Join this science-themed Active Life session exploring the connection between movement, healthy ageing and wellbeing. Start with a fun and familiar fitness and mobility session, with opportunities to test your balance, coordination, heart rate and pulse before and after exercise.After the class, join us for a cuppa and discover the science behind staying active as we age, including how exercise supports heart, lung and brain health, while helping us maintain strength, flexibility and independence.Limited spaces available. Prebooking required on 01877 330000.Suitable for ages 50+

  Carnival By scientific support dept. and Bel Docherty Incorporating poetry by Stirling based Harris Harrold, whose practise is rooted in deep listening ‘Carnival’ is an audio-visual work that draws initial inspiration from the 9th century Viking threat to Stirling at its starting point and interweaves a portrait of contemporary mental health. The piece addresses wellbeing, after decades of increasing disconnection and individualism at both social and political levels, communities have frayed, political parties have fragmented, and the world can feel increasingly lonely. Carnival is a progression of an original work ‘Carnival of The Wolf’ Commissioned by Culture Night Stirling 2026. Please note: This exhibition contains themes relating to mental health and emotional wellbeing, which some visitors may find affecting. Showing 9th October – 7th November.  Tolbooth Gallery, Tue – Sat, 10am-5pm Join us Wednesday 21st October for a live performance of scientific support dept. & Bel Docherty as part of Stirling Science Festival. This is a Free drop-in event, no booking required. Doors: 7.15pm | Performance Starts: 7.30pm    

Play Move Discover @ The Smith Museum Science Trail All ages The Smith is home to over 60,000 artworks and objects spanning over 10,000 years of Stirling’s history. Follow the clues on our museum trail to find the Sport and Science connected objects within our Gallery 3, including the World’s Oldest Football and World’s Oldest Curling Stone! Walk and Wonder at The Stirling Smith Labyrinth All ages The grounds surrounding the Stirling Smith are an extension of the Museum with many sculptures and artworks to enjoy. Complete a walk in the garden around our Labyrinth and learn about mindful movement, discovering connections between science and nature with our family activity sheet!

Can Science Predict Business Success? 21 October Designed primarily for young people aged 10-12 years and above, including secondary school pupils, college students, prospective university applicants, and adults. Can Science Predict Business Success? Step into the shoes of a CEO and discover how businesses use science, data, and simulation to make decisions. In this interactive challenge, you’ll predict future trends, choose a business strategy, and test your decisions against unexpected events. Using forecasting, probability, and simulation, you’ll see how organisations prepare for uncertainty and manage risk. Can your strategy survive the future? This fun, hands-on activity combines play, discovery, and problem-solving to reveal the science behind decision-making in business, and everyday life.   The wonders of Scotland’s seas 21 October Join the Scottish Seabird Centre team at the Thistles Centre on 24th October as part of Stirling Science Festival and discover the wonder of Scotland’s seas! Learn more about the amazing marine wildlife and habitats found around our shores, from seabirds and rockpool creatures, to seagrass and coral. Watch 360-degree film footage from Bass Rock – one of the largest gannet colonies in the world – with their portable headset and identify shells and other beachcombing finds. Talk with the team to hear about the threats facing marine life today and what you can do to help.   Sports activity from recycled materials/reuse 21st and 22nd October All Ages Waste services promoting sport in Stirling to be more inclusive, affordable, and environmentally sustainable by using recycled materials and showcasing the power of reuse and circular practices within local communities. Play. Move, Discover  21 October All Ages Flat to Form: Have fun cutting and folding to transform 2D to 3D in minutes. What difference does it make to the materials and surface     Community Circus Paisley 21st and 22nd October Look around for the Paisley Community Circus and join them to try a range of circus skills. They will be in various locations in Stirling on Wednesday 21s & Thursday 22 October from 11am to 15:00pm   Evidence-powered rocket game 22nd October  Aimed at ages 7-13 but suitable for all Should Scotland launch a rocket into space? Uncover positive evidence to make it to the launch pad but beware – some evidence could throw a spanner in the works. Discover how evidence informs government policy-making in this game created by social researchers from the Scottish Government.   Arts & Craft – Sporting Monsters 22 October 10+ Join the Stirling Youth Participation team for an arts & crafts workshop. You will experience a fun and interactive way to design a unique sporting monster.   Move, Play, Save a Life  22nd October 5+ Learn how to use CPR with hands on practice. And see  the wonders of the heart using ECG machine. Discover the Science of Wellbeing  22nd October Discover how blood, cells, bugs, tissue and body systems interact and work together in your body to keep you well. Delivered by NHS Forth Valley Laboratories

