Historic sites now open for summer
Historic sites in Perthshire have now opened their doors to the public for the summer season.
Eight sites managed by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) across the region can now be visited throughout the coming months.
HES is now urging tourists and locals alike to seek out these historic sites.
Those in Perthshire can explore local sites from the ruins of Lochleven Castle, the medieval Tullibardine Chapel and Muthill Old Church and Tower.
The best-preserved 16th century Elcho Castle tower house will also be a favourite with crowds, as will St Serf ’s Church which houses the ninth century Dupplin Cross with Pictish carving.
The region is also home to Innerpeffray Chapel which became Scotland’s first lending library, the collection of carved stones at the Meigle Sculptured Stone Museum, and Stanley Mills.
The campaign to highlight the opening has been launched to coincide with the Year of Young People. Susan Loch, head of visitor operations and community engagement at HES, said: “Spring is an exciting time for us as we prepare to reopen our seasonal sites and once again expand our offering across the country.
“We have so much on offer for 2018, with a bigger selection of events and days out than ever before. We’re inviting everyone to come and explore our venues, from the much-loved castles and abbeys, to the lesser-known prehistoric forts and atmospheric ruins. Across the country, our calendar is packed with events which bring history to life, with plenty of battles, trails and stories from characters who have shaped our past to discover.”
The 2018 programme kicks off with the popular Easter Eggsplorer trails at various sites across the country, including Stanley Mills, from today until April 2, before the 1780s water mill plays host to The Scottish Diaspora tapestry exhibition from April 9 till June 28 and welcomes visitors for the free National Mills Weekend on May 12 and 13.
Susan added: “As the Easter holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to look through our 2018 programme and get planning. There’s something for everyone so now is the time to tick some of our wonderful sites off your bucket list.”
Earlier this year, HES announced a special offer in celebration of Year of Young People which grants those with a valid Young Scot card £1 entry to more than 70 paid-for attractions.
Visit: www.historicenvironment.scot/ for further information.