Places of Interest is Scotland

Mar Lodge Estate

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:24:09 +0000

Mar Lodge Estate occupies nearly 7% of the Cairngorms National Park, covering in total 29,380 hectares of some of the most remote and scenic wild land in Scotland, including four of the five highest mountains in the UK.

Within its boundaries are fine examples of classic features of a Highland landscape: remnants of the ancient Caledonian pine forest, heather moorland, juniper scrub and a part of the high Cairngorm plateau.

The estate is recognised as one of the most important nature conservation landscapes in the British Isles.

What to see & do

The estate takes in 15 Munros and provides excellent opportunities for walking in the mountains of the Cairngorms. There are several mountain bothies, as well as opportunities for wild camping, to facilitate access and enjoyment of the mountains.
Walkers can also enjoy low-lying woodland and riverside walks. From the Linn of Dee car park, a nearby walk offers stunning views of a scenic gorge.

The estate holds a number of ceilidhs a year in the famous Stag Ballroom at Mar Lodge. Details and tickets for these are available from the Estate Office.

There are opportunities for salmon fishing, deer stalking and grouse shooting on the estate; details of these sports, as well as accommodation and bookings, can be obtained from the Estate Office.

Spring

Spring brings the first flush of green to the landscape, and much of the wildlife in the area comes to life. Black grouse can be seen at their traditional lek sites (areas where they traditionally display) and the river valleys fill with the sound of courting oystercatchers, lapwing and curlew. The early spring flowers, such as wood sorrel and bluebells, bring some colour to the woods. The stags cast their antlers during March and April and begin to grow new ones.

Summer

The mountains are at their most colourful now with the purple heather being in full bloom during July and August. The stags’ antlers are now fully grown and the velvet is beginning to fall from them. Young birds are to be seen everywhere and some of the young eagles will be seen taking their first flights in August. Stag stalking starts in July and the first of the salmon are running up the rivers.

Autumn

The autumn colours of upper Deeside are fabulous and should not be missed. The cool misty mornings and evenings, interspersed with warm autumn days, probably provide the best conditions to enjoy the hills of the estate. During October the stags are rutting and looking their finest. They can be seen in many of the traditional rutting stands.

Winter

The winter provides wonderful opportunities for winter sports including ice climbing and cross-country skiing. The mountain hares are in their white winter coats, as are the ptarmigan on the mountain tops. The crisp cold weather of January and February provides spectacular snow and ice landscapes which are best appreciated when walking.

Mar Lodge Estate is run by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including opening times and admission please see their website.

Ben Lomond

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:09:29 +0000

Rising from the east shore of Loch Lomond to a height of 974m (3,193ft), Ben Lomond offers exhilarating walking and spectacular views across Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park.

Details of walking routes are available from the Information Centre at Rowardennan car park. These range in difficulty from an arduous but rewarding ascent to the summit of Ben Lomond, to the leisurely Ardess Hidden History Trail - a low-level walk the whole family can enjoy.

Why not enhance your group visit by pre-booking a ranger as a guide? They'll be able to tell you all about this magnificent terrain and the vital conservation work that's going on, as well as help keep you on the right path!

What to see & do

Ben Lomond is a great place to experience the draw of Highland scenery and is only a short drive/journey from central Scotland. Walking routes range from the paths up the mountain, through forest walks on adjacent Forestry Commission Scotland land, to the low-level Ardess Hidden History Trail or lochside walk following the West Highland Way.

April and May are a good time of year to experience the oak woodlands at their best, with great shows of bluebells and plenty of birdlife.

The Ardess Hidden History Trail has a self-guiding leaflet which can be picked up at the dispenser outside the ranger base. We ask for a small donation per leaflet to help cover printing costs. There is also a quiz leaflet for youngsters, with carvings around the trail for them to find.

Why not come on one of our ranger-guided walks? There is no better way to get to know Ben Lomond than on a walk with someone who has worked in the place for several years!

For a real adventure for the kids, travel by boat to Rowardennan, from Luss or Tarbet with our friends at Cruise Loch Lomond. To find out more and get timetables, visit their website www.cruiselochlomond.co.uk.

For more information please see the National Trust for Scotland's website

Gladstone's Land

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 22:39:54 +0000

Step back in time to bustling and turbulent 17th-century Edinburgh. Thomas Gledstanes, a wealthy merchant who owned this six-storey tenement, rented each floor to tenants of various means.

Explore Thomas Gledstanes' land to discover the lives of his tenants and experience what life was really like in Edinburgh’s Old Town 400 years ago. It is decorated and furnished to give visitors an impression of life in Edinburgh's 17th-century Old Town. Highlights include an original painted ceiling and the reconstructed shop booth complete with replicas of 17th-century goods.

What to see & do

View six display rooms furnished with objects of the period, including an original painted ceiling, to give you a flavour of life in the 17th century. On the first floor discover how a wealthy person lived in the 17th century, surrounded by a large range of period furnishings and the spectacular painted ceiling dating to 1620.

Discover the differences between 17th- and 18th-century living standards in the Green Room - a Georgian extension, which includes an original Norie painted panel.

Experience a 17th-century retail experience in the luckenbooth that dates back to 1620. The Inner Hall was the home of a guild officer for a short time.

At the end of your visit, don't miss the gift shop, which has an excellent selection of merchandise suitable for all tastes.

There is also free admission to the Gladstone Gallery on the second floor of Gladstone's Land. Open daily (except Mondays) during July and August, it is a free gallery exhibiting local contemporary artwork and boasts another painted ceiling.

Gladstone's Land is looked after by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including opening times and admission please see the website.

Kintail & Morvich

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 22:01:29 +0000

A magnificent stretch of West Highland scenery - the estate includes the Falls of Glomach and the Five Sisters of Kintail. There is a countryside centre at Morvich Farm, off the A87, which is the best access point to the mountains. Red deer, eagles and other wildlife can be seen in abundance.

What to see & do

Recreational visitors can access the core mountain zone relatively easily. Specialist walkers and experienced mountaineers can independently explore the property, to those who desire a more relaxed experience of the scenic and cultural opportunities within the area, while remaining close to the A87.

Visit the Battle site of Glen Shiel along the A87, Scotland’s only battle site scheduled as an ancient monument

Five Sisters of Kintail Guided Walk: Experience stunning mountain scenery along one of Scotland’s famous ridges and take in 3 munros. Learn about mountain plants, or maybe see red deer, golden eagles and ptarmigan.
Duration: 12 hours
Costs: Adults £25.00
Booking essential. Please contact the Ranger Service on 01599 511231

Sea kayaking Taster Days: Come and see landscapes from a totally different perspective … from a sea kayak! Sea kayaking is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities and we are fortunate that the west coast of Scotland offers some of the best coastline for sea kayaking, not just in Scotland, but in the world.

Introductory Sea Kayaking Courses for the first time paddler aimed to develop skills to start exploring some of the most dramatic scenery around Scotland, whilst having fun! Intermediate courses, which are ideal for people who already have some paddling experience but would like to broaden their skills and techniques … and have even more fun!

