There are only a few days remaining to buy tickets for one of the National Trust for Scotland's most magical festive events - the Enchanted Castle at Culzean Castle in Ayrshire.

See the castle transformed, as fairytale characters can be found in each room. The events take place on Sunday 7 and 14 December and tickets must be booked in advance.

There are still some remaining, so act now to enjoy this extraordinary event. Bookings can be made on 0844 493 2100.  

Pupils from Castle Douglas Primary School had an exciting visit to the National Trust for Scotland’s Threave Estate recently.

As part of their coursework they had been learning about forestry and conservation, so they jumped at the chance to visit Threave where tree felling is currently in progress at Meikle Wood. Pupils saw the machinery in action and watched at a safe distance as a tree was cut down.

The pupils also met forestry contractor Jim Johnson and his horse Billy, a Belgium Ardennes, who are helping the conservation charity carry out this crucial work in the forest.

Jim chatted to the children and explained why a horse was being used to extract timber from this site rather than modern ‘forwarder’ machines.

Karl Munday, Senior Ranger for the National Trust for Scotland said:

“Regular tree-felling is an important part of good forestry management and we are undertaking this work to ensure that Meikle Wood thrives in the future. We decided that using horses was the best approach. This traditional technique has been used in forest management for centuries. Horses can extract timber effectively and safely through the trees without causing any damage, which is ideal for our circumstances here. Using Billy is helping us to keep any disruption to a minimum, as he is a lot quieter and easy to manoeuvre than heavy machinery.”

Trust Countryside Staff were also on hand to describe the nature conservation reasons for replacing conifer trees with native broadleaves and introduce some of the species associated with these types of woodlands.  

House of Dun, the National Trust for Scotland’s Montrose treasure is preparing for a festive weekend on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December.

Father Christmas will be the guest of honour, collecting children’s letters and taking them back to the North Pole in time for Christmas. Children can create their lists on special ‘magic’ paper. There is even more opportunity for young visitors to get creative at Auntie Sheila’s craft workshop, where they can make their own original Christmas cards and ceramic snowmen.

Events for adults have a literary theme with two book signings – on Saturday, Angus Whitson, author of “Man with Two Dogs”, shares his countryside diary, thoughts and reminiscences and shows us how nature can be beautiful and unsentimental, cuddly and cruel. Accompanied by his faithful friends, Macbeth, a white West Highland terrier, and his black Labrador Inka, who have accompanied him on many of his countryside adventures over the years.

On Sunday, John Nickson, children’s author will be signing both of his books, “Hamish the Hedgehog" and "Hamish Goes to the Woods".

One of the highlights of the weekend is the chance to win a cast-signed programme from the recent run of JM Barrie’s play, Mary Rose. The popular production at Edinburgh’s Royal Lyceum Theatre ended earlier this month. JM Barrie’s Birthplace is also owned by the National Trust for Scotland.

There will be craft stalls throughout the house and in the courtyard, the Angus Weavers shop will be open. The Angus Crafts Association will have two artists in residence exhibiting the skills required in wood turning and carving.

John McKenna, who manages both of the Angus properties said:

“This is my first Christmas at the House of Dun, so I am looking forward to seeing the house in its festive glory. I am sure that in days gone by Christmases were very grand affairs. We hope to bring a touch of that festive sparkle to life for our visitors.”

The festive weekend takes place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December from 10.30am until 5.30pm. Entry for children costs £5, including a visit with Santa and a trip to Auntie Sheila’s workshop. For more information or booking, call 0844 493 2144.
 

The Burns National Heritage Park in Alloway is gearing up for the festive season with a series of musical events to add to the atmosphere at the National Trust for Scotland’s newest property.

The seasonal singing gets underway on 3 December with a performance from the talented youngsters at Alloway Primary, the local Ladies Women’s Rural Institute choir will also demonstrate their skills throughout December, as will the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra and Catherine Overdyking and her piano.

Band, Borealis will appear for one night only on the 7 December and on 20 December youngsters from Glasgow’s Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama will showcase their talents too.

Property Manager Caroline Glenn said:

“Burns and music go hand in hand, so we pulled together a programme of events that really celebrate the songs of the season and add something extra to the Park throughout the festive season.”

A festive menu will also be on offer at the Tam o’Shanter Experience restaurant from 10 December.

The full programme of music is:

Wednesday 3 December - 6pm - 8.30pm, Alloway School Choir

Saturday 6 & 13 December – 2pm – 3pm, Alloway Ladies WRI Choir

Monday 7 December – 2pm – 4pm, Borealis entertain with a selection of songs including some seasonal favourites

10 - 23 December, 2pm – 3pm Catherine Overdyking our resident pianist

Sunday 14 & 21 December – 2pm – 4pm - Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra

Saturday 20 December – 2pm – 4pm - Join three of the rising stars from the RSAMD and Paisley Abbey Choir for a Christmas Concert.  