Come and try a series of fun 2-minute movement challenges, including balance games, ball activities, stretching, seated movement and simple strength tasks using everyday objects. Discover how different types of movement feel for your body and energy, then create your own “active day” by exploring realistic ways to balance movement, play and rest. Suitable for all ages and abilities, you’ll leave with practical ideas to support everyday wellbeing.Ages 5+

The 3:30pm session is fully booked. Play, Move and Discover how you can defy gravity and get physical with science with All or Nothing. Learn what keeps you up in the air with our aerial workshops and tasters. Have fun upside down, spin, swing and move through the air using material trapezes and other aerial circus apparatus. Suitable for both those new to aerial and for those with experience, give yourself a new challenge. Aerial is great fun and open to all – there are no pre-requisite to taking part and taught by All or Nothing’s professional tutors. Ages 5-12 years Tickets: £7 (incl £2 bf)

The 3:30pm session is fully booked. Play, Move and Discover how you can defy gravity and get physical with science with All or Nothing. Learn what keeps you up in the air with our aerial workshops and tasters. Have fun upside down, spin, swing and move through the air using material trapezes and other aerial circus apparatus. Suitable for both those new to aerial and for those with experience, give yourself a new challenge. Aerial is great fun and open to all – there are no pre-requisite to taking part and taught by All or Nothing’s professional tutors. Ages 5-12 years Tickets: £7 (incl £2 bf)

Come and learn some of the basic science and maths skills that form the backbone of the craft of cooking. See how simple ratios can be used instead of a recipe and watch a demonstration of making mayonnaise and a sponge cake then put it into practice making a batch of cookie dough and learn about the science of baking. Ages 11-18 yearsTickets £4.50 (incl £2 bf)

Stirling Science Festival introduces Science Lates The range of sessions at Tolbooth will explore the following topics.   Artificial Intelligence and Sports Coaching – Talk 18:00 – 18:30 16+ Performing a sport well can be difficult and coaches are expensive. Recent developments in artificial intelligence provide an opportunity to build AI coaching systems that provide personal help and advice by watching you perform a sport or exercise. In this event, Professor Kevin Swingler from the University of Stirling will present some examples of AI assisted coaching before giving the audience an opportunity to try some simple movement exercises under the guidance of a live AI system.   The Swiftie Effect: What Can Pop Fandom Teach Us About Wellbeing? – Talk by Dr Melissa Avdeeff, University of Stirling 18:30-19:00  16+ Over three nights of the Eras tour in Scotland, 220k Swifties marked the highest-attended gig in Scottish history. Friendship bracelets were exchanged, Loch Tay became Loch Tay Tay, and crowd energy registered as seismic activity. But why does screaming lyrics alongside 70k people feel so therapeutic? Often dismissed as trivial, what does the research say? In this talk, we’ll explore the science of connection and how fan spaces function as networks for belonging, identity, and wellbeing. Ultimately, what can Swifties can tell us about wellbeing in a fragmented digital life?   Playful Plants: Exploring Creativity & Wellbeing – Workshop 19:00 – 21:00 16+ Slow down, look closely and discover the science of wellbeing through plants, creativity and play. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore seasonal plants, experiment with handmade natural inks and create botanical drawings inspired by nature. You’ll also make your own botanical hand cream while learning about plant infusions and sensory science. No artistic experience is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to experiment. Leave with a sketchbook, botanical cream and practical techniques for relaxation, focus and nature connection. Tickets £4: book them here   Formula 1 Grand Prix – Talk 19:15 – 19:45 16+ Formula 1 motor racing is an important and exciting sport. In this short non-technical talk I will show how statistical reasoning can be used to understand this fast-moving and spectacular tournament.   scientific support dept & Bel Docherty Live Performance at Tolbooth Gallery Doors at 19:15pm 19:30-20:30 16+ ‘Carnival’ incorporates poetry by Stirling based craftsman and poet Harris Harrold, who’s practise is rooted in deep listening – particularly to young men who have few outlets for their struggles in a dis-united kingdom that has traded community for solitude and isolation. His words, a cry from the pit – human, raw and unadorned. What follows is the true architecture of the piece – the modular synth soundscape, initially cold and recursive, woven beneath fading echoes of Scottish festivals and pagan rites, remnants of a collective spirit now shattered, emerge treated pianos and meditative ambient guitars that invite curiosity, and perhaps ultimately, hope against the siege of loneliness in this stark and often uneasy composition.   Uncanny Harmonies: The Human Experience of AI-Generated Music – Talk by Dr Melissa Avdeeff, University of Stirling 20:00 – 20:30 16+ Can a computer have a soul? With the rise of generative AI music apps like Suno and Udio, the boundary between human and machine creativity has blurred. This talk introduces the concept of the “audio uncanny valley” – that unsettling feeling we get when an AI track sounds almost human, but not quite. We’ll explore how our brains perceive AI music, examine the debates surrounding computational creativity, and ask what this means for the future of creativity. When an algorithm writes a hit song, who is the real artist, and how do we find meaning in AI music?   Flash-Infused Gin Lab (18+) at Tolbooth Cafe  Create your own custom gin and tonic using rapid infusion techniques and a selection of botanicals. Discover the science behind flavour extraction as you experiment with different ingredients and enjoy your unique creation. A perfect mix of science, creativity, and cocktail-making. 🍸🧪  

