£1 entry to Trust sites for young people

Working in partnership with Young Scot, alongside Historic Environment Scotland and the Historic Houses Association, the Trust is offering a historically low discount to young people who want to explore Scotland’s incredible and iconic sites.

Throughout this partnership, the heritage sector will engage young people and encourage them to learn, explore and experience more of Scotland’s history.

To access this fantastic discount, young people need only present their Young Scot card – available for free to all those aged 11-26 living in Scotland – when buying their ticket.

They can explore 52 enchanting National Trust for Scotland sites such as the picturesque 17th-century village of Culross, featured in the popular TV drama Outlander, and The Battle of Bannockburn, where the brutal battle was won by Robert the Bruce in 1314.

The offer has been created for the Year of Young People 2018, following a recommendation from the Heritage Blueprint report that visiting historic sites was too expensive for some young people. The Heritage Blueprint report was created by a group of young people working with the National Trust for Scotland to help historic sites in Scotland engage with more young Scots.

Mena Kirmani, Heritage Blueprint member, said: ‘This is an incredible opportunity for young Scots to explore Scotland’s history and celebrate the Year of Young People 2018. This comes directly from our work on the Heritage Blueprint so it’s amazing to see the heritage sector listening to young people and making our recommendations become a reality.’

Simon Skinner, Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland, said: ‘The Heritage Blueprint produced by young Scots was a truly pioneering and influential piece of work – it reminded us that there are real barriers to overcome if we are to put young people in touch with their country’s historic and naturally beautiful places.

‘Their insights, and the opportunity presented to us by the Year of Young People 2018, encouraged us to do something about the issues raised. Price was a particular barrier and is what prompted us to propose the £1 entry offer. I think it is a wonderful thing that Historic Environment Scotland and Historic Houses Association have agreed to join us to make this amazing offer.

‘What our organisations have in common is that we are mere custodians – we care for these places so that they can be passed on to and enjoyed by future generations. It is therefore vital that we encourage young people to see and experience what will one day become theirs to cherish for the generations that follow them.’

Louise Macdonald, Chief Executive of Young Scot, said: ‘Young people have told us they are keen to explore Scotland’s historic treasures and heritage sites, and it is wonderful to see the sector engaging with young people in this way. This new discount for Young Scot cardholders is a great example of the Year of Young People 2018 in action, with organisations working together to help young people experience Scotland’s rich history.’