Festive celebrations get underway at the National Trust for Scotland’s beautiful Holmwood House in Cathcart, Glasgow on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December, as the Snow Queen comes to town.

The striking visitor will set up her throne amongst the stunning, ornately decorated interiors of one of Alexander ‘Greek’ Thomson’s finest creations. The dining room will be set for her fantastic snow banquet, and look out for her sleigh, pulled by a team of polar bears.

Visitors can also pick up some perfect gifts at the craft fair and the onsite shop, which offers a range of present ideas and Christmas decorations, some inspired by the Snow Queen’s winter wonderland.

The Snow Queen’s visit takes place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December 2008, from noon until 5pm. Entry costs £4.  

Festive celebrations get underway at the National Trust for Scotland’s Crathes Castle in Banchory on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December, with a wonderful Christmas Fair.

Christmases past will be brought to life for visitors as the castle is transported back to Victorian times. Watch the family and their servants prepare for festive celebrations, 19th century-style.

Other festive fun includes a very special visitor - Father Christmas. On Saturday he will be joined by Porridge the Donkey in his Grotto. On Sunday, he will be joined by a full reindeer team from the Cairngorm Reindeer herd.

Holly, mistletoe and roast chestnuts will be for sale too. Visitors can get creative with some Christmas arts and crafts.

A range of seasonal fair will be served up at the Courtyard and Horsemill Restaurants. There is also a full range of gifts on offer at the new Horsemill Bookshop - from Scottish interest to cookery, gardening and humour, there are Christmas gift ideas for all the family.

Property Manager Wendy McDonald said:

“We are all getting very excited by Santa’s imminent arrival. We have been working hard to make sure the castle looks at its Christmassy best, so that Santa and our visitors have a really festive time.”

The event takes place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December 2008, from 10.00am until 4.00pm. Entry to the Castle Houseparty costs £3.00 for adults and £2.00 for children. Entry to the grounds on Sunday 7 December costs £3.00 for adults and £1.00 for children.  

Sir Robert Lorimer’s marvellous mansionhouse, Hill of Tarvit near Cupar, is gearing up for a great Christmas event that will transport visitors back to Edwardian times on Saturday 6 December.

Costumed tour guides will take visitors on a trip back to the early 20th Century, as the family and servants prepare for the festive season. Visitors can also get creative and make their very own Edwardian Christmas decoration.

The house has undergone a transformation in time for Christmas too. The exterior of the building has recently been repainted with its original white limewash.

Property Manager, Ruth Burgess said:

“Edwardian Christmases were not so long ago, but I think visitors will be surprised by the formality and grandeur of these important family occasions. We’re very lucky to have such a fine house to help bring these festive celebrations from days gone by to life for our visitors.”

The event takes place on Saturday 6 December from noon until 4pm. Entry costs £2.  

Start your festive celebrations with a weekend of fun and inspiration in the stunning setting of the National Trust for Scotland’s Hill House in Helensburgh from Friday 5 December until Sunday 7 December.

The captivating Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed house will look more beautiful than usual, as it is decorated tastefully for the festive period. And in keeping with the historic house’s heritage, there will be a strong focus on all things arty over the weekend’s events.

Celebrations begin on Friday 5 December as the Oratorio Choir perform some seasonal songs.

Then on Saturday, children can get an insight into what it takes to be Santa’s helper, in the fun-filled and creative Elves Workshop. Santa will be in his Grotto on Saturday and Sunday afternoon to meet with children, hear their Christmas wishes and check who is naughty and nice.

On Sunday, get some tips on how to make your Christmas gifts look incredible, with a fantastic gift-wrapping demonstration.

Property Manager Lorna Hepburn said:

“This is my first Christmas at the Hill House and it promises to be a magical time. The house is always beautiful, but it really sparkles at this time of year.”

And for those looking for the perfect Christmas present, with a design twist, visit the well-stocked shop at the Hill House, which boasts a range of designer glass and jewellery, a wide range of gifts ideas and Christmas decorations.

The weekend programme is:

Friday 5 December
7.30pm – 9.30pm - Oratorio choir performance
Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and nibbles on arrival. Oratorio choir from 8pm - 8.45pm. Tickets are £5 and can be booked on 0844 493 2208.

Saturday 6 December

11.30am – 4pm - Elves workshop, £2 per child.
12pm - 2pm - Santa's Grotto, £1 per child.

Sunday 7 December

1.30pm – 2.30pm - Gift wrapping demonstration, £3.50, maximum of 12 people.
12pm - 2pm - Santa's Grotto, £1 per child.

For booking and information, please call 0844 493 2208.
 

