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.
The reopening will see some of Scotland’s most iconic heritage sites, including Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, Fort George and Caerlaverock Castle, reopen to the public.
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.
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13. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle which sits atop Castle Rock. Archaeologists have established human occupation of the rock since at least the Iron Age, although the nature of the early settlement is unclear. Edinburgh Castle will reopen on 30 April. Photo: Santiago Arribas
14. Elgin Cathedral
Nicknamed ‘Lantern of the North’, this cathedral lost its roof after the Protestant Reformation in 1560 and its central tower fell not long after. It will reopen from late April. Photo: Shutterstock
15. Fort George
Fort George was built in the wake of the Battle of Culloden in 1746 as a base for King George II’s army and took 22 years to complete. Open from late April. Photo: Shutterstock
16. Glasgow Cathedral
Opened in 1197, this impressive cathedral is the oldest building in Glasgow. It will reopen from late April. Photo: Shutterstock