 11:00-11:20 Free with museum admission
Learn more about our collections and the history of East Fortune Airfield with our series of free expert talks at the museum. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of each talk. In April, join Matteo Randazzo who will discuss ‘Second World War Archaeology at East Fortune’.
BSL Tour: National Museum of Flight 16 May 14:00-15:30 Free add-on to general admission ticket
Discover our amazing aircraft and explore the history of aviation in this Deaf-led tour delivered in British Sign Language. This event is Deaf-led and aimed at adult BSL users.
Awesome Bricks 20 & 21 Jun 10:00-17:00 Tickets from £17, concessions available
Our hands-on celebration of LEGO® returns to the National Museum of Flight. Join us for a weekend packed full of LEGO® brick fun, with lots to see and do for all ages. Get a close-up view of incredible LEGO® constructions created by talented AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO®), including an interactive train set, and make your own unique creations in our brick build zone.
Relaxed Morning: National Museum of Flight Every second Sunday of the month, 10:00-12:00 Free with museum admission
Join us for a Relaxed Morning at the National Museum of Flight, for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore the museum without noisy interactives and videos to create a more relaxed environment.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Giants Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Until 14 Sep Tickets from £13
Giants showcases the colossal prehistoric creatures that lived after the extinction of the dinosaurs, 66 million years ago. Discover life-sized 3D sculptures, skeletons, and fossils in this immersive, family-friendly exhibition. The Giants exhibition is designed and produced by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.
COMING SOON Scotland’s First Warriors Special Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 Opening 27 June Entrance into the museum and exhibition is free
Explore archaeological evidence for the origins of organised conflict, from the Neolithic (late Stone Age) to the Romans, through over 250 objects. Scotland’s First Warriors explores how and why people fought, the impact of war, and the legacy of prehistoric conflict. Internationally significant discoveries from Scotland will be on display for the first time, including the Carnoustie Hoard.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Curiosity Club Learning Centre, Level 4 28 Mar & 23 May 10:30-12:00 £10 (Members and Concessions £9)
Inspired by some of the museum’s most exciting collections, our Curiosity Clubs are a chance for kids to explore the museum without their adult helpers through games, activities, and gallery visits.
Relaxed Curiosity Club Learning Centre, Level 4 28 Mar 14:30-15:30 £10 (£9 Members and Concessions)
Relaxed Curiosity Club sessions are particularly aimed at children with additional support needs, neurodivergent children, or children with disabilities. Parents/carers (up to two per participating child) are invited to stay and either join in with the activities or enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the foyer of the activity area.
Gather Around the Frame: A Celebration of Hand Quilting Locations across the museum 29 Mar 10:15-16:45 Free drop-in activities, booking required for panel discussion
Join us for a hands-on stitching experience around replica historical quilting frames as enjoyed by previous generations as they sewed together. This event will feature talks, film screenings, hands-on crafts, and our very own quilting bee. All materials are provided.
Edinburgh Science Festival 2026 Locations across the museum Daily from 4-19 Apr 10:00-17:00 All pricing and bookings through Science Festival website
Edinburgh Science Festival 2026 will highlight Scotland’s contribution to scientific advances through research, innovation, and its extraordinary people. The Grand Gallery will host family-friendly activities and artwork by award-winning artist, Gayle Chong Kwan.
Makkin it! 5-19 April 10:00-2:00 and 13:00-15:00 Free, drop in
Join our Learning Team in the Grand Gallery to discover some incredible Scottish inventions. Get hands-on with some of our favourite inventions, press and investigate your unique fingerprint, then head off and explore our galleries with a copy of our Inventors trail.
Morning Curator Tour: Giants Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 7-14 Apr Tickets from £13
Join exhibition curator, Dr Sarah Stewart, for an exclusive early-morning tour of Giants.
Giants celebrates the colossal creatures that roamed the Earth 66 million years ago. Meet ten giant creatures from prehistory. Discover how they were able to grow so large, what advantages their size offered, and why they eventually faced extinction.
The Giants exhibition is designed and produced by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.
Gordon Buchanan: Giants of the Land Auditorium, Level 1 16 May 14:00 Tickets from £12
Join award-winning wildlife filmmaker, presenter and author Gordon Buchanan as he makes his first-ever appearance at the National Museum of Scotland. In this auditorium talk, Gordon will reflect on 30 years of taking part in daring expeditions, pushing boundaries, and raising awareness of the world’s most endangered species and habitats.
