Tag: Lauriston Castle

Forever Edinburgh launches search for the city’s Local Legends

Forever Edinburgh is calling on residents to help shine a spotlight on the everyday heroes who make the city a better place to live. This is part of a reimagination of its Resident Rewards programme “For Local Legends”, celebrating the residents and businesses of Edinburgh.

From friendly shopkeepers and inspiring artists to bus drivers, lollipop ladies, community champions and beyond, this new campaign invites locals to nominate Edinburgh’s Local Legends – the people who go above and beyond, often without recognition.

Nominees will be in with a chance of winning exclusive prizes from Forever Edinburgh’s Resident Rewards partners – from afternoon teas, distillery tours and delicious meals, to unique local experiences.

Prizes have been provided by Resident Rewards partners Mimi’s Bakehouse, Malmaison, Port of Leith Distillery and the Edinburgh Marine Academy.

One especially celebrated individual will be treated to something even more special: a Legendary Local’s Day, featuring an itinerary of unforgettable Edinburgh experiences.

This will include a private tour of Lauriston Castle, where they will find out about the final private owners of Lauriston Castle – Mr and Mrs Reid and Mrs Reid’s brother, Mr Barton and see what it was like to live above and below stairs at Lauriston Castle in Edwardian times.

A nomination page has been launched on the Forever Edinburgh website, where residents can submit their nominations. Whether it’s a neighbour who runs a food bank, a youth worker changing lives or someone who simply brings joy to others, this is your chance to share their story. Nominations are open now and will close on 14 August 2025.

Submissions should include the nominee’s name and details, the nominator’s details and the reason for the nomination, with the option to allow Forever Edinburgh to share the nominee’s story on its social media channels.

All nominations will be hosted on the site, creating a growing list of the city’s everyday legends.

Cllr Jane Meagher, leader of the City of Edinburgh Council said: “Local Legends is about celebrating the people who quietly shape all of the things which make our great city what it is today.

“These are the friendly faces and unsung heroes who make Edinburgh feel like home and this campaign is our way of saying thank you. We’re proud to share the new campaign for our Resident Rewards programme For Local Legends – and even prouder to give something back to the people who give so much.”

This is part of the launch of Forever Edinburgh’s new campaign for Resident Rewards – now reimagined as “For Local Legends”. It represents a refreshed commitment to recognising and rewarding residents and local businesses who together make the city such a wonderful place to live.

This is your chance to say thank you to the legends among us – and help them get the recognition they deserve. Edinburgh residents can now wear a badge of honour as a Local Legend, with a rewards programme that gives unique benefits back to them.

The Resident Rewards programme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.   

Forever Edinburgh is proud to recognise and reward the people who help make this city so vibrant, kind in spirit and unique. Now it’s over to you – who’s your local legend?

Nominate your Unsung Legend today at edinburgh.org/residentrewardscomp

Blossom Festival at Lauriston Castle this weekend

Join us for our Japan Sakura @ Lauriston Castle – a festival spanning 2 days (Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 April) celebrating the blossom at Lauriston Castle.

Full details of #Japanese#cultural events here:

https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/…/sakura-lauriston…

Free and drop in.

#Edinburgh

#Scotland

#castle

Easter trails at Lauriston Castle

On #GoodFriday , Saturday and Easter Monday we have some FREE #Easter & Nature trails at Lauriston Castle. Pop along and pick up the trails & solve a puzzle to get some chocolate eggs.

Between 11am-4pm. In front of Castle.

#EasterWeekend

Details here: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/family-fun-lauriston…

Lauriston Castle launches 2025 programme

Tickets for March to December 2025 events programme on sale now

  • Over 100 events including atmospheric film screenings, ghost stories, murder mysteries, sketch workshops, lectures, picnics and theatre offer locals many opportunities to enjoy the Edwardian manor and gardens.
  • All information on Lauriston Castle events can be found at www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk.

Lauriston Castle has officially launched its exciting 2025 programme with a visit from Lord Provost Robert Aldridge and members of the multi-award-winning Edinburgh Living History (ELH).

The Lord Provost joined ELH for a special guided tour of the 16th-century castle last week. Known for its breathtaking views over the Firth of Forth, Lauriston Castle is set to host a diverse range of events in the coming months, offering something for everyone.

The castle’s Lectures Series will feature captivating discussions on topics such as growing up in Corstorphine in the 1950s, the Women of Lauriston, and the inspiring legacy of Emily Pankhurst and the Suffragette movement.

For those looking to tap into their creative side, the Adult Crafts Workshops will include sessions on watercolour painting, wreath-making, and more.

Meanwhile, Family Events will feature exciting activities such as dinosaur and space-themed days, as well as the beloved annual Lauriston Castle Teddy Bear’s Picnic.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy Costumed Performances, with live re-enactments of Edinburgh life from days gone by, bringing the past to life in an immersive way.