Play, Move and Discover how you can defy gravity and get physical with science with All or Nothing. Learn what keeps you up in the air with our aerial workshops and tasters. Have fun upside down, spin, swing and move through the air using material trapezes and other aerial circus apparatus. Suitable for both those new to aerial and for those with experience, give yourself a new challenge. Aerial is great fun and open to all – there are no pre-requisite to taking part and taught by All or Nothing’s professional tutors.   Ages 12-16 years Tickets £5 (incl £2 bf)      

Play, Move and Discover how you can defy gravity and get physical with science with All or Nothing. Learn what keeps you up in the air with our aerial workshops and tasters. Have fun upside down, spin, swing and move through the air using material trapezes and other aerial circus apparatus. Suitable for both those new to aerial and for those with experience, give yourself a new challenge. Aerial is great fun and open to all – there are no pre-requisite to taking part and taught by All or Nothing’s professional tutors.Adult session (16+) 1 hour long Tickets £5

Slow down, look closely and discover the science of wellbeing through plants, creativity and play. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore seasonal plants, experiment with handmade natural inks and create botanical drawings inspired by nature. You’ll also make your own botanical hand cream while learning about plant infusions and sensory science. No artistic experience is needed- just curiosity and a willingness to experiment. Leave with a sketchbook, botanical cream and practical techniques for relaxation, focus and nature connection.Tickets:-£4.50 (includes £2 booking fee)For Ages 16+

Bring your bicycle along to our Dr Bike session 9am-3pm for a free safety check carried out by a qualified cycle mechanic. We’ll inspect the key components of your bike to make sure it’s safe and roadworthy, including the brakes, tyres, wheels, gears, and steering. Where possible, we’ll carry out minor adjustments and simple repairs on the spot, such as brake and gear adjustments, tyre inflation, tightening loose components, and basic safety fixes. If your bike requires more extensive repairs or replacement parts, we’ll explain what’s needed and provide advice on the next steps. Whether you cycle every day or are getting your bike ready to ride again, a Dr Bike service is a quick and convenient way to keep your bike safe, comfortable, and in good working order.Located at the roundel (bottom of King Street)

Come along to a special science-themed Playgroup session where little ones can explore how movement, play and sensory experiences help them learn and grow. Our Tiny Movers Lab will be packed with opportunities to move, explore, create and discover.With plenty of opportunities to play, learn and get moving, it’s a fun filled morning of discovery for our littlest scientists and their grown-ups. Healthy snacks will also be provided.Limited spaces available. Prebooking required on 01877 330000Suitable for babies, toddlers and children under 5 years old with a parent or guardian

  Carnival By scientific support dept. and Bel Docherty Incorporating poetry by Stirling based Harris Harrold, whose practise is rooted in deep listening ‘Carnival’ is an audio-visual work that draws initial inspiration from the 9th century Viking threat to Stirling at its starting point and interweaves a portrait of contemporary mental health. The piece addresses wellbeing, after decades of increasing disconnection and individualism at both social and political levels, communities have frayed, political parties have fragmented, and the world can feel increasingly lonely. Carnival is a progression of an original work ‘Carnival of The Wolf’ Commissioned by Culture Night Stirling 2026. Please note: This exhibition contains themes relating to mental health and emotional wellbeing, which some visitors may find affecting. Showing 9th October – 7th November.  Tolbooth Gallery, Tue – Sat, 10am-5pm Join us Wednesday 21st October for a live performance of scientific support dept. & Bel Docherty as part of Stirling Science Festival. This is a Free drop-in event, no booking required. Doors: 7.15pm | Performance Starts: 7.30pm    

Play Move Discover @ The Smith Museum Science Trail All ages The Smith is home to over 60,000 artworks and objects spanning over 10,000 years of Stirling’s history. Follow the clues on our museum trail to find the Sport and Science connected objects within our Gallery 3, including the World’s Oldest Football and World’s Oldest Curling Stone! Walk and Wonder at The Stirling Smith Labyrinth All ages The grounds surrounding the Stirling Smith are an extension of the Museum with many sculptures and artworks to enjoy. Complete a walk in the garden around our Labyrinth and learn about mindful movement, discovering connections between science and nature with our family activity sheet!