Creative Workshop: Paper Creations Learning Centre Studios, Level 4 23 May 10:30-13:00 and 14:00-16:30 Tickets from £45
Join paper folding artist Kate Colin for a bespoke workshop, inspired by our ‘Giants’ exhibition and fossil collections. You will learn paper folding techniques and create a collection of handcrafted paper sculptures inspired by spiral forms and fossil structures.
Museum Socials Learning Centre Seminar Room, Level 4 Third Friday of the month 10:30–12:00 Free, booking required
Our Museum Socials events are designed for people living with dementia, their relatives, friends, carers, and supporters. Relaxed and informal, each session explores a different museum theme through various interactive activities, including curator talks, object handling, and creative crafts. And tea, cake and a warm welcome are always provided.
National Museum of Rural Life Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Relaxed Afternoon: National Museum of Rural Life Last Tuesday of every month 14:30-17:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Join us for our monthly Relaxed Afternoon for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with neurodivergent children; neurodivergent 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.
Spring Explorers 14–17 Apr 10:30–15:30 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Become a Spring Explorer this April at the National Museum of Rural Life. Join us as we dig into all things soil and explore the wiggly world beneath our feet. Take part in a planting activity to learn how bugs and worms keep soil healthy for plants to grow. Settle in for some lively, soil-inspired storytelling in the theatre, then get messy with some hands-on fun at our Soil Exploration Station.
Tractor Tots 24 Apr & 29 May 2026 Learning Centre £25 per child for block of 3, £20 per Member child for block of 3
Running in blocks of three sessions, Tractor Tots offers a fun, focused experience for our younger visitors, introducing them to rural life through interactive creative play. Each session will feature handling objects from our learning boxes, singing, storytelling, rhymes, actions, and sensory play to learn all about life in the countryside
Woolly Weekend Museum and farm 23 & 24 May 10:30-16:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Celebrate all things woolly with a weekend of family fun at the National Museum of Rural Life.
See woolly farm friends up close and take part in wool-themed crafts, storytelling, and activities in the museum. Then take a walk to the farm to watch YouTube sensation Cammy Wilson shear our flock. Cammy will explain how, when, and why sheep are sheared, and will demonstrate traditional and modern shearing techniques.
Expert Talks Concorde Theatre 17 Apr & 15 May 11:00-11:20 Free with museum admission
From April to October, learn more about our collections and the history of East Fortune Airfield with our series of free expert talks at the museum. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of each talk. In April, join Matteo Randazzo who will discuss ‘Second World War Archaeology at East Fortune’.
Relaxed Morning: National Museum of Flight Every second Sunday of the month, 10:00-12:00 Free with museum admission
Join us for a Relaxed Morning at the National Museum of Flight, for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore the museum without noisy interactives and videos to create a more relaxed environment.
The North Edinburgh Film Festival is next Friday 27 March & Saturday 28 March, and you can now take a look at everything we’ve got lined up for you.
This year we’re in our brand new home at North Edinburgh Arts, and we’ve packed two days with over 60 films from across the world and right here in North Edinburgh, plus art installations, filmmaking workshops for all ages, a community lunch, and an Audience Awards Ceremony where you pick the best locally-made film.
From short films about working-class lives and social activism to animations, family-friendly screenings and special film screenings from Screen Education Edinburgh, there really is something for everyone.
Next week (16–20 March) organisations across Scotland will gather to explore how #FairWork can strengthen businesses, empower workers, and create more inclusive, forward‑looking workplaces.
The week features a wide range of online sessions, from job security and gender equality, to flexible working insights and the role of emerging technologies in building fair, productive organisations.
The Fair Work Festival 2026 takes place from Monday 16 to Friday 20 March.
It’s open to employers and workers who want to learn more about fair work and how to implement it in their organisation.
Here you can find out about events taking place and how to register. More events will be added in the lead up to the festival.
Monday 16 March
Secure Workforce, Stronger Business
Host: Peer Works and South of Scotland Enterprise
Time: 12:00 – 13:00
Location: Online
Join us for an online session on how job security can reduce staff turnover, support recruitment, and build resilient, values led organisations, delivering measurable benefits for workers and employers alike. This session is delivered in partnership with SOSE and The Poverty Alliance as part of the Fair Work Festival 2026.
