Miller’s Yard: Garden of Wonders is situated to the rear of the Hugh Miller Museum in Church Street, Cromarty, once the home of Hugh Miller (1802-1856), the renowned geologist and writer.

Events include a floral pageant performed by Cromarty Primary School’s Primary 3 and 4 and unveiling an extraordinary sculpture in scrap metal by the highly-regarded artist Helen Denerly.

Museum manager Martin Gostwick commented:

“The garden is small, only about 12 metres by 5, but packs a lot into it, particular of the arts and crafts and science which Miller made his own. I think he would be proud of it.

“The garden complements and completes the adjoining museum which we opened in 2004. We hope it will be a place of contemplation and inspiration, as well as of events like music-making and story-telling.”

The Trust would like to thank the trustees of the neighbouring Cromarty Courthouse Museum who kindly allowed the contractors access over their ground to the site during construction.
 

A species of newt so rare that it is protected by both UK and EU law is thriving under the care of the National Trust for Scotland.



Staff and volunteers from the conservation charity carried out a survey of pond life at Culzean Castle and Country Park and discovered that Great Crested Newts are doing very well there.



The amphibians, which are the UK’s biggest newt and grow up to 6 inches long, are found at only two National Trust for Scotland sites – Culzean in Ayrshire and the Pineapple in Falkirk. The newts were introduced to Culzean ten years ago and they appear to be thriving in pollution-free and fish-free ponds that are their preferred habitat.



Conservation staff at Culzean have created a haven for the amphibians, with dozens of the species being spotted over the course of the two-day survey.



Deirdre Mackinnon, head ranger at Culzean said:



“It’s great news that these newts are doing so well at Culzean. Our rangers and volunteers dug a new pond only last year and the newts have made it home. This type of conservation work is crucial to the future survival of some of Scotland and the UK’s rarest species and we will continue to strive to save those species for future generations.”



“As a conservation charity, we are always pleased to hear that a rare or endangered species is doing well . We’re lucky to have some fantastic plant and animal life at our properties all over Scotland."

 

The conservation charity kicks off events with the ranger-led ‘What’s in the Wood’s?’ event on Sunday 1 June, where visitors can learn about the wild plants and animals that call Culzean home.

On Friday 6 June, there will be an after dark experience on offer at the ‘European Moth Night’ from 10pm-11:30pm. Using torchlight, guests will explore areas of the park which have plants that attract moths. This will be a great opportunity to spot moths and maybe even their main predator – bats!

The week is rounded off by the ‘What’s in the Water?’ event on Sunday 8 June, which aims to open visitors’ eyes to the huge variety of underwater life in a freshwater pond.

Senior Ranger Deirdre Mackinnon says:

“Culzean is lucky to play host to some tremendous wildlife, so it’s great to show it off to our visitors. These events are an opportunity for our expert rangers to share their knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world. We hope visitors will leave with an increased understanding and appreciation of Scotland’s wildlife.”
 

The mission was founded close to the spot where David Livingstone died by Scottish missionary doctors, making the David Livingstone Centre which is managed by the National Trust for Scotland charity the perfect location for the celebration.

Since its establishment, generations of Scottish medics, including at least two Livingstone’s descendants have worked at the Zambian hospital, providing local people with healthcare services.

The celebration, organised by the Scottish National Memorial to David Livingstone Trust, marks the contribution made to the Chitambo community by these Scottish medics. Attendees will be treated to talks about modern Zambia, as well as demonstrations of African music and song.

Fundraising group ‘Penicuik for Africa’ will also be in attendance. The group raised an impressive £20,000 to buy and equip an ambulance to benefit the Chitambo community. The Toyota Landcruiser is currently being refitted in Lusaka.

National Trust for Scotland Chief Executive Mark Adderley is also coming along to the celebration. He said:

“It’s fantastic to be involved in these celebrations. Stories like these really bring Livingstone’s legacy to life. It also brings home the importance of the work of the National Trust for Scotland and the Scottish National Memorial to David Livingstone Trust in telling his story, so that modern Scots can truly appreciate the importance of Livingstone’s achievements.

“The events today are not only a cause for celebration for Chitambo Mission and Hospital, but for the David Livingstone Centre too and it’s a great honour to welcome these esteemed guests.”
 

The tour is a great chance to get inspired at the start of the gardening season and learn more about the changes going on at the garden. Head gardener, Toby Loveday will be on hand to answer any questions. Visitors can round the evening off with delicious tea and cake at the lovely Leith Hall tearoom.

