Five hundred years ago, part of the Palace Gardens was a medieval menagerie – sort of like a private royal zoo. It was home to a range of animals - including lions, tigers and bears.

Animal masks

Join us in the Family Room to learn about the animals that have lived in the Palace Gardens – in the medieval menagerie hundreds of years ago, and amongst the shrubs and trees today. Take the chance to make a paper mask of your favourite animal to wear as you explore the Palace.

Garden Games

As well as the exotic animals living in the menagerie, the Gardens were also home to a tennis court, bowls, hawking, archery and other outdoor games. Come try your hand at some historic games!

Unicorn Family Trail

Celebrate the most magical animal of all – Scotland’s national animal, the mighty unicorn! Collect your copy of this special activity trail and see if you can spot the unicorns in the Palace and grounds.