Conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland, embraced the digital age today as it launched a series of podcasts to take visitors on scenic walks round some of its most iconic properties.
The Culross podcast is the first in a series of six walking podcasts available for free download at
www.nts.org.uk/Multimedia . They have been recorded on location at Trust properties with contributions from property staff, gardeners, rangers and volunteers.
The podcasts are designed to encourage visitors to enjoy walking at Trust properties and include a wildlife walk at Glencoe, a wander around the tranquil Priorwood and Harmony gardens in Melrose, a woodland walk at the Hermitage, a walk around the wider estate at Crathes Castle and a stroll around the medieval streets of Culross – one of the finest surviving examples of a 16th and 17th century Scottish burgh.
Marketing Manager Clare Willis said:
“Many of our properties are ideal for walks and are open all year round. 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.”
Longstanding Trust volunteer and keen walker, Elizabeth McLeod (70) helped pilot the podcasts. She said:
“The Culross podcast was fascinating to listen to and very easy to use. I found out some very interesting facts about the village too. For example I never knew that the central area of the Back Causeway was reserved for the wealthy, whilst the commoner had to walk in the gutter. I’ll be careful where I walk from now on!”
The Trust teamed up with Berwick based Webcast Productions to produce the podcasts, which will be hosted on the Trust’s website either to listen to online or to download onto an MP3 player. They are presented by Keith Allan, one time BBC Radio presenter and reporter who has worked for BBC Radio 4, BBC World Service and Radio Scotland.