Brodie 'Fun Palace' promises weekend of wonder

AN EVENT at Brodie Castle this weekend aims to open minds and doors to new learning when it transforms into a Fun Palace.

The curious can take their pick of workshops and sessions across arts, music, science and more on Saturday and Sunday, October 5-6.

The free event is one of a number of Fun Palaces at other National Trust for Scotland properties across the north this weekend. The campaign promotes "community at the heart of culture, and culture at the heart of community" and is held annually by and for local people.

Staff and volunteers from the Brodie community will share secrets and lead sessions on their own skills and hobbies.

Workshops will run from 11am to 4pm, with the last workshop starting at 3pm. The many and varied activities include hut painting, coin collecting, flower arranging, ceilidh dancing, art and fencing. Visitors can make origami toads in the same bedroom that the wife of the 24th Brodie clan chief kept toads 100 years ago.

Brodie’s head gardener will be on hand to offer his top tips, and visitors can learn how to look after a castle with the head of housekeeping and collections.

Alexandra Boag, visitor services supervisor at the castle, said: "Brodie Castle is a place full of history and wonder – but this weekend it will offer even more than usual. It’s not often people have the chance to take part in a fencing workshop, gardening Q&A and photography lesson all at the same place, so it’s really exciting.

"This is a great opportunity for local people of all ages to come along, see the castle, and try something new. Who knows, they might become an enthusiast themselves."

The trust’s regional Fun Palaces organiser, Katey Boal, said: "We will be celebrating the often hidden skills of our brilliant volunteers and we’re looking forward to welcoming lots of locals to learn new skills, including knitting, spinning, art, gardening, music workshops, mini-beast hunting, storytelling and much more."

For more information visit www.nts.org.uk/visit/events/brodie-fun-palaces.

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