Summer Mountain Leader Training and Assessment. This competence and experience-based award is designed to develop the group management and technical skills required by a responsible leader or supervisor. The training and assessment will be provided by Stuart Johnston Mountaineering who is a registered course provider with MLTS (Mountain Leader Training Scotland) and will be based from the Kintail Outdoor Centre at Morvich.

Otters and orchids guided walk: A coastal walk near Plockton, which takes you through the wild flowers of the crofting meadows of Drumbuie, and Port an Eorna. Learn about the crofting way of life, past and present, or maybe spot the elusive otter known to inhabit the coastline.

The site looked after by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information please see their website.

Tenement House

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 21:44:12 +0000

The Tenement House is a typical Victorian tenement flat of 1892, which retains many of its original fittings, such as gas lamps and the splendid kitchen range. Take a nostalgic step back in time!

What to see & do

There are two parts to the property: the Tenement House itself which is on the first floor, and the exhibition which is in the Reception flat on the ground floor.

Visitors are advised to see the Tenement House first and then return to the Reception flat to see the exhibition on tenement life and the collection of Miss Toward’s papers.

Visitors are welcome to go round the rooms in any order they wish. Room Guides are on duty to answer visitors’ questions.

If you would like a copy of the children’s quiz, please ask staff on duty in The Tenement House. A clipboard and pencil are also provided.

Tenement House is run by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including opening hours and admission, please see the website.

Newhailes

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:37:43 +0000

Newhailes is a fine late 17th-century house with impressive 18th-century additions and interiors, set in a fascinating 18th-century designed landscape. Bought in the early 1700s by Sir David Dalrymple, of the Scots legal and political dynasty, the most remarkable addition was the library, which played host to many famous figures of the Scottish Enlightenment. Much of the original decoration and furnishing has survived intact, though worn, retaining the mellowness of its interiors rather than being an immaculate restored dwelling.

What to see & do

With much of the original decorative scheme (the Chinese hand-painted wallpaper, painted woodwork and furnishings) surviving intact, Newhailes' interiors have mellowed beautifully, adding greatly to the character of the house.

Newhailes is also a unique achievement in conservation terms. Rather than attempt to re-create an immaculate dwelling, the Trust has worked hard to keep the house 'untouched' by modern hands.

The 18th-century designed landscape surrounding the house holds a few surprises of its own. Take time to explore and you will discover a raised walkway, a shell grotto hidden in the trees and a water garden, as well as a number of different waymarked walks and paths.

The property is run by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including opening hours and admission fees, please see the website.

Blackness Castle

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:08:16 +0000

Built in the 15th century by one of Scotland’s most powerful families, the Crichtons, Blackness was never destined as a peaceful lordly residence; its enduring roles were those of garrison fortress and state prison.

The port of Linlithgow

Blackness Castle stands beside the Firth of Forth, at the seaport which in medieval times served the royal burgh of Linlithgow. The castle was built in the 15th century by one of Scotland’s more powerful families, the Crichtons. But Blackness was not destined to serve as a peaceful lordly residence. In 1453 it became a royal castle and its enduring roles were those of garrison fortress and state prison. In the twilight of its days in the later 19th century, Blackness served as an ammunition depot, but after the First World War it was decommissioned and passed into state care as a visitor attraction.

The ship that never sailed

Blackness is often referred to as ‘the ship that never sailed’. This is because of its appearance, for from the seaward side it looks just like a great stone ship that has run aground. The pointed stem projects into the water, while the square stern stands beached on dry land. The castle’s three towers add to the effect – the small ‘stem’ tower at the prow, the tall ‘main mast’ tower at the centre, and the solid ‘stern’ tower at the rear.

A formidable artillery fortification

In 1537, James V (1513–42) embarked on an ambitious programme to convert the 15th-century castle into a formidable artillery fortification. The looming threat from Henry VIII’s Protestant England was the catalyst. The work was completed in 1543, just as the ‘Wars of the Rough Wooing’ were about to erupt.

Mighty Blackness had none of the subtlety of the great Italianate artillery fortifications. Instead, a brute mass of masonry (the ‘stern’ tower) confronted bombardment from the land, with defensive cannons firing through yawning great gunholes positioned to give all-round firepower. The vastly strengthened castle withstood various sieges, until in 1650 Oliver Cromwell’s heavy guns devastated the defences, forcing the garrison to surrender. The scars of that bombardment are still in evidence today.

A state prison

Dour Blackness was no suitable residence for a nobleman. It was a garrison stronghold first and foremost. It also came to be used as a state prison for those whom the reigning sovereign wished to see safely out of the way.

Countless noblemen were held here during the later Middle Ages, none more important perhaps than Cardinal David Beaton, Archbishop of St Andrews, in 1543. In the notorious ‘Killing Time’ of the 1670s and 1680s, many a Covenanter (religious dissident) was incarcerated here by Charles II and James VIII. In the later 18th century, Blackness served as a prison of war for foreign sailors and soldiers captured during the wars with France, Spain and the fledgling United States of America.

Blackness Castle is an Historic Scotland property. For more information including admission fees and opening hours, please see website.

The Scottish Crannog Centre

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:37:43 +0000

A crannog is a type of ancient loch-dwelling found throughout Scotland and Ireland dating from 5,000 years ago. Many crannogs were built out in the water as defensive homesteads and represented symbols of power and wealth. The Scottish Crannog Centre features a unique reconstruction of an early Iron Age loch-dwelling, built by the Scottish Trust for Underwater Archaeology (STUA), registered charity no. SCO18418.

This authentic recreation is based on the excavation evidence from the 2,600 year old site of 'Oakbank Crannog', one of the 18 crannogs preserved in Loch Tay, Scotland. The STUA continues to explore other underwater sites in Loch Tay and further afield, regularly adding new discoveries to its award-winning centre at Kenmore, Perthshire.

Discover how and why these ancient people built their homes in the water, and experience first-hand how they lived at the awardwinning Scottish Crannog Centre.

A visit to the Centre includes a self-guided exhibition, a guided crannog tour, and 'hands-on' ancient crafts and technology demonstrations. There is also a themed giftshop in which to browse offering an excellent selection of books, crafts, and related items. Special events run regularly featuring artists, musicians, skilled craft workers, and other specialists who, together with our own team of Iron Age Guides, actively bring the past to life. All in all, an excellent day out for adults and children alike, from ages 4+.

For more information including opening hours and admission, please see the website.

Glencoe & Dalness

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 16:05:50 +0000

Glencoe is one of Scotland's most beautiful places and you can find out about its history, landscape and wildlife in the Trust's visitor centre.

The peaks of Glencoe stand as a monument to one of the most tragic events in Scotland's history - the infamous massacre that took place here on a snow-driven February night in 1692.

The site offers a dramatic backdrop for some of the finest climbing and walking in the country. Red deer, wildcat, golden eagle and rare arctic alpine plants can be found among the breathtaking peaks and spectacular waterfalls in the glen. An easy walk is to Signal Rock, by tradition the gathering point for the MacDonalds of Glencoe at times of emergency.

