The National Trust for Scotland is offering over 100 places to entertain the family this summer – and all for less than a tenner a month.
The charity is giving people the chance to spend their summer exploring the nature, beauty and heritage of Scotland, with a different site to discover each day, alongside lots of fun-packed summer activities to try. With summer officially starting shortly with school holidays, families will be looking for inspiration to fill those long summer days.
New and existing members of the conservation charity can visit its 129 sites for as little as £5.25 for adults and £9.80 per month for families, equating to just 17p or 32p per day, making it a great value option for excitement-filled days.
From paddling and kayaking at Kintail, to conquering Ben Lomond, whirling through the Wild Wood at Crathes Castle there's plenty to do. You can go down the rabbit hole at Brodie Castle’s Playful Garden, or drink in the breathtaking views at Glencoe National Nature Reserve.
The Trust also recently relaunched its initiative with Young Scot which offers anyone aged 11-25 with a Young Scot National Entitlement Card the chance to visit National Trust for Scotland properties, such as the spectacular Culzean Castle in Ayrshire and the carefully restored Gladstone’s Land on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile for just £1.
For families searching for budget-friendly ways to keep children amused during the holidays, the Trust has a packed programme to help with summer holiday planning.
Expert staff are on hand at National Trust for Scotland sites to answer questions. Activities include the Bear Hunt Trail at Brodick Castle in Arran throughout June. Sites are also perfect for a range of outdoor family activities including wildlife spotting, rock pooling and identifying nature.
From exploring the outdoors, to soaking up Scotland's history and culture there is plenty on offer.
Pollock House in Glasgow features an impressive collection of Spanish art, in Ayrshire Robert Burns Birthplace Museum celebrates the legacy of Scotland’s national poet, to the North East, Fyvie Castle is an imposing 800-year-old fortress, with Raeburn portraits on the walls and wildfowl in the loch and on Arran Brodick Castle features a new, interactive visitor experience, including a Victorian arcade, mood lighting and evocative sounds.
And if all of that isn’t enough, The Trust also is hosting a programme of events throughout the summer, including:
- Doghailes 22 – a firm favourite for canine lovers takes place at Newhailes Estate, Musselburgh, on 31 July
- Wimbledon Weekend – Greenbank Gardens in Glasgow is the perfect place to catch the Wimbledon finals on big screens, the weekend on 9 and 10 July
- The Pirates Of Penzance - performed by a 6-strong cast of actor and singers this event in Leith Hall, Huntly is sure to be a hit on 6 August
- Retro music events at Pitmedden Garden and Museum of Farming Life – catch acts including ABBA tribute act Super Troopers and The Dolly Parton Story + Cash and Friends tribute evening with various dates throughout the summer
- Brodie Castle Summer Festival – this Moray event from 12-14 August has everything from yarn and crafts to food, live music and dance
Philip Long OBE, Chief Executive of The National Trust for Scotland, said: "The last two years have been a difficult time for us all, but our charity was pleased that our countryside and gardens were able to provide respite to many.
"As the country gets back on its feet post-pandemic, we look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to our places and helping them to make the most of a summer free of travel restrictions and lockdowns.
“At the Trust we pride ourselves on creating memorable experiences. Whether attending one of our creative events, enjoying an engaging historical tour or taking part in an adventure activity, there are lots of ways to enjoy all that Scotland has to offer."
For more information on the National Trust for Scotland and to plan your summer itinerary, visit: www.nts.org.uk.
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