The centuries-old pastimes that once entertained royal families in Holyrood Park will be on display for all to see this Sunday in capital’s former hunting ground.
Historic Scotland’s Ranger Service is inviting visitors to step back in time at the July 22nd event, and enjoy a free fun-filled day showcasing ancient sports and royal pursuits. Interpretation Ranger Matt McCabe said:- “We wanted to give visitors an opportunity to learn about fascinating traditional outdoor activities which are less common today.
“They’ll have an opportunity to try their hand at archery, a favoured sport of kings and commoners through the ages. Falconry was another great pastime, and we’ll have a variety of magnificent birds of prey here for people to see up close.”
If ground conditions permit, the event will also be hosting artificial lure coursing with whippets. This sport was formalised by Queen Elizabeth I, and has since become known at “The Sport of Queens”.
Matt added:- “Our Royal Pursuits event runs from 11am until 3pm, and is a perfect opportunity for visitors to learn more about the long heritage of these activities and their links to the rich past of Holyrood Park, together with its importance as a royal hunting ground.
“This is the fourth year we’ve been running this event which is always a popular and entertaining day out. If people haven’t come to Holyrood Park before, why not come along on Sunday – it’s a great way of being introduced to the Park and try something different.”
For more information people should contact the Ranger Service on 0131 652 8150, or by email, at hs.rangers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.