A key new addition to the 2025 programme is a focus on Lauriston Women’s History. New themed tours and a lecture series will delve into the often-overlooked stories of the women who played a vital role in the castle’s history.

The programme also includes special events and themed tours, theatre performances, atmospheric film screenings, and garden events.

Lauriston Castle is also collaborating with renowned partners like the Edinburgh Multicultural Festival, the Edinburgh International Magic Festival and the Edinburgh Horror Festival to bring even more exceptional experiences to the public.

Details of all events are listed on the Museums & Galleries website.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “It was an absolute pleasure to visit Lauriston Castle today. Edinburgh Living History and our fantastic Museums & Galleries colleagues were kind enough to welcome me and provide a chance to explore one of our most unique venues.

“In the coming months, there’s an excellent range of events taking place as part of the Lauriston Castle 2025 programme. From lectures on circular fashion to the grisly history of anatomy in 19th-century Edinburgh, alongside adult creative workshops and family events, there’s truly something for everyone.

“As we continue our Edinburgh 900 celebrations, I would encourage all of our residents and visitors to take advantage of these fantastic opportunities to learn more about Edinburgh’s history.”

CRAFT WORKSHOP PROGRAMME AT LAURISTON CASTLE

Our Lauriston adult creative workshop programme for 2025 is now live and bookable.

17 fantastic adult creative workshops for you to explore your creativity in our supportive relaxing setting.

Explore here: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/adult-craft-workshops…

BE QUICK, THOUGH – SOME CLASSES ALREADY SOLD OUT!

Silver Sunday at Lauriston Castle

We are taking part in #SilverSunday with Age UK on Sunday 6 October by offering a free tour for elder visitors. We have an option of a tour of the Castle and a step-free option to see the castle digitally.

Join our knowledgeable guide for a FREE tour of Lauriston Castle. Find out about Willian and Margaret Reid, the last owners of Lauriston, and see for yourself the wonderful gift they left the nation.

Silver Sunday is the national day for older people, which is co-ordinated by Age UK. Age UK’s Silver Sunday is a national day where people of all generations can come together by hosting fun and free activities for older people. It is a day where older people can meet new people, visit new places, try new activities and connect with their local communities and the generations around them.

More Info here: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/…/tour-lauriston…

The Royal Scots commemorate fallen comrades from the Far-East Conflict

80th Anniversary of the Battle of Kohima

At 10:30 on Saturday 29 June 2024 The Royal Scots Regimental Association will lay wreaths and conduct a memorial service at Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh (EH4 6AD), to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Kohima and the Regiment’s role in one of the defining battles of the Second World War.

Regimental records show that between 4 April and 22 June 1944 1st Battalion The Royal Scots lost a total of 89 men – their names will be read out during the ceremony.  A further 200 were wounded, many seriously, in the intense fighting around Kohima.  

The Battle of Kohima was one of the most bitterly fought battles of the Second World War and a pivotal moment in the war against Japan in the Far East.  

The success of the British 2nd Division (including theRoyal Scots) and the Indian 5th Division ensured the safety of British India and turned the tide against Japanese forces in South East Asia.

On Saturday 29 June 2024 The Royal Scots contingent will form up in the Lauriston Castle car park at 10:30 and will march the short distance to the Royal Scots Memorial Garden behind a piper and their Association Standards.

All others are welcome to congregate at the Garden.  The service will commence at 10:50 and will be conducted by Reverend Ian May, the Padre of The Royal Scots Regimental Association.  

The wreath laying will be led by Brigadier George Lowder, President of The Royal Scots Regimental Association.

Malcolm Warrack, son of Lt Col Morren Warrack who fought at Kohima with the regiment, said: “A group of Royal Scots Veterans felt very strongly about the lack of some form of local memorial specifically for their fellow soldiers who did not come back from the Burma Campaign and Kohima in particular.

“George Rogers, Ian Henderson and Morren Warrack co-ordinated the preparation and creation of this Memorial Garden in the 1990s.  

“They spoke often about the “Forgotten Army” in the Far East so it is particularly fitting that 80 years later on 29th June 2024 we remember them.”

Brigadier Lowder added: “The Royal Scots feel very strongly that we should mark the battle of Kohima which witnessed some of the fiercest fighting of the war.

“Some Royal Scots who took part in crucial battles to delay the German advance to Dunkirk in May 1940 subsequently found themselves in the Far East where the war continued for a further 3 months after victory in Europe was declared in May 1945.  Many made the ultimate sacrifice; we will remember them.”

Lauriston Castle launches 2024 programme

Lauriston Castle officially launched it’s 2024 programme this week with a visit from Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker alongside members of the multi-award winning Edinburgh Living History.

Convener Walker rose to the occasion and joined Edinburgh Living History in full Edwardian dress for a tour of Lauriston Castle.

