One of the National Trust for Scotland’s most unusual properties will take centre stage at a new exhibition to celebrate 500 years of the printed word in Scotland, starting tomorrow (Friday 1 August).

The conservation charity cares for Robert Smail’s Printing Works in Innerleithen - Scotland’s only remaining fully-functioning Victorian letterpress printworks which is the focus of Lasting Impressions: The National Trust for Scotland and the Printed Word.

The printworks is one of the Trust’s smallest properties and was purchased by the charity from Cowan Smail in 1986, after 120 years of trading. The works continues to produce commissioned print work on the original presses, as well as hosting tours and giving visitors the chance to get hands on experience of the printing process.

The exhibition is part of the 500 years of printing in Scotland celebrations and runs at the National Trust for Scotland’s gallery at 28 Charlotte Square in Edinburgh from 1 August until the end of October.

It includes fascinating records, photographs and work samples from Smail’s past, telling the story of the Smail family and their business.

Experts from Innerleithen will also be on hand to provide printing demonstrations during August and September, so there is plenty of opportunity for visitors to mind their ‘p’s and ‘q’s.

Smail’s Property Manager Gen Harrison said:

“We are very lucky at the Trust to have an industrial treasure like Smail’s. There are very few surviving examples of a general jobbing printers, and as far as we know, none open in their original location, as is the case at Innerleithen. Smail’s is a great example of the diversity of the Trust - so often people think the Trust is just about castles, but we have so much more to offer.

“The history and technology of Smail’s is absolutely fascinating and our staff and volunteers are really looking forward to bringing the story of print to a wider audience, getting involved in marking Scotland’s 500 years of printing. For such a small property, we are proud to be playing such a big part in this important anniversary and still to be setting type the original Chepman and Myllar way.”

A printing office will take over one of the rooms at 28 Charlotte Square - a small Adana printing press will be installed so that visitors can try typesetting by hand and produce a personalised bookplate.

A handful of treasures from the Trust’s book collections will also be on show at the exhibition. A first edition of J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan will take pride of place. The Trust owns and cares for the house in Kirriemuir, Angus where the author was born and is thought to have gained much of the inspiration for his classic children’s tale.

The free exhibition will run from 1 August until 31 October at 28 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh. The gallery is open Monday to Saturday, from 11am – 4pm.

A short film inspired by Smail’s and printing in Scotland will also be on show. Created by Kenny Munro and Edward O’Donnelly, Words fly from this place reflects on changes in technology, and on the huge impact of printing, communication and learning.

Experts in printing, books and libraries will also host a series of lectures throughout the exhibition.

Wednesday, 20 August at 12.30pm - Making a Good Impression - Gen Harrison, Property Manager/Compositor, Robert Smail’s Printing Works.

Wednesday, 10 September at 12.30pm - Meet the Archivists - Ian Riches, Archivist, the National Trust for Scotland and David Rudram, Honorary Archivist, Robert Smail’s Printing Works.

Wednesday 24 September at 12.30pm - Caring for Print Collections - Helen Creasy ACR (paper conservator).

Wednesday, 8 October at 12.30pm - The Architecture of the Trust’s Libraries - Ian Gow, Chief Curator, the National Trust for Scotland.

Wednesday, 15 October at 12.30pm - Revealing Hidden Treasure: the work of a Volunteer Librarian – Tom Hall, Volunteer Librarian, Haddo House.

Wednesday, 22 October at 12.30pm - A Printer’s Journey – Tim Honnor, Piccolo Press.

More information on the exhibition and its programme of demonstrations and talks are available at www.nts.org.uk.

 

The National Trust for Scotland’s hugely-successful Culloden Centre is in the running for a prestigious architecture award.

It is one of four buildings in Scotland that have been shortlisted for the inaugural World Architecture Festival Awards (2008).

Culloden General Manager, Deirdre Smyth said:

“We are so pleased to be recognised with another award nomination. Culloden is really a must-see destination and is proving very popular with visitors from near and far.”

Gareth Hoskins from Gareth Hoskins Architects, who designed the £9.5 million visitor centre, said:

“It is wonderful to see the ambition to create a ‘world class’ visitor centre on the site now also being recognised at an international level through the World Architecture Awards.”

For more information on the World Architecture Festival Awards, visit www.worldarchitecturefestival.com/.
 

Youngsters will get a great introduction to the world of working as a ranger with the National Trust for Scotland next week.

Wildlife experts at the conservation charity on Arran are running a three-day Junior Ranger training event for children aged between seven and eleven years old. The course is designed to encourage young people to get hands-on with nature and give them an insight into the skills it takes to be a ranger.

The events take place at the National Trust for Scotland’s Brodick Castle and Country Park from Tuesday 5 August until Thursday 7 August.

Youngsters will learn more about animal tracking techniques and nature identification skills. Children attending the course will receive a Junior Ranger badge and certificate.

National Trust for Scotland ranger, Stephen Mason said:

“We think it’s really important for young people to learn about nature and our junior ranger days will give children the chance to get outdoors, exploring and picking up new skills at one of Scotland’s most beautiful locations.

