Before 5pm, Days out, Nature, free events

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!

A chance for the whole family to enjoy entertainment and activities to get closer to nature.

See the prettiest beasts in the west of Scotland as they enjoy their moment in the spotlight. The judging starts at 11am in the Bothy Field.

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 and worked in the park from 7,000 years ago up until the present day and learn more about the rare wildlife that makes the…

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

Learn about the history and wildlife of this Neolithic site with the Historic Scotland Rangers Service and the RSPB. This walk will promote and interpret the natural, archaeological landscape and wildlife of the area.

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

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.

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.

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

The country park needs to gather information on its diverse wildlife as part of a £4.1 million improvement project. Learn how to identify different creatures and help with this ambitious project. Booking is essential.

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.

It's the launch of the new rainforest exhibition! Experience the sights, sounds and textures of the rainforest and learn the clever little ways animals there communicate with each other. Suitable for ages 5–11.

Take part in the National Butterfly Survey and learn to recognise the fluttery creatures in your own garden.

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.

Hands-on advice from the experts about using binoculars and telescopes to watch wildlife. Also a chance to buy some (binoculars and/or telescopes, that is, not wildlife). All proceeds go back into the RSPB to continue conservation efforts.

Help survey the Falls of Clyde and see how many species you can record. Includes workshops and drop-in sessions.

Enjoy the views along this two mile walk, featuring Artlink's Pillar Project. Some uphill paths and tracks.

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.

Spend the morning brushing up on your bushcraft skills. Booking is essential.

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