Families across Dunfermline are invited to discover the town's rich heritage through photography, sculpture and creativity this October as the popular Heritage Quarter Explorer PAST-PORT programme returns for the Autumn holidays. Running from 10 to 25 October, this free family learning initiative is a partnership between the Abbey Church of Dunfermline, Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum, Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries and Historic Environment Scotland’s Palace and Nave. The programme encourages children and families to explore Dunfermline's remarkable heritage through fun, hands-on activities at four iconic locations across the city. This autumn's theme, "Picture This", takes inspiration from the 200th anniversary of the Royal Scottish Academy, celebrating the worlds of photography, art and sculpture through engaging activities designed to inspire young imaginations. Visitors can collect their Heritage Quarter Explorer PAST-PORT and enjoy a range of free activities at each participating venue: Andrew Carnegie Birthplace MuseumAt the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum, young explorers can embark on a Picture-Perfect Scavenger Hunt, create their own miniature sculptures using play dough and write an imaginative story inspired by historic photographs of the Carnegie family. Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries (OnFife)At Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries, children can immerse themselves in a variety of art-inspired challenges. Activities include themed colouring sheets, an art discovery trail through the galleries, a creative "Through the Lens" exploration using viewfinders to examine artworks and museum objects, a "Strike a Pose" sculpture challenge, and a drawing activity inspired by artworks from the gallery collection. Dunfermline AbbeyFamilies visiting Dunfermline Abbey can piece together photographic jigsaws featuring the Abbey, test their building skills by creating sculptures from blocks and investigate historic outline maps to identify famous sites from the local area. Dunfermline Nave & Palace (Historic Environment Scotland)At the Abbey Nave, visitors can step back in time to discover the fascinating history of photography. Children will learn how photographs were created before the days of digital cameras and make their own autumn-themed photographic artwork using special light-sensitive paper and natural objects to take home. The Heritage Quarter Explorer PAST-PORT programme continues to provide accessible and engaging opportunities for children and families to connect with Dunfermline's history, culture and heritage in new and exciting ways. Whether you're a budding photographer, an aspiring sculptor or simply looking for free family fun during the school holidays, Picture This offers something for everyone.
Event Information: What: Heritage Quarter Explorer PAST-PORT - Picture This
When: 10 - 25 October 2026
Where: Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum, Abbey Nave, Dunfermline Abbey and Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries
Cost: Free
For more information, visit the participating venues during the Autumn holidays and start your Heritage Quarter Explorer adventure. The activities are offered in partnership by the Abbey Church of Dunfermline, Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum, Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries (OnFife), and Historic Environment Scotland.
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