Historic Kinneil House in Bo’ness – said to be haunted by the ghost of a ‘White Lady’ – is opening its doors just before Hallowe’en.
The imposing edifice, which forms the centrepiece of the impressive Kinneil Estate, will be open for free tours on Sunday, October 27, 2013, from noon to 3 pm (last admission 2.30 p.m.)
Youngsters are being invited to dress up – with the best dressed winning a book token.
Volunteers from the charity The Friends of Kinneil will be on hand to tell visitors about Lady Alice Lilbourne, who fell to her death from one of the top floor windows. Ever since, she is said to haunt the house and its grounds.
Guides will also re-count stories of the local women tried for witchcraft. The open afternoon has been organised in association with Historic Scotland, which cares for the House - which also boasts some of the best renaissance wall paintings in Scotland.
Neighbouring Kinneil Museum will also be open from 12.30 p.m. This is the last chance to see inside Kinneil House in 2013.
Maria Ford, chair of The Friends of Kinneil explains: “Visitors can tour the grounds, and visit neighbouring Kinneil Museum, throughout the year. However you can only get inside Kinneil House during free open days, such as this one.
“Please note that children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The House also features winding stairs and some dark rooms – so won’t suit all visitors.”
The open event at Kinneil House ties in with a “Steam ‘n’ Scream” weekend at the nearby Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway. Go on the spooky train ride, then visit Kinneil House.