Visitors are invited to Stirling Castle for Burns an’ a’ that, a celebration of Robert Burns’ birthday with the famous bard himself! In 1787, Robert Burns visited Stirling Castle, after which he returned to his hotel where he etched the now famous Stirling Lines.

Hear all about Burns’ life and what it would have been like to live around the same time as him. From the French Revolution to the Jacobites, there are plenty of stories to discover. And it wouldn’t be a birthday celebration without dancing and music, with the chance to learn some moves in the Chapel Royal. Visitors can also learn all about the foods which would have been on Burns’ daily menu or served at his party and can practice addressing the haggis. If you’re lucky, Robert Burns might grace you with a poem of his own.

Home to royalty, stronghold of the Scottish crown jewels, and military fortress, Edinburgh Castle has been at the hub of the city for centuries. Robert Burns lived in Edinburgh for a spell in the 1780s, partly in the Lawnmarket, near the castle.

To commemorate Burns’ birthday, why not come to Edinburgh Castle’s Celebrating Burns, a special living history event offering a light-hearted introduction to the Bard where visitors can learn more about Scotland’s national poet and some of his famous works.

Gillian Urquhart, Events Manager at Historic Environment Scotland that manages Edinburgh and Stirling Castles, said:

“Robert Burns is an iconic Scot who has a lasting impact on Scotland, with his poetry an integral part of our heritage that is revisited and celebrated by Scots every year on Burns Night, bringing joy during the dark winter evenings as dinner parties are hosted and haggis is enjoyed across the country! 

“It seems fitting to celebrate the legacy of such a historic figure at two of our most iconic heritage sites and we are thrilled to welcome visitors to Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle to help bring the spirit of Burns to life with us.” 

Burns an’ a’ that is taking place at Stirling Castle between 12 – 4pm on Saturday 25 January 2025. The event is included in admission to Stirling Castle.

Celebrating Burns is taking place at Edinburgh Castle at 11.15am, 12.15pm, 2pm and 3pm on Saturday 25 January 2025. The event is included in admission to Edinburgh Castle.

Further information for each event and how to buy tickets can be found at historicenvironment.scot/whats-on. Entry to daytime events is free for Historic Scotland members.