One of Scotland’s leading conservation charities is asking for support so that it can continue its vital work to conserve Scotland’s wildlife.

The National Trust for Scotland has this week launched a drive to raise awareness of its work with wildlife and raise funds for its countryside and rangers staff across Scotland to protect and preserve Scotland’s wildlife. Almost 50,000 members have been contacted as part of the fundraising push. Donations can also be made online at www.nts.org.uk/StAndrewsAppeal.

Many of Scotland’s rarest and well-loved species make their home at Trust properties. From the red squirrels at Castle Fraser, near Inverurie, to the summering puffins on Staffa and the protected peregrine falcons and rare plantlife at Grey Mare’s Tail near Moffat, the Trust cares for and conserves a huge variety of wild animals and plants.

A team of 80 rangers and countryside staff across Scotland are involved in vital work to preserve habitats, protect wildlife and promote healthy populations of some at risk species. Many more volunteers devote their free time to support the Trust’s work too.

Richard Luxmoore, Senior Nature Conservation Adviser with the Trust, said:

“Many people automatically think of castles and old buildings when they think about the Trust, but the truth is, we are so much more. Protecting, preserving and promoting the wild animals and birds and their habitats on our properties is a really important part of our work.

“By investing our time, resources and expertise in this we are helping to conserve an important part of Scotland’s heritage, ensuring that the Scotland’s wealth of wildlife survives for future generations.”  

A trio of intrepid Highlanders have met the National Trust for Scotland charity’s call for help to re-instate the saltire at the Bannockburn Heritage Centre.

The conservation charity asked for assistance to rescue its stuck saltire, after a cable snapped last week, trapping the flag at half mast. Niall Mclean (Director) Ian Grey (General Manager) and Lewis Harrop from the generous firm GEO-ROPE made the journey from Ballachulish to Bannockburn today (Monday 24 November) to sort out the problem and re-fly the flag.

Lewis, who is also a member of the local mountain rescue team, climbed up the 120 foot pole and retrieved the saltire. The trio then made a quick repair and returned the flag to its rightful place, overlooking the site of the 1314 battle.

Property Manager Scott McMaster said:

“Just as the famous Gael Angus Og, Lord of the Isles came to Robert the Bruce’s side at Bannockburn, it was the turn of three other highland heroes to do the same almost 700 years later. We are very grateful to these generous gents who have saved our saltire, so that it flies again over this historic site.”
 

Festive celebrations get underway at the National Trust for Scotland’s Fyvie Castle in Turriff on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November, as Father Christmas pays a visit.

Children can pass their lists directly to Father Christmas by the fire in the Billiards room, while parents enjoy some mulled wine. There will be some seasonal songs in the Music Gallery too.

Visitors can also stock up on a fantastic range of gifts for friends and family, including books, toys and games at the craft fair.

The castle is open from 12.00 to 16.00. Entry costs £3.  

Festive celebrations get underway at the National Trust for Scotland’s Brodie Castle in Forres on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November, with a wonderful Christmas Fair.

Find unusual and beautiful gifts for family and friends from the selection of handmade local crafts on sale. Get in the festive spirit with carol singing and sample the lovely seasonal food - roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and mince pies.

Visitors can also enjoy a demonstration from the authors of the Whisky Kitchen Cookbook, co-authors Graham Harvey and Sheila McConachie of Craggan Mill Restaurant, on Saturday from 14.00 until 16.00.

The Christmas Fair is open from 9.00 to 16.00. Entry £3 for adults and children are free. Admission to the Whisky cookbook demonstration costs £5 for adults.  

Modern day heroes are urgently required at the National Trust for Scotland’s Bannockburn Heritage Centre to help re-instate the saltire to pride of place, towering over the site of the epic 1314 battle.

Trust staff were replacing a tattered flag when the cable on the 120 foot flagpole came loose. The new flag is now stuck at half mast.

Medieval standard bearers held the saltire and Lion rampant high for Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Now, Property Manager Scott McMaster is calling for a standard bearer for the 21st century to help access the flagpole and return the saltire to its rightful spot.

Local heroes, the Raploch Fire Service where unable to reach the flag due to the same problem that thwarted the English - “the lie of the land and a tight circle known as the rotunda”.

Scott said:

“We change the flag regularly to ensure that it is in a state fit for an historic site of this stature. We were shocked when the cable snapped as we hoisted the new flag. We are very grateful to those who have valiantly tried to help so far, but sadly, our saltire is stuck. We would really appreciate the help of a knight in shining armour – preferably one equipped with a cherrypicker instead of a steed.”  

Pick up the perfect Christmas present and help protect and preserve some of Scotland’s most important cultural and natural treasures by shopping with the National Trust for Scotland this winter.

This year, the Trust has a bigger range of gifts than ever to choose from – everything from fabulous, indulgent food to glittering jewellery and quirky homeware.

