Come and view Kinneil House, see a Roman encampment alongside mediaeval re-enactors, and other family activities, on Saturday 26 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 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.
Meet some of Historic Scotland’s stonemasons who will be specially attending this event, and find out how beautiful 16th-Century stone carvings were made.
From 1-2pm, test yourself in a mediaeval hoopla tournament!
Outside the house will be a return of the ever-popular Roman encampment starring the Antonine Guard re-enactment group. Meet its Legionaries, hear about Roman weaponry, armour and fighting techniques.
Britannia XIV, a 14th-Century re-enactment group, will also be demonstrating crafts and skills of that time while bringing to life hand-to-hand combat techniques and training in a small arena throughout the day, performing alongside the Antonine Guard – be ready for some skirmishes across the centuries! You can try out your hand at flint knapping, and bow drill skills!
From 11am until 3pm, families can enjoy additional activities (free) provided by the Friends of Kinneil – search for treasures by trying out an archaeological sand dig, dress up in Roman costumes so you can mix in with the Roman encampment, get crafty and make some small pots or Roman lamps out of clay, or do some classical colouring-in! Come and meet the volunteers and learn more about what the Friends do and how you can support them.
In Kinneil Estate’s walled garden, Sustainable Thinking Scotland will also be running a free ‘Bountiful Bo’ness’ autumn harvest event on the same day, from 1-4pm on Saturday afternoon – including a free community meal, market stalls and activities. For more details, visit their Facebook page.
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.
Download the event poster:
Kinneil 
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