Last Dinosaur’s activities for October break at Blackhall library today:
2pm Dinosaur Paper Puppets – kids 4-10 years old
3.30pm Lego Club – Build your very own dinosaurs and their habitats – kids 5+ years old
Booking not needed, free event.
Children under the age 8 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Fort Kinnaird is inviting families to make the most of the October week, with a range of activities, offers and seasonal treats available across the centre.
Whether families are planning a full day out or simply looking to fill a few spare hours, there’s plenty to enjoy this autumn, from discovering the latest seasonal fashion trends to trying new menus and making the most of family activities.
This includes:
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know keeping the kids entertained during school holidays can be a challenge, particularly when the autumn weather isn’t on your side.
From a trip to the cinema and a family meal out, to getting creative with some Halloween activities at home, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the October break.
“Whether families are planning a full day out or just looking for a few hours of fun, we hope these ideas help them make the most of their time together.”
To plan your visit to Fort Kinnaird, please visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/
Families are invited to enjoy a monstrously fun time at The Centre, Livingston, this month as Monster Head Quarters arrives at the shopping centre.
From hunting down mischievous monsters hidden throughout the shopping centre to getting creative with Halloween-themed arts and crafts, interactive games and face painting, there’s a whole host of spooky surprises to keep little monsters entertained during the October school break and the lead up to Halloween.
Every day from the 19th – 31st October, Monster HQ will be inviting little monsters and their families to embark on a creature-spotting adventure around the mall. Visitors can collect a monster trail sheet from the HQ, located opposite Lush, before setting off to discover eight colourful creatures hiding throughout the shopping centre.
Once they’ve tracked down the monsters, families can return to Monster HQ to enjoy a host of Halloween-themed activities, including interactive games and arts and crafts designed to spark creativity and bring out their spooky side.
Activities include creating monster clay creations, masks, hats and decorations, monster scratch art and stone decorating.
There will also be Halloween face painting on Saturday 31st October, from 12pm to 4pm, giving little visitors the chance to complete their spooky transformations.
Monster HQ will be open daily from 11am to 4pm and all activities are free, with donations optional for The Centre, Livingston’s charity partner, Children’s Hospices Across Scotland, (CHAS), which provides specialist palliative care and support to babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions and their families.
Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston, said: “We’re delighted to bring Monster HQ to The Centre, Livingston this October, giving families a fun and memorable way to celebrate Halloween together.
“From discovering hidden monsters around the mall to getting creative with spooky crafts, there will be plenty to keep little ones entertained during their visit.
“It is also a great way for us to raise funds for our charity partner, CHAS.”
Zhenya Dove, Community Fundraiser at CHAS, said: “We’re very grateful to The Centre, Livingston for supporting CHAS through this fun, family-friendly event.
“Every little bit helps us to continue providing vital care and support to children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Scotland.
“We hope everyone enjoys the Halloween activities and thank all those who choose to donate and support our work.”
Get ready for half term with hands on activities and workshops at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, the National Museum of Flight in East Lothian and the National Museum of Rural Life in East Kilbride.
Looking further ahead, the major new exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire opens in November with a legion of special events including the return of Museum Lates and a weekend of ancient craft demonstrations.
EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS
National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Open 10:00–17:00 daily
OPENING SOON
Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire
Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3
Saturday 14 November 2026 – Sunday 18 April 2027
Tickets from £13.50, concessions available.
Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire will reshape our understanding of Scotland’s relationship with the Roman world. This exhibition will bring the military communities of Rome’s most northern frontier to life through new research, significant loans from across Europe, and previously unseen archaeological discoveries.
Visitors will encounter objects and stories that bring a vibrant and diverse frontier community to life. This will include finds from a 2nd century AD Roman fort at Inveresk, East Lothian. Central to the exhibition will be two spectacular altars from the fort’s Mithraeum (a temple to the god Mithras).
Find out more nms.ac.uk/exhibitions/Roman-Scotland-Life-on-the-Edge-of-Empire
Scotland’s First Warriors
Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3
Until 16 May 2027
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.