Our double decker play bus Benji and the team are on their way to Stirling! Hop on board to discover lots of fun activities for you and your wee ones to do together. We have arts & crafts, messy play, fancy dress, and lots of books for you to enjoy. Please note we cannot accommodate visits from childcare settings. Our activities are for families with children 0-4 years old. PlayTalkRead is a programme delivered by Smart Play Network and funded by the Scottish Government as an extension of their ParentClub initiative. Session Times: 10am-1pm 2pm-4pm PLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE START TIME AND NOT THE DOORS TIME FOR THE EVENT  

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

How strong is your grip? How steady is your balance? Find out at Move Health’s free Community Health MOT, brought to you by the University of Stirling. Drop in and move through five hands-on stations using real sports science and physiotherapy equipment. Measure your grip strength, test your balance, explore your mobility and discover what it all means for your long-term health. Every participant leaves with a personalised Health Passport linking to local activity and health resources. Free, open to all ages. Just turn up.10am – 4pm

Can Science Predict Business Success? 21 October Designed primarily for young people aged 10-12 years and above, including secondary school pupils, college students, prospective university applicants, and adults. Can Science Predict Business Success? Step into the shoes of a CEO and discover how businesses use science, data, and simulation to make decisions. In this interactive challenge, you’ll predict future trends, choose a business strategy, and test your decisions against unexpected events. Using forecasting, probability, and simulation, you’ll see how organisations prepare for uncertainty and manage risk. Can your strategy survive the future? This fun, hands-on activity combines play, discovery, and problem-solving to reveal the science behind decision-making in business, and everyday life.   The wonders of Scotland’s seas 21 October Join the Scottish Seabird Centre team at the Thistles Centre on 24th October as part of Stirling Science Festival and discover the wonder of Scotland’s seas! Learn more about the amazing marine wildlife and habitats found around our shores, from seabirds and rockpool creatures, to seagrass and coral. Watch 360-degree film footage from Bass Rock – one of the largest gannet colonies in the world – with their portable headset and identify shells and other beachcombing finds. Talk with the team to hear about the threats facing marine life today and what you can do to help.   Sports activity from recycled materials/reuse 21st and 22nd October All Ages Waste services promoting sport in Stirling to be more inclusive, affordable, and environmentally sustainable by using recycled materials and showcasing the power of reuse and circular practices within local communities. Play. Move, Discover  21 October All Ages Flat to Form: Have fun cutting and folding to transform 2D to 3D in minutes. What difference does it make to the materials and surface     Community Circus Paisley 21st and 22nd October Look around for the Paisley Community Circus and join them to try a range of circus skills. They will be in various locations in Stirling on Wednesday 21s & Thursday 22 October from 11am to 15:00pm   Evidence-powered rocket game 22nd October  Aimed at ages 7-13 but suitable for all Should Scotland launch a rocket into space? Uncover positive evidence to make it to the launch pad but beware – some evidence could throw a spanner in the works. Discover how evidence informs government policy-making in this game created by social researchers from the Scottish Government.   Arts & Craft – Sporting Monsters 22 October 10+ Join the Stirling Youth Participation team for an arts & crafts workshop. You will experience a fun and interactive way to design a unique sporting monster.   Move, Play, Save a Life  22nd October 5+ Learn how to use CPR with hands on practice. And see  the wonders of the heart using ECG machine. Discover the Science of Wellbeing  22nd October Discover how blood, cells, bugs, tissue and body systems interact and work together in your body to keep you well. Delivered by NHS Forth Valley Laboratories

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

Our double decker play bus Benji and the team are on their way to Stirling! Hop on board to discover lots of fun activities for you and your wee ones to do together. We have arts & crafts, messy play, fancy dress, and lots of books for you to enjoy. Please note we cannot accommodate visits from childcare settings. Our activities are for families with children 0-4 years old. PlayTalkRead is a programme delivered by Smart Play Network and funded by the Scottish Government as an extension of their ParentClub initiative. Session Times: 10am-1pm 2pm-4pm PLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE START TIME AND NOT THE DOORS TIME FOR THE EVENT  

