Round the Forth Passport set to be a massive hit!

We launched our ‘Round the Forth Passport’ activity in May, in time for the summer season, and we have been blown away by the response so far.  Visitors to, and locals within, the Inner Forth can explore all nine heritage sites featured in the passport booklet, collecting stamps as they go. 

 

With locations including RSPB Black Devon Wetlands, Valleyfield Gardener’s Cottage, Blackness Bay Distillery and Dunimarle Castle and Gardens, there is something for all to enjoy. At each stop, there is a brass rubbing station to ‘stamp’ the booklet and the aim is to obtain all nine stamps. 

Focusing on the more ‘hidden’ heritage gems of the area, the custom-designed passports include practice and stamping pages, activities and car-free adventure inspiration close to the sites.  Booklets can be picked up from approved distributors listed here:
 https://www.innerforthlandscape.co.uk/climate-forth/round-the-forth-passport

They can also be obtained by contacting the Climate FORTH team via email (innerforth@rspb.org.uk)

 

To make the adventure greener and more sustainable, the car-free adventures include tips for using public transport, walking and cycling to and from each heritage attraction. Participants are encouraged to try and visit all locations, without automatically using the car, to reduce environmental impact. 

 

Many of the sites can be reached using the project’s Inner Forth Bike Bus, which runs every Sunday until 27th September between Alloa and The Forth Bridges. Travel on the bus with your bike or as a walking passenger; booklets will be available on board for passengers to pick up, too.  

 

The booklets have been in high demand and we have already had to reprint and restock! The Round the Forth Passport is an ideal activity for families, friends and work colleagues looking for a day out with a difference. It is free to take part in, too, thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and it celebrates the variety and wealth of built and natural heritage within the Inner Forth.  

 

 

Colm and Sheena O'Rourke, owners of Blackness Bay Distillery – one of the passport sites - said: 

 

“We’re delighted to be part of the new Round the Forth Passport and to stand alongside such an inspiring collection of heritage destinations across the Forth Valley. 

 

We’re committed to celebrating the history, craftsmanship and character of our local area, so being included in a trail that encourages people to explore and connect with these unique sites is a wonderful opportunity. We look forward to welcoming visitors to the distillery and being part of their journey as they collect their brass rubbings along the way.”

 

David Anderson, Site Manager for RSPB Scotland and Black Devon Wetlands, commented:  

“It’s great to be a part of the Round the Forth Passport scheme with Climate FORTH. We look forward to welcoming visitors to RSPB Black Devon Wetlands to stamp their booklets and enjoy the reserve, which is a haven for wading birds, dragonflies, newts and frogs. People can also look out for little egrets, a tall and elegant white bird that can sometimes be seen from the viewing screen.”

 

This activity is one of many pilot schemes being trialled by Climate FORTH to make the Inner Forth more resilient to climate change

 

For more information on how to take part, please visit www.innerforthlandscape.co.uk/climate-forth