Select a Language: 
Newsletter Subscription
Brave Heart Challenge
Tuesday 17th July - Phase 1
Saturday 28th July - Phase 2
Saturday 4th August - Phase 3
Saturday 11th August - Phase 4
Time: Timings displayed at Visitor Reception
A story of truth and legend ... a story of blood, guts and bravery! Sir James Douglas, famed ancestor of the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry, was the trusted keeper of the heart of Robert the Bruce after his death in 1330.
The 'winged heart' is one of the strongest stories from the annals of history. Robert the Bruce, while on his deathbed, entreated his trusted follower, Sir James Douglas, to take his heart into war in Spain in 1330. He carried the heart with him, in a casket, throwing it into the ranks of the enemy with a cry of "forward" before leading his army into battle.
This is why you will find many versions of the 'winged heart' around Drumlanrig Castle.
During the school summer holidays, over a 4 week period, Drumlanrig will be holding the Flying Heart Challenge. Your family will be making weapons, armour, coats of arms and castles in the woods surrounding the Castle.
Be Sir James Douglas on a quest through the Drumlanrig gardens which will end in the throwing of the 'bloody' heart into the enemy's ranks and a battle royal will ensue.
Phase 1 - Tuesday 17th July
History speech of Sir James Douglas
Create a clan/team and name it (signing of parchment with quill)
Create team crest and flags
Phase 2 - Saturday 28th July
History debrief
Create armour
Create weapons and helmet
Phase 3 - Saturday 4th August
History debrief
Create hurdle screens using hazel
Build a fort
Decorate with flag and crest (weather dependent)
Phase 4 - Saturday 11 August
Final Battle
Use teams/clans and weapons to create a battle scene
Throwing of Bruce's heart
Make song/chant to scare opposition
Ideally, though not essential, children should return each week to experience the whole activity and re-enact Sir James Douglas's iconic moment in Scottish history.
Cost Country Estate Admission charges apply (see Useful Information for details).
This includes entry to the Country Estate, Gardens and Adventure Playground.
Booking Essential Book your place in advance to avoid disappointment by contacting the Castle Office on Tel. 01848 331555, email on enquiries@drumlanrig.com or Contact Us.
Some places may be available on the day - check on arrival for availability and times at Visitor Reception. Max. 20 children per activity session.
Schools and Groups must book in advance.
Contact the Castle office on Tel. 01848 331555, email on enquiries@drumlanrig.com or Contact Us for further information.
Why not purchase a Season Ticket which will allow you free entry to Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate throughout the season. See Useful Information for details.
Back to Events