There is also a fine selection on Christmas decorations and accessories on offer in shops and at www.nts.org.uk/Shop/.

Online, the revamped shop has more than 400 products to choose from. Gift membership can also be purchased online, as well as at Trust properties across Scotland. Members enjoy free entry to the Trust’s 130 properties across the country. Family membership costs from as little as £5 per month.

You can also make gift donations to the Trust on behalf of a loved one – an unusual gift option that makes a contribution to the charity’s work to conserve some of Scotland’s most precious cultural and natural treasures. Visit www.nts.org.uk/Donate/Gift/ to select a gift that supports the Trust’s gardens, historic collections, buildings or mountains.

You can browse the Trust’s gift selections at:

Arran
Brodick Castle and Country Park – open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10.30 to 15.30, until 21 December.

Aberdeenshire
Crathes Castle, Banchory – open daily, 10.00 – 16.30, until 24 December.

Ayrshire
Culzean Castle, Maybole – open Thursday to Sunday from 11.00 – 16.00, until 21 December.

Borders
Priorwood Garden, Melrose – open Monday to Saturday from 10.00 to 17.00 and on Sunday from 13.00 until 17.00, 24 December.

Dumfries and Galloway
Threave, Castle Douglas – open daily from 10.00 –16.00, until 23 December.

Edinburgh
No 28. Charlotte Square, Edinburgh – open Monday to Saturday 9.30 – 16.00, until Christmas Eve.

The Georgian House, Charlotte Square, Edinburgh –open daily in November from 11.00 to 15.00.

Fife
Falkland Palace – open Monday to Saturday from 11.00 - 16.00 and on Sunday from 13.00 until 16.00, until 23 December.

146 South Street, St Andrews – open Tuesday to Saturday 10.00 to 17.00 and noon until 17.00 on Sunday.

Glasgow
Pollok House, Pollok Park – open daily from 10.00 to 17.00, until 24 December.

Perthshire
Dunkeld – open Monday to Saturday from 10.00 to 16.30 and on Sunday from 12.30 to 16.30pm, until 23 December.  

The National Trust for Scotland’s Brodick Castle hosted a hugely successful art show last weekend, with over £10,000 of artwork sold.

More than 60 individual artworks were sold from Thursday 13 until Sunday 16 November, including a number by the Trust’s very own Chris Mills, the castle’s administrative assistant.

Chris Mills, who helped organised the exhibition along with Sue Tozer, Brodick’s Administrative Manager, said:

“The exhibition was a great success, attracting more than 700 visitors from near and far. We are really pleased that there were so many sales – it demonstrates the high quality of the pieces on show. The castle benefits from the revenue generated – around £2000 comes to us in commission – which will help us in vital conservation work as we prepare for next season.”

Brodick Castle re-opens in Spring 2009. The visitor centre, shop and walled garden are open Friday until Sunday from 10.00 until 15.30, until 21 December. The Country Park is open daily, all year round.  

There are only ten days left to take in a spectacular sculpture exhibition at the National Trust for Scotland’s Priorwood Garden in Melrose.

The work of eleven Borders-based artists has been on show for more than a month, while the garden has displayed some dramatic autumn colour.

Among the exhibits are Sam Wade’s highly engineered kinetic forms in metal and coloured perspex, Jane Gaze’s new work referencing the activities in Loch Ewe during World War 2 and ceramic works by Lesley May Miller and Su Nutgens.
 

Festive celebrations get underway at the National Trust for Scotland’s Kellie Castle in Pittenweem, Fife on Sunday 30 November, with a wonderful Christmas Fair.

Christmases past will be brought to life for visitors as the castle is transported back to Victorian times. Watch the family and their servants prepare for festive celebrations, 19th century-style.

Visitors can stock up on a fantastic range of gifts for friends and family, including books, toys and games, cards, hand made Christmas cakes and seasonal preserves. Father Christmas is also making an appearance.

The Christmas Fair is open from 11.00 to 16.30. Entry to the castle costs £2.
 

Pick up the perfect festive gift at an atmospheric evening of Christmas shopping at the National Trust for Scotland’s Crathes Castle in Banchory on Thursday 27 November.

The special event marks the opening of the new Horsemill Bookshop and shoppers can choose from the fabulous range of products until 8.30pm. From Scottish interest to cookery, gardening and humour, the bookshop will be full of Christmas gift ideas for all the family.

Successful local author Esther Woolfson will also be attending the event to sign copies of her book Corvus: A Life with Birds, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

The National Trust for Scotland property, which remains open throughout the winter with the castle itself open Saturday and Sunday, is re-opening the Horsemill as both a book and coffee shop.

