ONE of the most historic buildings in Falkirk district is open for free tours this Sunday (August 31).
Kinneil House in Bo’ness – which boasts some of the best renaissance wall paintings in Scotland – will be open from noon to 3 p.m. (last admission 2.30 p.m.)
The event has been organised by the charity The Friends of Kinneil in association with Historic Scotland.
Neighbouring Kinneil Museum, run by Falkirk Community Trust, will also be open.
Kinneil was once the home of the powerful Hamilton family. The building has links to Mary, Queen of Scots and the inventor James Watt.
The L-shaped building, with its imposing tower and palace sections, dates back to the 15th century. It was re-modelled in the 1540s and transformed into a stately home in the 1660s.
Find out more at http://www.kinneil.org.uk
A spokesman for The Friends of Kinneil said: “We’re pleased to be working with Historic Scotland to stage this special open day this Sunday.
“Volunteer guides will take people through part of the House and explain its fascinating history. Admission to the House is free of charge.
“Trains will also be running at the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway this weekend, allowing history fans to visit the Railway – get off at Kinneil Halt – and then walk up to the House for a tour. The House is also a short drive from the Helix Park and the Kelpies.”
He added: “Kinneil House is set in a wonderful park, Kinneil Estate – which has the ruins of a medieval church and the remnants of a Roman fortlet. The line of the Antonine Wall runs through the site.
“With the addition of the museum and acres of surrounding woodlands, there’s plenty for families to see and enjoy.”
- Kinneil House and Museum is just off the A993 (Dean Road) – the main road through Bo’ness. Look out for brown tourist signs at the western side of Bo’ness. The postcode for the site is EH51 0PR.
- For additional location information visit www.kinneil.org.uk/map or call Kinneil Museum on 01506 778530.
- To find out about trips on the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway (fares payable) http://www.bkrailway.co.uk
- The Helix Park and the Kelpies is about 7 miles away from Kinneil House. Visit http://www.thehelix.co.uk
- Discover information on other local attractions at www.visitfalkirk.com
Kinneil 
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