
Events for June 15 - May 3 › Nature and Guided Walks
Bushcraft
Spend some time in nature and learn how to safely make fire and whittle wood (not suitable for under 7’s). Cost Adult £6.50 per person Children (7-16) £4.00 per person Family (2+2) £19.00 Booking essential. Children must be accompanied by an adult Meeting Place: Staff/signage will direct you on the day.
Find out more »Hopetoun History Walk
This Ranger-led walk will guide you through the nature and history of Hopetoun’s designed landscape and aims to compliment the information offered inside the House. Look out for wildlife whilst enjoying the specimen trees and plants of the designed landscape. Meeting Place: Main Visitor Car Park at Hopetoun House Cost: £6.50 Click here to book Booking essential as space is limited
Find out more »August Amble
August is a popular month to get out and explore. Enjoy this Ranger-led walk taking in interesting corners of Hopetoun this summer. A 3-hour guided walk around the historic landscape of Hopetoun House and onto the Estate, including Abercorn Church. Not suitable for children under 8. This walk will cover approx. 3 miles with some rough underfoot conditions and requires a good level of fitness. Meeting Place: Main Visitor Car Park at Hopetoun House Cost: £6.50 Click here to book…
Find out more »Groovy Geology
As part of the Scottish Geology Festival, join in on a Ranger-led stroll along the Hopetoun foreshore exploring part of the best of West Lothian’s geological resource. We might even spot some local wildlife as we go! Not suitable for children under 8. This walk will cover approx. 3 miles with rough underfoot conditions and requires a good level of fitness. Meeting Place: Main Visitor Car Park at Hopetoun House Cost: £6.50 Click here to book Booking essential as space…
Find out more »Hopetoun History Walk
This Ranger-led walk will guide you through the nature and history of Hopetoun’s designed landscape and aims to compliment the information offered inside the House. Look out for wildlife whilst enjoying the specimen trees and plants of the designed landscape. Meeting Place: Main Visitor Car Park at Hopetoun House Cost: £6.50 Click here to book Booking essential as space is limited
Find out more »September Family Day ** SOLD OUT**
Come celebrate Scotland’s Stories at Hopetoun! Join us on Saturday 16th September, from 12pm – 4pm to learn all about Scotland’s folktales and stories, with fun activities for the whole family. ✨Mythical Creatures trail ✨Story corner ✨Storytelling sessions ✨Faerie craft ✨Story stick activity ✨Meet a real unicorn! ✨All within the beautiful (and magical) grounds of Hopetoun House Meeting Place: Staff/signage will direct you on the day. Cost: Grounds entrance BOOKING ESSENTIAL £4 supplement on the day to walk a unicorn.…
Find out more »Humongous Fungus **Sold Out**
Explore the fascinating world of fungi as you embark on a guided leisurely stroll through the Hopetoun woodlands, teeming with mushrooms of various shapes and sizes, and our internationally important fungi lawns. Please note – we will not be collecting for the pot on this walk. Meeting Place: Staff/signage will direct you on the day. Booking essential as space is limited Cost £6.50 per person Click here to book
Find out more »Tree-mendous Walk
Join us today in the Hopetoun Grounds to celebrate the Scottish Tree Festival. Embark on a ranger-led walk that will lead you through the rich tapestry of nature and history showcased by the remarkable specimen trees gracing Hopetoun’s designed landscape. As you explore the magnificent 100 acres, keep a keen eye out for local wildlife and delve into the captivating stories of these trees, including their historical significance, folklore, and natural history. Meeting Place: Staff/signage will direct you on the…
Find out more »Snowdrop Weekend at Hopetoun
Snowdrop Weekend at Hopetoun – Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th February 2024 Hopetoun House is delighted to be taking part in the Scottish Snowdrop Festival. This year we will be open on Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th February to celebrate the arrival of the snowdrops. We wanted to give our visitors even more opportunity to enjoy our nature trails and the beautiful carpets of these symbolic flowers. For the first time this season, we will opening the House too. With…
Find out more »Daffodil Walk Saturday 6th April 2024
Explore Hopetoun’s Grounds in spring bloom with our Ranger, Emma, and discover more about the folklore and natural history of the collection of Daffodils at Hopetoun. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the early Scottish spring weather. Dogs are not allowed on Ranger-led walks. Please meet at the old Kiosk in the visitor car park 5 minutes before the start of the walk. Your ticket allows you access to the Grounds for the rest of the day. Ticket Prices…
Find out more »Birdsong at Hopetoun – Saturday 4th May 2024
Explore Hopetoun’s Grounds in full spring birdsong with our Ranger, Emma, and discover more about the species you hear and some identification hints and tips. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the Scottish spring weather. Binoculars will be useful if you have them. Dogs are not allowed on Ranger-led walks. Please meet at the old Kiosk in the visitor car park 5 minutes before the start of the walk. Your ticket allows you access to the Grounds for the…
