Stories

Discover more about Scotland’s heritage and how we’re working to protect it.

A red squirrel stands on its hind legs, with its ears pricked, looking at the camera. It is standing on a branch thickly blanketed in snow.

Our winter places

Here’s a handy guide to which of our places are open this winter, so you can start planning some memorable days out.

A close-up of the wooden loom at Weaver’s Cottage, showing rows of threads held taut.

31 Oct 2025

Love Scotland podcast – 2025 season, part II

Jackie is joined by author James Fox to unpick stories of handmade crafts and explore the social history behind their disappearance.

Woman kneels in a woodland beside a brightly lit moth trap.

4 Nov 2025

Scarce moth sighted at Trust nature reserve

Two species of moths, which haven’t been spotted at Grey Mare’s Tail in over 30 years, reappeared over the summer.

A group of three people stand in a lake with two people in a boat, conducting a vendace survey.

3 Nov 2025

Rare ice age fish thriving at Grey Mare’s Tail

A survey at Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve confirms the rare vendace population at Loch Skeen continues to flourish.

Six recently dug up 18th-century lead shots are in a group on the left, and seven smaller shots are in a group on the right side, sitting on a piece of plastic.

31 Oct 2025

Archaeologists recover Jacobite projectiles at Culloden

Archaeologists have recovered more than 100 projectiles, including lead musket balls and cannon shot, from Culloden Battlefield.

Painted pinecones on a glittery tree ornament.

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.

A collage of products available from the National Trust for Scotland online shop.

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.

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: 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.

See all stories

Browse by type

Art and collections

Castles and houses

Conservation

Events and activities

Gardens

History and archaeology

Nature and wildlife

News

Supporting the Trust

Why we love our places