Scotland’s First Warriors is supported by Postcode Lottery players
Find out more nms.ac.uk/exhibitions/scotlands-first-warriors
EVENTS
Short Courses with the University of Edinburgh
1 Oct 2026 – 28 May 2027
Various prices, book via Centre for Open Learning website
Explore our collections with expert tutors on a University of Edinburgh Short Course hosted at the National Museum of Scotland. Courses include Victorian Edinburgh, Georgian Scotland and Colour in Science and Nature.
For more information nms.ac.uk/events/short-courses-with-the-university-of-edinburgh
Find out Fridays
Until 26 Feb 2027, Friday afternoon during term time
13:30 – 16:00
Free, drop-in
All ages
Explore a different theme each week on Friday afternoons with our Learning team. Find out fascinating facts and hear surprising stories about our collections and get hands on with some of our favourite objects.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/find-out-fridays
Relaxed Morning: National Museum of Scotland
4 Oct – 6 Dec 2026
10:00 – 12:00 (Quiet space open until 12:30)
Free admission, drop-in
All ages
A monthly Relaxed Morning for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum.
This session is primarily for, but not limited to families with neurodiverse children, neurodiverse 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.
Find out more www.nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-morning-national-museum-of-scotland
October Half Term: The Stories We Tell
Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct
10:00 – 16:00
Free, drop-in
All ages
This October Half Term explore a world of stories with free family activities.
From historical happenings and fantastical myths to local gossip and traditional folktales, explore the different ways people of the past and present have kept a record of the world around them. Journey through the many forms that stories can take, from oral storytelling and written tales to stories told through dance, song and objects. Discover the stories that shaped Scotland and those that have reached us from distant shores.
Find out more nms.ac.uk/events/october-half-term-the-stories-we-tell
Creative Workshops for Kids: Imagine That!
Wed 14 Oct
9:30 – 12:30, 13:30 – 16:30
Tickets £20, Members and concessions available
Ages 7 -11
Artist and writer Hannah Kelly leads a workshop all about stories. Children will explore the museum through playful prompts and let their imaginations transform objects into story ingredients. Back at the studio they will create their own terrific tales.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/creative-workshops-for-kids-imagine-that
Shadows on the Wall: Storytelling through Shadow Puppetry
Wed 14 Oct
9:30 – 12:30, 13:30 – 16:30
Tickets £15, Members and concessions available
Ages 7-11
A creative workshop exploring storytelling, Scotland, and shadow puppetry. Taking inspiration from Scotland’s landscape and folktales, children will learn more about the museum’s collection. Then they will craft a story of their own, told through the art of shadow puppetry.
Book now https://www.nms.ac.uk/events/shadows-on-the-wall
Museum Socials
Fri 17 Jul – Fri 19 Mar 2027
10:30 – 12:00
National Museum of Scotland
Free, booking required
Museum Socials 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.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/museum-socials
Perspectives: Black History Month Tour
Fri 16 Oct
16:00 – 17:00 and 17:30 – 18:30
Free, booking required
Ages 16+
Join Lisa Williams for an after-hours tour of the National Museum of Scotland to celebrate Black History Month. Lisa will explore the stories behind iconic objects and give fresh insights on the links between Scotland and Africa and the Caribbean. From the Darien Chest to Althea McNish fabrics, you’ll uncover groundbreaking design and new perspectives.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/perspectives-black-history-month-tour
We Were Here: Film screening and in conversation
Fri 16 Oct
19:00 – 21:00
Free, booking required
Ages 12+
We Were Here interweaves art history with social narratives, offering a fresh lens on European Renaissance and the complex tapestry of Black presence often overlooked in conventional historical accounts. After the screening, there will be a discussion and Q&A with Director Fred Kudjo Kuwornu and historian, writer and presenter, Dr Onyeka Nubia. The event will be chaired by Dr Anna Groundwater, Principal Curator of Renaissance and Early Modern History.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/we-were-here-film-screening-and-in-conversartion
Family Storytelling Day
Sat 24 Oct
10:30 – 16:30
Free, drop-in
All ages
Join us for a day of free fun for families, including storytelling, crafts and object encounters. Get to know birds, beasts and beasties of all kinds at the National Museum of Scotland this October half term.Settle in for a story with our friends from the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, get creative at our craft tables, or get up close to some of the incredible animals in our collections.
