Free Roman ‘Doors Open Day’ this Saturday, 28 September

Come and view Kinneil House, see a Roman encampment alongside mediaeval re-enactors and other family activities this Saturday, 28 September.

Historic Scotland are opening the house for free from 10am-4pm in support of the national ‘Doors Open Day‘ scheme.

For this date only, there is no need to book and no formal indoor tours, just turn up and wander inside. Visitors will be able to see the renowned 16th/17th-Century painted rooms as well as the recently-restored period kitchen, and to discover some of the other history of the site. On the top floor of the house will be a free exhibition from the Rediscovering the Antonine Wall project, showcasing Roman artefacts and games.

Outside the house will be a return of the ever-popular Roman encampment starring the Antonine Guard re-enactment group.

This year, Britannia XIV, a 14th-Century re-enactment group, will also be demonstrating crafts and skills of that time while bringing to life combat techniques and training in a small arena throughout the day, performing alongside the Antonine Guard – be ready for some skirmishes across the centuries!

Families can enjoy an additional craft activity inside adjacent Kinneil Museum (free) provided by the Friends of Kinneil – come and meet their volunteers, and learn more about the activities of the Friends.

One of the volunteer guides from the Friends of Kinneil will also offer a free guided outdoor history walk at 12 noon: no need to book, just turn up – meet outside Kinneil Museum (also open free). The walk will last just under an hour – come and hear some of the other stories, and see some of the other historic features (including the course of the Antonine Wall), of Kinneil Estate.

Note: There will be limited parking – please walk into the estate if possible. All ages welcome.

For more details, visit Historic Scotland’s event page and/or check Historic Scotland/Friends of Kinneil social media for updates.

In Kinneil Estate’s walled garden, Sustainable Thinking Scotland will also be running a free ‘Bountiful Bo’ness’ autumn harvest event from 1-4pm on Saturday afternoon – including a community meal, market stalls, games and activities. For more details, visit their Facebook page.