Join us to discover how small, people-centric changes can boost performance, strengthen your employer brand, and give your organisation a real competitive edge.
Think Business, Think Equality: Turning Fair Work commitments into action
Host: Close the Gap
Time: 10:00 to 11:00
Location: Online (MS Teams)
Join Close the Gap for a practical, business-focused session on how employers can strengthen Fair Work practices and advance gender equality at work, featuring the free Think Business Think Equality tool.
Flex for Life 2026: The real picture of flexible working in Scotland
Host: Flexibility Works
Time: 11:00 to 12:00
Location: Online
An evidence lead session sharing key findings from the Flex for Life 2026 research. Exploring how flexible working in Scotland supports Fair Work and helps people access and sustain good quality work.
Futureproof your business – People, AI and productivity
Host: Scottish Enterprise in partnership with Peer Works
Time: 12:00 – 13:00
Location: Online (MS Teams)
Join Scottish Enterprise and Peer Works for an online session that will look at how businesses can use emerging technologies to improve performance while supporting fair and progressive workplace practices and better outcomes for employees.
Overcoming Barriers to Fair Work through Anti-Racist Leadership
Host: BITC/CEMVO Scotland
Time: 14:00 – 15:00
Location: Online (MS Teams)
Join BITC and CEMVO Scotland for a focused session exploring how anti‑racist leadership can accelerate progress towards Fair Work, with particular emphasis on Opportunity and Effective Voice.
Fair Work in Action: Practical Steps Through Supported Employment
Host: Scottish Union of Supported Employment (SUSE)
Time: 10:00 – 11:00
Location: Online (MS Teams)
Join this one-hour session from SUSE to discover how inclusive hiring through Supported Employment can boost your business, strengthen workplace culture, and deliver on Fair Work principles.
Delivering Fair Work Through Workforce Health and Wellbeing Support: The Working Health Services Approach
Host: Working Health Services Scotland (WHSS)
Time: 13:00 – 14:00
Location: Online
Join Working Health Services Scotland (WHSS) to discover how early, person centred health and wellbeing support helps employers reduce absence, improve retention and strengthen workplace culture while enabling employees to stay healthy, confident and thriving in meaningful work.
Join us to discover how small, people-centric changes can boost performance, strengthen your employer brand, and give your organisation a real competitive edge.
Discover how Scotland’s social enterprises are putting Fair Work into practice in ‘Showcasing Fair Work in Social Enterprise’, a one-hour online event featuring data, insights, inspiration and practical ideas from an award-winning social enterprise.
The Employment Rights Act 2025 and Fair Work in Scotland
Host: Fair Work Convention and CIPD Scotland
Time: 14:00 – 15:30
Location: Online (MS Teams)
Join this webinar, jointly organised by the Fair Work Convention and the CIPD, for the latest update on the implementation of the Employment Rights Act 2025 and its interaction with the fair work agenda in Scotland.
How to Create or Negotiate Fair, Flexible Work That Works for You
Host: Flexible Working Scotland
Time: 10.00 – 11.00
Location: Online
An interactive one-hour webinar with Lynn Houmdi, Founder of Flexible Working Scotland and Scotland’s Flex Influencer, sharing practical advice and real-life insight to help jobseekers and employees find, negotiate and sustain fair, flexible work.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Giants Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Opening 31 Jan Tickets from £13
Giants showcases the colossal prehistoric creatures that lived after the extinction of the dinosaurs, 66 million years ago. Discover life-sized 3D sculptures, skeletons, and fossils in this immersive, family-friendly exhibition. The Giants exhibition is designed and produced by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.
COMING SOON Scotland’s First Warriors Special Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 Opening 27 June Entrance into the museum and exhibition is free
Explore archaeological evidence for the origins of organised conflict, from the Neolithic (late Stone Age) to the Romans, through over 250 objects. Scotland’s First Warriors explores how and why people fought, the impact of war, and the legacy of prehistoric conflict. Internationally significant discoveries from Scotland will be on display for the first time, including the Carnoustie Hoard.
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Museum Socials Learning Centre Seminar Room, Level 4 20 Feb & 20 Mar 10:30–12:00 Free, booking required
Our Museum Socials events are designed for people living with dementia, their relatives, friends, carers, and supporters. Relaxed and informal, each session explores a different museum theme through various interactive activities, including curator talks, object handling, and creative crafts. And tea, cake and a warm welcome are always provided.
