Head to historic Kinneil Estate in Bo’ness from 11am-3pm (no booking needed) this Bank Holiday Monday, 5 May, for a free event for all the family as part of this year’s Falkirk Science Festival!
‘Step Back Into Science’ returns for a second year to this year’s festival – join an exciting and creative journey through time exploring groundbreaking discoveries, legendary scientists, and the innovations that shaped our world. From ancient alchemy to modern breakthroughs, this interactive event brings science history to life with hands-on experiments, engaging talks, and immersive exhibits. Perfect for curious minds of all ages—come see how science has evolved and where it’s headed next!
A small marquee will be placed in front of Kinneil House (which will itself be open for free self-guided tours from 10am to 4pm), hosting a performance from the Glasgow Science Centre called ‘Castles Rock!’ – a dynamic show developed in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES), blending geology, history, and science in a fun and engaging way – and delving into the science and engineering which underpin Scotland’s amazing castles. This fun, interactive science show will bring castles to life, from their construction to destruction, and how to preserve the castles that remain. This free half-hour show will be performed 3 times throughout the event – at 11.30am, 12.15pm and 2pm.
Explore Our Science Heritage Stalls include:
🟢 Mosaic Making – Unleash your artistic side with ancient-inspired patterns.
🟤 Sand Pit Archaeological Digs – Dig for hidden treasures like a real archaeologist!
🚂 The Scottish Railway Preservation Society – Learn about the legacy of Scotland’s railways.
🦕 Dinosaur Display – Meet the giants of the past and uncover prehistoric secrets.
⚔️ History of Falkirk – From the famous battles to the creators who keep Falkirk’s past alive.
🌍 University of Edinburgh Research – Discover how old coal mine shafts are being repurposed for heat storage. Learn about rocks and mines in the fight against climate change!
🔥 Friends of Kinneil – Come and meet our own volunteers, who will also be taking part in the event offering free activities, including one inspired by James Watt – the great Scottish inventor and scientist who developed and tested his steam engine in the grounds next to Kinneil House during the 18th Century: let one of our guides also take you on a short tour to the James Watt Cottage next to Kinneil House to tell you the story. Be sure to see inside adjacent Kinneil Museum (free) for more displays themed around science and industry too.
🌿 Discover the Science of Biochar: Capturing Carbon for a Greener Future
Walled Garden | 12pm – 2pm
Join Sustainable Thinking Scotland CIC for a special workshop in the adjacent Kinneil walled garden exploring the fascinating science of biochar!
This interactive session will highlight how biochar – a charcoal-like substance made by heating organic waste – is being used to capture carbon, improve soil health, and support sustainable farming and food systems.
Tour the STS Foodbank Farm, see their production equipment in action, and discover how this ancient technique is solving today’s environmental challenges.
🧪 Hands-on science
🌱 Social impact innovation
🌍 Real-world climate solutions.
Follow ‘Falkirk Leisure and Culture‘ on Facebook for additional festival information – to whom any queries about the event should be directed.
Kinneil 
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