Situated in the Cramond area of the city, this 16th century castle has breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth and will play host to an eclectic programme of events over the coming months.

Pic Greg Macvean 03/04/2024 Lauriston Castle with Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker in period costume

The Lectures series features discussions on everything from whisky to a history of Edinburgh photography.

Under the Adult Crafts Workshops there are sessions on watercolour painting, crocheting and much more.

In the Family Events section there’s everything from ghost tours to workshops on space!

There is also a range of Costumed Performances where visitors can experience reenactments of Edinburgh life from days gone by.

As well as these there are also Themed Tours, Theatre Performances, Atmospheric Film Screenings and Garden Events. We’re also working with partners like Edinburgh International Magic Festival and Edinburgh Horror Festival.

All events are listed on the Museums & Galleries website.

Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said: “It was an absolute pleasure to visit Lauriston Castle this week. Edinburgh Living History and our fantastic Museums & Galleries colleagues were kind enough to welcome me and provide a chance to explore one of our most unique venues.

“In the coming months there’s an excellent range of events taking place as part of the Lauriston Castle 2024 programme. From lectures on circular fashion to the grisly history of anatomy in 19th century Edinburgh all the way through to adult creative workshops and family events there’s truly something for everyone.

“I’d encourage all our residents and visitors to take advantage of these.”

About Lauriston Castle:

For more than 400 years, enchanting Lauriston Castle has overlooked the River Forth at Silverknowes, near Cramond. Set among 30 acres of woodland and beautiful gardens, Lauriston Castle is a special place to visit.

The Castle itself has a beautiful Edwardian interior, from which we take inspiration for many of our workshops.  Downstairs are the servants’ quarters, including the maids’ hall and the atmospheric old kitchen, where a warm welcome awaits you during the winter months.

Why not double up a day visiting the Castle grounds with a picnic, and historic Cramond is right on our doorstep so you can make a real day out visiting this part of Edinburgh. 

Free car parking is available within the Castle grounds off Cramond Road South. Lauriston Castle is easy to reach and is close by car from the City Bypass.  It sits between Davidson’s Mains and Cramond.

You can take numerous buses to Davidson’s Mains, or Silverknowes Terminus; both are around 10 minutes’ walk from Lauriston Castle.  Visit Lothian Buses website for details of local services.

Pic Greg Macvean 03/04/2024 Lauriston Castle with Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker in period costume

Booking:

Pre-booking and advance payment are essential for all events. 

Online: To book visit our website.

By phone – 0131 336 2060 (Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 10am – 4pm)

In person – At Lauriston Castle – (Go through Courtyard by Mimi’s Café and ring the bell on the green door) Monday – Sunday 10am – 4pm

For further information (non-booking information) about any event, contact Margaret Findlay, Learning and Programmes Manager, on 0131 529 3993 or email margaret.findlay@edinburgh.gov.uk  

Edinburgh Multicultural Festival returns this month

Edinburgh Multicultural Festival, supported by the City of Edinburgh Council, will be held at Edinburgh College (Granton Campus) and Lauriston Castle on 30 September and 1 October 2023.

The programme features a diverse range of performers and visual artists telling their stories through creative writing and visual literacy workshops, artwork, poetry, storytelling, music, theatre, and dance.

There are also family activities, including arts and crafts, puppetry, living statues, reading sessions, and drumming workshops facilitated by Visual Literacy Matters and other artists. The festival truly has something for everyone.

This year’s musical acts include Los Chichanos, Mio Shudo, Motown Brothers, The Spinning Blowfish, Elaine Cheng, dance artists – Sam Vaherlehto and TuFlamenco as well as theatre makers – Catherine Bisset, Flavia D’Avila, Luntu Masiza and Olivier Van Den Hende.

The festival celebrates the cultural diversity of the Capital by bringing together local and international artists and creating experiences to be shared by all communities.

This year marks the 5th birthday of the festival, which has provided platforms, both on stages and digitally, for over 150 local and international artists of diverse backgrounds, and generated over 60k worldwide views since its inception.

All events are free but ticketed. For more information, please visit the Edinburgh Multicultural Festival website.

Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said: “It’s fantastic to see the return of the Edinburgh Multicultural Festival later this month. I’m incredibly proud that we are supporting local artists of all backgrounds to get involved with a truly unique festival. We all want to see as many of our residents as possible expressing themselves and adding to Edinburgh’s already excellent cultural sector.  

“Edinburgh’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths and this festival is just one fantastic example of our outstanding year-round cultural offerings. I want to wish the best of luck to all the organisers, performers and participants and I’m sure that this fifth year of the festival will be a great success.”

Edinburgh Multicultural Festival Director, Morgan Njobo said: “We are grateful to the City of Edinburgh Council for their support, thanks to which we can create opportunities for local diverse artists to share their work and cultures. As a South African artist based in Edinburgh myself, I value how welcoming the city is to the international talent.