Find out more »Beautiful Bluebells – Sunday 19th May 2024
Join Ranger Emma for a late spring exploration of Hopetoun’s Grounds and delve into the folklore and natural history of the collections of Bluebells at Hopetoun. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the Scottish spring weather. Dogs are not allowed on Ranger-led walks. Please meet at the old Kiosk in the visitor car park 5 minutes before the start of the walk. Your ticket allows you access to the Grounds for the rest of the day. Ticket Prices: Adult…
Find out more »Two Houses and a Castle Guided Walk – Sunday 23rd June 2024
Join us for the return of our much loved annual event the Two Houses and a Castle Walk! Embark on a summer hike across the picturesque landscapes of West Lothian. Delve into the rich history of the region as you explore iconic buildings along the way. Led by knowledgeable staff, this guided walk will take you on a journey between three of West Lothian’s most treasured historic sites: Hopetoun House Blackness CastleThe House of the Binns Please be aware this…
Find out more »Minibeast Safari – Sunday 30th June 2024
To kick off our Kids Summer Events 2024, join us for an exciting Minibeast Safari at Hopetoun House! Depending on the weather, we’ll be exploring the Round Pond and/or the enchanting woodland habitats to discover the fascinating world of minibeasts. Get ready to get up close and personal with a variety of tiny creatures living in the pond and different areas of the grounds. We have a host of fun games planned to help you learn more about these amazing…
Find out more »Sketchbook & Portfolio Course with Peter J Scott and the Hopetoun Education Department Tuesday 9th and Wednesday 10th July 2024
The Hopetoun House Education Department is pleased to bring you another of the very popular art workshops with local artist Peter Scott. This two day sketchbook and portfolio prep course at Hopetoun House will run on the 9th and 10th of July (10:00am – 4:00pm) All drawing materials, sketchbooks and paper will provided. We will spend two days drawing in the house and gardens and working on larger scale works in the studio space at the house. The cost for…
Find out more »Victorians at Hopetoun Experience – Friday 12th July 2024
Have you ever wondered what it was like to work and live in a grand house like this, way back in Victorian times? Well, now’s your chance to find out! Join our Victorian Housekeepers for a fun workshop. Dress up as servants, explore the house, and even try out some of the chores and crafts they did back then. It’ll be a real hands-on adventure! This workshop is perfect for explorers aged 7 to 12, and their grown-ups are welcome…
Find out more »Guided Foraging Walk with Anna Canning – Saturday 13th July 2024
Discover the hidden treasures of the Hopetoun Grounds with expert botanist and wild plant forager, Anna Canning. Explore Nature Like Never Before:Anna will transform your view of familiar plants, teaching you how to safely identify and use them. This guided walk is more than just foraging—it’s about connecting with nature and understanding our place within it. Why Forage?Foraging is a way to interact with your surroundings and appreciate the fascinating stories of the plants around us. Learn how each plant…
Find out more »Deer Bambinos – Sunday 14th July 2024
Join us for a fun-filled Deer-Themed Family Guided Walk at Hopetoun House! Enjoy games and activities as we explore the beautiful Hopetoun Grounds. The adventure culminates with a special visit to meet the Hopetoun Red Deer herd. This event is designed for all ages and abilities, offering a memorable experience for the whole family. Ticket Prices:Adult: £8.50 per personChildren: £6.50 per personPurchase your tickets here: Important Information: Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the Scottish weather.All children must be…
Find out more »Brush with History – A children’s art tour and workshop – Friday 19th July 2024
Unleash Your Inner Artist! A Hopetoun Adventure Calling all budding artists. Join our education team on a special quest through the grand rooms of Hopetoun. We’ll be hunting for hidden clues – can you spot the mythical creatures and amazing animals around the house? Look at paintings from hundreds of years ago and use them as inspiration for your own portrait. Once you’ve become an expert explorer, we’ll head to Education Room where you can use all your discoveries as…
Find out more »Make Your Own Willow Bird Feeder – Friday 26th July 2024
Looking for a fun and creative way to keep your kids entertained this summer? Join us for our Make Your Own Willow Bird Feeder workshop! Kids will love getting crafty, using natural materials to create their very own bird feeders. Enjoy a day out in the stunning grounds of Hopetoun House, perfect for a family picnic and exploration. Your ticket includes access to the Grounds from 11am. What’s Included? All materials and tools for making the willow bird feeders.Guidance and…
Find out more »World Nature Conservation Day (Being a Countryside Ranger) – Sunday 28th July 2024