“Young people are so enthusiastic about Scotland’s beautiful wildlife, so it’s great fun to be involved in these events and to pass on skills to whole new generation of potential rangers and naturalists.”

Booking is essential. To book, call 01770 302462.
 

The National Trust for Scotland charity has pledged to work with Historic Scotland to ensure that the Trust’s Bannockburn battlefield and other important battle sites across Scotland are better protected.

The Trust owns major Scottish battlefields at Bannockburn, Culloden and Glen Shiel, and has interests in other sites like Killicrankie, Auldearn and Fyvie.

Experts at the charity are supportive of Historic Scotland’s draft Scottish Historic Environment Policy (SHEP) on Historic Battlefields. The SHEP sets out proposals for recognising Scotland’s important battlefields and how they can be acknowledged and better protected through the planning process.

Under the plans, Historic Scotland - the government agency with responsibility for safeguarding the historic environment - will draw up an Inventory of Historic Battlefields. Being listed on the inventory would reduce the likelihood of inappropriate development at battle sites. To qualify, a battlefield must be able to be located accurately and be considered nationally significant because of its historical importance, archaeological potential or the value of its undamaged landscape.

Responding today (Friday 25 July) to a consultation on the SHEP, the National Trust for Scotland said that as the draft policy stands it is concerned that Bannockburn may not qualify for inclusion on the inventory, because its landscape has been compromised by development. Over the years, large areas at Bannockburn have been given over to housing.

Head of Archaeology at the National Trust for Scotland, Robin Turner said:

“As the owner of some of Scotland’s most important battlefield sites, we welcome these moves which will help protect key historic sites for the future. However, we would like to see the criteria adjusted to better reflect the full range of factors that combine to make a battlefield of national significance – including recognising the importance of what the public value, regardless of the state of preservation.

“We would argue that at sites – like Bannockburn - where parts of the battlefield have already been lost, there can be an even greater need to protect what survives. We will continue to talk to our partners at Historic Scotland to make our concerns known and ensure that we work together to protect Bannockburn and other battlefields for the future.”

The conservation charity also highlighted the need to consider a range of factors that make a battlefield important beyond the number of combatants on each side. Experts said that archaeological potential, military, political or cultural significance could contribute to making a site nationally important.

The Trust also made the point that having a non-statutory inventory may not produce the desired results, suggesting a fully statutory inventory may provide better protection. In England, where the Battlefields Register is non-statutory, there is evidence that major sites continue to be eroded. English Heritage’s Battlefields at Risk Register shows that 43 nationally important sites are at risk – in many cases through disturbances by metal detectorists, whose activities would also not be regulated under the Scottish proposals.

The Trust’s full consultation response to the consultation is available at www.nts.org.uk/Policy/Work/

 

The National Trust for Scotland charity’s Fife properties are gearing up for one of their most fun-packed weekends on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 August.

The mansion house at Hill of Tarvit near Cupar hosts a drama troop on Saturday 2 August. Kellie Castle at Pittenweem is also playing its part in the Pittenweem Arts Festival which gets underway on the 2 August.

On Sunday, there are great family activities on offer at Culross, where a burgh fair will be in full swing – complete with a re-enactment of the signing of the historic declaration of Arbroath and at Falkland Palace, the falcons will be in full flight.

Edinburgh and East Buildings and Gardens Group Manager, David McAllister said:

“There are lots of opportunities to get involved in the fantastic family activities at our properties all across Fife. The beauty of the Trust is that we have lots of different activities and types of properties on people’s doorsteps. Why not get out and explore the local area this August and discover some of Fife’s treasures with the Trust.”

Much ado about nothing at Hill of Tarvit – Saturday 2 August at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £12.50 for adults and £7 for children.

Pittenweem Arts Festival – for more information visit - www.pittenweemartsfestival.co.uk/index.html

Falconry at Falkland – Sunday 3 August from 1.30 – 4.30pm. Normal admission prices apply.

Culross Burgh Fair - Sunday 3 August from noon. Free.
 

Conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland has met with the owners of the Spinningdale, the ship which remains stranded on St Kilda, to discuss plans for its removal.

The vessel was grounded on St Kilda, which is owned and managed by the Trust, during violent winter storms on 1February 2008.

In April, an expert maritime salvage crew removed potentially harmful liquids, including diesel and oil, and equipment from the ship, before the seabird breeding season began to help protect the important wildlife.

Now the Trust has met with owners of the vessel to discuss future plans for the possible removal of the ship.

It has been agreed to commission a feasibility study to examine the complex safety and environmental factors surrounding the removal of any remaining equipment and the vessel. This will be paid for by the ship’s insurers.

The ship will remain in situ until the full details of the study are available for careful consideration by all parties.

Property Manager Susan Bain said:

“We are very clear that we want to see the Spinningdale removed from dual World Heritage Site, St Kilda. However, this is a complex operation and must be carefully considered and managed.

