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Everyone knows Merlin, the Wizard of Arthurian Legend.

But behind the fantasy lies the true story of a real man who lived in the 6th Century in the south of Scotland.

A time tunnel transports visitors down 20 centuries to a projection theatre.

Here a combination of film and virtual reality presents a briefing to a forgotten 6th century world of Welsh-speaking clans and introduces Merlin.

This is a dramatic and dynamic time of change when traditional ways are being challenged and the elements which will forge the Kingdom of Scotland are emerging.

The Farmstead

A promenade then takes visitors on a ground-breaking immersive experience.

Coming out of the theatre, they find themselves in a 6th century farming settlement where they can engage in hands-on 6th century agricultural activities. 

There are early breeds of cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, working dogs, bee-keeping. 

There will be ploughing with oxen, planting, cultivation, the growing, gathering and preparation of herbs and natural medicines.

They can visit two farmhouses – again with hands-on participation.

One is mainly concerned with cooking, baking and food preparation.

The other has an emphasis on domestic crafts (spinning, weaving, string-making, clothing etc).

Proposed site for the farm:

Genocide and Banishment

The promenade pauses with a ten-minute rest in a second theatre to witness the genocide of Merlin’s clan.

666 monks led by St Mungo’s mission arrive to convert the Southern Uplands.

Merlin is outlawed, with a price on his head, and for the next ten years he lives in a cave shelter in the Moffat Hills, dependent on what nature can provide and trying to survive the harsh winters.

>> Read more on The Merlin Trail website

The Sacred Grove

The promenade continues to a sacred grove by the river – a quiet place of nature where visitors can engage with traditional Celtic beliefs.

The unique 6th century locations can also be made available for hire as film or photographic locations.

Merlin's Demise

The promenade ends in a third theatre for the end of the story and Merlin’s last days.

A multi-purpose exhibition/events/conference space with learning stations includes an exhibition of how the Arthurian legend adopted Merlin.

Out of hours, the conference area can be made available for community and other events.

From Fact to Fake

In different countries in succeeding centuries, this legend was a vehicle for the promotion of new ideals (Wales, England, France, Italy, Germany, Scandinavia, America).

The Restaurant

A rooftop restaurant with a spectacular view of the Moffat Hills will have its own external access to allow for additional opening hours.

Workshop

There will be a wide range of craft workshops with hands-on opportunities, craft training courses, an arena for events and a shop selling related items.

The car park with electric charging points will include a village store.

The Merlin Experience is a not-for-profit charitable organisation. It will act as a catalyst of for rural economic regeneration and local communities will be represented in the management.

It will invest in a programme of historical and archaeological research, as well as organising training courses and supporting community initiatives such as the reopening of the Beattock Railway Station.

The Merlin Experience is expected to attract an additional 200,00 visitors per annum, generating an additional visitor spend of over £20 million per annum. This will:

  • Stimulate business for local hotels, restaurants and shops as well as create new opportunities for new enterprise.
  • Counter outward migration by providing young people with skills development, training and employment opportunities.
  • Stimulate pride of place and fill a gap in Scottish heritage tourism, by offering a unique experience of enormous international interest.

Contact

The Merlin Experience,
Keepers House,
Traquair House,
Innerleithen EH44 6PP

Email: crichton.efp@gmail.com

 

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