Mountaineering

Glencoe is the home of Scottish mountaineering and was the scene of many first ascents, by celebrated Victorian climbers such as Raeburn, Naismith, Collie and the Abrahams. The area is still extremely popular in both summer and winter. There are 20 major climbing sites, each with many individual routes. It is estimated that hill walkers make about 150,000 visits to the property each year.

Mountains

Buachaille Etive Mor and Buachaille Etive Beag stand at the east side of the property, the Three Sisters on the south of the glen, and the famous ridge walk along the Aonach Eagach forms our northern boundary. There are eight Munros within the property - Bidean nam Bian, Stob Coire Sgreamhach, Sgorr nam Fiannaidh, Meall Dearg, Stob na Broige, Stob Dearg, Stob Coire Raineach and Stob Dubh. There are no Corbetts though!
In all there are over 49 miles (79km) of footpaths on the property, upon which NTS operates a rolling programme of maintenance and repair.

Exhibition

With exciting interactive displays and activities for both adults and children, Living on the Edge explores the landscape, wildlife and history of Glencoe. Find out what it feels like to climb on ice, discover how the glen was formed, and try your hand at solving the conservation issues faced by NTS.
Follow the history of the famous massacre of Glencoe with a 15-minute video presentation. Additional audio historical information is available in six languages: English, French, Gaelic, German, Italian and Japanese.
Another two video presentations, plus a free activity book for children, is all part of a fun visit!

Outlook Station

Going for a walk and not sure where to go? Then pop into our outlook station, situated in the reception, for friendly advice from the ranger service. Get the latest weather forecast, or buy the map you need for your walk in the hills. You can also find out about local accommodation and other places of interest to visit in the area.

Viewing Platform

See the surrounding hills up close through our telescope. Look out for the local wildlife; you might even see one of our Highland cattle up close.

The area is maintained by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information please see their website.

Robert Smail's Printing Works

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:13:45 +0000

A printing time-capsule featuring a completely restored Victorian printing works. Visitors can watch and experience for themselves the almost forgotten craft of hand typesetting.

The buildings also contain the Victorian office with its acid-etched windows, the reconstructed waterwheel and many historic items.

What to see & do

Read All About It.....
In the year 1893, the Smail’s began printing The St. Ronan’s Standard and Effective Advertiser newspaper. This was a small, local publication, consisting of one page of adverts and three pages of news. In 1896, R. Smail and Sons took over the publishing rights and continued to print The Standard until the year 1916. In the march of that year, printing of the Standard ceased, due to national service and WWI having caused such depletion in skilled staff that they could no longer produce the newspaper. The St. Ronan’s Standard was then incorporated into the Peeblesshire News, which is still in publication today. Now, 95 years after the last St. Ronan’s Standard came from the press, 2011 sees the production of a full four-page commemorative edition to celebrate the 25 years since Robert Smail’s Printing Works being saved for the nation by the National Trust for Scotland. The Standard will be distributed free with the Peeblesshire News on the 25th March 2011.

Smail's Celebrates Silver Jubilee

In the year 1866, Robert Smail founded R. Smail and Sons, Printers and Stationers, in the small industrial Border’s town of Innerleithen. In 1890, the business was passed to his sons and in 1950 it was inherited by his grandson Cowan Smail. During all this time, Smail’s rarely modernised and never threw anything away! In the year 1986, after 120 years of trading, Cowan Smail placed a small printed notice in the shop window announcing a closing down sale, commencing on that date, the 26th April. This notice attracted the attention of a member of the British Ephemera Society, who duly informed the National Trust for Scotland about the treasure which is Robert Smail’s Printing Works, and so began negotiations between Cowan and the Trust, and then the eventual purchase of Smail’s later that year. Now, 25 years on, Smail’s remains very much part of the town of Innerleithen. Still producing commercial jobbing work today, using Victorian letterpress techniques and machinery, and with an archive of printed matter, business documents and shipping records spanning three generations, Smail’s is a unique example of industrial and social history. On the 1st April 2011, Smail’s opens its doors to a new season of guided tours, workshops and events. Come and visit and celebrate with us in this very special year.

Office

The office at Smail's is piled high with invoices, ledgers, old newspapers and various other items relating to the running of this thriving Borders business. The St. Ronan's Standard and Effective Advertiser (printed on the premises from 1893 to 1916) offers amongst its front page ads the best place to buy your high class artificial teeth and a vacuum clothes washer. See the records of the passages booked by local folk to the new worlds from Robert Cowan Smail’s shipping agency, and see examples of printing work from 1877 until the present day.

Paper Store

See a reconstruction of one of the original undershot waterwheels, which powered the works until 1930. Also we have an example of a pen ruling machine and some original lithography stones.

Caseroom

A visit to the Caseroom will give you the chance to learn something of a way of printing which lasted over 500 years. The Caseroom is filled with rack upon rack of founders’ type and has a Columbian eagle press for proofing. There is a unique opportunity to try your hand at typesetting and to get your name in print!

Machine Room

The machine room contains several letterpress printing machines, the designs of which span over a hundred years. The Arab Clamshell Platen, Wharfedale Reliance and Original Heidelberg are still used today and are demonstrated during this section of the tour.

The printing works is a National Trust for Scotland property. For more information including opening hours and admission, please see website.

Broughton House & Garden

info@search-southafrica.com (Catriona Stevenson) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:25:04 +0000

The 18th-century Broughton House was home and studio to the artist E A Hornel (one of the 'Glasgow Boys') from 1901 until his death in 1933. He twice lived in Japan and this influenced many of his paintings, some of which are still on display today. The fascinating garden shows the influences of Hornel's time in Japan and is always full of colour.

What to see & do

Cross the threshold of Broughton House and enter the world of well-known Scottish artist E A Hornel, one of the 'Glasgow Boys'. You can admire his paintings and those of his fellow artists throughout the house and gallery.

Some of his extensive collection of books are on display in the library, including works by Burns and many books on local history. From the studio follow your gaze out into the enchanting garden, where you too may find inspiration in the light falling across the Dee.

Established as a Royal Burgh in 1455, Kirkcudbright has always been supported by a busy fishing trade. Behind the harbour, the streets have housed generations of creative artists, a tradition maintained today by a flourishing colony of painters and craftworkers. This has led to it being called the Artists' Town.

The area offers a wide range of activities which visitors have come to expect in the 21st century. These range from information to help you research your family tree to quiet country roads for walking or cycling. Golf and fishing are both on our doorstep. For the more energetic there is horseriding and hillwalking. Our marina is very popular with visiting sailors, offering one of the safest anchorages on the North Solway coast.

Throughout the year a variety of entertainment is provided by Kirkcudbright summer festivities. This ranges from Scottish nights to classic car rallies, from historic walks to a medieval fayre. There is also an annual jazz festival and a spectacular tattoo is held every August.

The house is a National Trust for Scotland Property. For more information including admission and opening hours please see the website.