Wendy McDonald, Property Manager said:

“The Horsemill bookshop is an exciting new addition to the existing Courtyard café and retail facilities we have on offer at Crathes. Tea, coffee and cakes will be available by table service, and a wide selection of books will be for sale. Both the Horsemill and Courtyard will be open daily throughout the year which offers another attraction for visitors to the property.“

Teas and coffees will be available on the night along with complimentary nibbles and Crathes mulled wine.
 

The stunning scenery at Kintail & Morvich is currently in the running as one of the UK's finest views.

We have joined forces with the National Trust based in Swindon and Sky TV, to ask Britain to vote for an all-time favourite view in the UK.

So far, Kintail & Morvich has attracted huge public support and is currently lying in 7th place.

There is still time for Trust members and supporters of Scotland’s stunning landscape to use their vote and help Kintail continue up the chart, to win the title of ‘The Nation’s Favourite View’.

To vote, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-visits-best_view.htm  

Work created by Lesley Skeates during her summer as the National Trust for Scotland’s artist-in-residence at St Abb’s Head Nature Reserve in Berwickshire goes on show in Edinburgh from tomorrow.

Lesley’s seascapes were inspired by the stunning views and unusual rock formations found off the coast of the National Trust for Scotland’s property which is well-known for its rich marine life.

The exhibition runs at the Trust’s Gladstone’s Land gallery on the Royal Mile until 23 November. Entry is free.

St Abb’s Head Nature Reserve is open all year round. For more information, visit www.nts.org.uk.

For more information on Lesley and her work, visit www.lesleyskeatesgallery.com/index.htm.
 

Festive celebrations get underway at the National Trust for Scotland’s Greenbank Garden in Clarkston on Sunday 23 November 2008.

Staff at Greenbank are recreating Christmases from centuries gone by. The dining room will be decked out in the Georgian style, while the library will reflect the more recent past – Christmas 1980.

Visitors can also enjoy home baking provided by the generous Friends of Greenbank group.

The Christmas Fair is open from 11.00 to 16.00. Standard entry charges apply.


 

Pupils from Barthol Chapel, Methlick, Udny Green and Tarves schools are preparing to take to the stage on Friday 14 November at the impressive concert hall at the National Trust for Scotland’s Haddo House near Ellon, as part of a project to put young people in touch with their local heritage.

The project ‘Keek Back, Syne Haud Gaun’, which is being run by the National Trust for Scotland and Aberdeenshire Council, encouraged school children to create a new drama and songs inspired by Aberdeenshire’s rich heritage.

Pupils were guided by Irene Watt, a PhD researcher from the Elphinstone Institute to learn research techniques and put this into practise by researching their local area. They took inspiration from what they discovered to create the drama and songs that will be premiered on Friday to an audience of fellow pupils.

The performance at Haddo House continues its long tradition as a highly significant centre for the performing arts in the North East.

Paul Anderson, the highly-accomplished North East fiddler and his wife Shona Donaldson will support the pupils during rehearsals and will also feature at the performance in the concert hall, which will include both traditional performances and new work.

Sandra Morrison, Group Learning Manager for the National Trust for Scotland said:

“Having had this in mind for a number of years now, it was a real thrill for me to see it brought to life. It has been an absolute joy to see the enthusiasm of the youngsters for this project. They have worked hard on their research and on their performances. The teachers and tutors should also be congratulated for their hard work and commitment. We are all very proud of this partnership.”

Education, Learning and Leisure Committee chairman Cllr Richard Stroud said:

“Aberdeenshire boasts a proud cultural heritage, and projects such as ‘Keek Back, Syne Haud Gaun’ help keep this alive. In turn, Haddo House’s long-standing links with the arts makes it the perfect venue for the performance of the finished works.”

Aberdeenshire Council’s Arts Development Officer, David Atherton said:

“This is a great opportunity for children to work with cultural partners to develop their latent performing talent! The tutors, children and school staff have been incredibly enthusiastic and the final performance promises to be both fabulous and beneficial to all concerned.”

The funders of this project must also be recognised for their contribution as without it, this would not have been possible: Tom & Thelma Wilson Charitable Trust, Astor of Hever Trust, Miss Anne Brooks Fairgreen Charitable Trust, The Mackay & Brewer Charitable Trust, Aberbrothock Charitable Trust, M E B Charitable Trust, The W M Mann Foundation.  

The early 19th Century will be brought to life at the National Trust for Scotland’s Georgian House in Charlotte Square Edinburgh, for the next two weekends.

Dedicated staff and volunteers are running tours designed to transport visitors to the year 1811, when Britain and France were at war. The tours, which take place on Saturday and Sunday, will give an insight into the lives of the Lamont Family and their household servants. The Lamont family were the first residents of No 7 Charlotte Square, living there from 1796 until 1815.