“As well as the issues regarding access to St Kilda and its remoteness, there are also logistical issues which make salvage a real challenge. The water around the Spinningdale is very shallow and it would be difficult for a salvage vessel to get close enough to carry work out safely. We also need to ensure that removing the wreck would not permanently damage the delicate reefs under the ship.

“That is why we have agreed to commission this study which will clearly set out all the issues and their impact upon this pristine environment. This means that the ship will stay where it is over the winter months and when the good weather returns next spring, we will have a clear way forward which will ensure that any work is carried out safely and in a ways which best protects St Kilda’s environment and wildlife.”
 

Gladstone’s Land, the National Trust for Scotland’s old-town treasure, is having a bumper summer season this year. So far, more than 13,000 visitors have flocked to the traditional Old Town property.

That is 3000 more than for the same period in 2007, and is despite concerns that the credit crunch is cutting leisure spending across the capital.

The Royal Mile historic house gives visitors a real insight into 17th century life in Old Town Edinburgh and has a fantastic collection of authentic period furniture and art.

The conservation charity’s other prestigious Edinburgh property, the Georgian House in Charlotte Square, is also beating last year’s figures. More than 14,000 visitors have popped in to the house that is next door to the First Minister’s residence, Bute House, to view the grand rooms. That is 1000 more than at the same point in 2007.

Gladstone’s Land Property Manager, Fiona Murray said:

“We are really please to have got off to such a strong start this season. Both Gladstone’s Land and the Georgian House give visitors a fantastic experience and a real insight into life during key stages of Edinburgh’s development into the wonderful city we see today.”

Georgian House Property Manager Sheonagh Martin, added:

“It is a pleasure to play our part in preserving and protecting these buildings for future generations and bringing their history to life for our thousands of visitors. We look forward to welcoming many more over the coming months.”
 

The National Trust for Scotland’s recently-refurbished Culloden Visitor Centre near Inverness is proving to be a popular Highland tourist destination this year.

Already in 2008, more than 57,000 visitors have stopped in at the revamped centre and battlefield site. That is 18,000 more than for the same period in 2007.

The centre was officially opened in April 2008 and uses the latest technology to tell the story of the Battle of Culloden, giving visitors a fresh insight into the battle’s history.

Deirdre Smyth, General Manager said:

“We want to tell Culloden’s story to as many people as we can, so it’s great news that we are already reaching a wider audience than we did last year.

“The new centre is proving to be very popular and visitor feedback about it and our fantastic, interactive exhibition is very positive. I hope that we can continue to build on our success so far this year and bring the battle to life for many more visitors.”
 

Inveresk Lodge Garden, the National Trust for Scotland’s beautiful hillside garden in Musselburgh, is enjoying a good summer season this year.

Visitor numbers are up by more than 160%, compared to last year. So far in 2008, almost 900 visitors have spent time in the tranquil surroundings, enjoying the formal gardens, woodland walks and Edwardian aviary. That compares with 328 for the same period last year.

Property Manager, Louise Arnot said:

“It is great to hear that we are attracting so many visitors. There is certainly plenty to see in the garden right now. As well as our lovely collection of plants, you can have a relaxed woodland ramble or take time out by the pond. There are some moorhen chicks swimming around right now, as well as lots of frogs and toads to spot.”
 

Brodie Castle, the National Trust for Scotland’s impressive 16th century tower house in Forres, is enjoying a good summer season this year.

Visitor numbers are up by more than 23%, compared to last year. So far in 2008, almost 7500 visitors have spent time exploring the fine art and antiques, peaceful parklands and glorious gardens. That compares with just over 6000 for the same period last year.

Property Manager, Charlie Finlayson said:

“Brodie is a great place to visit, so it’s easy to understand why we are proving so popular. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff or a green-fingered visitor, there is plenty to see here, especially when the weather is not as fine as it might be in July! We also have a fantastic team of staff at Brodie who make it a great place to visit. We hope that the weather improves and we look forward to welcoming many more visitors in the next few months.”
 

Experts and volunteers from conservation charity the National Trust for Scotland will check whether any bats have made their home at Hill of Tarvit in Fife on 22 and 23 July.

The early 20th century mansion-house and its beautiful grounds are cared for by the Trust and is one of seventeen Trust properties taking part in bat surveys this summer.

Hill of Tarvit has plenty of bat activity to monitor, with at least 3 known roosts.

The charity is keen to establish exactly where the bats live and which species are present, as part of its ongoing work to protect and conserve the legally-protected mammals and their roosts. The project is part-funded by Scottish Natural Heritage.

Mr Lindsay Mackinlay, Nature Conservation Adviser said:

“Bats can be tricky to find because they are so small. They can squeeze into incredibly tight gaps and live in inaccessible parts of buildings and trees. We know there are roosts around Hill of Tarvit and we need to see whether any new roosts have been established. It’s important to do these checks so that we can make sure these creatures and their habitats are not disturbed.”
 

New National Trust for Scotland gardener, Tim Keyworth (20), is the latest home-grown horticulturalist to join the conservation charity’s expert gardens team.

