Trust in final fit out for Gateway to Glencoe

The centre, including the toilets and car park, is now closed to the public while the last stages of work are carried out.

The revamped centre, which is due to reopen in early April, is being billed as the ‘Gateway to the Glen’ – an essential destination for those who want to explore Scotland’s most famous glen and discover more about the history and wildlife which make it such a special place.

The Trust, which owns Glencoe National Nature Reserve and has cared for the glen since the 1930s, will have a team of enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff and volunteers ready to help visitors from around the world get the most from a visit to Glencoe.

As well as offering walking advice, mountain weather updates and seasonal nature highlights, they also run a popular outdoors event programme. This includes the chance to climb a Munro, explore the renowned Hidden Valley, or head out on a Land Rover Safari with the rangers who manage the landscape, for a behind-the-scenes insight into what they do.

The revamped visitor centre takes a fresh approach to revealing the story of Glencoe. A new film takes visitors on a journey from the glen’s volcanic origins, through fire and ice, towards the tragic events of the 1692 Glencoe Massacre, and on to its popularity with walkers and tourists today. A new 50-seater cinema space will also provide a fantastic resource for after-hours film screenings and community activities.

Emily says: ‘Storytelling is woven throughout the visitor centre, bringing to life the wildlife, the geology and the people that have made Glencoe such an unforgettable place. From listening posts in the shop, to tales from the glen being ingrained into the café’s tables, sculpture and quirky design will immerse our visitors in Glencoe’s facts and its folklore from the moment they arrive.’

An expanded café, new menu and retail area will make it an ideal base for walkers and climbers to refuel before and after an active day in the glen.