In partnership with the Scottish Storytelling Centre.
Find out more nms.ac.uk/events/family-storytelling-day
Words of the Wild: Changing Seasons
Sat 24 Oct
15:00 – 16:00
Free, booking required
Ages 6+
Join the Scottish Wildlife Trust and storyteller David Hughes to take a turn of the “Celtic Wheel of the Year”. David will explore what can be learnt about our changing seasons when Scottish myths, legends and folk tales are looked at through an ecological lens.
This event is part of Family Storytelling Day and is held in partnership with the Scottish Wildlife Trust and the Scottish International Storytelling Festival.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/words-of-the-wild-changing-seasons
The Sunday Sketch
25 Oct
14:00 – 16:00
Tickets from £13
Ages 16+
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. All abilities are welcome at this relaxed and informal session. Each month we will explore a different theme, and all materials are supplied.
Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/the-sunday-sketch
Music at the Museum
27 Oct – 2 Mar 2027
11:30 – 12:15 and 13:30 – 14:15
Free, drop-in
All ages
In collaboration with Live Music Now Scotland, we are bringing live music into the heart of the museum on Tuesdays. With experienced performers and rising stars of live music, each week features a different soloist, duo or ensemble.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/music-at-the-museum
Museum Socials
Learning Centre Seminar Room, Level 4
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.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/museum-socials
Curiosity Club
Sat 31 Oct 2026 – Sat 27 Mar 2027
10:30 – 12:00
£10 (Members and Concessions £9)
Ages 7-11
Inspired by some of the museum’s most exciting collections, Curiosity Clubs are a chance for kids to explore the museum without their adult helpers through games, activities and gallery visits.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/curiosity-club
Relaxed Curiosity Club
Sat 31 Oct 2026 – Sat 27 Mar 2027
14:30 – 15:30
£10 (Members and concessions £9)
Ages 7-11
These relaxed sessions are designed for children with additional support needs and their families.
Get inspired through games, activities and an optional gallery visit. Explore some of the fascinating facts and stories behind our collection. We aim to create a fun, friendly, and relaxed environment for ASN children to explore our Curiosity Club activities with the reassurance of their parents/carers being with them or nearby.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-curiosity-club
Magic Carpet
Nov 9, 16, 23
10:30 – 11:15 or 11:45 – 12:30
Tickets from £4 per session
Ages 0-4
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 will 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.
Book now, nms.ac.uk/events/magic-carpet
Perspectives: A guided LGBTQ+ tour of the National Museum of Scotland
Fri 13 Nov 2026 and Sun 21 Feb 2027
14:00 – 15:30
Free, ticketed
Ages 16+
Researcher Joe Setch presents a free guided tour that highlights some of the LGBTQ+ histories in the National Collection. Explore the museum’s collections from a queer perspective. Discover stories of creativity, innovation and love, alongside often hidden truths about harm and exclusion.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/perspectives-lgbtq-tour
Museum Late: When in Rome
Fri 20 Nov
19:30 – 22:30
Tickets £26, Members and concessions available
Ages 18+
A night of Roman-inspired revelry in the spectacular setting of the National Museum of Scotland after hours, inspired by the major new exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire.
When in Rome, do as the ancient Romans do! Get ready for a night like no other with music, bars and Roman-themed performances and activities throughout our galleries.
Book now www.nms.ac.uk/events/museum-late-when-in-rome
Meet the Makers: Prehistoric and Roman Scotland
Sat 21 and Sun 22 Nov
10:00 – 16:00
Free, drop in
All ages
Free, drop-in demonstrations and displays showcasing craftsmanship of the past.