Energy underpins our modern lives but there are difficult choices to be made about how we will supply and use energy in the future. Is our energy affordable, secure and environmentally sustainable? As you explore these interactive hands-on exhibits, you can explore our energy options – from how we can produce electricity and fuels to how we can be smarter with our use of energy. What would you do?Suitable for all ages

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

In this workshop you will discover how your can loose yourself in a grounding and therapeutic art session. There are no expectations to achieve ‘beautiful’ work, though you may surprise yourself. Absolutely no art experience required.14+ Tickets: £4.50 (incl £2 bf)

Many of the games and puzzles that people enjoy involve logic and mathematics. In this talk we will look at some examples of these puzzles and strategies for doing them. We will also look at some examples of game theory where we try to analyse games to find rules for winning. There will be some audience interaction.Suitable for ages 10+

Ever tried to the Strip the Helix? The Aurora Whirl? Or the Dashing White Blood Cell? Come join the award-winning Science Ceilidh band for a playful evening of traditional ceilidh dances with science-themed twists they have written with different schools, youth groups and researchers. As you catch your breath between dances, Science Ceilidh will share stories from over a decade of working with communities across Scotland and internationally to explore the links between culture and wellbeing as well. All are welcome – no dance (or science) experience necessary! Check out some of their dances in advance www.scienceceilidh.com/resources Tickets: £7 (incl £2 bf)

Be part of history as The National Wallace Monument hosts its first-ever immersive Silent Yoga experience inside the iconic tower, led by Fitness & Yoga by Jenny as part of the Stirling Science Festival. Celebrating this year’s theme, Play – Move – Discover: The Science of Sport, Play and Wellbeing, this unique event invites you to experience the powerful connection between movement, mindfulness and wellbeing from within one of Scotland’s most distinctive landmarks. Using wireless headphones, you’ll be guided through a relaxing 45-minute yoga session in the Monument’s unique and atmospheric interior. Arrive from 7.30am for an 8.00am start on Friday 23 October. Spaces are extremely limited and advance online booking is essential. 16+ Tickets: £5

Bring your bicycle along to our Dr Bike session 9am-3pm for a free safety check carried out by a qualified cycle mechanic. We’ll inspect the key components of your bike to make sure it’s safe and roadworthy, including the brakes, tyres, wheels, gears, and steering. Where possible, we’ll carry out minor adjustments and simple repairs on the spot, such as brake and gear adjustments, tyre inflation, tightening loose components, and basic safety fixes. If your bike requires more extensive repairs or replacement parts, we’ll explain what’s needed and provide advice on the next steps. Whether you cycle every day or are getting your bike ready to ride again, a Dr Bike service is a quick and convenient way to keep your bike safe, comfortable, and in good working order.Located at the roundel (bottom of King Street)

This session is fully booked. Step into the world of sports science for a day of experiments, challenges and discovery! Junior Sport Scientists will explore what happens to our bodies when we move, while enjoying all the fun of our usual Kids Camp programme. Alongside swimming, climbing, sports, games and crafts, children will take part in reaction challenges, obstacle courses, agility tests, teamwork and problem-solving activities. They’ll investigate their heart rate before and after exercise and try out mini science experiments linked to sport and movement. A fun, active and hands-on day where children can play, experiment and discover the science behind sport! Limited spaces available. Prebooking required Kids’ Camp – Junior Sports Scientist Suitable for children P1-P7

  Carnival By scientific support dept. and Bel Docherty Incorporating poetry by Stirling based Harris Harrold, whose practise is rooted in deep listening ‘Carnival’ is an audio-visual work that draws initial inspiration from the 9th century Viking threat to Stirling at its starting point and interweaves a portrait of contemporary mental health. The piece addresses wellbeing, after decades of increasing disconnection and individualism at both social and political levels, communities have frayed, political parties have fragmented, and the world can feel increasingly lonely. Carnival is a progression of an original work ‘Carnival of The Wolf’ Commissioned by Culture Night Stirling 2026. Please note: This exhibition contains themes relating to mental health and emotional wellbeing, which some visitors may find affecting. Showing 9th October – 7th November.  Tolbooth Gallery, Tue – Sat, 10am-5pm Join us Wednesday 21st October for a live performance of scientific support dept. & Bel Docherty as part of Stirling Science Festival. This is a Free drop-in event, no booking required. Doors: 7.15pm | Performance Starts: 7.30pm    

Play Move Discover @ The Smith Museum Science Trail All ages The Smith is home to over 60,000 artworks and objects spanning over 10,000 years of Stirling’s history. Follow the clues on our museum trail to find the Sport and Science connected objects within our Gallery 3, including the World’s Oldest Football and World’s Oldest Curling Stone! Walk and Wonder at The Stirling Smith Labyrinth All ages The grounds surrounding the Stirling Smith are an extension of the Museum with many sculptures and artworks to enjoy. Complete a walk in the garden around our Labyrinth and learn about mindful movement, discovering connections between science and nature with our family activity sheet!

