Discover “Dunfermline in Colour” with HQ Explorer PAST-PORT This Summer

This summer, children and families are invited to explore the vibrant history of Dunfermline through colour, creativity, and art with Dunfermline in Colour, the latest theme for the popular HQ Explorer PAST-PORT scheme.

Running from Friday 4th July to Saturday 16th August, this free programme of activities celebrates painting and colour across the city’s rich heritage, taking inspiration from the Royal Scottish Academy’s 200th anniversary. Families can enjoy a colourful journey through Dunfermline’s Heritage Quarter, discovering art, history, and creativity through hands-on activities. Activities are designed for primary school aged children; however, they are suitable for all ages.

Across the four Dunfermline venues, young explorers can take part in engaging activities designed to spark imagination and curiosity:

• Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
  Discover the many portraits of Andrew Carnegie and create your own portrait—with a twist! Children can also hunt for colours in nature and make their own rainbow.

• Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries (OnFife)
  Follow an exciting museum trail to find paintings of Dunfermline hidden throughout the building, then get creative by completing your own colour wheel.

• Dunfermline Abbey
  Step inside the Abbey to explore how colours reflect the changing seasons and learn how these colours have been used and represented in church life.

• Dunfermline Nave & Palace (Historic Environment Scotland)
  Learn about the famous artist J. M. W. Turner and explore his sketches and watercolours paintings of the Abbey, discovering how artists capture colour, light, and atmosphere.

As with previous PAST-PORT adventures, children can collect a stamp at each venue by completing the activities. Once all four stamps are collected, they will receive a certificate to celebrate their colourful journey through Dunfermline’s past. Families can take part in a single day or spread their visits across the summer holidays.

The HQ Explorer PAST-PORT scheme has become a firm favourite with local families and visitors alike, offering “a brilliant way to get kids engaged with history” and “a fun way to explore Dunfermline together.”

PAST-PORTS are free and available at all four venues. Before visiting, please check each venue’s opening hours, as these may vary. Share your journey! Use the hashtags #HQExplorers and #DunfermlineInColour on social media.

Dates: Friday 4th July – Saturday 16th August