11 September 2009

Media Releases

There’s a chance to meet the most famous icons of Scotland’s history at Stirling Castle next weekend. Historic Scotland’s ‘Return of The Legends’ event on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th September will see visitors coming face to face with heroes and heroines of different periods of our country’s rich past, including Mary, Queen of Scots, Robert The Bruce, and William Wallace, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. From noon to 4pm on both days, come along to the castle’s impressive Great Hall for an introduction to three Jacobites - Bonnie Dundee, Rob Roy MacGregor and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Take a wander through a battle camp and see how much William Wallace’s ‘Braveheart’ portrayal differed from his historically accurate image. Find out all about the turbulent life of Robert The Bruce, and be presented to Mary, Queen of Scots as she holds court in the Chapel Royal, entertained by dancers.

10 September 2009

Media Releases

Details of Scottish castles and tower-houses that are suitable for future restoration and reuse are to be listed online for the first time, Culture Minister Michael Russell announced today. The initiative is being led by Historic Scotland and aims to encourage financial investment in the refurbishment of Scotland’s built heritage during the economic downturn. It will also provide advice on the consent process, good practice and previous projects with the aim of revitalising existing buildings. Michael Russell said: “We have a great tradition in Scotland of successfully bringing these historic buildings back into use. It requires investment, determination and an understanding of the character, history and archaeology of the building."

9 September 2009

Media Releases

Historic Scotland is to visit the Wandel and Lamington Parish to identify the area’s important buildings and to review the existing listings in the parish. This will ensure that these areas have the appropriate statutory protection, and all information is current and up to date; the parish has not been comprehensively resurveyed since 1971. Historic Scotland is reviewing the historic and picturesque village of Lamington in order to identify the buildings that meet the criteria for listing, whilst reassessing and updating any existing listings to provide more comprehensive and accurate descriptions.

8 September 2009

Media Releases

As part of the Scottish Archaeology Month programme, there’s a rare opportunity this weekend to take a guided tour of two of the most fascinating and ancient historic sites in Angus. The Brown and White Caterthuns near Brechin are two spectacularly large hill forts which are among the most impressive in Scotland

4 September 2009

Media Releases

The gracious and commanding presence of St Andrew’s House has now distinguished Edinburgh’s skyline for 70 years – but for three decades it was the most contentious new build in Scotland. Designed by Thomas S Tait of Paisley, St Andrew’s House is now recognised as a work of art, adorned with fine carving by Sir W Reid Dick, Alexander Carrick and Phyllis Bone and with outstanding bronze doors by Walter Gilbert. Internally the Art Deco refinement continues in the streamlined interiors, not least in the fine stairs, the tailored conference rooms and the walnut-panelled ‘Secretary of State’s’ room.