It was recently announced that under 16s will go free at Historic Scotland sites this summer (from June 26-August 17) as part of a Scottish Government effort to support wellbeing in young people impacted by the pandemic.
The ‘Get Into Summer’ campaign comes as Scotland sees a rise in staycations due to continuing uncertainty around foreign travel, and is designed to provide children and young people with opportunities to enjoy the best of Scotland’s heritage.
Due to continuing Covid restrictions, these attractions need to be booked ahead of your visit. Reserve your place here.
So, here are 11 of the fascinating sites nearest to Falkirk for you to visit this summer.
5. Aberdour Castle
Dating back to the 1100s, Aberdour can claim to be Scotland’s oldest standing castle and has served generations of three noble families – including a Regent of Scotland. There is plenty to keep you busy during a visit, including a large and imposing complex of buildings dating from the 1100s to the 1600s, a fragrant walled garden, and terraces giving spectacular views over the Forth. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Huntingtower Castle
Huntingtower Castle, near Perth, is where Mary Queen of Scots and her new husband Lord Darnley stayed during the Chaseabout Raid and played a part in some dramatic episodes in Scotland’s story. There are plenty of fascinating features, including the secret hiding place used for Ruthven treasures which is a cupboard within a cupboard, hidden behind a stone. There's also a fun quiz for kids. Photo: Creative Commons/Flickr/Maciej Lewandowski.
7. Edinburgh Castle
It's probably the Capital's most famous landmark but it's amazing how many Scots haven't actually visited Edinburgh Castle. Now's your chance. Listen out for the One o'clock Gun, enter Edinburgh’s St Margaret’s Chapel (Edinburgh's oldest building), enjoy the panoramic views and find the huge Mons Meg canon. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Craigmillar Castle
Edinburgh’s ‘other castle’, Craigmillar Castle stood a mile outside the old city walls, providing a retreat from Scotland’s capital and was used as a safe haven by Mary, Queen of Scots in 1566. Photo: Canva/Getty Images