Tim, who is from Leicester, took up a permanent, full-time gardening post at the Trust’s Leith Hall in Huntly, Aberdeenshire this week. He has just completed a National Trust for Scotland’s Craftsman Gardener Award at Threave Garden in Dumfries and Galloway.

The Threave-based course is now recruiting six students for its September 2008 intake, so other newly-qualified gardeners can take advantage of the top-quality training that has benefited Tim and many other gardeners.

The year long course is ideal for students with National Diplomas, Higher National Diplomas who want to gain practical gardens experience, or for recent university graduates who are looking for work experience and a structured programme of learning.

It lasts for one year and provides a comprehensive training programme for gardeners, using Threave’s stunning 63 acres as a classroom. Topics covered include:

· Soils composts and manures.

· Glasshouse cultivation.

· Propagation.

· Garden design.

· Lawn establishment and care.

The course is highly-respected in the horticultural world and many gardeners are keen to study under the expert staff at Threave. In fact, Tim was so determined that Threave was the perfect place for him he waited a year for his place. He said:

“I studied for my National Diploma at Brooksby College in Leicester and I always had my eye on Threave, but I missed the 2006 intake. So, I volunteered for a year to gain more experience until the next opportunity at Threave came along.”

The training course is a great start for young gardeners, helping many into full-time employment, just like Tim, who secured the Leith Hall post as his year-long apprenticeship was concluding.

Head of Gardens and Designed Landscapes for the National Trust for Scotland, Mr Jan Haenraets said:

“These courses are great opportunities for green-fingered students and graduates. The Trust has been training gardeners at Threave for almost 50 years and we are committed to providing a quality learning experience.

“Threave Garden is one of Scotland’s most impressive landscaped environments and includes formal gardens, as well as woodland areas, which means there is always something new to learn about. Trainees also benefit from the experience and coaching of some of the Trust’s most expert gardeners.

“Working towards the Craftsman Gardener Award is a great step in any gardener’s career. In fact, many Trust gardeners are graduates of the programme and are already involved in passing their skills on to the next generation.”

Students undertaking the Craftsman Gardener Award are supported by a National Trust for Scotland bursary during their training and accommodation is also provided.

For more information or to make an application, contact Veronica Barrington on 0131 243 9440, or email vbarrington@nts.org.uk. The closing date for applications is 1 August 2008 and interviews will be held shortly thereafter.

 

The UK’s first ever edible boat race gets underway at Eyemouth beach on Wednesday 23 July.

The competition is the brainchild of the Eyemouth Herring Queen (EHQ) Committee and the St Abb’s & Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve (VMR).

The competition is open to all ages, and entrants are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild, using all their ingenuity to design and build their own boat. The vessels can be any size, but must be made entirely out of edible materials, including whatever holds the craft together. The vessels will be judged on their design and inventiveness, as well as the crucial test of seaworthiness. The winning boat is the one that stays afloat longest.

Liza Cole, National Trust for Scotland Ranger for the Marine Reserve, explains how this rather off-the-wall event has come into being.

“Earlier this year the Herring Queen Committee approached me asking for advice on an idea they had had for an event for the festival - a paper boat release. Being proud of the high quality of the local marine environment, with the inshore waters being designated Scotland’s first Marine Reserve in 1984, they thought they would check to see what I thought of the event taking place in the Reserve.”

“I was really pleased that the Committee had thought laterally rather than just going for a balloon release, as these result in burst balloons littering our beaches and choking marine wildlife. However, I had reservations as paper only biodegrades in seawater very slowly, and I had visions of incoming tides of paper mache! So, it was my turn to think laterally, and that’s when I came up with the idea of an edible boat race.”

“I have put the word out with all my contacts around the country and as far as I am aware there has never been a boat race of this kind before. So we will be making history as well as having a bit of ecologically-friendly fun!”

Contact Liza for more information – 01890 771443, e-mail lcole@nts.org.uk.
 

Brand new property manager Paul Pomfret is beginning his first summer at the helm of one of the National Trust for Scotland’s biggest and most popular properties by unveiling a packed programme of events for summer.

Paul (41) who took up his new role at the conservation charity’s Culzean Castle and Country park in June, is originally from coastal village of Seaham in the North East of England.

He knows the Ayrshire area well though, as he was the manager at the Gaiety Theatre in Ayr from 2003 until the end of 2006.

Property Manager Paul Pomfret said:

“I am delighted to be part of the National Trust for Scotland and to join the dedicated team of people responsible for the care of Culzean and its many visitors.”

Culzean is one of the Trust’s most popular and well-loved properties and has already welcomed close to 100,000 visitors this year. With an ambitious summer programme of events on offer, Paul hopes his first season will be bigger and better than ever.

He said:

“Starting from my first visit, it was clear that Culzean is a very special place, and with so many events planned in the coming months it is going to be a busy summer which I am sure will be enjoyed by everyone who visits the park.

“There’s no need to struggle to keep the kids entertained this summer in Ayrshire. Just pop into to see us at Culzean, where there are fun family activities on offer almost every day.