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

We would like to invite you and your child aged 0 – 4 to a session with our friendly play practitioner team. Sessions involve stories and play activities and have great interactive resources for making storytime playful and engaging. PlayTalkRead is delivered by Smart Play Network, we have extended our service with our Pathways Through Play project which provides play sessions for families with children aged from birth to four years old across Scotland in a variety of community settings.Our family play sessions include songs, storytelling, and sensory play! Session Start Times:10am11am12pm2pm Each session is 45 minutes longPLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE START TIME AND NOT THE DOORS TIME FOR THE EVENT

We would like to invite you and your child aged 0 – 4 to a session with our friendly play practitioner team. Sessions involve stories and play activities and have great interactive resources for making storytime playful and engaging. PlayTalkRead is delivered by Smart Play Network, we have extended our service with our Pathways Through Play project which provides play sessions for families with children aged from birth to four years old across Scotland in a variety of community settings.Our family play sessions include songs, storytelling, and sensory play! Session Start Times:10am11am12pm2pm Each session is 45 minutes longPLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE START TIME AND NOT THE DOORS TIME FOR THE EVENT

Hands on creative workshop using cardboard ,plastic and any other discarded materials to design and build a robot .This workshop will encourage creativity, imagination and problem solving and working together reusing materials to reduce wasteSuitable for children up to age 12

We would like to invite you and your child aged 0 – 4 to a session with our friendly play practitioner team. Sessions involve stories and play activities and have great interactive resources for making storytime playful and engaging. PlayTalkRead is delivered by Smart Play Network, we have extended our service with our Pathways Through Play project which provides play sessions for families with children aged from birth to four years old across Scotland in a variety of community settings.Our family play sessions include songs, storytelling, and sensory play! Session Start Times:10am11am12pm2pm Each session is 45 minutes longPLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE START TIME AND NOT THE DOORS TIME FOR THE EVENT

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

We would like to invite you and your child aged 0 – 4 to a session with our friendly play practitioner team. Sessions involve stories and play activities and have great interactive resources for making storytime playful and engaging. PlayTalkRead is delivered by Smart Play Network, we have extended our service with our Pathways Through Play project which provides play sessions for families with children aged from birth to four years old across Scotland in a variety of community settings.Our family play sessions include songs, storytelling, and sensory play! Session Start Times:10am11am12pm2pm Each session is 45 minutes longPLEASE NOTE THIS IS THE START TIME AND NOT THE DOORS TIME FOR THE EVENT

Joins us at the Peak for a fun afternoon of interactive sport sessions.   Become a Movement Detective  14:00-15:30 18+ Become a Movement Detective and solve the mystery of your own physical activity habits. In this interactive workshop, you’ll investigate the clues hidden in your daily life, from routines and emotions to environment and motivation. Through playful activities, group challenges, and simple “case files”, you’ll uncover what helps you move, what gets in the way, and why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to being active. This is not a fitness class, but a fun, creative exploration of movement, wellbeing, and everyday life. Suitable for all abilities, no sporting experience needed.   Bikes Without Barriers: come and try session 14:00 – 16:00 All Ages Bikes Without Barriers is an inclusive adapted cycling programme. Designed for children and adults living with a disability or who face barriers to cycling, the programme removes obstacles to participation and creates meaningful opportunities for people to be active, social, and independent.   Pre-School taster sessions 14:00 – 14:45  3-5yrs  Through fun, play-based movement, the Beans Program uses evidence-based activities to nurture children’s physical, social, emotional and cognitive development while creating supportive communities for parents and carers. Because movement and play build brains! Please note the session allows for 16 participatns only on a first come, first served basis.   Nordic Walking Taster 14:15 – 14:45 & 15:00 – 15:30 16+ Nordic walking is a low impact exercise that combines walking with specifically designed poles to make it a full-body workout.  Great for improving fitness and posture and make every step count.   Family multi-sport fun session 15:00 – 15:45 5+ Fun games and multi-sports activities so there is something for everyone – and it’s all about enjoying time together as a family while keeping fit, having fun and building confidence. Please note the session allows for 30 participatns only on a first come, first served basis.   Numbers 4 Netball 16:00 – 17:00 16+ Come along and find out about various steam skills needed within a netball match.   Yoga 2:30pm – 3:15pm, Chair Yoga: 3:30pm – 4:15pm Take a little time for yourself with a welcoming yoga class designed to help you move, breathe, and unwind. Expect a balanced mix of mindful movement, gentle stretching, strengthening postures, and relaxation—suitable for all levels. Come as you are, leave feeling refreshed, grounded, and re-energised.   Body Composition 14:00 – 17:00  The ACCUNIQ BC380 is a professional body composition analyser that uses multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to provide a detailed assessment of body composition in under a minute.  It measures key health metrics including body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass, visceral fat, segmental muscle, fat distribution and body water balance, helping users track progress and make informed health and fitness decisions.

