Victorian Day at Hopetoun
Sunday 23rd August 2026 | 12pm – 4pm
Step back in time and experience life at Hopetoun during the Victorian era as part of our popular Family Discovery Days programme.
Perfect for families with curious young historians, this interactive day is packed with hands-on activities, fascinating stories and opportunities to discover how people lived and worked at Hopetoun House more than 100 years ago.
Award winning children’s author Barbara Henderson, will join us to read from her Victorian novels Rivet Boy and Punch, sign copies and offer young visitors a hands on Victorian puppetry activity.
Construction of the iconic bridge took eight years (1882–1890) and would have been watched with great interest by the Hopetoun family and staff at Hopetoun House. We will also be joined by The Briggers, whose engaging storytelling brings to life the remarkable people who built the Forth Rail Bridge.
Explore the House at your own pace with a Victorian-themed family trail, where our knowledgeable guides and volunteers, dressed in period costume, will help bring history vividly to life. Then head outdoors to follow a history trail through the Grounds and discover more about Victorian life at Hopetoun.
For those keen to explore even further, our Ranger will lead a special guided walk through the Grounds. Spaces are limited to 20 visitors and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis on the day.
What’s included?
🎨 Victorian-inspired crafts and traditional games in the Education Room
📖 Readings with award winner Author Barbara Henderson
🚂 Meet The Briggers and discover the stories behind the building of the Forth Rail Bridge
🏰 Victorian self-led trail through the House*
🌿 Family history trail through the Grounds
🚶 Ranger-led guided walk (limited spaces)
*The House trail is available with a House & Grounds ticket only.
All other activities are included with your admission ticket. Choose from a Grounds Only ticket or a House & Grounds ticket for full access to the historic House and all outdoor activities.
Whether you’re making Victorian crafts, uncovering stories from the past or exploring the beautiful Grounds, it’s a fun-filled day of discovery for the whole family.
Plan your visit
🎟️ Advance booking is recommended.
🐶 Dogs on leads are welcome in the Grounds and The Stables Kitchen.
Book your tickets today and step back in time for a memorable Victorian adventure at Hopetoun House.
All other activities are included with your admission ticket. Visitors can choose between a Grounds Only ticket or a House & Grounds ticket, which also includes access to the historic House.
Due to Midhope Castle's location on a private part of our Estate we often have to prohibit access to visitors due to filming, farming operations, estate activities or large public events in the surrounding area.
