Looking back to when I was a young child, one of my fondest memories was visiting Historic Environment Scotland sites, in particular Stirling Castle. Walking down the historic steps in my Renaissance-styled dress, I remember feeling free and magical. I wore my own dress, but the castle provided outfits for other children who didn’t have their own. There was a fashion show which was held in the Great Hall and I had fun taking part. I was very proud when I won the first prize for the best outfit.
Maya’s award winning dress at the Stirling Castle fashion show. Image © Maya
Over the years, I’ve taken part in lots of seasonal crafting events and made many items. One example is a Victorian cornucopia at Christmas time, which I still use every year to decorate the Christmas tree.
I remember carving a soap bar into a stamp, building a birdhouse with my sister, and participating in and watched a jousting match! All these activities were amusing and memorable.
Maya has a go at Jousting! Image © Maya
Making a bird box with her sister. Image © Maya
Exploring the Stirling Castle dressing up box. Image © Maya
On every visit, we would tour the castle and explore the lives of the Scottish monarchs. We would visit The Royal Chambers, The Great Hall, The Palace Vaults and The Great Kitchens, whilst I played dress up. We would also always take a leisurely stroll through the castle gardens. One of my favourite parts about exploring Stirling Caste was the staff-dressed historic people, knights and princesses, I could meet on the way.
Maya and her sister meeting some re-enactors at Stirling Castle. Image © Maya
Get out and about in Stirling this Easter!
This Easter in Stirling, two exciting events are coming up.
You and your family can celebrate National Unicorn Day by meeting unicorns Princess and Tinkerbell. The Unicorn event includes storytelling, unicorn hunts and a dress-up competition for the children! Put on your most magical costume for a chance to win a prize!
Pumpkin the unicorn at Stirling Castle with the keeper of unicorns Sir Alastair Brodie. © Rob McDougall
Operation: Broken Feather is a family-friendly exhibition which shines a light on the plight of the corncrake. Can you help save our feathered friend? This fun, educational experience requires problem-solving and a strong sense of confidence.
Keep up to date with all the events taking place at Stirling Castle this year.
To wrap up, I really recommend making your next trip with your children to Stirling Castle. I remember my time there fondly, so I hope you and your loved ones will too!
About the Author
Maya is a busy 14 year old who enjoys volunteering and sports. She volunteers with Barnardo’s, was a HES Young Scot Forum member, and a Young Ambassador at her High School for promoting sport.
She will soon have completed her Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. Maya enjoys badminton, tennis, Explorer Scouts, meeting new people and learning languages, including Polish, which she speaks fluently.
Read more
If you’ve enjoyed this blog from Maya, why not delve into blogs from other members of the #HistoricScot Youth Forum.
- Power in peace: visiting historic sites as an autistic person
- Escaping into history: using Scotland’s heritage to boost your wellbeing
Read the Final Report and Youth Action Plan produced by the forum.
Share
About Author