Hill of Tarvit Mansionhouse & Garden

info@search-southafrica.com (Catriona Stevenson) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:06:22 +0000

Nestling on a hillside in the Fife countryside, this early 20th-century family home is a gem. The house was remodelled in 1906 by the Scottish architect Sir Robert Lorimer and showcases a notable collection of superb French, Chippendale-style and vernacular furniture along with paintings by Raeburn, Ramsay and eminent Dutch artists.

Lorimer also designed the gardens, with formal lawns, yew hedging, flowering borders and a sunken rose garden. There are paths to the hilltop viewpoint and the wider estate.

The grounds contain a recently reinstated 9-hole hickory golf course, providing an innovative and memorable experience for all players.

What to see & do

This fine Edwardian mansion house was remodelled in 1906 by renowned Scottish architect Sir Robert Lorimer (see Kellie Castle) for a wealthy industrialist to house his superb collection of furniture, porcelain and paintings.

Don't miss the kitchen premises for a fascinating insight into 'life below stairs'.

Also in the grounds is a 9-hole golf course, recently reinstated as a hickory club course, providing visitors with a memorable experience of how the Edwardian family and their friends enjoyed their leisure time.

For further information about the course and to make a booking, visit www.kingarrock.com or call 01334 653421 (this number is for the golf course only).

The Mansionhouse and Garden is a National Trust for Scotland property. For more information including admission and opening hours please see the website.

Brodie Castle

info@search-southafrica.com (Catriona Stevenson) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:49:32 +0000

This imposing castle stands in rich Morayshire parkland. Dating from the 16th century, Brodie has unusual plaster ceilings, a major art collection and tells the fascinating story of the Brodie family.

There is a woodland walk with a large pond and a nature trail with access to wildlife observation hides. In springtime the grounds are carpeted with many varieties of daffodils for which Brodie Castle is rightly famous.

Restaurants, shop & other facilities
Suitable for picnics (weather permitting)
Tearoom with lunches and home baking

The grounds are free and open for the public to enjoy.

The castle is a National Trust for Scotland property. For more information including opening hours, please see website.

Falkland Palace & Garden

info@search-southafrica.com (Catriona Stevenson) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:18:18 +0000

The Royal Palace of Falkland, built between 1501 and 1541 and set in the heart of a unique medieval village, was the country residence and hunting lodge of eight Stuart monarchs, including Mary, Queen of Scots.

Wandering around the Palace and gardens, it is poignant to reflect that Mary, Queen of Scots spent some of the happiest days of her life here, 'playing the country girl in the woods and parks'.

The Palace is famous for its beautiful gardens and for the Real Tennis court, built in 1539. A world away from Wimbledon, this is Britain's oldest tennis court and is home to a flourishing local royal tennis club.

Palace

Entering the Palace through the Gatehouse visitors come to the courtyard, enclosed on two sides by the South Range and the now ruined East Range. The original architecture of the building and restoration works carried out by the 3rd Marquess of Bute in the 19th century can be easily examined from here.

The Gatehouse, completed in 1541, contains the private quarters of the Keeper of Falkland Palace, a hereditary position of which the present holder is Ninian Crichton Stuart of Falkland.

The Entrance Hall, panelled by Lord Bute in the 1890s, opens on to the turnpike staircase of the Gatehouse. From here visitors ascend to the Keeper’s Bedroom on the second floor, which contains an impressive four-post bed, which is reputed to have belonged to James VI. The Dressing Room off the bedroom has an elaborate painted ceiling which bears the arms of the 3rd Marquess of Bute.

On the first floor of the Gatehouse, the Drawing Room is a comfortable family room enjoyed by successive Keepers of the Palace.
The Chapel Royal is the most significant surviving original interior of the Palace and dates from the reign of James V. The oak entrance screen and painted ceiling are of national importance and a set of 17th-century Flemish tapestries tell the biblical story of Joseph and Benjamin. The Chapel is still used as a place of worship today. The ante-chapel contains the regimental colours of the Scots Guards and an icon made by members of the Polish Airborne Forces stationed at Falkland during the Second World War.

The Tapestry Gallery forms the processional route from the king’s apartments to the Chapel Royal. The gallery is hung with 17th-century ‘Verdure’ tapestries. Look out for the goat with the eyes that follow you as you walk by!

At the end of the Tapestry Gallery visitors ascend to the Old Library, which contains an elaborately painted ceiling and which has been set up as a memorial to the generations of Crichton Stuarts who have held the position of Keeper of the Palace.
The Bakehouse, which is situated partially below ground level, gives visitors a taste of life below stairs at the Palace.

Lord Bute’s untimely death in 1900 prevented his restoration of the East Range which today remains a ruin after being accidentally destroyed in 1654 when Cromwell’s troops were garrisoned at the Palace. It originally housed the Royal Apartments. At the end of the East Range is a dovecote which provided fresh meat in the winter.

From the East Range visitors enter the ‘King’s Room’, a reconstruction by the architect Schomberg Scott to show how the royal apartments would have appeared.

Above this is the ‘Queen’s Room’, which was decorated and furnished by the Keeper, Ninian Crichton Stuart, and the National Trust for Scotland in 1987.

Gardens

The orchard, one of the largest in the care of the National Trust for Scotland, remains in its original site from the 17th century. There is a large selection of fruit trees, including apple, pear, plum and cherry. From the orchard visitors can enjoy a lovely view of the Palace and village, with East Lomond hill providing a scenic backdrop.

The herbaceous borders in the main garden are still in bloom during September, with phlox and asters. Autumn colours start to show throughout the garden in the shrub and tree collection. Throughout October the autumn foliage colour is more vivid and there is fruit on the crab apple trees.

Shop

The large Palace shop will be carrying a wide range of Christmas gifts, decorations, food and drink later in autumn. Be sure to visit and stock up for the festive season!

Events

Falkland hosts many special events throughout the year - in particular Living History events. Contact the palace for more information.

The Palace is a National Trust for Scotland property. For more information including admission and opening hours, please see the website.

Greenbank Garden

info@search-southafrica.com (Catriona Stevenson) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:05:48 +0000

Within easy reach of city residents, this unique walled garden contains plants and designs of particular interest to domestic gardeners and includes fountains and a woodland walk.

WINTER: December–February

See the winter garden on our walk through the seasons. Many winter-flowering shrubs flower at this time, including Viburnum, witch hazel, Sarcococca, etc. Many trees and shrubs are grown for their winter bark display including birches, willows, dogwoods, prunus, etc. In late winter the carpets of snowdrops bring great joy and are very popular for wedding photographs. Also, winter aconites and our first daffodils are open by the first days of January. Between Christmas and New Year there are usually over 40 different plants in bloom in the garden.

In January and February the foliage of the Bergenia collection is quite striking as many forms turn purple - beetroot at this time.

SPRING: March–May

Visit our spring garden on our walk through the seasons. Daffodils are in full season throughout the period; there are currently 600 different forms, with more on order. A wide range of other spring bulbs is also grown. Many trees and shrubs flower through this season, including rowans, cherries, magnolia, weigelia, etc. Also, catkins come out on many different willows and hazels.

Our raised beds have many plants for rock gardens, making a great show.

From early March many children are interested in one of our ponds, seeing frogspawn develop into tadpoles, then into frogs. In 2006 over 90 frogs were seen in the pond at spawning time.