What do Rangers do?! Come along as a family to learn all about conserving the wild places of Scotland – the Countryside Ranger way! Learn all about what it takes to be a Countryside Ranger on World Nature Conservation Day. Litter picking, wildlife surveys and rhoddy bashing means a good time will be had by all. For all ages and abilities. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the Scottish weather and practical work. All children must be accompanied by…
Find out more »Victorians at Hopetoun Experience – Friday 2nd August 2024
Have you ever wondered what it was like to work and live in a grand house like this, way back in Victorian times? Well, now’s your chance to find out! Join our Victorian Housekeepers for a fun workshop. Dress up as servants, explore the house, and even try out some of the chores and crafts they did back then. It’ll be a real hands-on adventure! This workshop is perfect for explorers aged 7 to 12, and their grown-ups are welcome…
Find out more »Wings and Things – Friday 9th August 2024
Parents, bring your little explorers to discover the amazing world of winged creatures! Our fun-filled event includes citizen science activities, games, and crafts, all designed to teach kids about the wonders of flight in nature. Perfect for all ages and abilities! Ticket Prices: Adult £8.50, Concession £8.00, Disabled £6.50, Child £6.50, Family (2+2) £27.00 Book your tickets here Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the Scottish weather. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Dogs are…
Find out more »Groovy Geology Walk – Saturday 7th September 2024
Join us for a scenic ranger-led walk along the Hopetoun foreshore as part of the Scottish Geology Festival! Discover the geological wonders of West Lothian and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife. Ticket Prices: Adult £8.50, Concession £8.00, Disabled £6.50, Child £6.50 (not suitable for children under 8 years of age), Family (2+2) £27.00 Book tickets here: https://bit.ly/3Wh3OPG Meet at the old Kiosk in the visitor car park. This walk will cover approx. 3 miles with rough underfoot conditions and…
Find out more »Autumn Fungi Walk at Hopetoun Sunday 27th October 2024
Join us for a delightful autumn stroll through the scenic Hopetoun Grounds, where you’ll discover the incredible variety of fungi that flourish here. Our internationally renowned fungi lawns and mushroom-rich woodlands are the perfect backdrop for this gentle guided walk. You’ll learn about the fascinating world of fungi, but please note that we won’t be collecting any for the pot Make sure to dress appropriately for the Scottish autumn, and wear sturdy shoes. Please note that dogs are not permitted…
Find out more »Tree-mendous Walk
Autumn Tree Walk in the Hopetoun Grounds Immerse yourself in the beauty of Hopetoun Grounds this autumn with a guided walk that explores the fascinating ecology and folklore of this historic landscape’s trees. Led by our knowledgeable Ranger, this walk will introduce you to the stories, history, and natural wonders of the specimen trees scattered throughout Hopetoun’s designed landscape. Don’t miss this unique autumn experience! Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the Scottish autumn weather. Dogs are not allowed…
Find out more »** CANCELLED ** Snowdrop Weekend at Hopetoun – Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd February 2025
**Due to damage caused by Storm Eowyn over the weekend, we are very sorry to advise that that the Snowdrops event at Hopetoun House this weekend has been CANCELLED. Hopetoun House will re-open on Good Friday 18 April 2025, so we hope to see you sometime during the 2025 visitor season. Thank you for your understanding** Embrace the magic of winter and the promise of spring at Hopetoun House! As part of the Scottish Snowdrop Festival, we’re thrilled to welcome…
Find out more »** CANCELLED ** Snowdrop Weekend at Hopetoun – Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd February 2025
**Due to damage caused by Storm Eowyn over the weekend, we are very sorry to advise that that the Snowdrops event at Hopetoun House this weekend has been CANCELLED. Hopetoun House will re-open on Good Friday 18 April 2025, so we hope to see you sometime during the 2025 visitor season. Thank you for your understanding** Embrace the magic of winter and the promise of spring at Hopetoun House! As part of the Scottish Snowdrop Festival, we’re thrilled to welcome…
Find out more »May Birdsong Saturday 3rd May 2025
Explore Hopetoun’s Grounds in full spring birdsong with our Ranger, Emma, and discover more about the species you hear and some identification hints and tips. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the Scottish spring weather. Binoculars will be useful if you have them. Dogs are not allowed on Ranger-led walks. Please meet at the old Kiosk in the visitor car park 5 minutes before the start of the walk. Your ticket allows you access to the Grounds for the…
Find out more »Beautiful Bluebells Saturday 3rd May 2025
Join Ranger Emma for a late spring exploration of Hopetoun’s Grounds and delve into the folklore and natural history of the collections of Bluebells at Hopetoun. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes for the Scottish spring weather. Dogs are not allowed on Ranger-led walks. Please meet at the old Kiosk in the visitor car park 5 minutes before the start of the walk. Your ticket allows you access to the Grounds for the rest of the day. Ticket Prices: Adult…
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