“There truly is something for everyone. We have a huge range of activities on offer – everything from getting hands-on with creepy crawlies, to theatre and classic cars. And, by joining the National Trust for Scotland your entry to the park and castle is free. It only costs £5 a month for a family membership, so sign up the next time you visit Culzean. I look forward to seeing you soon.”

Highlights of events at Culzean this month include:

A Midsummer Nights Dream
Thursday 17 July 2008 – 7.30pm

Chapterhouse Theatre company presents an open air production (weather permitting) of one of Shakespeare's best loved plays, 'A Midsummer Nights Dream', in the Carriage Circle in front of Culzean Castle. Bring along a picnic and something comfortable to sit on. Adult £12.00 Child / Concession £6.00 Family (2 adults and 2 concessions) £35.00 Tickets available in advance - 0844 493 2149

The Half Day Hike
Thursday 17 July 2008 – 11.30 – 3.30

Join the Rangers for a 'Half Day Hike' - a longer walk reaching the places that others don't. Remember to bring a packed lunch! Meet at the Visitor Centre. Adult £2.00 Child Free (accompanied).

Pirates Day
Sunday 20 July 2008, from 12 noon.

Dare you meet Scotland's two most wicked pirates, Captain Israel Flint and his incompetent mate Cutthroat Hugo and their vicious shipmates? Main shows at 12.00pm, 2.00pm and 3.30pm. Why not come along in costume? There will be a 'best dressed pirate' competition and a treasure trail. Normal Country Park admission charges apply.

Culzean's Gardens
Tuesday 22 July 2008 – 2pm

Join our knowledgeable Gardens Staff who will conduct a tour for garden enthusiasts. Meet at the Walled Garden Car Park. Adult £2.00/ Child Free (accompanied).

Talking Trees
Thursday 24 July 2008 – 2pm

John our Head Forester for an informative and entertaining walk through Culzean’s woodlands. Meet at the Walled Garden Car Park. Adult £2.00 Child Free (accompanied).

Scottish Country Dancing

Sunday 27 July 2008 – 2.30pm Come along and join the fun as we host Scottish Country Dancing in the Walled Garden. Everyone is welcome to join in, so bring along your dancing shoes. Normal Country Park admission charges apply.

Pond Dipping
Tuesday 29 July 2008 – 2pm

Join the Rangers to learn more about the wildlife living in Culzean's ponds. Meet at the Visitor Centre - and wear your wellies! Normal Country Park admission charges apply.

The Night Hunters
Wednesday 30 July 2008 – 10.30pm

Nocturnal Sights And Sounds - ... More> join the Rangers for a nocturnal walk through the Country Park. Places will be limited - bookings will be accepted from 9.00am on the day only by calling 01655 884400. Meet at the Visitor Centre. Adult £2.00, children free (accompanied).

 

There is no excuse for staying indoors in Lochaber this summer. The National Trust for Scotland’s Glencoe Visitor Centre has dozens of events to get visitors out into the spectacular scenery, to enjoy the rich wildlife and haunting history of the area.

Visitors of all ages will find something to entertain them at Glencoe this summer, from the chance to explore the great Glen in a land rover safari, to an introduction to the beautiful butterflies that live locally.

Property Manager Douglas Mainland said:

“We are lucky at Glencoe to have an incredibly rich environment to explore. As a conservation charity, we are determined to share our enthusiasm for the outdoors and this stunning setting with our visitors.

“We want visitors to fall in love with the drama and beauty of Glencoe, which is amongst the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland, and one with a fascinating and tragic past too. Our events are intended to bring some of this to life for visitors so they can leave with a better understanding of this stunning setting, its environment and its history.“

Events take place almost every day at Glencoe Visitors Centre throughout the summer. Visit www.nts.org.uk/events for a full listing.

Highlights include:

· Landrover safaris – explore the glen in a rugged all terrain vehicle. Learn more about the landscape, geology and history of Glencoe. Tours take place almost every day throughout July and August and cost £15 per person.

· Orientreeing – Friday 25 July 2008 – kids can navigate our tree trail and learn how to spot different species in the process. £3 for children.

· Nature detectives – Monday 28 July – wildlife walk and scavenger hunt for youngsters (£3).

· Pond dipping – Tuesday 29 July – what lives in the pond? Kids can find out in this fun event (£3).

· Flutterby Butterfly – Thursday 31 July – children’s butterfly trail (£3).
 

Experts and volunteers from conservation charity the National Trust for Scotland will check whether any bats have made their home at Falkland Palace in Fife on 14 and 15 July.

The Palace, which is well-known as one of Mary Queen of Scots favourite places, is cared for by the Trust and is one of seventeen Trust properties taking part in bat surveys this summer.

While there is no known roost at Falkland, a lot of bat activity has already been spotted. Trust experts will check the site for signs of any additional small, nocturnal mammals during the visit.

The charity is keen to establish exactly where the bats live and which species are present, as part of its ongoing work to protect and conserve the legally-protected mammals and their roosts. The project is part-funded by Scottish Natural Heritage.