Contemporary makers will represent craft skills from Bronze Age Scotland to the Roman military occupation. Discover how pottery, jewellery, textiles, leather, tools, and wooden objects were made in the past. Inspired by our major new exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire.
Find our more nms.ac.uk/events/meet-the-makers-prehistoric-and-roman-scotland
Creative Workshop: Roman Pottery
Sat 21 and Sun 22 Nov
10:30 – 13:00 and 14:00 – 16:30
Tickets £50, Members and concessions available
Ages 16+
Master potter and ancient pottery specialist Graham Taylor leads a workshop on the skills and techniques of ancient Roman Pottery making and decorating, inspired by objects on display in the major new exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire. Working with a pot fresh from Graham’s wheel, participants will create their own replica pot that will be taken back to the Potted History workshop, fired, and returned to them.
Book now nms.ac.uk/events/creative-workshop-roman-pottery
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
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.
Book your visit nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-afternoon-national-museum-of-rural-life
Autumn Explorers
Tue 13 – Fri 16 Oct
10:30 – 15:30
Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
All ages
Autumn Explorers family activities are back, and this time we’re going back to our roots, digging into the traditions of the Scottish potato harvest.
Ever wondered why there’s a school holiday in October? Come along and discover how this tradition began when children would swap the classroom for the fields to help with the tattie howking. Find out how this crop has fed families for generations and get hands-on with sustainable activities, some surprising science and spud-tacular storytelling.
Autumn Explorers is supported by Postcode Lottery players
Find out more nms.ac.uk/events/autumn-explorers
National Museum of Flight
East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF
Open Weekends only, 10:00–16:00
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.
Book your visit nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-morning-national-museum-of-flight
Half Term: How Things Fly
Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct
10:30 – 15:30
Free with admission
Ages 3+
The National Museum of Flight is full of things that fly of all shapes and sizes. This October half term, families can discover how they fly with a range of fun activities. Build a glider with wings shaped like a real aeroplane, try some popular flying toys from and watch the How things fly show.
Find out more nms.ac.uk/events/half-term-how-things-fly
Expert Talks
Concorde Theatre
16 Oct
11:00-11:20
Free with museum admission
Ages 7+
Learn more about the collections and history of East Fortune Airfield with a series of free expert talks at the museum. In October, Curator Ian Brown will discuss ‘Mythbusting the Raid on the Forth, 16 October 1939’. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of each talk.
Find out nms.ac.uk/events/expert-talks
KEEP YOUR LITTLE ONES HAPPY THIS OCTOBER HALF TERM
Looking to keep your kids happy this half-term? Burger King® UK is here to help with a scarily good deal in the run up to Halloween, with the return of Kids Eat FREE!
From 11th-20th October, families across Scotland can enjoy a King Jr meal, featuring a Kids Hamburger or Chicken Nuggets, fries or apple slices and a drink of your choice, totally free when purchasing an adult meal*!
All you need to do is download the Burger King® UK app via Google Play here or the App Store here to claim the offer.
This October, Dynamic Earth invites families to swap fright for fascination and embark on a thrilling journey into the world of misunderstood creatures, eerie adventures, and science-led discovery.
With a spectacular programme of Halloween-themed activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy — from spine-tingling trails to spooky planetarium shows and hands-on exploration.
Running from Wednesday, 2nd October to Sunday, 3rd November, this unmissable line-up promises weeks of fun and learning for children and adults alike.
Highlights of the October Programme Include:
Admission ticket + £4
Get ready for an adventure with Blaize the Bat as you explore our exhibition and uncover hidden wonders of the natural world. From slithering serpents to creatures from the deep, you’ll be guided through Dynamic Earth by clues and puzzles, leading to a special prize — your very own Blaize the Bat beanie!
FREE drop-in activities
Our Science Communication team invites you to dive into a world of “eerie encounters” with misunderstood creatures and fascinating plants. From crafting your very own Venus flytrap puppet to uncovering prehistoric creatures in our dino-dig, these family-friendly activities will have everyone getting hands-on with nature’s creepiest and most captivating lifeforms.