Property Manager Sheonagh Martin said:

“Visitors are always fascinated by the stories of the former residents of this wonderful house and the lives they led. The Lamont family certainly had some interesting times while they lived here and we are looking forward to bringing this to life for visitors over the coming weeks.”

The tours run on Saturday 15, Sunday 16, Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 November from 11.00 until 15.00 on Saturday and noon until 15.00 on Sunday. Last tour starts at 2.30pm.

The Georgian House is open daily from 11.00 until 15.00, until Sunday 30 November, last admission at 2.30pm.

For more information or booking, please call 0844 493 2118.  

As autumn continues, the foliage throughout the extensive woodlands and gardens of the National Trust for Scotland’s Threave Garden and estate in Dumfriesshire is now a symphony of reds and golds, making it a superb time to visit.

The 64 acre ornamental garden is home to a hugely diverse range of plants and landscape features, and within the 1,500 acre estate, there are way-marked trails, bird hides and a wildlife sanctuary – perfect for a family day out.

Threave House, built in the distinctive red Dumfriesshire stone, is a former baronial home built for Liverpool businessman, William Gordon. It came under the care of the National Trust for Scotland in 1948 and today is a natural home to the Trust’s School for Practical Gardening.

Sheila Innes, Property Manager at Threave, says that just ahead of Christmas, there is another night to celebrate:

"We are holding a special event for the celebration of St Andrew's Day with a Scottish evening. Youngsters from the local Highland Dancing club will be demonstrating their skills, ceilidh music will get your feet more than tapping and a buffet supper of all-Scottish fare will fill your plates.

"This special evening will cost £15 per head which will include the first glass of wine - and with numbers limited to 80, tickets will be keenly sought after - so bookings can be made by phone (0844 4932245) or at the reception desk."

Christmas is also a very magical time at Threave.

Sheila continues:

"We have some special guests joining us here on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th December, you can join us with them and be 'At home with the Gnomes'."

"With your gnome-guide by your side, you can wander the grounds or maybe soak up the entertainment of our special puppeteer. You should also look out for the 'naughty gnomes' too!

"With a 'Wishing Tree' and Father Christmas visiting here too, it is real family entertainment."

The "At home with the Gnomes" event is £5 per head (under 12s free).

Threave is one mile west of Castle Douglas - you can get full directions and route planning at www.nts.org.uk

 

The National Trust for Scotland’s Kellie Castle in Pittenweem ended the season on a high note last week, as figures show it has performed strongly this summer season.

The 17th century castle welcomed more than 14,000 visitors between 21 March and 31 October –an increase of almost 6 per cent on last year.

This is encouraging news in a summer where tourist attractions across the UK were hit by poor weather, increasing petrol prices and the credit crunch.

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

“We are very pleased that we’ve managed to attract event more visitors this year. It is a testament to the efforts of our staff and a confirmation of the quality of the experience that Kellie offers, that we have had such a strong season despite some challenging circumstances.”

 

The National Trust for Scotland’s Pollok House and Holmwood House in Cathcart, Glasgow have attracted thousands of visitors this summer.

Pollok House, which is open all year round, has welcomed almost 62,000 visitors between 21 March and 31 October. That adds up to an increase of eight per cent compared to the same period last year.

Meanwhile, Holmwood, has played host to more than 5000 people – an increase of more than 6 per cent on 2007.

This is encouraging news in a summer where tourist attractions across the UK were hit by poor weather, increasing petrol prices and the credit crunch.

Property Manager Joe Bowden said:

“We are very pleased that we’ve managed to attract even more visitors this year. Our city locations are likely to have been a huge advantage this summer, when weather and petrol prices have been so changeable. It is a testament to the efforts of our staff and a confirmation of the quality of the experience at these properties, that we have had such a strong season despite some challenging circumstances.

“And the good news is that Pollok is gearing up for its busiest time of year – Christmas. We have a packed programme of events and look forward to welcoming even more visitors in the next few months.”

Pollok House is open year round, except 26 and 26 December and 1 and 2 January. Holmwood House reopens in spring 2009.

 

A Christmas event that will bring fairytales to life at the National Trust for Scotland’s Culzean Castle in Ayrshire is proving popular.

Tickets for the Enchanted Castle went on sale on Monday 3 November and already almost 1000 have been snapped up.

The events, which sees the beautiful Culzean Castle populated by popular figures from fairytales and children’s stories, takes place on 7 and 14 December. In previous years the event has been a total sell-out.

Property manager Paul Pomfret said:

“The Enchanted Castle is such an exciting event and really gets families in the festive spirit. Tickets are going quickly, so make sure you get in early.

“Although the castle is now closed for winter, the country park is remains open, with the visitor centre, restaurant and our great Christmas shops open Thursday through to Sunday every week.”