The Amazing Mathemagic Show Hawthornden Court, Level 1 21 Feb 10:30–13:00 and 13:30–16:00
Join students and staff from Edinburgh University as they use maths to transform into performers, musicians, and astonishing mind readers. Whether you are a maths enthusiast or number curious, there will be something for all ages at this interactive stall. Discover simple yet mind-boggling tricks that merge maths with magic.
The Sunday Sketch Various Galleries 22 Feb –22 Mar 14:00–16:00 Tickets from £13
Learn how to sketch, taking inspiration from the incredible collections on display in our museum galleries. Join artist Sheena Russell to take a new look at our collections and be guided through a range of drawing activities within the museum’s galleries.
Sensory Sundays Learning Centre, Studio 2, Level 4 1 Mar 14:00–15:00 Free, booking required
Children with additional support needs and disabilities and their families are invited to join our programme of sensory play sessions. Explore the museum’s collections, get creative, and meet other families.
Sensory Sunday sessions are relaxed, fun, hands-on, and respond to the needs of the families participating.
Magic Carpet Meet at Hawthornden Court 6, 13 & 20 Mar 10:30–11:15 and 11:45–12:30 From £4 per session
Our Magic Carpet sessions introduce you and your little one to some of the fascinating objects and themes in the museum in a fun and interactive way. Each month we will explore a different theme using song, rhyme, movement, play, and handling objects, to help you and your little one discover more about our topic.
Creative Workshop: Block Printing Learning Centre Studios, Level 4, and Early People Gallery, Level -1 21 Mar 11:00–15:30 Tickets from £45
Join artist Georgie Fay to make unique paper and clay designs using woodcut printing techniques.
Explore our Early People gallery and discover the journeys made and the materials used by Scotland’s early people. Back in the Learning Centre, create a woodcut with a design inspired by our collections. You will make your own woodcut template, print on paper and clay.
Doug Allan: Giants of the Sea Auditorium, Level 3 22 Mar 11:30 Tickets from £12
Following his sold-out talk in April 2024, award-winning wildlife photographer Doug Allan is back at the National Museum of Scotland. This time, to talk about his experiences filming the great giants of the sea.
Featuring his own photographs and clips from well-known TV programmes, Doug will talk about the excitement and challenges he has faced when working in the world’s oceans.
Curiosity Club Learning Centre, Level 4 28 Feb & 28 Mar 10:30-12:00 £10 (Members and Concessions £9)
Inspired by some of the museum’s most exciting collections, our Curiosity Clubs are a chance for kids to explore the museum without their adult helpers through games, activities, and gallery visits.
Relaxed Curiosity Club Learning Centre, Level 4 28 Feb & 28 Mar 14:30-15:30 £10 (£9 Members and Concessions)
Relaxed Curiosity Club sessions are particularly aimed at children with additional support needs, neurodivergent children, or children with disabilities. Parents/carers (up to two per participating child) are invited to stay and either join in with the activities or enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the foyer of the activity area.
Gather Around the Frame: A Celebration of Hand Quilting Locations across the museum 29 Mar 10:15-16:45 Free drop-in activities, booking required for panel discussion
Join us for a hands-on stitching experience around replica historical quilting frames as enjoyed by previous generations as they sewed together. This event will feature talks, film screenings, hands-on crafts, and our very own quilting bee. All materials are provided.
Edinburgh Science Festival 2026 Locations across the museum Daily from 4-19 Apr 10:00-17:00 All pricing and bookings through Science Festival website
Edinburgh Science Festival 2026 will highlight Scotland’s contribution to scientific advances through research, innovation, and its extraordinary people. The Grand Gallery will host family-friendly activities and artwork by award-winning artist, Gayle Chong Kwan.
Morning Curator Tour: Giants Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 7-14 Apr Tickets from £13
Join exhibition curator, Dr Sarah Stewart, for an exclusive early-morning tour of Giants.
Giants celebrates the colossal creatures that roamed the Earth 66 million years ago. Meet ten giant creatures from prehistory. Discover how they were able to grow so large, what advantages their size offered, and why they eventually faced extinction.
