The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) has announced a number of new transformations at their properties this season.
Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park (Isle of Arran)
Brodick Castle has re-opened its doors with a fresh interpretation, bringing a new approach to the traditional Scottish castle experience. Using costumed characters and interactive exhibits, visitors now get a greater insight into how life was lived in the castle, particularly during the Victorian period, and can discover the quirks, foibles and scandals of its inhabitants. Brodick Castle’s beautiful coastal gardens have also undergone a transformation with some stunning new trails to enjoy.
Arran is ideally positioned for a day tour from the Glasgow area and can be reached with a 45 minute ferry crossing. Other NTS attractions in the area include Culzean Castle, and Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
Glencoe National Nature Reserve, North West
Glencoe has long been one of Scotland’s most famous places, celebrated for its dramatic scenery and history. The refurbishment includes a fresh new exhibition which reveals the dramatic stories of Glencoe. A powerful short film, The Glen Revealed, takes visitors on a journey through millions of years and is narrated by Game of Thrones actor Rory McCann. A selection of viewpoint walks, as well as a new expanded cafe and retail area makes Glencoe National Nature Reserve a real destination stop in any itinerary. It has also been a filming location for a number of films including Skyfall and Outlaw King.
Other development highlights among NTS properties include:
- A refurbished Osgood’s cafe and new art gallery at the Inverewe Garden near Ullapool (part of the North Coast 500 route)
- The restoration of the 18th century Leanoch Cottage at Culloden Battlefield, where the 1745 Jacobite risings came to a tragic end and which is pivotal to the Outlander story
- An expanded and redeveloped tearoom at Pitmedden Garden, offering light meals and sweet treats. This re-created Scottish Renaissance walled garden offers unique and vibrant floral designs, and combines well with Fyvie Castle, Crathes Castle, Drum Castle, Craigievar Castle, or Castle Fraser.