Mr Lindsay Mackinlay, Nature Conservation Adviser said:

“Bats can be tricky to find because they are so small. They can squeeze into incredibly tight gaps and live in inaccessible parts of buildings and trees. We don’t think there is a roost at Falkland, but we know there are lots of bats around the property. We need to check that there haven’t been any changes and look out for any new roosts. It’s important to do these checks so that we can make sure these creatures and their habitats are not disturbed.”

 

It will be even easier for visitors to stroll around the grounds in the stunning Crarae Garden by Inveraray soon, as a project to upgrade paths and walkways is completed.

Work on two replacement bridges is scheduled to conclude later this month. The steel and timber bridges are the latest step in a £500,000 restoration project at the garden funded by the National Trust for Scotland, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Argyll and Islands Enterprise.

Work began six years ago, when the National Trust for Scotland took over the garden. Since then pathways have been laid, steps have been built and handrails have been installed so that visitors can focus on the fantastic flora, rather than their feet. The funding package has also paid for important archaeological work, a topographic survey of the grounds and plant collection recording.

Head Gardener Nigel Price said:

“It’s great to see the bridges so close to completion. The work on the pathways and building of the steps has really made it easier for visitors to enjoy out truly glorious garden. The pathways guide visitors past our fabulous plants and the bridges are great viewpoints and an opportunity to enjoy the water cascading down the hillside. It is a very special place.”

Famous for its National Collection of Southern Beech, as well as acers, sorbus and eucalyptus, the garden is at its greenest at this time of year.

Nigel continues:

“The garden is constantly changing and right now is looking at its most lush. It’s a fantastic time to visit as the colours are intensely green and the foliage gives the garden such texture. It’s easy to understand why this is such a popular spot for artists.”

Entry to Crarae Garden costs £5 for an adult and £14 for a family. Entry is free for members of the National Trust for Scotland.

 

The decision to award the Antonine Wall World Heritage Status was welcomed today by conservation experts at the National Trust for Scotland.

The conservation charity cares for hundreds of historic sites, buildings and monuments across Scotland, including dual World Heritage Site, St Kilda.

Derek Alexander, archaeologist with the National Trust for Scotland said:

“We welcome the news that the Antonine Wall has been recognised as amongst the most important historical sites in the world. We cannot under-estimate what it tells us about the wider Roman Empire but also the interaction between the Roman military and the local inhabitants.

“The award will help raise the profile of this important site within Scotland and beyond and ensure its preservation for future generations.”

 

Staff at the National Trust for Scotland’s Culross Palace celebrated an addition to the grounds at the Palace last week, with the official opening of the Mary Luke garden.

The beautiful terraced garden provides stunning views to the Firth of Forth and is named in memory of the woman who inherited Culross Palace at the end of the 19th Century.

The garden was created by a committed team of Trust experts and volunteers, many of whom tries their hands at new trades to help obtain the fantastic results that are now on show to visitors venturing to Culross. Gardeners turned carpenters, building the ornate fences and wooden features of the garden, while surveyors tried their hand at stonemasonry, engraving emblems into stone.

Horticultural highlights include a fragrant selection of period roses, low growing aromatic and flowering herbs like creeping thyme, pennyroyal and chamomile. Beautiful blooms come in the form of the double flowering buttercup and cowslips.

Culross head gardener Mark Jeffery would like to thank everyone involved with the project.

The garden is open daily from 10am until 6pm.
 

Celebrating Ayrshire at the National Trust for Scotland’s Culzean Castle and Country Park was a big success last Sunday.

More than 1200 visitors packed into the park to sample the best of Ayrshire’s food, crafts and entertainment, all set in the stunning grounds at one of Ayrshire best-known and loved visitor attractions, Culzean Castle.

Despite the showers, visitors really got in to the spirit of the celebrations, enjoying music from the Tonality String Quartet and Maybole Pipe Band, having their faces painted, sampling the fantastic locally-produced food that was on offer and admiring the handsome Ayrshire cows that had come along especially for the event.

Event organiser and Culzean ranger Kate Walker said:

“Ayrshire has plenty to shout about, so we were delighted to host an event that would really celebrate our local area, its people and its produce. It was fantastic to see so many families having such a great time, enjoying the entertainment and exploring Culzean. I don’t think the showers dampened the enthusiasm on the day.”
 

Since its public meeting at Inverewe on 9 June, the National Trust for Scotland has been listening to many different views in the local community and carefully assessing the issue of late access to Inverewe Garden after 6pm. The charity promised local residents it would come to its conclusions within a month and this promise has now been fulfilled.

The charity has decided to continue the use of an honesty box during summer evenings at Inverewe and is appealing to the local community to encourage honesty box donations by evening visitors, to help the property balance its books and be treated fairly.

The Trust also noted the strength of local feeling over the access issue and was concerned that relations with some local residents had suffered as a consequence.

Mark Adderley, Chief Executive of the Trust said:

“We always strive to have a good relationship with the local community in each of our properties and I am keen to see the situation in Inverewe achieve that again with improved communications locally. We have listened carefully to local residents, whose support we value, and decided to continue with an honesty box out of hours to address the access issue.

