Historic Scotland is offering free entry to St Andrews Castle and St Andrews Cathedral on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th June as part of the celebrations of the 600th Anniversary of the University of St Andrews.
There will be a range of events at the Cathedral and the Castle including an insight into the journey and experiences of a medieval Scottish pilgrim, the chance to find out how Robert the Bruce became King of Scotland in 1306 and the opportunity to find out about the dangers of the art of looking good in 16th century Scotland.
Other activities include a Medieval battle camp, a Combat of Champions featuring the military prowess of medieval soldiers, a presentation of medieval weaponry, armour and clothing and the possibility of meeting John Knox, perhaps Scotland’s most controversial preacher.
Gillian Urquhart, Historic Scotland’s Assistant Events Manager said: “St Andrews is now known around the world as the place where Prince William met his future bride, but it was also the central focus of Scotland’s religious power for centuries and as such was the chosen location for Scotland’s first university founded in 1411.
“This is a great opportunity to bring all the family for free to St Andrews Castle and St Andrews Cathedral and discover what led up to the founding of the University and the turbulent events that followed.”
Activities at St Andrews Cathedral will be held from 12noon to 1pm and activities at St Andrews Castle wil be held from 1pm to 4pm.
Cathedral Programme: –
1200. A Pilgrims Tale. An insight in to the journey and experiences of a medieval Scottish Pilgrim.
12.30. The Bloody Crown of Robert the Bruce. Witness just how Robert the Bruce became the King of Scots in 1306.
Castle Programme:
12.00. Medieval battle camp opens for visitor interaction.
12.15. The Wappinshaw. An informative presentation of the weaponry, armour and clothing of the medieval soldier.
12.45.Combat of Champions. A chance for the soldiers to show off their military prowess and gain favour with the audience.
1.15.Bishop Wardlaw Address. Bishop Wardlaw will speak to the public with news from abroad.
1.30.St Andrews Divided. All is not well in St Andrews and Scotland. George Wishart and David Beaton appeal to the masses.
2.15. Meet John Knox. Scotland most famous, and perhaps controversial preacher, makes his presence felt.
2.45. Bruce’s new recruits. The king needs more soldiers to fight for him. His soldiers will be looking for young volunteers to learn how to defend the nation.
3.15. Thou shalt not suffer a witch. Innocent woman or devious witch. Alison Pearson’s fate will be decided by brutal means.
3.45.Combat of Champions. A chance for the soldiers to show off their military prowess and gain favour with the audience.
4.00. Finish and farewell.
Bowling Green programme:
1.30. Frocks and Farthingales. How a noble Lady shall be dressed
2.15.If looks could kill. The art of looking good in 16th century Scotland is fraught with danger…find out how at the informative presentation.
The bowling green area will also be open for “drop in” visits throughout the day.
