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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21. Melrose Abbey
Founded in 1136 by David I, Melrose Abbey was Scotland’s first Cistercian monastery. Open from late April. Photo: Shutterstock
22. St Andrews Cathedral
Built in 1158, only the remains still stand of Scotland’s largest and most impressive medieval church, with the ruins indicating it once stood at 390ft in length. It is open again from late April. Photo: Shutterstock
23. St Andrews Castle
Situated in the coastal Royal Burgh of St Andrews in Fife, this castle was a former bishop’s palace, a fortress and a state prison during its 450-year history. It will be open again from late April. Photo: Shutterstock
24. Skara Brae
This stone-build Neolithic settlement is located on the Bay of Skaill and dates back 5,000 years. Of all of its ticketed sites, Skara Brae in Orkney has been kept open to local visitors only, whilst in level 3, whilst the rest of mainland Scotland has been closed for covid protection measures since December 26. Photo: Shutterstock