Toby said:

“An evening visit to the garden is very interesting, giving visitors a different perspective on plants. Fragrance is much more noticeable at dusk and this really adds a different dimension to the garden.”

The event takes place on Wednesday 28 May from 19.30 – 21.00 and costs £5 for adults and £3 for concessions. Please call 0844 493 2175 to book.
 

Our feathered alarm clocks are out in force again as the birds defend their territories and try to find a mate. Early risers will be treated to the spectacular song that begins soon after sunrise.

Property Manager Ruth Burgess says:

“Hill of Tarvit is home to many breeds of birds who all burst into song at dawn during the summer months. On our guided tour, you will hear for yourself the wonderful sound of the dawn chorus and get to know the songs of the many different species.”

The walk takes place from 5am till 6:30am and costs £7 per person. The price includes a hot drink and a light breakfast snack after the walk. To book call 0844 493 2185.
 

Kirkwall is the first port of call on a week-long Scottish cruise operated by the National Trust for Scotland. It is also the first time Spirit of Adventure has called at Orkney.

Passengers will have the opportunity to explore some of Orkney’s rich archaeological heritage both by coach and by foot, as well as visiting the Pier Arts Centre in Stromness.

Entertainment Manager, Cameron Stout, said:

"Our Scottish cruise sold out in record time this year and I am particularly excited about coming back to Orkney and showing off the highlights of my home town! It will also be a great opportunity to stock up on Orkney fudge, a real favourite on the cruise!"

In the evening passengers will be joined by the Peat Fire Tales group who will entertain them with tales of Orkney’s folklore through music, song and dance.

The ship will arrive at Kirkwall at 1pm and will depart at 11pm, when she will head off to Fair Isle.
 

Internationally renowned designer Percy Cane created the spectacular garden in 1948. Falkland Palace is said to be one of the most complete Percy Cane designs in the country and the sole example in the care of the conservation charity.

Youngsters have been asked to make a work of art which reflects or is inspired by the garden. Mary Queen of Scots visited Falkland Palace in the 16th century, so pupils could choose to illustrate how the gardens would have been presented then, before Cane’s makeover. Falkland is famous for its royal connections, especially with the Stewart family.

Entries will be judged by an external expert horticulturalist and an artist and all the artwork will feature in an exhibition at the town hall on 25th and 26th of October 2008.

Sonia Ferras-Mana, property manager at Falkland said:

“This is an important anniversary for the Palace. Our gardens are iconic and world-renowned. We wanted to use this event to inspire local young people, get them interested in the history that is on their doorstep and to encourage their creativity. I know we will get some fantastic entries and it will make for an excellent exhibition later in the year.”

To enter, pick up an application form at Falkland Palace or call 0844 493 2186. The closing date for entries is 1st October 2008.
 

The black birds, which are related to crows and magpies, first appeared in the Great Hall at Threave Castle, which is owned by the National Trust for Scotland conservation charity and managed by Historic Scotland, in 2007. The hall was closed off to protect the nesting site and the birds successfully fledged four chicks.

This year was also productive - three chicks have now fledged and the Great Hall is open to visitors once again.

Rhiannon Hatfield, National Trust for Scotland ranger at Threave said:

“We are so pleased that the ravens returned to Threave this year. They are a pretty unusual visitor and the fact that they have bred successfully both times is great news. It bodes well for a return next year.”

While the ravens have departed, there is still plenty of wildlife to see around Threave Island and from the five National Trust for Scotland bird hides located along the River Dee. Grey herons, shovellers, goosander, kingfisher, oystercatcher and otters can all be spotted by patient visitors.
 

On Sunday 25 May, visitors are invited to bring a picnic, sit on the lawn in the beautiful surroundings of Culzean Castle and enjoy the readings of inspiring poems produced by the Makar Press, a group of Ayrshire poets following in the tradition of Burns.

Administrative Assistant Deidre Mackinnon says:

“It is very entertaining! In the past the visitors have been given a large list of topics from which to choose and the poets read their relevant poem on that subject. The poems range from very comical to poignant or evocative, the subjects are easy to relate to and there is something for everyone.”

The event lasts from 12:00pm till 2:00pm and standard park admission prices apply.
 

The birds’ behaviour was highlighted by the skipper of a local tourist boat, during a recent visit by Trust wildlife experts.

Davy Kirkpatrick, who runs tours to the island, noticed that puffins seemed to wait until visitors were close to nesting burrows before coming in to land. The proximity of people appeared to discourage the anti-social behaviour of gulls, allowing the puffins safe passage to their burrows.