Daily screenings
Embark on an out-of-this-world journey with two captivating shows in our 6K resolution Planetarium:
16 special evening shows (18+)
For adults, Dynamic Earth offers Planetarium Lates — an immersive experience with Halloween classics like The Shining and The Thing, plus Dark Side of the Moon shows. Sip on a themed cocktail such as Beetlejuice or Vampire Kiss, and settle in for a spooky, star-studded night out.
Ages 7-12
For younger adventurers, Dynamic Earth’s October Outdoor Club offers a two-day journey into Earth and environmental sciences. From exploring sustainability to learning about the fascinating creatures that inhabit our planet, this club promises endless excitement and discovery for curious young minds.
October Membership Offer:
This October, there’s more than just Halloween fun in store at Dynamic Earth! From Wednesday, 2nd October to Tuesday, 31st October, visitors can upgrade their Adult, Child, or Concession day ticket for just £5 and receive a 12-month membership at Dynamic Earth.
A Dynamic Earth Annual Membership Includes:
As a special bonus, those who take up this membership offer will be invited to an exclusive preview of our Winter What’s Up show and a screening of the festive favourite, The Muppet Christmas Carol.*
Visit Dynamic Earth and Transform Your Halloween!
With a blend of science, adventure, and spooky fun, Dynamic Earth’s October programme is the perfect way for families to celebrate Halloween. Whether you’re tracing the Trick or Treat Trail, marvelling at the mysteries of fungi, or spending an evening at Planetarium Lates, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
For tickets and more information, visit Dynamic Earth’s Halloween page.
Our spook-tacular Halloween Trail is in full swing!
Caley, the good garden witch, has turned her cat, Miàgh, into a toad!
Join the trail from 17th – 20th & 24 – 27th October to find the plant potion ingredients to turn her back into a cat!
Don’t worry if you are struggling to come up with ideas on how to keep your kids entertained this October break.
We have lots of fun tips to help – for wee ones, older kids & even teenagers!
Check out our autumn activities hub:
http://parentclub.scot/articles/things-do-autumn…
Visitors to the National Museum of Flight this half term can travel back in time to experience life on the Second World War airfield.
Supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, families will be transported to the 1940s with new activities, tours and opportunities to learn wartime espionage skills from 16 Oct – 18 Oct 2024.
Set on one of the best-preserved Second World War airfields in the UK, half-term activities will bring this extraordinary history to life with costumed interpreters and genuine military flying equipment from the period.
Visitors can discover real stories from the Second World War in Scotland with clothing and equipment worn and used by RAF Coastal Command pilots during the Second World War as well as tour the newly refurbished blast and air raid shelters.
Families will also be able to learn some of the skills needed by Special Operations Executive reconnaissance organisations, some of whom trained in nearby Belhaven in East Lothian, as part of the Special Operations Executive Skills sessions.
The support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery means that Half term: Second World War Scotland is free with Museum admission.
Steve McLean, General Manager at the National Museum of Flight, said: “As one of Scotland’s best days out, the National Museum of Flight is the perfect destination for families this half-term.
“We are delighted to be able to offer these free activities thanks to the generous support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery and I hope our visitors will enjoy learning about the Second World War in Scotland.”
The National Museum of Flight is home to a world class collection of aircraft, from a Supermarine Spitfire to Scotland’s only Concorde. The attraction houses the family-friendly Fantastic Flight gallery with its interactive exhibits where visitors can explore the science of aviation and discover how aircraft fly.
They are also able to learn more about East Fortune’s wartime heritage in the Museum’s Fortunes of War exhibition.
Funds are raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and awarded through Postcode Culture Trust.
We’re happy to confirm our October programme.
We are open each day Monday-Friday.
11-12.30pm : P4-7 aged children
1-2.30pm : S1-S4.
There’s trips & lunch is provided.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Boys, Girls, FooTEA & Breakfast Clubs will all continue as normal.