“Inverewe is a very special place and as a charity, we must continue to look at ways to help balance the books there and attract new members, as we rely on membership for a large part of our income.

“We are also committed to starting a new Friends of Inverewe group and we will be inviting local residents to join the new Friends group in October. It’s important for us to plan this carefully and October is the most appropriate time, at the end of the busy summer visitor season.

“The local community has an important role to play in ensuring Inverewe’s future success, as the Garden needs the community and the community needs the Garden.”

The issue of free passes to the Garden to residents living in the Wester Loch Ewe area was deferred at the June public meeting for six months, to allow the gathering of information on the exact number of Wester Loch Ewe free passes there are in circulation and exactly how frequently they are used.
 

Scotland, embraced the digital age today as it launched a podcast to take visitors on a tour at the floral and fragrant Priorwood Garden and dried flower shop in Melrose.

The fifth in a series of six walking podcasts available for free at www.nts.org.uk/multimedia, the download takes visitors on a tour of the garden, explaining which flowers flourish there.

The podcasts are designed to encourage visitors to enjoy walking at Trust properties and include a tour of the picturesque town of Dunkeld, a wildlife walk around the dramatic Glencoe and a stroll around the medieval streets of Culross, Fife.

Marketing Manager Clare Willis said:

“Priorwood is a magical garden to explore and there is so much to see. Joining a guided tour with a gardener is a great way to learn more, but it’s just not convenient for every visitor. Free podcasts give us a great opportunity to highlight the very best of the Trust’s properties.

“Whether it’s a secluded spot in a beautiful garden, an impressive mountain vista or a fascinating fact about village life, there is something extra in there for our visitors. We hope the downloads will be used by visitors of all ages who want to get even more out of their time at a Trust property.”
 

On Sunday 6 July, Trust experts who look after the estate will give an insight into what is involved in running such a huge property.

As well as the wildlife conservation work that is underway on the estate, visitors will enjoy forestry demonstrations. Rangers will be on hand to give advice on the best walks around the property and talk about their important work to protect and preserve this incredible, wild landscape. The role of animals on the estate will be recognised too, as dogs, Highland ponies and ferrets show off their skills.

For those more interested in country living, than country pursuits, there will be a rare treat as visitors will be welcome to tour Mar Lodge. The grand rooms, that are normally not accessible to the public, will be on show from 10am until 4pm. The spectacular Stag Ballroom is not to be missed.

For more information contact Peter Holden, Senior Ranger: 0844 493 2173
 

Conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland, embraced the digital age today as it launched a podcast to take visitors on a scenic walk around Dunkeld and the Hermitage.

The fourth in a series of six walking podcasts available for free at www.nts.org.uk/multimedia, the download takes visitors from the picturesque Dunkeld, to the Hermitage and then on a woodland walk to Ossian’s Hall.

The podcasts are designed to encourage visitors to enjoy walking at Trust properties and include a wander around the tranquil Priorwood and Harmony gardens in Melrose, a wildlife walk around the dramatic Glencoe and a stroll around the medieval streets of Culross, Fife.

Marketing Manager Clare Willis said:

“Dunkeld and its surrounding area are great locations for walks and there is so much to see. Joining a guided tour or a ranger-led walk is a great way to learn more, but it’s just not convenient for every visitor. Free podcasts give us a great opportunity to highlight the very best of the Trust’s properties. Whether it’s a secluded spot in a beautiful garden, an impressive mountain vista or a fascinating fact about village life, there is something extra in there for our visitors. We hope the downloads will be used by visitors of all ages who want to get even more out of their time at a Trust property.”
 

Don’t be late on the very important date of 10 July, as the National Trust for Scotland’s Holmwood House in Cathcart, Glasgow presents an exciting adaptation of Alice in Wonderland.

Performed by the Chapterhouse Theatre Company in the scenic surroundings at Holmwood House, the performance is sure to be out of this world.

Why not get in on the act and come along as your favourite character for Carroll’s well-loved tall tale. Whether you are a Mad Hatter or an Ace of Spades, there will be the chance to get your 15 minutes of fame, during the fancy dress parade that will take place at the interval.

Tickets cost £12 for adults, £8 for children and £35 for families. 10% discount for party of 10 or more. To book, call 0844 493 2202.

Doors open at 6pm in the picnic area and the performance begins at 7pm.
 

The National Trust for Scotland is searching for experts with experience in gardens and historic interiors to volunteer their time and expertise to the charity.

The Trust needs two conservation specialists to take on important roles as chairs for their Gardens & Designed Landscapes Advisory Panel and the Interiors & Collections Advisory Panel.

The panels provide advice to the Trust on conservation and heritage issues and help the Trust with projects. The Trust has in its care over 60 gardens and designed landscapes and hundreds of historic interiors.

Conservation Services & Projects Director Andrew Bachell said:

“We are looking for two people with extensive gardens or interiors knowledge to chair these panels and to represent the panels on the Trust’s Conservation Committee.

“Although the positions are voluntary they will be very influential. The advisory panels make an important contribution to our work, looking after some of Scotland’s most valuable heritage sites, most of which are open to the public.”