Tickets for the Enchanted Castle event can only be purchased in advance. For bookings, please call 0844 493 2100.



 

The National Trust for Scotland’s Angus properties ended the season on a high note last week, as figures show they have performed strongly this summer season.

The Angus Folk Museum in Glamis, the House of Dun in Montrose and the Kirriemuir Camera Obscura all bucked the trend of falling numbers of visitors at tourist attractions this summer. The three properties attracted almost identical numbers of visitors when compared to last year.

This is encouraging news in a summer where tourist attractions across the UK were hit by poor weather, increasing petrol prices and the credit crunch.

The House of Dun continues to be one of the most visited properties in the Angus area, welcoming more than 10,000 visitors to its grand interiors between 21 March and 31 October this year. At Angus Folk Museum and the Camera Obscura, more than 4000 people visited both sites.

Property Manager John McKenna said:

“We are very pleased that we’ve managed to maintain our visitor numbers this year. It is a testament to the efforts of our staff and a confirmation of the quality of the experience that House of Dun, Angus Folk Museum and Kirriemuir Camera Obscura offers, that we have had such a strong season despite some challenging circumstances.”

 

The National Trust for Scotland’s Leith Hall near Huntly ended the season on a high note last week, as figures show it has performed strongly this summer season.

The historic house and estate, which is well known for its beautiful gardens, welcomed more than 5000 visitors between 21 March and 31 October - almost exactly the same number as last year.

This is encouraging news in a summer where tourist attractions across the UK were hit by poor weather, increasing petrol prices and the credit crunch.

Senior assistant Doline Kilgour said:

“We are very pleased that we’ve managed to maintain visitor numbers this year. It is a testament to the efforts of our staff and a confirmation of the quality of the experience that Leith Hall offers, that we have had such a strong season despite some challenging circumstances.”

Leith Hall house and tearoom reopen in spring 2009. The gardens are open daily.  

The National Trust for Scotland’s Haddo House near Ellon ended the season on a high note last week, as figures show it has performed strongly this summer season.

The William Adam designed house welcomed almost 13,000 visitors between 21 March and 31 October –an increase of more than 35 per cent on last year.

This is encouraging news in a summer where tourist attractions across the UK were hit by poor weather, increasing petrol prices and the credit crunch.

Senior Assistant Tina Low said:

“We are very pleased that we’ve managed to attract even more visitors this year. It is a testament to the efforts of our staff and a confirmation of the quality of the experience that Haddo offers that we have had such a strong season, despite some challenging circumstances.”

Haddo House re-opens in spring 2009.
 

The National Trust for Scotland’s Glenfinnan Monument in the Highlands ended the season on a high note last week, as figures show it has performed strongly this summer season.

The visitor centre at the monument which marks the spot where Prince Charles Edward Stuart raised his Standard in 1745 welcomed almost 21,000 paying visitors between 21 March and 31 October – an increase of almost 7% on last year.

This is encouraging news in a summer where tourist attractions across the UK were hit by poor weather, increasing petrol prices and the credit crunch.

Property Manager Rudy Vandecappelle said:

“We are very pleased that we’ve managed to attract even more visitors this year. It is a testament to the efforts of our staff and a confirmation of the quality of the experience that Glenfinnan offers, that we have had such a strong season, despite some challenging circumstances.”

Glenfinnan Visitor Centre re-opens in spring 2009. The monument is accessible all year round.


 

Sir John Stirling Maxwell Bt of Pollok entered into a Conservation Agreement with the National Trust for Scotland over the whole of the Pollok Estate in 1939. The Conservation Agreement sets out the purposes that are permitted within the Park and the Trust’s approval is required for any variations within these purposes.

It is the Trust’s firm view that it does not have an absolute veto under the terms of the 1939 Conservation Agreement in this case but it does expect to be separately consulted at an early stage about any new proposals within the Pollok Estate.

Initially this did not happen in this case and separate consultation did not begin until after the granting of planning permission to Go Ape by Glasgow City Council. Therefore, without sufficient information when the Trust first became aware of the planning application, it felt compelled to lodge an objection. This was not upheld by Glasgow City Council and it has now been superseded by the granting of planning permission. Now however, the consultation process is fully under way.

Under the terms of the gift of Pollok House, its collection and the land now known as Pollok Country Park, to the City of Glasgow in 1967, the Pollok Advisory Committee was established to advise on the wider Estate. The PAC acts as a liaison body for the owners of the Estate and it is chaired by the Trust. It gives advice to the Maxwell Macdonald family (the original owners of the estate) and Glasgow City Council who now own it. Initially, the Go Ape proposals were not brought to the PAC but it is now examining them.

There will be further consultation with Go Ape, Glasgow City Council and Save Pollok Park, and representatives of Save Pollok Park have been invited for a further meeting as part of the consultation process.