The Garden is a National Trust for Scotland property. For more information including admission and opening hours please see the website.

Smailholm Tower

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:22:16 +0000

Home to the Pringles and Scotts, Smailholm is a prominent landmark that proved inspirational to Sir Walter Scott who is buried at nearby Dryburgh Abbey.

About the Tower:

Border stronghold

A 20m (65ft) tower house, with walls 2.5m (9 ft) thick, dominates the rock craig. In its shadow lie the ruined foundations of an outer hall and kitchen block, discovered during excavations in 1979–81. A stout defensive wall, 2m (7ft) thick, encloses the barmkin, or courtyard.

The tower house comprised the main residential accommodation for its Pringle laird – ground-floor cellars, first-floor hall, second-floor bedchamber and additional chambers at the top. The views from the battlements are stunning, and on a good day you can see mighty Bamburgh Castle, 33 miles (53km) away in Northumberland.

Border families and reivers

The Pringles, who built the tower in the first half of the 15th century, were a prominent Border family. Their position as squires of the powerful earls of Black Douglas brought them the lucrative position of warden of the Ettrick Forest. They suffered from the reivers, as did all people on both sides of the Border.

During two raids in 1544, reivers from Northumberland got away with over 700 cattle and 100 horses. The family relocated to Galashiels in the later 16th century (their burial vault was in Melrose Abbey), and in 1645 the tower and estate at Smailholm was purchased by the Scotts of Harden, near Hawick. They already had a fine house, so they leased Smailholm to a kinsman, Walter ‘Beardie’ Scott, Sir Walter Scott’s great-grandfather.

Smailholm and Sir Walter Scott

Walter Scott was born in Edinburgh in 1771, but as an infant he fell ill, and his parents sent him to Smailholm for the good of his health. He was just 18 months when he arrived at Sandyknowe Farmhouse, the dwelling down in the hollow that replaced Smailholm Tower as the Scotts’ family home. There his grandmother and aunt told him tales of the Border countryside.

In his old age, Scott acknowledged the powerful effect these Border ballads had on his imagination, as did the sight of his ancestors’ ancient tower, ‘standing stark and upright like a warden’. In 1802, Scott published his much acclaimed Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border. Later, shortly before his death in 1831, he paid an emotional visit to Smailholm.

The Tower is a Historic Scotland property. For more information including admission and opening hours, please see the website.

Urquhart Castle

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:59:58 +0000

The magnificently situated Urquhart Castle, on the banks of Loch Ness, remains an impressive stronghold despite its ruinous state.

Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart’s remains include a tower house that commands splendid views of the famous loch and Great Glen.

Urquhart witnessed considerable conflict throughout its 500 years as a medieval fortress and its history from the 13th to 17th centuries was particularly bloody. Following Edward I’s invasion, it fell into English hands and was then reclaimed and lost again. In the 14th century, it figured prominently in the Scots’ struggle for independence and came under the control of Robert the Bruce after he became King of Scots.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle and glen were frequently raided from the west by the ambitious MacDonald Lords of the Isles.

The castle’s history and that of the noble families – Durward, MacDonald and Grant – who held it, is told in the exhibition and audio-visual display in the new visitor centre. The Centre features an outstanding array of medieval artefacts found at the castle.

Visitors can relax in the café and visit the shop with its local crafts. The visitor centre contains retail, interpretation area, audio-visual presentation and tearoom and toilets on one level. Stunning views of the loch can be obtained from visitor centre veranda.

About the Castle:

A thousand years of history

Urquhart Castle dominates a rocky promontory jutting into Loch Ness. That promontory has hosted some famous names in its long history.

St Columba visited with peaceful intent around AD 580. Not so the English, who seized the castle in 1296. Nor the MacDonalds, Lords of the Isles, who stormed through the glen time and again in the later Middle Ages, ruling with a rod of iron from the mighty castle.

In the twilight of its days as a seat of the chief of Clan Grant, Urquhart continued to prove its worth. It was last garrisoned in 1692, and legend claims that the towering gatehouse was blown up so that the castle could never again be a military stronghold. Over a thousand years of stirring history were buried beneath the rubble.

A Pictish fort

Urquhart steps into history around AD 580. St Columba was making a long journey from Iona to the court of Bridei, king of the Picts, at Inverness. As he was passing up Loch Ness, he was called to the residence of an elderly Pictish nobleman at Airdchartdan (Urquhart). Emchath was close to death, and Columba baptised him and his entire household.

We cannot be sure that Emchath’s residence was on the rocky promontory. However, the discovery of a fragment of Pictish brooch (dating from the late 8th or early 9th century) strongly hints that it may well have been the location.

A mighty medieval stronghold

From the 13th century, until its demise in 1692, Urquhart saw much military action. In 1296 it was captured by Edward I of England ‘Hammer of the Scots’. Thereafter, the stronghold passed back and forth between Scottish and English control. In 1332, in the dark days following King Robert Bruce’s death, Urquhart remained the only Highland castle holding out against the English.

Soon after the English threat evaporated the MacDonalds, Lords of the Isles arrived. Time and again, they swept through Glen Urquhart in their quest for more power. The castle passed back and forth between the Crown and the Lords of the Isles like a bone between two dogs. Their last raid, in 1545, proved the worst. The Islesmen got away with an enormous hoard, including 20 guns and three great boats.

A noble ruin

When the last soldiers marched out in 1692, they blew it up. The castle soon fell into decay. Part of the Grant Tower crashed to the ground in 1715 during a violent storm. But attitudes changed, and during the 19th century the ancient stronghold came to be viewed as a noble ruin in a majestic setting. It passed into state care in 1913, and is now one of the most visited of all Scotland’s castles.

The castle is a Historic Scotland property. For more information including opening hours and admission, please see the website.

St Triduana's Chapel, Restalrig Collegiate Church

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:42:51 +0000

The lower part of a chapel built by James III, housing the shrine of St Triduana, a Pictish saint.

The hexagonal vaulted chamber is unique.

The Chapel is a Historic Scotland property and is free to visit. For more information including opening hours, please see the website.

Trinity House

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:13:50 +0000

Trinity House is the home of the Incorporation of Shipowners and Shipmasters, an organisation dating back to the 14th century.

Successive generations of masters and members of Trinity House have been closely involved in the history and maritime development of Leith. Thomas Brown designed the present Trinity House in 1816 on the site of the medieval mariner's hospital.

An outstanding collection of maritime memorabilia inside an elegant Georgian house.

Serving the Port of Leith

Trinity House, together with its remarkable historic collections, provides a fascinating insight into Leith’s celebrated maritime past. The present building served as the headquarters for the Incorporation of Mariners and Shipmasters in the Port of Leith for nearly two centuries. This charity was established to support the needs of injured and retired seamen and their families. Its origins can be traced back to 1380, when it was granted the right to levy a tax, known as prime gilt, on goods imported into Leith.

The building that now stands on the Kirkgate, opposite South Leith Parish Church, was built in 1816 on the site of a former Trinity House and hospital dating back to sometime before 1550.

