SOME of the most famous names in Scottish history are descending on Traquair this weekend - so expect a few cross words and skirmishes.

Proprietors of Scotland oldest inhabited house outside Innerleithen are famed for their loyalty to the Stuart claim to the throne.

As an act of loyalty to the cause the infamous Bear Gates at the top of the estate's avenue have remained shut ever since Bonnie Prince Charlie's visit in 1745.

And the long line of lairds have honoured the vow for them not to be reopened until a Stuart king returns.

Throughout Saturday and Sunday (August 18 and 19), Traquair will bring its history back to life.

Charlie will ride into the estate, like he did more than 270 years ago, to join his Jacobite supporters.

But the redcoats are lying in wait.

During both days, Alan Breck’s Volunteer Regiment will be setting up camp so visitors can learn about life in a Jacobite army, and also witness a skirmish as the redcoats ambush the camp.

Inside the house, there are no less dramatic happenings as past inhabitants tell their stories in a series of short scenarios taking place in various rooms.

Mary Queen of Scots will be complaining about her thoughtless husband, Darnley.

And there's the opportunity to hear what it was like to be a daughter at Traquair being sent to Europe to be educated.

The Elderly Earl of Traquair will be moaning about his daughter in law.

And there's an opportunity to experience what life was like for a Catholic priest in the Reformed17th century.

All the stories are drawn from Traquair’s own rich archives of letters, accounts and diaries - many already on display in the house.

Traquair's lady laird Catherine Maxwell Stuart told us: "The history of Traquair is all about the people who lived here and this event gives us the chance to bring those characters back from the past to tell their own stories."

Traquair's living history takes place on both Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance at reduced prices.