Visit a number of Historic Environment Scotland sites in Orkney this summer and take part in a range of fun activities.
From medieval games to carved ball classes, there are plenty of opportunities to get hands on with history across the islands. See all the events below:
9th July and 20th August: Skaill Knife demonstration at Skara Brae Visitor Centre
Join experts for a Skaill Knife demonstration to learn about the how they were made, what they were used for, and why they are so significant. There will be three demonstations on each day, at 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm, that will last for 20-30 minutes. Entry is included in admission and there is no need to book (tickets for Skara Brae itself do need to booked in advance).
13th July: Peedie Pot workshop at Maeshowe Visitor Centre
Have a try at pottery making in the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Using examples from Skara Brae and Ness of Brodgar, learn how to make and decorate pots in the same Grooved Ware style as people in Orkney did 5000 years ago. Drop-in to the Maeshowe Visitor Centre between 11am and 3pm. It's free and there is no need to book.
15th July: Medieval Games Day at Bishop's & Earl's Palace in Kirkwall
Have a go at games such as skittles, giant chess and Hnefatafl and the Bishop's & Earl's Palace in Kirkwall between 10.30am and 3.30pm. Entry is included in admission and there is no need to book.
3rd August and 14th September: Carved Ball making at Maeshowe Visitor Centre
Drop-in to Maeshowe Visitor Centre and make your own stone carved balls. Replicate and learn more about the original objects found at Skara Brae and beyond. Decorate your carved stone balls made from clay and take them home with you. Join in between 11am and 3pm. It's free and there is no need to book.
13th August: Iron Age textiles at the Broch of Gurness
Discover more about Iron Age life through the textiles people may have used and how they were made, and try your hand at making then yourself. Drop in at the Broch of Gurness between 10.30am and 3.30pm. Entry is included in admission.