A maritime treasure house

The layout of the building and its historic furnishings retain many of the unique features associated with its former function.

The War Memorial Window was designed by W.J.R Cook in 1933 in remembrance of merchant sailors from the Port of Leith who lost their lives in the First World War. It was rededicated in 1945 for those who died in the Second World War. The window represents the different roles of those who served in the merchant navy and features the emblems of Leith and Trinity House.

The ground floor features a grand entrance and inner hall. A unique collection of chairs here was specially commissioned by the Incorporation from the Edinburgh cabinetmaker William Trotter. They feature the Trinity House emblem ‘PERVIA VIRTVTI SYDERA TERRA MARE’ (‘The earth, the sea and the stars are conquerable by men of courage)’, surrounded by a coiled rope and anchor design. Off the hall is the Master’s Room. This cosy room has a fine collection of topographical paintings showing Leith when it was a busy commercial port in the 18th century and 19th century, in the ages of sail and latterly steam.

The chief highlight is the magnificent Convening Room on the upper floor. This was where the Incorporation held its meetings and administered the charity’s affairs. The ceiling is decorated with ornate plaster friezes depicting maritime subjects. A long mahogany table and chairs dominate the centre of the room. The table is now used to display a fascinating variety of objects relating to merchant shipping, navigation and the whaling industry. Items include navigational instruments, wartime charts, whaling harpoons and rare objects such as narwhal tusks and incense burners brought back from overseas voyages. Displayed elsewhere around the room is a fine collection of ship models, from early whaling ships to modern merchant ships.

Portraits of former Masters of the Incorporation and celebrated mariners are hung around the walls of the Convening Room. The portraits of George Smith and George Hay, former Masters of Trinity House, Peter Wood, a prominent Leith whaler, and Admiral Duncan, victor of the Battle of Camperdown, were commissioned by the Incorporation from the celebrated Edinburgh artist Sir Henry Raeburn. A large oil painting by the Scottish artist David Scott depicts Vasco da Gama encountering the Spirit of the Storm on his voyage around the Cape of Good Hope.

Below the building are 16th-century vaults that once served as a school for young mariners.

Trinity House is a Historic Scotland property. For more information including admission and opening hours, please see the website.

Holyrood Park

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:06:14 +0000

Within Holyrood Park is a wealth of history and archaeology spanning thousands of years. Arthur’s Seat is one of four hill forts dating from around 2000 years ago.

The park is a scheduled ancient monument and a site of special scientific interest due to its archaeology, geology and wildlife.

The Park offers walks, solace, wildlife, volcanic geology and unparalleled views of the city from its many vantage points.

What to see

Services

The Holyrood Park Ranger Service provides a wide variety of services and events to visitors.

Holyrood Park Exhibition

An exhibition of the park is available at Holyrood Lodge Information Centre located next to the New Scottish Parliament.

The exhibition explores the history, management, archaelogy and geology of Holyrood Park. Leaflets and maps of the park are available from the centre. Open daily, 9.30 am to 3.00pm

Please contact the Rangers Service on 0131 652 8150 for additional information on the Park

Archaeology

Evidence of Iron Age hill forts can be seen on the back of Salisbury crags, near the top of Arthurs Seat, Dunsapie Crag and Samsons Ribs.

When the sun is low, you can see agricultural terraces on the eastern slopes of Arthur’s Seat above Dunsapie Loch and rig and furrow throughout the Park.

Discover St Anthony’s Well on the path up to the chapel and St Margaret’s Well opposite the Broadpavement car park.

Geology

The eminent Scottish geologist, James Hutton, used rock formation in Holyrood Park, at the south end of the radical road, as evidence for his ‘Theory of the Earth’.

Discover all parts of the volcano from vents on Arthur’s seat to lavas on Whinny hill.

Wildlife

The park is rich in wildlife including plants like orchids and rock rose, birds like fulmars and stonechats and mammals like squirrels and brown hare, not to mention stunning butterflies during the summer.

The park is a Historic Scotland property. For more information including admission and opening hours please see website.

Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:31:26 +0000

Robert Burns Birthplace Museum offers a truly unique encounter with Scotland’s favourite son.

The museum comprises the famous Burns Cottage where the poet was born, the historic landmarks where he set his greatest work, the elegant monument and gardens created in his honour and a modern museum housing the world’s most important collection of his life and works.

Perfectly located within easy reach of Scotland’s busiest cities and some of her most beautiful coastal scenery, and less than 10 miles from an international airport, Robert Burns Birthplace is an excellent destination for either a day out or as the ideal base for exploring Burns Country. A great family destination, it has a large, licensed, self-service cafe – with children’s menu – and lots of children’s activities.

The museum is run by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including admission fees and opening hours please see website

David Livingstone Centre

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:13:53 +0000

Scotland's most famous explorer and missionary was born here in 1813, in a single-roomed house in Shuttle Row - today a Grade A listed tenement.

It is now part of the museum that tells the story of Livingstone's explorations in Africa and is home to a wide range of his personal belongings and travel aids.
Find out how he grew from a lowly factory boy to become an African explorer and a hero of the Victorian age.

The museum also gives a fascinating insight into the harsh conditions endured by industrial workers in the 19th century.

Many of Livingstone's personal belongings are on display including journals, and navigational and medical equipment - clearly he was not a man to travel light!
His is an engaging story for all ages and for youngsters there's plenty to do - including quizzes, dressing up, and even a lion hunt.

Livingstone's attack by a lion is dramtically re-created in a sculpture designed and gifted by the Oscar-winning animator Ray Harryhausen, and his wife Diana, Livingstone's great-granddaughter.

The David Livingstone Centre is situated in an urban area but, thanks to the ancient woodland and the River Clyde which border the property, there is a real sense of being in the countryside. Walks in the grounds and along the Clyde Walkway towards Bothwell Castle are especially picturesque.
The estate's garden has been regenerated and is now known as the Explorer's Garden. The more formal garden features a water feature designed by Pilkington Jackson in 1935.

The property is run by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including opening hours and admission fees, please see website.

Haddo House

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:58:54 +0000

An elegant mansion house with stunning late Victorian interiors. Noted for its fine furniture and paintings, Haddo also has a terraced garden leading to the Country Park with lakes, walks and monuments.

A visit to Haddo is sure to keep you occupied all day; there’s so much to see and do.

Throughout the house and grounds, family portraits, monuments and memorabilia build up a fascinating history of the Gordon family over the centuries. The superb collection of paintings includes works by Pompeo Batoni, William Mosman, Sir Thomas Lawrence and James Giles.

Visit the old stables and you’ll find our shop, which sells an excellent range of gifts, then drop into the period tearoom to sample some delicious home baking.

Don’t leave without visiting the delightful terrace garden with geometric rosebeds and fountain, a lavish herbaceous border and secluded glades and knolls. A magnificent avenue of lime trees leads to adjacent Haddo Country Park with its lakes, monuments, walks and wildlife.

The property is run by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including admission fees and opening hours, please see the website.

