"
Visitors to Holyrood Park will be able to step back in time this weekend.
The Historic Scotland Ranger Service is holding a special event this Sunday (24th July) entitled ‘Royal Pursuits’.
Taking place between 11am and 3pm at the Holyrood Park Education Centre, this free event will recreate Royal leisure pastimes in days gone by when the Park formed a key part of the Holyrood experience for the visiting members of the Royal Family and their guests.
The event will feature costumed performers as well as archers and falconers. Visitors can meet the birds of prey close up and learn more about the history of falconry as well as witnessing three falconry handling sessions at noon, 1pm and 2pm.
There will also be the opportunity to chose your favourite and cheer it on in the fast paced and exciting sport of lure coursing, historically known as the “Sport of Queens”, with whippets chasing the ‘lure’, which are bags tied to a rope or line, around a designated course.
Meanwhile, hobby horse making workshops for younger visitors will provide a lasting momento of their day.
Matt McCabe, a Ranger for Historic Scotland who are responsible for managing the Park, said:
“The Park played a pivotal role in Royal life, it would have been full of colour, pageantry and excitement during these visits and these activities would have formed a key part of court life.
“This event is designed to provide visitors to the Park with the opportunity to learn more about the history of Royal Court activities and is a fantastic opportunity to see first hand many of the leisure pursuits in which they would have competed. ”
"
posts
