HISTORIC Scotland will be hosting the second in a series of three events leading up to the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn this weekend.

The event will take place at Stirling Castle over the weekend of Saturday 1st June and Sunday 2nd June and will chart the years after Robert the Bruce was inaugurated as King of Scots in 1306.

Visitors will be able to find out more about the turbulent years that led up to the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 and the trials faced by Bruce as he campaigned for support.

There will also be an opportunity to learn about the military tactics used and see combat demonstrations by re-enactors with authentic arms and armour of the period, which will help transport visitors back in time. A series of activities for young visitors will also be taking place.

Gillian Urquhart, Events Manager for Historic Scotland said: "In 1306, the castle was in the hands of the English army, having been captured by Edward I in 1304.

"The castle was of immense strategic significance in terms of who controlled Scotland and it later played a hugely important role in the events leading up to the Battle of Bannockburn itself when Edward II sent an army to help relieve the castle which was under siege by the Scots.

"This weekend will provide visitors with the opportunity to find out more about the fascinating events leading up to the battle, about Bruce himself and the challenges that he faced in the run up to Bannockburn, in advance of the 700th anniversary next year." The Road to Bannockburn event will run on Saturday 1st June and Sunday 2nd June from 12 noon - 4pm and is included as part of the admission price to the castle.