Had the Trust been consulted at an earlier stage over this project it is likely the charity would have preferred it to be sited in a different location within Pollok Park instead of the current proposal in the North Wood.

Save Pollok Park’s issue with Glasgow City Council over Go Ape continues and for matters to reach a conclusion the National Trust for Scotland believes all parties should be willing to discuss the matter fully with each other, to reach a solution.
 

A potentially devastating plant disease has been confirmed in blaeberry plants in Merkland Wood at the National Trust for Scotland’s Brodick Country Park on Arran.

This is the first time that Phytophthora kernoviae has been found in blaeberries in Scotland. There is also suspected infection in two oak trees, but this has yet to be confirmed.

Gardeners at the charity's Brodick Castle have been tackling the P. kernoviae, which is a form of Sudden Oak Death, since it was first detected in February 2008. Significant areas of Rhododendron ponticum have been cleared from the beautiful Brodick gardens in an attempt to contain the disease.

The latest outbreak in blaeberry plants is more than one kilometre from the gardens, fuelling the conservation charity’s concerns that the Scottish Government needs to step up action to tackle the threat of this disease and its sister, Phytophthora ramorum.

The Trust’s Senior Nature Adviser Richard Luxmoore said:

“This is a very concerning development for the Trust and for Scotland. Blaeberry, oak and heather are all susceptible to this disease which could have a devastating impact on some of Scotland’s important natural habitats.

“The Trust has been working hard to raise awareness of these diseases and the need to improve the management of their threat and we feel that there is an urgent need for the Scottish Government to tackle their inexorable spread.”

Ken Thorburn, Brodick Property Manager said:

“Staff at Brodick have been working hard to deal with this very difficult disease. It is having an impact on the gardens, so we are very worried about the impact it could have on Merkland Wood, a very mature woodland that is popular with local people.”

In line with Scottish Government procedures on dealing with P. kernoviae, public access to Merkland Wood will be restricted.  

The National Trust for Scotland has for many months been considering how some of its office space is used and whether there could be merit in relocating some of its staff.

This includes considering options for its central Edinburgh base at Wemyss House and whether flexible working practices could offer some staff the opportunity to work from home if and when appropriate.

This review is still ongoing. It is understandable in troubled times that as a charity it is incumbent upon the Trust to review where savings can be made. We are therefore considering location issues on both environmental and economic grounds.  

A new initiative was launched today (5 November) to encourage people from all walks of life to celebrate their links with places in Scotland that mean something special to them.

Placebook Scotland is a web-based project created by the Scottish Landscape Forum. It allows people to submit pictures, film, music and writing that capture the essence of their place. This could be their own backyard or street where they grew up, town centre or local feature; anything that gives their place its identity.

The project was launched at Moncreiffe primary school in Perth, where a group of pupils were among the first to log on and tell others about their place. Joining them was Scottish Environment Minister Michael Russell and Scots actress Daniela Nardini.

Minister for Environment Michael Russell welcomed the launch of the website and said:

"Landscape makes a significant contribution to Scottish identity and our rich natural and cultural heritage.

"Placebook Scotland will seek to cover as much as possible of Scotland's landscapes, townscapes and seascapes through the arts and I would encourage everyone to get involved.

"As Scotland gears up for 2009, the year of Homecoming, it is particularly apt that such a resource now exists to remind Scots both at home and abroad of Scotland's beautiful and diverse landscapes."

Reflecting on her upbringing in Largs, Daniella Nardini said:

"I have many fond memories of the Gogo Burn in Largs as I spent many happy hours with my friends when I was young jumping from stone to stone. And we often fell in as well!"

Ian Jardine, chief executive of Scottish Natural Heritage, one of the 22 organisations behind the project, added:

"It's great to see so much interest in this site already, not least the postings by the children of Moncreiffe primary school. We would urge everyone across the country and beyond to share their place on the website. Together we can create a huge archive of material that will celebrate the close links between people and places. That's what Placebook Scotland is all about."

Conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland is supporting PlaceBook Scotland by playing host to project officer Irene Watson for the duration of the project. Robin Turner, Head of Archaeology for the National Trust for Scotland and Scottish Landscape Forum member said:

"The Trust is lucky to care for some of Scotland's truly awe-inspiring places, from the impressive peaks of Torridon to the dual World Heritage Site of St Kilda. We know the deep connection people can have with places like these, but also with the more everyday places where they live and work. PlaceBook Scotland is a fantastic opportunity for people to express their feelings about Scotland's landscapes and townscapes, and show how much they mean to their sense of place. We hope the project helps people feel inspired by their landscapes, so that they can be protected and enjoyed by everyone."

From today people can submit their material to the Placebook Scotland website at www.placebookscotland.com as well as browse the other entries.