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

Scotland’s parks are free, yet people in poorer areas are far less likely to use them for exercise — even when a park is on their doorstep. Gary Birnie, PhD researcher at the University of Stirling, shares findings from 12,000 Scottish adults that reveal why access alone doesn’t explain the gap. Come along, have your say, and find out what the science actually showsSuitable for ages 16+

  Carnival By scientific support dept. and Bel Docherty Incorporating poetry by Stirling based Harris Harrold, whose practise is rooted in deep listening ‘Carnival’ is an audio-visual work that draws initial inspiration from the 9th century Viking threat to Stirling at its starting point and interweaves a portrait of contemporary mental health. The piece addresses wellbeing, after decades of increasing disconnection and individualism at both social and political levels, communities have frayed, political parties have fragmented, and the world can feel increasingly lonely. Carnival is a progression of an original work ‘Carnival of The Wolf’ Commissioned by Culture Night Stirling 2026. Please note: This exhibition contains themes relating to mental health and emotional wellbeing, which some visitors may find affecting. Showing 9th October – 7th November.  Tolbooth Gallery, Tue – Sat, 10am-5pm Join us Wednesday 21st October for a live performance of scientific support dept. & Bel Docherty as part of Stirling Science Festival. This is a Free drop-in event, no booking required. Doors: 7.15pm | Performance Starts: 7.30pm    

Play Move Discover @ The Smith Museum Science Trail All ages The Smith is home to over 60,000 artworks and objects spanning over 10,000 years of Stirling’s history. Follow the clues on our museum trail to find the Sport and Science connected objects within our Gallery 3, including the World’s Oldest Football and World’s Oldest Curling Stone! Walk and Wonder at The Stirling Smith Labyrinth All ages The grounds surrounding the Stirling Smith are an extension of the Museum with many sculptures and artworks to enjoy. Complete a walk in the garden around our Labyrinth and learn about mindful movement, discovering connections between science and nature with our family activity sheet!