The positions will also enable the new Chairs to work with like-minded specialists and with people from other branches of conservation.

The ideal candidates will have conservation knowledge and expertise in either gardens and designed landscapes or interiors and collections and experience of chairing committees.

The closing date for applications is Friday 8 August 2008 and interviews will be held on Tuesday 19 August 2008.

For more information about the positions, contact Caroline Walsh on 0844 493 2497 or email cwalsh@nts.org.uk.
 

The appeal will go some way towards helping the charity prevent potentially devastating diseases like Sudden Oak Death from wiping out some of its most precious and rare plant specimens.

The charity plans to grow extra stocks of its rarest species which are vulnerable to attack from virulent plant diseases, to ensure that those plants survive for future generations.

Already, the potentially devastating fungal disease Phytophthora ramorum – also known as Sudden Oak Death – has been found at a number of gardens in Scotland, including Trust gardens in the West of Scotland, notably Arduaine in Argyll and Inverewe in Ross-shire. A similar disease, Phytophthora kernoviae has been detected at Brodick on Arran.

The charity is working to raise £50,000 which it will use to accelerate propagation work to back up collections, speed up plant recording and database work for conservation, create an urgent action plan for plant disease outbreaks and prepare gardeners for the new challenges.

Conservation Services and Projects Director, Andrew Bachell said:

“We think carefully about when to ask the public for help and we felt that the threat to our plant collections was sufficiently serious to merit this approach. We decided that we had to act now to ensure that we can take the necessary steps to protect our plants for the future.”

Director of Development, Lorna Stoddart said:

“We are aiming to raise £50,000 with our threatened plants appeal which will be put to good use in our gardens all across Scotland, backing up our rare plants and ensuring we always have an ‘insurance policy’ to draw on, in the event of an outbreak of disease. A donation of £30 can pay for a precautionary test of an area already at risk from Sudden Oak Death.”

Donations to the appeal can be made at www.nts.org.uk/ThreatenedPlantsAppeal. The Trust is also mailing the appeal to 20,000 supporters across the country.

The charity is also working with the Scottish Government to set up a national working group which will develop plans to help protect the whole country from outbreaks of these diseases.

Head of Gardens and Landscape Services for the National Trust for Scotland, Jan Haenraets said:

“The Trust has some of the most incredible collections of plants in Scotland. We must make sure that we conserve and preserve them for future generations. Both Phytophthora ramorum and kernoviae are serious diseases for Scotland and present a real challenge for all gardeners – not just those caring for Trust plant collections.

“Our expert gardeners are working hard to contain the diseases, in line with advice from the Scottish Government. So far, the impact on plant collections has been contained, but we are concerned about the long-term implications.

“This fundraising will help us to reduce the risk of losing irreplaceable, important plants. It will also enable us to continue to invest in skills and knowledge, so that we can spot the warning signs of disease.

“Gardeners must work together to tackle this problem, that is why we are working with the Scottish Government and other stakeholders to establish a national working group to consider the issues involved in containing such potentially destructive diseases.”
 

Parents in need of inspiration on how to amuse energetic, inquisitive children over the school holidays need look no further than the National Trust for Scotland.

The conservation charity has launched a summer events guide to coincide with the start of the school holidays.

Available online at www.nts.org.uk/Downloads/Events%202008.pdf and at all 129 Trust properties across Scotland, the guide is filled with outings and activities to keep children and young people busy all summer long. Check out www.nts.org.uk/events for even more activities.

Get your family out in the fresh air and get active with guided walks and nature trails, take to the water in a sea-kayak or go back in time with living history days.

With events planned at properties across the country, from Highland to the Scottish Borders, there are plenty of activities on offer right on your doorstep.

National Events Manager at the National Trust for Scotland, Jill McNicol said:

“It’s always a challenge to keep your kids amused for the summer holidays. There are thousands of activities on offer at National Trust for Scotland properties all across the country. That’s great because it means less time in the car, less money on petrol and more time together as a family. Download a guide at our website, or pick up a copy at your next visit to a favourite Trust property. We look forward to seeing you over the summer.”
 

Experts and volunteers from conservation charity the National Trust for Scotland check on whether any bats have made their home at Culross in Fife on Wednesday 2 July.

The historic burgh is cared for by the Trust and is one of seventeen Trust properties taking part in bat surveys this summer.

There is already one known bat roost at Culross, but experts will check the site for signs of any additional small, nocturnal mammals during the visit tomorrow.

The charity is keen to establish exactly where the bats live and which species are present, as part of its ongoing work to protect and conserve the legally-protected mammals and their roosts. The project is part-funded by Scottish Natural Heritage.

Mr Lindsay Mackinlay, Nature Conservation Adviser said:

“Bats can be tricky to find because they are so small. They can squeeze into incredibly tight gaps and live in inaccessible parts of buildings and trees. We only know of one roost at Culross, so we need to check that it’s still inhabited and whether there are any new roosts. It’s important to check so that we can make sure these creatures and their habitats are not disturbed.”