With the school summer holidays well under way, conservation charity the National Trust for Scotland is publicising a host of properties that make the perfect place to take the family for a special day out.
Whatever the weather, the trust has lots of family entertainment pencilled into its calendar, all over the country.
Families marketing manager Carly Lamberty said: “There’s no need to worry about keeping the family entertained this summer – the trust is just bursting with ideas for visitors of all ages, whatever the weather and wherever you are in Scotland.”
Summer highlights include:
Quest for the Golden Ticket, Pollok House, Glasgow
From now until the last day of August, visitors to Pollok House have the chance to win a great prize.
The ever-popular mystery quiz and trail has taken an interesting turn as visitors have to answer questions and solve a riddle to secure a golden ticket.
Much like in the beloved Roald Dahl story, golden ticket-holders could then be in for a big prize, including a short break at a trust holiday home, a family membership and more.
Children’s Tours with the Housekeeper, Haddo House, near Ellon
Every Thursday at 2pm throughout July and until August 16, visitors can find out more about the tasks undertaken at the crack of dawn by young servants of yesteryear.
Fetching coal, carrying heavy pails, answering ringing bells – it was all go for those below stairs, while those upstairs enjoyed a very different lifestyle.
Suitable for children aged five to 12, with costumes provided, the special tours cost £5 per child. One adult is allowed in free to accompany a child, with tickets priced at £5 for additional adults.
The Railway Children, Newhailes, Musselburgh
Saturday, July 14, is a very special date for fans of the much-loved tale The Railway Children.
Within the romantic setting of Newhailes, Heartbreak Productions will present the touching story of Bobbie, Peter and Phil, whose lives revolved around the railway after moving from London to the countryside.
The play begins at 6pm and tickets, priced £12 for adults/£6 for children, can be booked online at www.nts.org.uk/events
Jousting at Castle Fraser, near Sauchen, Aberdeenshire
The drama of mediaeval knights battling for honour and glory comes to Castle Fraser, one of Aberdeenshire’s oldest castles, on July 21 and 22.
The Knights of the Damned will showcase the skills, weaponry and tactics of jousting next weekend.
Thrills, spills and drama are guaranteed as visitors get a chance to see first hand archery and sword skills, falconry, mediaeval cooking and camping and much more.
The event starts at 4pm each day. Advance tickets cost £8.50 for adults, £6 for children/concessions and £23 for a family and can be booked at www.nts.org.uk/events
Summer Fayre at Culzean Castle and Country Park, Maybole
Sunday, July, 29 is an ideal date to head for stunning Culzean Castle and Country Park.
With local food and arts and crafts on sale, a dog show, performances from Maybole Pipe Band and lots of other entertainment too, there really is something for all the family, whether they are on four legs or two. The fun runs from 10.30am-4pm.
The National Trust for Scotland is one of Scotland’s leading conservation charities, but it relies on the financial support of its members to fund its important work of caring for the natural and cultural heritage of Scotland for everyone to enjoy.
You can join the National Trust for Scotland for as little as £5.50 a month for a family. To become a member, visit www.nts.org.uk/ Join/Benefits
To plan your family’s summer adventure, visit at www.nts.org.uk/family