The Giants exhibition is designed and produced by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.
Creative Workshop: Paper Creations Learning Centre Studios, Level 4 23 May 10:30-13:00 and 14:00-16:30 Tickets from £45
Join paper folding artist Kate Colin for a bespoke workshop, inspired by our ‘Giants’ exhibition and fossil collections. You will learn paper folding techniques and create a collection of handcrafted paper sculptures inspired by spiral forms and fossil structures.
National Museum of Rural Life Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Relaxed Afternoon: National Museum of Rural Life Last Tuesday of every month 14:30-17:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Join us for our monthly Relaxed Afternoon for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with neurodivergent children; neurodivergent 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.
Spring Explorers 14–17 Apr 10:30–15:30 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Become a Spring Explorer this April at the National Museum of Rural Life. Join us as we dig into all things soil and explore the wiggly world beneath our feet. Take part in a planting activity to learn how bugs and worms keep soil healthy for plants to grow. Settle in for some lively, soil-inspired storytelling in the theatre, then get messy with some hands-on fun at our Soil Exploration Station.
Tractor Tots 24 Apr & 29 May 2026 Learning Centre £25 per child for block of 3, £20 per Member child for block of 3
Running in blocks of three sessions, Tractor Tots offers a fun, focused experience for our younger visitors, introducing them to rural life through interactive creative play. Each session will feature handling objects from our learning boxes, singing, storytelling, rhymes, actions, and sensory play to learn all about life in the countryside
Woolly Weekend Museum and farm 23 & 24 May 10:30-16:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Celebrate all things woolly with a weekend of family fun at the National Museum of Rural Life.
See woolly farm friends up close and take part in wool-themed crafts, storytelling, and activities in the museum. Then take a walk to the farm to watch YouTube sensation Cammy Wilson shear our flock. Cammy will explain how, when, and why sheep are sheared, and will demonstrate traditional and modern shearing techniques.
Conservation Hangar Talks Until 29 Mar 2026 14:00-15:00 Free and available as an add-on to your general admission ticket. Booking is required.
Join a member of our Visitor Experience team for a behind-the-scenes look in our Conservation hangar on a free daily talk at 14:00. Find out about objects from the collection that are not normally on display and have the chance to see conservators at work.
Relaxed Morning: National Museum of Flight Every second Sunday of the month, 10:00-12:00 Free with museum admission
Join us for a Relaxed Morning at the National Museum of Flight, for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore the museum without noisy interactives and videos to create a more relaxed environment.
To celebrate 100 years since the Castle was gifted to the nation by the Reids, this year’s programme has a strong 1920s theme.
The centenary programme was officially launched with a visit from Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener, who joined colleagues and volunteers at the castle to mark the beginning of a year-long celebration.
Featuring an exciting and varied selection of events, the programme will include talks, creative workshops, film screenings, and family fun activities. Highlights include:
Immersive heritage experiences inspired by different periods of the castle’s past
Interactive outdoor activities and themed trails for families
Seasonal festivals celebrating culture, craft and community
Costumed interpretation and live performances
Creative workshops, talks and special tours
A highlight of the year will be the original murder mystery plays, composed and performed by Edinburgh Living History, where guests can use their sleuthing skills to uncover the culprit.
In August, the 1920s-inspired scavenger hunt, reflecting popular leisure activities of the era, will have guests following the clues to meet some characters from the past whilst enjoying the beauty of the grounds.
Visitors will be able to enjoy the return of much-loved Japan Sakura, offering another weekend of fun, with the opportunity to take part in traditional crafts and hands-on activities for all ages.
To mark the centenary, guests can also watch a series of film screenings of titles both made and set in the 1920s starting with ‘The General’ (1926).
Many events will be free to attend, with some ticketed experiences available through advance booking. Details of all events are listed on the Culture Edinburgh website.
Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said: “Lauriston Castle is one of Edinburgh’s most treasured sites, and the centenary is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate both its past and its future.
“This programme brings together heritage, creativity and community in a way that reflects the spirit of Mr and Mrs Reid’s generous gift.
“We look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to discover everything that Lauriston has to offer in 2026.”
View the brochure online and start planning your visit – 
North Edinburgh Arts, 12C MacMillan Square
Friday 27 March 10am–8:30pm
The Fair Work Festival 2026 is coming up! 
View the full programme and register:
