Winter is here! This is a wonderful time of year to explore our beautiful places and make special memories at our fabulous festive events – we have something for everyone.
Explore
We have the recipe for the perfect winter in Scotland:
- A wide range of winter walks, with gorgeous views
- Cosy castles and museums with fascinating stories to discover
- Very cute winter wildlife
- Delicious hot drinks and tasty treats in our cafés and tearooms
Mix together to enjoy very special experiences all across Scotland with family and friends this winter!
Festive events
We are very excited to host over 50 special festive events at our places all across Scotland.
- Wreath-making
- Carol singing
- Craft fairs
- Christmas card workshops
- Storytelling
- Choose your own tree
- Christmas baking
- Meet Santa!
- and much, much more!
Take a look at our curated collection, or check the Events tab on individual property pages.
Gifting
Discover a unique selection of Scottish and sustainable products that celebrate Scotland. Every purchase supports the Trust’s essential conservation work, helping us care for and protect Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage.
2025 gift guides
Gifts for: Scotland lovers
Whether you’re shopping for someone with Scottish roots, an adventurer dreaming of visiting one day, or someone who just loves all things Alba, this handy gift guide has something for everyone.
Gifts for: Foodies
For that someone in your life who loves all things food and drink – indulge them with a taste of Scotland.
Gifts for: Nature enthusiasts
For that special someone who’s never happier than when ascending a Munro, bird watching (from the comfort of home) or loves all things flora and fauna, we’ve got something for every type of nature lover.
Gifts for: The eco-conscious
For those that love to go green, choose eco gifts made from natural, recycled or sustainable materials.
Gifts for: History buffs
Explore our handy gift guide tailored for history enthusiasts and discover the perfect gift for those with a love of the past.
Gifts for: Creatures of comfort
A selection of gifts for the homebody in your life who enjoys nothing more than a cosy night in.
Winter getaways
At the National Trust for Scotland, we offer over 60 self-catering places to stay.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic couple’s getaway, a family holiday with play parks on your doorstep or hosting a big Christmas/New Year get-together, browse our collection of breathtaking estates, country lodges, magnificent castles, cosy cottages and internationally acclaimed gardens to see what property takes your fancy.
Fun at home
When you fancy a cosy afternoon at home, why not try one of these fun wintery crafts?
Family Christmas crafts
Try our festive crafts for children and adults, including using items foraged from nature for eco-friendly Christmas tree decorations.
Christmas family craft: painted pinecone decorations
This simple Christmas craft transforms the humble pinecone into a colourful, glittery ornament, sure to add sparkle to any Christmas tree.
Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed: squirrel craft
It’s time to get artistic and create this beautiful red squirrel, just like the ones you might spot in some of our countryside places.
Traditional Scottish recipes
Perfect for a cold winter’s day, a party or even the big day itself!
Christmas recipe – Clootie Dumpling
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without that delicious, traditional Scottish pudding, Clootie Dumpling. Here’s how to make your own, and delight family and friends!
Tasty Christmas recipe – mincemeat slice
If you’re tired of making mince pies every year, here’s something a little different.
Tasty Christmas recipe – gingerbread men
Head Chef Ivor at Newhailes House & Gardens in Musselburgh shares his traditional gingerbread men recipe with us, the perfect treat for the festive season.