Morning events, Kids, Activities

One of Scotland's biggest heavy horse shows, offering the chance to get up close to nearly 200 horses, from tiny Shetlands through to sturdy Highland ponies and giant Clydesdales. Watch show classes, donkey classes and agility courses in the ring, take a pony ride and join in with children’s craft workshops.

Four days of ballet classes for young dancers with previous ballet experience, inspired by some of your favourite ballets, including The Nutcracker, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and Hansel and Gretel. There are two sessions: Grades 1 and 2 from 10.30am–12.30pm and Grades 4 and 5 from 1.30–3.30pm.

Explore the natural history collections and learn about the animals contained in them. Suitable for under 5s.

Channel Robin Hood and learn all you can about crafting bows and arrows from greenwood, then make a fancy bag to store them in.

Get into the 60s vibe with some help from the exhibition and create a totally groovy piece of jewellery or another accessory.

Experience medieval life as this favourite family day out returns. Bring along your little lords and ladies to test their skills at hobby-horse jousting, foam sword fighting and teach them how to dress for battle. A day full of fun and games!

A wonderful day out with den building, storytelling and music making, as well as a chance to see Mr Bloom's show When Julian Lost His Wiggle. To see the show, book via the website link; tickets are allocated randomly.

Meet an American prisoner who's holed up in the depths of the castle's vaults and learn about the American War of Independence and what life was like once you'd been captured.

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

Learn about the pop charts of old and see if you can figure out how a hurdy gurdy or renaissance rackett was played.

Two castle soldiers tell the story of the Earl of Hertford's 1544 attempt to destroy Edinburgh and its castle.

Get together with other young budding theatrical types and work on creating Alice in Wonderland to be performed at the end of the course.

The Drama Mill leads this workshop for 3–7 year olds, giving them a chance to dance, sing and role play to their heart's content, teaching them communication, coordination and teamwork along the way.

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.

Monthly nature club for ages 7–11. Applications taken from Aug 19 onwards. Booking is essential.