Afternoon events, Days out, Nature

This easy walk, led by the Historic Scotland Rangers Service, around the Ring of Brodgar explores the archaeology, wildlife and natural environment in and around Brodgar. Take a look at our oldest stone circle and the fascinating links with the nearby Neolithic village of Barnhouse.

Join the Head Gardener at Castle Kennedy Gardens and learn about the history and design of these intriguing landforms in Castle Kennedy Gardens.

The local ranger hosts this walk around the park, pointing out the many recent improvements and talking about local wildlife.

Forage for art and craft material from the area around the park. Ages 5–12.

Forage for art and craft material from the area around the park. Booking is essential.

The last of the Art of Herbs courses takes its inspiration from the themes and styles of the artists who have exhibited at Inverleith House.

This strenuous graded walk, led by Historic Scotland Rangers Service, will explore the geology, natural history, archaeology and cultural history of Holyrood Park. Find out about the people who lived in the park and learn more about the rare wildlife that makes the park so special.

Take a walk up Edinburgh's own volcanic plug and discover its past, present and wildlife. Moderately graded walk. Ages 8+. Booking is essential.

A moderate graded walk, led by Historic Scotland Rangers Service, to explore the geology, natural history, archaeology and cultural history of Holyrood Park. Find out about the rare wildlife that makes the park so special and learn more about Arthur’s Seat’s turbulent past, created by fire and ice!

Collect leaves, seeds and berries on this fun short walk. Ages 4–8.

Take a stroll with the ranger along the riverside trails, woodland and grassland of Polkemmet Park.

Hunt for the hidden treasure using clue-solving skills. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

A ranger-led walk to forage for foods that grow in the city's greenspaces.

Activities for the whole family to enjoy with everything from archaeological digs to bat walks.

Gloves and litter pickers are provided for this clean-up which is happening all over Scotland's shores.

Introductory classes in botanical illustration. Develop your drawing skills, learn the different techniques of watercolour and pen & ink, and create work inspired by material from the garden. Booking is essential.

Brave the winter weather to take a walk through the beautiful woodland at Cathkin Braes and learn more about how nature copes with the frosty season.

Make your very own bird feeder for your garden.

This is the best time of year to visit the walled gardens, so take advantage of the osteospermum, delphiniums and perennials in full bloom.

Spend the day building a den and then – if you like – cook dinner on the campfire and spend the night in your construction. Booking is essential.

Learn everything you need to know to build your own outdoor shelter.

Learn to live off the land, build a shelter, make fire and forage for food. Please wear appropriate clothing. Children must be accompanied. Booking is essential.

A session in which you can learn some bushcraft skills, such as sneaking, tracking and building a shelter.

Learn how to light fires and other basic survival and camping skills.

Have a look at the good work done to the area over the last few years on this ranger-led walk around the ponds and woods. Wellies or boots will be a good idea if it's wet or muddy.