Dig up some fun this half term at the National Museum of Rural Life

Supported by Postcode Lottery players, Spring Explorers includes a range of family fun and activities, helping young visitors understand how plants grow and ecosystems thrive.  

Visitors can enjoy a range of drop-in activities throughout the day, including the opportunity to take part in a hands-on planting activity. Learn how bugs and worms keep soil healthy for plants to grow, by planting a trio of potatoes, basil and marigolds to take home. There will be lively, soil-inspired storytelling and songs in the theatre, as well as the chance to get messy at our Soil Exploration. 

Visitors can also explore the modern museum building, which features impressive galleries displaying objects that tell the fascinating story of Scotland’s rural past. A new display has also recently opened at the museum, Scotland’s Farming Future, which explores the cutting-edge science that can contribute to modern farming. Also, a new addition in this display is Morag the sheep, an important cloned predecessor to the world-famous Dolly the sheep.  

Vicky McLean, General Manager at the National Museum of Rural Life, said: 

Spring is a time of growth and discovery, and Spring Explorers is all about giving families the chance to connect with nature through creativity and play. From planting vegetables and flowers to storytelling, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. A visit is a fabulous way for families to connect with the countryside and to learn about farming and Scotland’s rural past. We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to the Museum this season.

Thanks to the support of Postcode Lottery players, this event is free with museum admission. 

The National Museum of Rural Life is open seven days a week and tickets are valid for unlimited visits for 12 months from the date of purchase. 

The National Museum of Rural Life is open seven days a week from 10am until 5pm. Closed on 25 Dec, 26 Dec, and 1 Jan.  

Tickets can be booked online at nms.ac.uk/rural-life 

Annual Pass – pay once, visit all year 

Annual Pass prices 

Adult (16+) £12.50, Over 65s £11.50, Concession* £10.50, Child (5-15) £9.50, (under 5’s free**). 

15% family discount when up to three Child (5-15) tickets alongside up to two Adult or Concession tickets (max 5 tickets total) purchased*** 

National Museums Scotland members free. 

Discounts available for groups of 10 or more. 

School visits free; some workshop charges apply. 

* Concessions: Student, Unemployed, Disabled, Young Scot. Valid ID required 

**Additional charge for some events 

***Cannot be used with member tickets or any other discount or offer