House Of Dun & Montrose Basin Nature Reserve

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:28:59 +0000

This beautiful Georgian house, overlooking Montrose Basin, was built in 1730 by William Adam. The house features superb plasterwork, a particular and memorable feature. Outside, enjoy the attractive walled garden and woodland walks.

The Hutchison Collection

This exceptional collection of 20th-century Scottish paintings was given to the National Trust for Scotland by Douglas Hutchison in 1999 and was originally hung at the Trust’s former headquarters at Wemyss House in Edinburgh.

Whilst on wartime leave he frequently visited the Scottish Gallery in Castle Street, Edinburgh, run by the redoubtable Miss Proudfoot.

He began to collect in earnest after the war, when he was based with a family business in Kirkcaldy. Over the next 50 years he created a renowned collection, 33 of which form this important exhibition.

He said, 'Collecting has been nothing but tremendous fun. I never bought a picture that did not give me pleasure and when it ceased to do this I got rid of it'.

Fellow collectors John Blyth of Kirkcaldy and Robert Wemyss Honeyman, a neighbour near Aberfeldy, became friends as did the dealers he frequented: Bill McAulay, Bill Jackson and later, Guy Peploe at The Scottish Gallery and Patrick Bourne now of The Fine Art Society.

Douglas Hutchison was a very modest man. He derived great pleasure from his paintings and showing them to others. This led to many great friendships in the art world and beyond.

His art collection represents the very best of 20th-century Scottish art. The National Trust for Scotland was his choice of custodian; he had been actively involved with the Trust for a number of years but felt that they had tended to overlook Scottish painting of the 20th century.

He also hoped that by making this donation of artwork others might be encouraged to make similar gifts.

Douglas Hutchison died in 2001. It was his wish that this collection of paintings should be kept together for the enjoyment of the public and it would have given him great pleasure to know that his collection will reach a new audience whilst at the House of Dun.

Joseph Enzer Plasterwork

The house features superb plasterwork by Joseph Enzer, forming the chief glory of the interior of Dun. Enzer is also noted for his work at Arniston House in Midlothian and Yester House in East Lothian. The allegorical programme is complex and invites overt and cryptic Jacobite interpretations - a kind of Jacobite Da Vinci Code.

Royal Connections

Lady Augusta Kennedy-Erskine was the daughter of King William IV and the beautiful actress Mrs Dorothy Jordan, and the House of Dun contains many royal mementos.

Gun and Rod Collection

The 19th Laird of Dun was a very keen sportsman, and two rooms have been assembled to illustrate the all-too-often unacknowledged importance that field sports played in the life of a country house. The gun room boasts a fine punt gun by Westley Richards and a seven-barrelled rifle by Samuel Nock amongst others in this fine collection.

Angus Handloom Weavers

The south carriage-house has been converted and leased to Mr Ian Dale, the proprietor of Angus Handloom Weavers and the last handloom linen weaver working in Britain. This trade, once so extensive on the east coast of England and Scotland, has now been replaced by machine looms. The workshop produces and sells a wide and attractive range of linens of traditional design, which Mr Dale also supplies to customers all over the world. Contact: Mr Ian Dale, (01674) 810255.

Miniature Model Theatre

The former Stillroom houses ‘Mr Riach’s Performing Theatre of Arts’, presented to the Trust in 1988 by Mr Timothy Brown of Gargunnock. Begun in the 1830s by Mr Brown’s great-grandfather, this miniature theatre provides a view of family entertainment in the days before gramophone, radio or television.

Ancestral Tourism

Recent archives found in the House contain family trees dating back to 1260, which have yet to be determined as authentic.

Fishing

River South Esk - salmon/sea-trout beat

These salmon and sea-trout fishings are available on the left and right banks of the River South Esk at Bridge of Dun. Marker posts divide the beat into six sections. The pools are known as ‘Viaduct’, ‘Thornbush’, ‘Midstream Flats’, ‘Hurl Pots’ and ‘March Pool’. Spring tides can reach roughly halfway up the beat, which is approximately three-quarters of a mile long. The river is 25-35 metres wide, largely on a gravel bed, and much of it can be fished by wading. Two croys are positioned near to the eastern extremity on the north bank. A ghillie patrols the Trust’s Dun beat. Bailiffs from the South Esk District Salmon Fishery Board also visit the river from time to time.

* Salmon fishing season runs from 16 February to 31 October. You can reserve your fishing simply by logging on to www.fishpal.co.uk or contact Ann Kelday on 0844 493 2100 for further details on licences.

Archaeology

Gallows Knowe
The Erskine family and the Dun Estate were a symbol of authority in the area. As you pass along the main drive and look to the right into the farmer's field you might notice the small fenced-off area in the field which is known as Gallows Knowe.

The National Trust for Scotland cares for Gallows Knowe so that people can continue to give it new meanings, linking the past, present and future. Gallows Knowe was built 3,500-4,500 years ago as a burial mound. Since then, people have thought about it in different ways and put it to different uses. The mound has played a role in community identity, power and authority. It has also been a symbol of the rights of certain people to call this place their own.

In the medieval period, Gallows Knowe may have been used as a place of execution for crimes of theft and manslaughter. The tradition that the mound was the execution site for the medieval Barony of Dun was recorded by 19th-century surveyors mapping the countryside around the House of Dun. The Barony was a large territory administered by the Lord of Dun. Gallows Knowe may have been chosen because it lay very close to the site of Dun Castle, the lord's seat of power. The mound is also highly visible from the public road to Montrose. It would have been an obvious warning to passers-by of the punishment awaiting wrong-doers.

The medieval Baron Court may also have been held here. This was a sort of parliament and court of law. It settled minor disputes amongst neighbours as well as passing judgement on more serious crimes. Monuments like Gallows Knowe were often used for important gatherings in medieval times, and they provided an impressive setting for ceremonies. Their association with an ancient, unknown past meant they were seen as very powerful places.

You can learn more by following the information boards from the house to Gallows Knowe.

The estate is run by the National Trust for Scotland, for more information including admission fees and opening hours, please see the website.

Pollok House

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:01:52 +0000

Pollok House is the ancestral home of the Maxwell family. The present house dates from around 1750 and contains one of the finest collections of Spanish art in the United Kingdom together with furniture and furnishings appropriate to an Edwardian country house. Set within Pollok Country Park, also home to the Burrell Collection, Pollok House's surroundings are a delight to stroll in, perhaps after enjoying a wonderful lunch or afternoon tea in the Edwardian Kitchen Restaurant.

Pollok House is open every day throughout the year except 25 / 26 December and 1 / 2 January. Entry is free to the Servants’ Quarters all year and a charge is made for visiting the upstairs part of the House only during the summer months from 1 April to 31 October.

It is remarkable that a country house like Pollok House has survived, as it is within 15 minutes’ drive of central Glasgow. The tranquillity of its surroundings allows visitors to enjoy the beauty and benefits of the countryside without travelling outside the city.