There are more than 400 pairs of birds spending the summer on Staffa. The island is uninhabited by man, making it a popular and safe summer home for many seabirds. It is an ideal time to visit, as there are plenty of opportunities to spot puffins on land, sea and in the air.

Puffins, which form long-term bonds with their breeding partners, come to the island every year from far out in the Atlantic Ocean where they spend their winters.

Mr Lindsay Mackinlay, Nature Conservation Adviser with the Trust said:

“This is very interesting behaviour from the puffins. They appear to be making the most of the distraction caused by people to prevent being attacked by gulls. Visitors need not worry - the gulls pose no threat to people. In fact gulls are pretty scared of people and that’s why the puffins’ strategy is so effective.

“Now is the perfect time to visit Staffa to see puffins, since they are in the midst of the nesting season. It’s a great opportunity to see these lovely birds up close and in a totally unspoilt and stunning environment.”
 

The 17 month-long inquiry, chaired by Professor Mark Shucksmith, was described on Monday by Michael Russell MSP, Minister for Environment as “the most significant report on crofting for the past half century.”

For its part, the Trust views the Shucksmith Inquiry’s wide-ranging recommendations as bold and inspirational, for the benefit of crofting and rural communities in Scotland.

The Trust owns six crofting estates including Balmacara, Torridon and Fair Isle, amounting to over 200 registered crofts and with this first-hand knowledge and experience, the charity made several major contributions to the Shucksmith Inquiry. Many of its recommendations, such as reviewing the assignation of crofts, the need for crofters to reside on or near their croft and to work the land, and the review of the individual crofter’s right to buy their croft and associated de-crofting, have been taken on board and included in the committee’s final report.

Iain Turnbull, property manager at Balmacara, is the Trust’s leading authority on crofting issues. He said:

“The report offers a good, clear vision for the future of crofting and has certainly attempted to tackle some of the major issues head on, which is refreshing.

“There are some excellent elements here, including the proposals to devolve responsibility for the governance of crofting to a more local level, encouragement of traditional crofting land uses and possible restrictions on the right to buy land and de-crofting. ”

Shucksmith states that crofting has an important contribution to make towards sustaining a well-populated and well-managed countryside and emphasises the need for crofting to be well-regulated and governed in the public interest. The Trust warmly welcomes this stance, especially the inquiry’s emphasis on crofting communities being in greater control of their own destiny.

Mr Turnbull added:

“This is a much improved vision of crofting as it clearly states the need to have crofts occupied and used for their original purpose. We hope that the Scottish Government moves quickly to achieve this new vision.”

The Trust also welcomes the inquiry’s support for access to affordable housing in crofting areas, encouraging newcomers into crofting and the need to address the shortage of available crofts. Such measures are essential in bringing under-used or un-used crofts back into use.

The Shucksmith committee recommends the abolition of the Crofters' Commission and the creation of a new Federation of Local Crofting Boards that would “regulate crofting in the interests of sustainable crofting communities”. While, this may go some way to help prevent unsustainable development and encourage a balance between individual and wider community rights, the Trust is concerned that the proposed abolition of the Crofters’ Commission may lead to the loss of much valuable knowledge and experience.

If a crofter lives on or near his croft and is working the land, Shucksmith recommends there be no change to the fundamental rights of crofters that have existed for well over a century, such as security of tenure, succession and fair rents. The Trust strongly supports this concept and recommends that all crofts should be occupied by an active resident crofter.

The aim to have all crofts in the hands of resident, active crofters within a generation is an excellent target, set within a realistic timeframe. Accordingly, the Trust is also supportive of the proposal to introduce a ‘residency burden’ to croft house sites from 12 May 2008, a move which would help protect crofts for the future.
 

Chickens were removed from Canna while a project to eradicate rats was underway. As that work draws to an end, the Trust is helping islanders prepare for the return of poultry, providing new chicken coops that are due for delivery today. The first chickens will arrive in the next few weeks.

The project to remove rats began in 2005, after the conservation charity decided it must act to protect Canna’s internationally important seabird colonies. Predation by rats on the eggs and chicks of the ground-nesting seabirds was seriously affecting their population.

It was important that poultry were not on the island while the Trust was trying to eradicate rats as scraps of food left out for the chickens provide rats with a ready food supply, which would have hindered attempts to eradicate them.

