Historic Environment Scotland (HES), Scotland’s biggest operator of visitor attractions, has set out its plans for the reopening of its sites as Covid restrictions ease.
From Friday April 30, over 70% of its free to access and ticketed properties reopen following the Scottish Government’s proposed dates for the reopening of the tourism sector and mainland Scotland moving to covid protection level 3.
So, to prepare ourselves for the return of these historical landmarks across Scotland, here is a list of and some background information on all the HES sites which will open from April 30.
A message from the Editor:Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by Coronavirus impacts our advertisers.
If you haven't already, please consider supporting our trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription.
1. Aberdour Castle
Aberdour Castle in Fife is among those preparing to reopen under Historic Environment Scotland on April 30 (Photo: Walter Neilson). Photo: walter neilson
2. Arbroath Abbey
Located in Arbroath, this abbey was founded in 1778 by King William the Lion. Arbroath Abbey’s grounds will be accessible for free ahead of the opening of a new visitor offer at the centre due to open in the summer. Photo: Shutterstock
3. Blackness Castle
If it wasn't for Blackness Castle in Falkirk we'd probably have no Braveheart. Mel Gibson and Glen Close filmed here for the 1990 epic Hamlet. It will join the list of sites reopening in late April. Photo: Contributed
4. Caerlaverock Castle
Caerlaverock Castle in Dumfries will also bring down the drawbridge in April. Photo: Matt Cartney