Now that our beautifully refurbished Renaissance palace is open, we’re all thoroughly enjoying seeing the reaction of visitors as they explore the magnificent royal apartments. 

It’s great to be able to see how impressed people are when they walk around the six stately rooms and experience the sheer grandeur of the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots. It’s also hugely satisfying to hear how much all of the features are appreciated; we’ve had some fantastic compliments on so many of the details of the décor and furnishings. 

For me, one of the highlights of visitor feedback has to be the impressions of our youngest visitors. It’s lovely to see the delight on children’s faces as they take in all the rich colour of James V’s royal residence. And when they come face to face with our costumed characters and hear them talking about their roles in the Stewart court and what daily life would have been like in the 16th century, emphasises how great it is for children to have history brought to life in such an engaging way.

Our interactive displays in the palace vaults are also proving to be a great hit with kids.  They love learning about the costumes and feeling the fabrics used – and finding out how crushed beetles were used in dyes is always giggle-inducing!  They also really enjoy having a go at musical instruments including a viol and harp and having fun colouring in their own jester. 

With the school holidays almost upon us, we’re really looking forward to having many more young visitors over the summer – and watching them having a ball at the palace.

Nicola McCrae, Stirling Castle Marketing