Richard Luxmoore, Senior Nature Conservation Adviser, said:

“The return of chickens to the island is only possible now that our work to eradicate rats is coming to an end. We are very grateful to the islanders who have foregone their fresh eggs for the past few years while we undertook this important project to protect Canna’s seabird population. A final monitoring visit is underway now.”

The project to protect Canna’s seabirds, funded by the European LIFE Nature fund and Scottish Natural Heritage, ends later this month. The last confirmed rat sighting was in February 2006 – more than 2 years ago.
 

The centre's ground-breaking hand-held battlefield guides took the top award in the 'Use of Technology' category at the Museums and Heritage Awards for Excellence.

Developed by Inverness-based Zolk-C - specialist providers of technological learning solutions for the tourism and heritage industry - the battlefield guide is the most innovative of its kind currently in existence.

Combining the capabilities of a personal digital assistant (PDA) with satellite technology, the GPS-triggered electronic guide allows Culloden sightseers to experience the bloody battle of Bonnie Prince Charlie via multi-media information, such as video and audio clips and fact-file data.

The hand-held device provides character accounts, archaeological evidence, and real-life sound effects which are triggered automatically as visitors walk across the historic moor to create an interactive experience, which does not detract from the authenticity of the site.

The device also comes equipped with a menu - which changes depending on the visitor’s location on the battlefield - to provide additional options for history enthusiasts.

The Trust's Culloden project co-ordinator and Countryside and Islands Group Manager for the North East and Highlands, Alexander Bennett said:

"This is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved in the Culloden project. We always knew that technology presented a real opportunity to bring the battle to life for our visitors. It has been a great experience working with Zolk-C, as a young and local company, to develop cutting-edge technology that is truly world-leading and adds so much to the visitor's experience here at Culloden."

Zolk-C Director of Business Development Bronwen Robinson, said:

"We are absolutely delighted that our work has been recognised on such a prestigious, national platform. By designing, building, and deploying the new technology, we put a lot of hard work into creating something that has not been done anywhere else in the world. It is truly ground-breaking.

“At the National Trust for Scotland’s Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre, our work has already enhanced the route to gaining insight into real Scottish history.”

The £9 million centre has also been shortlisted in this year's Royal Institute of British Architects awards, which are also announced later this month.
 

The Rolls Royce Owners Club stopped in at the National Trust for Scotland’s garden as they drove from Skye to Dundonnel.

The veteran and vintage vehicles were much admired by staff and visitors and looked even more impressive against the stunning backdrop of Inverewe.

There was evidence that these old and exquisite cars are moving with the times too. The oldest specimen proudly displayed its satellite navigation system on the dashboard.

Property manager Roy Dowsett was delighted to welcome this unusual delegation. He said:

“We only had an hour’s notice of the visit, but one never refuses a lady – especially not the Spirit of Ecstasy.”
 

A rare species of liverwort which is found in only a few dozen sites across the UK has been discovered on Ben Lomond.

Autumn Flapwort (Jamesoniella autumnali) was spotted at the National Trust for Scotland property, as the conservation charity held a moss identification training event. The plant is classed as ‘nationally scarce’ and was found in the oak woodland beside the West Highland Way.

According to British moss expert Gordon Rothero, who led the training event, the find is the first in Stirlingshire for over half a century. The plant was named after Scottish botanist, William Jameson and is more commonly found in the sessile oak woods of western Scotland.

Mr Lindsay Mackinlay, Nature Conservation Adviser with the Trust said:

“As moss finds go, this is pretty special. We are lucky at the National Trust for Scotland to have many excellent naturalists and we are always working to improve their knowledge and better understand the natural treasures that live on our properties across the country. This discovery shows us that our management of these woodlands is conserving the rare species that live there.

"It was great to find such a rare specimen in our Ben Lomond oak woods after fifty years. We know that the woods there are teeming with fascinating plant and animal life and we hope we'll find even more rare species in these woodlands, to capture the imagination of all who visit Ben Lomond.”
 

Visitors can find out more about herbal medicine and take a guided tour of Pitmedden’s fascinating herb garden for free.

Leading herbalists Erica Hollis and Alison Turton will be on hand to advise visitors on the best herbs to deal with ailments and give a fascinating insight into the world of herbal medicine.

Property Manager Susan Burgess said:

“An increasing interest in herbal medicine has meant that more people want to find out about different herbs and their uses. We are lucky to have an excellent herb garden at Pitmedden and it’s great to give visitors the chance to learn that there’s more to our plants than just being pretty to look at.”

Usual admission charges will apply for entry to the garden. Bookings can be made by calling 0844 493 2177.
 