“The festival is a celebration of cultural diversity in Edinburgh that is representative of the increasingly more diverse population in the city. This year we feature local artists of African, Asian, Caribbean, European, and South American origin thus creating a world stage at your doorstep.

“The festival has gone from strength to strength since 2019 as we continue to attract more participation in the arts in Edinburgh. Partnering with Edinburgh College in Granton and Lauriston Castle in Cramond allows us to create unique cultural experiences for audiences and participants of all ages and backgrounds while appreciating the hidden gem locations in Edinburgh.

“Let’s enjoy being able to be back together and support diverse artists and creatives here in Scotland.”

Easter Shenanigans at Lauriston Castle!

As the spring sunshine approaches, Lauriston Castle has launched an action-packed season of activities and events for all the family.

Members of Edinburgh Living History got into the spirit ahead of the Easter Shenanigans planned for the weekend and rolled some easter eggs they had painted.

Edinburgh Living History are our multi award-winning team, who interpret the history of the castle in a variety of entertaining ways in Edwardian costume – bringing to life the history of the house. On Sunday 2 April visitors can walk through the Castle on a special tour watching the performance unfold.

Elsewhere, running from the Castle Courtyard, there are free drop-in events all day including an Easter Trail with a chocolate surprise at the end, our Egg and Spoon Race, which you can bring your own hard-boiled egg to decorate and then race in, or egg rolling, with a prize for the egg that rolls the furthest.

Visitors can also make their own Easter crown, flower or pinwheel and share online using our giant frame! You can also craft a clay spring tile, paint a cermaic tile, make papier mâché eggs or explore with one of our garden activity books.

This year’s lecture series kicks off in April and across 15 mornings explores an incredible range of subjects with experts in their field covering topics from Earth Day and Scottish Art in the 1920s to Occupations of Old and Mary Queen of Scots.

Family days out come in the form of Castle Bug Tour, World Bee Day and the return of the popular Lauriston’s Castle Teddy Bear’s Picnic.

Enjoy a special evening screening of Downton Abbey: A New Era at Lauriston Castle on Saturday 10 June as part of the atmosphere series of films at the Castle.

The Castle’s costumed performances are popular. This year spring sees A Lauriston Castle Murder Mystery or you can drop into the lives of the people in the Castle in 1911 as members of the household debate the issues involved in the campaigns for Votes for Women in A Guid Caus. In September, in Our Soldiers Need You, it’s 1916 and a member of the local fundraising committee has come to the castle to speak to everyone about how they can help with the War effort.

A series of workshops for adults and families draw on the seasons and the setting for their inspiration, and this year visitors can try their hands at Printmaking Inspired by Nature, making Summer Mosaics and many more covering expressive drawing, painting and sketching.

With over 50 events from April to September varying from workshops to murder mystery nights, Lauriston Castle has many reasons to return throughout the season.

Councillor Val Walker, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “As the days get longer and the Easter holidays approach, many families might be wondering how best to keep boredom at bay. Lauriston Castle, with over 50 events, workshops, talks and tours, is a one-stop-shop for those looking for something new to do over the coming months.

“For more than 400 years, captivating Lauriston Castle has overlooked the River Forth at Silverknowes, near Cramond.

“Set among 30 acres of woodland and beautiful gardens, the Castle is a special place to visit whether to explore the beautiful Edwardian interior, having a picnic or taking part in one of the many events, discussions or workshops programmed across the coming months.”

Margaret Findlay Learning and Public Programmes Manager said: “It has been my absolute pleasure to bring events back to Lauriston Castle for the first time since the pandemic.

“It was a vibrant and popular venue for events and we look forward to welcoming our core audiences back while also welcoming new visitors and local communities to our exciting and diverse programme. People truly have a magical experience at a very special castle and gardens and we look forward to creating more memories.”

Tracy Robertson, Steward of Lauriston Castle, said: “We are very proud of our diverse and highly acclaimed programmes at Lauriston Castle and look forward to welcoming visitors through our gates.

“There is something for everyone to participate in and we are always exploring new and exciting events. The Castle and its grounds are magical and we’re very privileged to run events in such a unique place.”

All information on Lauriston Castle events can be found on the Museums and Galleries website or visiting Lauriston Castle Facebook page.

Lauriston Castle: A ‘hidden gem’

Lauriston Castle has been named one of the top 5 hidden gems to visit in Scotland in 2023.

With more and more people embracing staycations, travel experts have identified the best-kept secrets around Britain – for holiday goers who are looking to explore somewhere new.

Their research, which scores various locations based on social and search data, reveals the top off-the-beaten-track gems in Scotland and found that the stunning 400-year-old castle was one of Scotland’s best.

Full story here: ow.ly/RI8q50NpoRi