The words 'working' and 'holiday' don't usually go together do they? But if you're passionate about conservation, delight in getting outdoors, or simply enjoy getting your hands dirty and making a real difference, then a Thistle Camps working holiday could be just what you're looking for.

Thistle Camps can be inspirational, rewarding and above all are great fun!

This year, as well as continuing many of our ever-popular range of working holidays, we are developing them in exciting new ways. Some highlights include:

• Last year we slept under the stars on our first camping project. This year we are expanding camping with two further projects - including our first Trailblazer camping holiday at Ben Lomond.
• We are returning to many of our north-east properties, and there are new camps at Haddo House, Craigievar Castle and Drum Castle.
• We've arranged our first ever working holiday based at Culzean Castle - two are planned for the autumn of 2010.

We hope that you will take the time to have a look through this website or the downloadable brochures and be inspired to join us on one of our camps this year. If one (or more if you're really keen!) of our camps takes your fancy then it's important that you apply as early as possible (see 'How to Apply' section on the website or at the back of the brochure) as places are obviously limited and we will start allocating them from the beginning of February. To be considered in the first round of allocations and hence stand the best chance of getting on to the camp that you want, please get your application in before the 31st of January.

We hope we see you at some point this year. Last year's programme was a resounding success and this year's looks set to be bigger and better.

If you have any queries, please get in touch by selecting 'contact' from the menu above.

Gavin Kennerley & Jon Downie - Outdoor Action Manager & Co-ordinator