The event, organised by the National Trust for Scotland’s Grampian Conservation Volunteers, takes place at Castle Fraser near Inverurie on Sunday 11th May at 9.30am.

Potential volunteers will get involved in hands on conservation work at the castle, working alongside other enthusiastic volunteers and ranger service staff to help rebuild well-trodden paths around the property.

The group hopes that the taster day will whet people’s appetites for conservation volunteering and encourage more people to get involved with their exciting programme of conservation work. The summer programme includes bracken cutting in the Old Wood of Drum at Drum Castle, working with the gardener at Pitmedden Gardens, taking part in a drystone dyking course at Craigievar Castle and enjoying weekends away at Ben Lawers and the Mar Lodge Estate.

Conservation Volunteers' Co-ordinator for the National Trust for Scotland, Julie Bond said:

“We are all thinking of ways to make a positive impact on the environment and conservation volunteering is a fun way of doing that. As a conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland is keen to offer people the chance to get involved. In fact, volunteers are absolutely crucial to our conservation work.

“Our Grampian group is very active and enthusiastic and is making a huge difference to the local environment. I hope lots of people come along to the taster day to learn more about the activities on offer and just how rewarding it is to get out into the fresh air, make new friends and conserve our beautiful countryside and gardens.”
 

Staff heard a loud bang at around 3pm as a thunderstorm raged across the Turriff area.

No-one was harmed in the incident. There does not appear to be any structural damage to the castle but a telephone box was blown off the wall, possibly as a result of an electricity surge. The property is currently without power.

Property Manager Robert Lovie was on the upper level of the castle when he heard the noise. He said:

“I heard a really loud bang, like an explosion. Thankfully all our staff and visitors are fine and there doesn’t seem to be any structural damage to the castle. We don’t have power right now, but our phones are up and running again.

“We’ll be working hard to get back to normal as soon as we can, but we’d ask any visitors planning to pop in tomorrow to call before setting off.”
 

Across Scotland, 26 National Trust for Scotland gardens are getting involved, putting on special ‘ask the gardener’ events and taking visitors on a tour of the unusual or interesting features at their gardens. The events are organised as part of the Scotland’s Gardens Scheme which supports gardens across the country.

Visitors can quiz gardening staff about how to make the most of their own gardens, learn more about composting and even pick up some seeds and plants to take home.

Head of Gardens at the National Trust for Scotland, Jan Haenraets said:

“The Trust manages some of Scotland’s most stunning gardens, with beautiful plant collections and fascinating histories and all are expertly managed by our dedicated gardeners. Gardens Day gives visitors the opportunity to get behind the scenes, learn more about the history of our gardens and what goes into maintaining them.”

For a full list of events, please visit the events section of our website.
 

Guidelines which apply to all of the Trust’s 129 properties aim to end the use of peat in Trust gardens by 2010 and in plant sales by 2011 and have been issued by the conservation charity to its property staff. The move is in line with UK government policy, which aims for 90 per cent of all materials used to grow plants to be peat-free by 2010.

Areas of peatland are in serious decline across the UK and Europe, particularly in the lowland areas. The UK and Scotland in particular, is the world centre of distribution for temperate peatlands and represent important habitats for plant and insect life. Archaeologists also value peatlands for their ability to preserve organic remains, including their important pollen record.

Peatlands store huge amounts of carbon that was absorbed by the plants from which they are formed. Scotland’s peat stores more than twice as much carbon as all of the forests in Europe. The destruction of this peat for gardening and through drainage releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere - a process that contributes to climate change.

Richard Luxmoore, Senior Nature Adviser with the National Trust for Scotland said:

“Peatlands are increasingly rare and we must do what we can to preserve these important habitats for future generations. They are vital habitats for many distinctive and internationally rare animals and plants and it’s important the Trust highlights this. Indeed, this isn’t the only reason for taking steps to preserve them. Evidence suggests that peatlands have a part to play in combating climate change, by capturing and storing carbon dioxide that would otherwise go into the atmosphere.”

The National Trust for Scotland advises on over 60 gardens and designed landscapes. Many, such as Inverewe and Threave, are internationally renowned.

Jan Haenraets, the Trust’s Head of Gardens and Designed Landscapes added:

“In recent years, our gardeners have started to move away from the use of peat and our peat reduction strategy has further contributed towards achieving the UK government targets. The new peat policy underlines our commitment and we will continue to encourage professional and amateur gardeners to use peat-free materials. The Trust will also work with commercial suppliers to provide peat-free products and strive towards the plant sales without use of peat.”