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

Bring the family to the Albert Halls Family Day for a fun day of activities. Powering the Future – Glasgow Science Centre All ages; 12:00-16:00 Energy underpins our modern lives but there are difficult choices to be made about how we will supply and use energy in the future. Is our energy affordable, secure and environmentally sustainable? As you explore these interactive hands-on exhibits, you can explore our energy options – from how we can produce electricity and fuels to how we can be smarter with our use of energy. What would you do?   The Power of Pedalling & Trees For Goals Age 10+ 12:00 – 16:00 In this interactive session, pedal our generator bike to create enough electricity to power an LED tower! This hands-on experience sparks ideas around smarter energy use and the opportunities for sustainable energy in your life. You can also learn about our Trees for Goals project, an initiative where football clubs engage with climate action through planting trees, which has positive impacts such as increasing flood resilience and biodiversity. Finally, explore the Tree Equity Map to see how your community can better adapt to our changing climate.   The Power of Play and Curiosity Age 5+ 12:00 – 16:00 Discover the science of play, curiosity, and wellbeing through hands-on fun for all ages! This interactive activity will showcase our research on how children learn, explore, and thrive through play. Children can take part in creative games and activities that capture where and how they play, challenge themselves, and feel curious, while adults are invited to reflect on the powerful role of play and curiosity in learning, physical health, and wellbeing. Come along to be inspired by children’s creativity — and rediscover your own playful and curious side!     Youth Contract Bridge Family Taster Session and Workshop Age 6+ 12:00 – 16:00 Bridge is recognised as a mindsport that develops valued everyday and STEM skills: mathematical thinking, memorisation, cooperation, and the ability to make decisions with incomplete information.It offers rich intellectual stimulation without the physical demands of traditional sports, whilst also providing an enjoyable off-screen activity for families to share together.   Place Belonging and Accessibility in Local Outdoor Spaces Calling all 6 – 16-year-olds. 12:00 – 16:00 Would you like your voice heard on how you use and access local outdoor spaces? Do local outdoor spaces give you a sense of feeling at “home” and like you belong there? Come along to the Stirling Science Festival and take part in our interactive activities. Have a go at designing your own outdoor spaces and vote in our Belong-O-Meter to let us know what is important to you.   Drawn To Nature 12:00 – 14:00 Drawn to Nature is a relaxed and mindful introduction to making art inspired by our surroundings. Through a series of creative activities, participants will get the chance to engage with nature by experimenting with a variety of organic art materials and techniques. Want to learn how to write with bamboo, or capture a shadow on a page? Join us to learn what’s possible when you start looking around: we have plenty of fun and strange things to get stuck into for any ability.   “The Colour Lab”- Science and Splatter Age: 5-12 12:00 – 16:00 Arts Included invite you to come and have fun. Scientists, find your inner artist- you call it Chromatology, we call it Fun with Colour, you call it Experimenting with Minerals , we call it Salt Resist- either way enjoy discovering what happens when we play with wet and dry techniques, colour mixes and image transfer.   What helps young people to take care of their health? Aimed at 5-25 But suitable for all Ages 12:00 – 16:00 Everyone has different methods to help stay well. Create a “staying healthy” collage, listen to music, discover techniques that help young people with chronic pain and solve the “minimum pain zone maze” maze. Discover what helps keep you healthy, with researchers from the University of Stirling! Build It, Move It, Beat It!  Age: 5-14 12:00 – 16:00 Join the University of Stirling Sport Science team for a hands-on, family-friendly event exploring how play and movement shape our health and wellbeing. Try out Duplo building challenges that reveal how play supports thinking and learning, take on a movement-based digital game designed to get you active, and step into the role of a scientist by measuring your heart rate before and after exercise. You can also compare heart rates across different animals and discover just how varied they are. A fun, interactive drop-in session for curious minds of all ages. Move, Play, Save a Life Age: 5+ 12:00 – 16:00 Learn how to use CPR with hands on practice. And see  the wonders of the heart using ECG machine. Immersive VR & Game Experience Zone All Ages 12:00 – 16:00 Step into the Immersive VR & Game Experience Zone by Flosverse Techsphere CIC and discover learning like never before. Children, young people, and families are invited to explore exciting Virtual Reality environments and interactive 3D games that bring real-world challenges to life. Participants will solve problems, make decisions, and learn through play in a fun, safe, and engaging space. This hands-on drop-in activity encourages curiosity, creativity, and confidence through interactive STEM experiences for all ages.

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

Become a Nature Detective and uncover the hidden wonders of the natural world. Join Wild Pines for a family-friendly outdoor adventure where curiosity leads the way. Through guided discovery prompts and sensory exploration, you’ll investigate plants, animals and the fascinating patterns found in nature. Suitable for adults and children aged 6+, this interactive outdoor workshop combines playful curiosity and discovery through hands-on exploration outdoors. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult (recommended ratio 1 adult to 1–2 children. Please meet at the fountain near the entrance Kings Park road and Victoria Place before the activity begins. The What3words location is ///filed.delay.occupy and the Google Maps URL is: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wHWGxoFKY5Etvze57   Tickets £4.50 (incl £2 bf) For Ages 6+

Step back in time and explore the various sports practised at Stirling Castle throughout time! From football to ‘real tennis’, trunk bending and falconry, join us to learn about the fascinating history behind some lost sports and some still practised today. The activity consists of a 30-minute tour, a 20-minute object-handling session, and a 30-minute juggling workshop.     Session times are: 10AM-11:30AM 12:30PM-2:00PM 2:30PM-4:00PM Please Note: The Thurs 22nd, 10am-11:30pm 12:30PM-2:00PM session are now full. To book, please contact the learning team at: sc.learning@HES.scot, including in your email the number of participants and their name (with ages if they are children), the session you would like to book, and a contact phone number. The activity is free of charge and includes entrance to the castle. Accessibility: One of the tour stops is down quite a steep set of stairs. Please mention in your email if you have any accessibility concerns or mobility restrictions and we will do our best to provide a suitable alternative.

Join us for a gentle, inclusive wellbeing experience exploring movement, breath, sound, and rest. Through accessible yogic practices, meditation, and soothing live sounds, including crystal singing bowls, discover how stillness can nurture wellbeing, connection, and belonging. Suitable for caregivers, care receivers, people living with dementia, neurodivergent individuals, and diverse communities. Practices can be enjoyed seated or lying down. No experience necessary—just curiosity and a willingness to discover together.Ages 16+ Tickets £4.50 incl £2 bf