The Trust’s aim is to present the House as a living house and home. The House is presented broadly as it would have been around 1930 when all the major changes had been made to the property. The Maxwell family lived in the house until 1966 when it was gifted to the City of Glasgow by Mrs Anne Maxwell Macdonald. Originally opened as a City Museum, it was passed to the Trust in 1998, who now manage the property on behalf of Glasgow City Council. Since the Trust became involved, the House and contents have been redisplayed to create a more lived-in feel.

The busiest part of the House at any time of the year is the vast Servants’ Quarters in the basement. Even when the Maxwells lived here this was the case, for there were 48 indoor staff to look after 3 family members after the house was expanded around 1900. Today the basement houses the Edwardian Kitchen Restaurant and the range of shops. As you walk down the dramatic main corridor to the restaurant you sense the scale of operations needed to keep the House functioning. Half the visitors come solely to the restaurant because of its reputation for home baking and fresh local produce, but to get the full effect you need to visit the upstairs to appreciate the full impact of the differences for family and servants.

The House is famous for its spectacular collection of paintings collected by one member of the family, Sir William Stirling Maxwell, in the mid-19th century. Although a visit to the House centres on the father and son – Sir William and Sir John – who expanded the small Georgian house into the property we see today, the family have connections to the estate dating back to 1270. The lively plasterwork and classical proportions stress the country mansion style, but the small scale of the main Georgian house makes it seem very habitable – most visitors could easily move in!

The paintings include major examples of the work of William Blake and one of the finest collections anywhere of the art of Spain at the zenith of its power from 1500–1700, The Golden Age. Information around the House will help you understand the history and the purpose of this art. You will realise that political spin is nothing new.

The Seasons

Autumn/Winter
When most country houses shut and visiting ceases, Pollok House gets into its stride! The main event is ‘Keeping Christmas at Pollok House’ which runs throughout December. The House is lavishly decorated throughout. Each year the decoration changes and you can get ideas for your own decorations. A main feature are the Pollok teddy bears creating their own unique mayhem.

The event that does not change is the visit from Mrs Claus. This year she will be visiting the House from 20 November to 24 December every day from 11am until 5pm. Her cosy sitting room includes toys and gifts as well as fine antiques, and is a million miles away from the usual Christmas grotto. Come and see it for yourself (gifts for children up to 12 years).
At the same time, the Restaurant offers a special seasonal menu (but not the standard turkey meal) and the shops are crammed with festive temptations. There is also an additional Christmas Bazaar offering Christmas decorations and extra special gifts.

Spring/Summer
This Easter, the House plays host to the Cadbury Easter Egg Trail. Collect the clues, solve the puzzle, and win a Cadbury Easter Egg!

Throughout the year the gardens, woodlands and fields are a changing picture of the seasons. There is lots to see and do on the estate that can be combined with a visit to Pollok House. The wider estate is managed by Glasgow City Council who also run their own programme of events.

The property is run by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including opening hours and admission, please see the website.

Royal Burgh of Culross

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:47:25 +0000

The Town House was built in 1626 and was the administrative centre of Culross with a tollbooth and witches' prison.

Culross offers a look into the past. You can wander the medieval streets and imagine the girdles being made, the coal mining, the salt panning and the hustle and bustle of a thriving 17th-century port on the River Forth.

The palace garden is full of herbs, fruit and vegetables (available to buy in season), which visitors can roam round, hopefully also meeting our dumpy hens! By popular request, you will now find information cards in the garden. A photo will help to identify the plants, and, since all the plants in the garden were known and grown in the 17th century, some information is given on what they were used for during that period.

The Town House was once the legal and commercial centre for the town - upstairs, the fine Georgian interior of the council chambers often houses exhibitions, whilst next door is the old courtroom. The Study is where Bishop Leighton of Dunblane reputedly composed his sermons, and can offer a stunning view of the Forth.

As you walk round the town, the ruins of St Mungo’s chapel can be seen, along with the abbey and the old monastery as well as the West Kirk. It is run by the National Trust for Scotland and for more information including opening hours and admission fees please see website.

Holmwood House

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 11:51:05 +0000

Holmwood House is a large domestic villa, built in what was the village of Cathcart that today has become part of the city of Glasgow. Holmwood remains an oasis of calm although surrounded by the city development.

Originally built for James Couper near the site of his family’s paper mills, Holmwood passed through several hands before becoming a school, run by an order of nuns who used the house as their convent. After they left, the National Trust for Scotland was able to save the property from development plans in 1994, and restoration work began after the Trust received many generous donations of help.

The restoration of Holmwood House continues and visitors are able to see the work in progress. This year more work has been done to furnish the property to help bring the house to life.

The main special event is at Christmas when Santa Claus visits in early December and there is a real feel of a Victorian Christmas.

The house is owned by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including admission fees and opening hours please see the website.

Georgian House - Edinburgh

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 09:35:35 +0000

This is a restored Edinburgh town house filled with Georgian treasures: furniture, silver, porcelain and fine paintings.

Step back in time to the elegance and refinement of Edinburgh's New Town in the late 18th century - a time when Edinburgh's well-to-do left the cramped, squalid conditions of the Old Town to settle in the fashionable New Town.

Imagine how it must have felt to be John Lamont, the first owner of this magnificent Robert Adam designed town house - and to pay just £1,800 for the privilege! Explore John’s home to discover what life was like for the wealthy in Edinburgh 200 years ago.

Contrast this with the ‘below stairs’ life of the household staff who made this elegant lifestyle possible.

The exquisite collections of china, silver, paintings and furniture all reflect the domestic life and social and economic context of the times.

Don't miss our short film, 'Living in a Grand Design', which depicts life in Edinburgh's New Town. Find out more about New Town life from the touch screen computers in the basement - history at your fingertips!

On Saturday afternoons during July and August visitors can experience a flavour of 18th-century life with guides in costume in some of the display rooms. Costumed, scripted tours of the house take place in November each year. This a National Trust for Scotland property, for more information including opening hours and admission fees please see the website.

Priorwood Garden and Dried Flower Shop

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 09:03:00 +0000

Priorwood is the only dedicated dried flower garden in Scotland, producing, processing and arranging dried flowers

Priorwood is a small walled garden of under two acres of specific horticultural interest, consisting of the production of dried flowers and the cultivation of a collection of apple varieties.

The garden is currently at the beginning of a period of revitalisation, during which the herbaceous borders are to be redesigned and rebuilt and new garden features are to be included, such as a lengthy pergola and a shady woodland area displaying rare plants. General maintenance procedures are being revised, and this period is sure to be a fascinating one for gardeners to watch.

It is usually possible during the summer and early autumn for the process of drying flowers to be seen, and at other times of the year there will be arrangements being made within the shop.

In December we produce Christmas wreaths, which are made within the shop for visitors to see and purchase. The garden is a National Trust for Scotland property, for more information including opening hours and admission fees please see the website.

Carsluith Castle

hwatterott@gmail.com (Administrator) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:27:33 +0000

The delightful and well-preserved ruin of a tower house of 16th-century date.

The 18th-century ranges of outhouses are still in use by the farmer, reminding the visitor that such houses were originally linked to outbuildings.

One of its owners was the last abbot of Sweetheart Abbey.

The property is owned by Historic Scotland and the admission is free. For more information please see website.