Latest news with #NationalTrustforScotland
ITV News
2 hours ago
- Business
- ITV News
Campaigners rally together to buy the derelict studio of famous designer Bernat Klein
Campaigners in the Scottish Borders have successfully rallied together to buy the derelict studio of world-famous textile designer Bernat Klein. A coalition group secured the building for £279,000 at auction with the hope of creating a new venue to inspire creatives. Built by architect Peter Womersley in 1972, the studio is seen as one of Scotland's most unique 20th-century buildings and was previously a major part of the textile industry. The property is located north of Selkirk near the A707. Professor Alison Harley, Chair of Trustees, Bernat Klein Foundation, believes the studio's future "looks very bright". He said: "We would like to thank everyone who has supported our efforts so far and we look forward to sharing plans and progress over the months ahead.' The restoration process is expected to cost up to £3 million after more than 20 years on Scotland's Buildings at Risk Register. A building assessment from two years ago identified issues such as water damage, deterioration and acts of vandalism. Scottish Historic Buildings Trust will work in partnership with the National Trust for Scotland to complete the restoration project. Dr Samuel Gallacher, Director, Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, says the repairs "will take many months". He added: "The scale of the repair and restoration required at Peter Womersley's Bernat Klein Studio is extensive and will take many months, the skills of specialists and the support of the many people who have an interest in both Peter Womersley and Bernat Klein's work. "We are so grateful to the Heritage Fund and National Lottery players for their support, which means we are now in the fortunate position to progress this project.' Campaigners were able to take over the studio after fundraising more than £33,000. Financial contributions were also provided by The National Trust for Scotland, private organisations and people. Philip Long OBE, Chief Executive, National Trust for Scotland, said: 'The Trust along with many others, for many years, have been working behind the scenes to save this outstanding modern building, so important both for its architectural design and the rich heritage it represents as part of Scotland's world-renowned creativity in textiles. "Now through our partnership, we can be confident this significant building, the story of its architect and its resident will survive to be shared with people now and in the future and help to inspire new creativity. The National Trust for Scotland is very proud indeed to have contributed to today's wonderful news.'
The National
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Robert Burns play shows man beyond the biscuit tin
Despite the subject matter, theatre-maker James Clements is quick to point out that it's not a historical play but very much relates to questions facing Scots today, such as the country's political status and Scottish identity. And the man portrayed is not the 'biscuit tin Burns' that is often presented, according to Clements. The play contains facts about Burns and quotes from the poet that are less widely known and which Clements believes gives a fuller picture of the man. READ MORE: Sherlock Holmes adaptation gives neat feminist twist to classic stories He began his research a year ago after the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) digitised their Burns archive so it could be accessed online by people all over the world. Clements, who has had a lifelong fascination with Burns, realised it could be used to make a powerful new piece of theatre, as well as highlight some of the NTS's historic buildings. Directed by award-winning Cora Bissett and featuring a set 'full of surprises', The Burns Project opens in Edinburgh's stunning Georgian House this weekend before touring later in the year. The idea is not only to help people to get to know Robert Burns better but also to make NTS properties and the NTS Burns archive more accessible. Clements has used the archive and rarely seen writings to conjure a complex, irreverent and honest portrait of Scotland's National Bard. Seeking to refresh and expand on existing representations of the poet, The Burns Project portrays a man full of complexities and contradictions, capable of both deep love and callousness, of great progressiveness and political inconsistencies. It is a story of a man with high ideals, who sometimes fell short of them, with layers of intrigue and mystery. Even though he died more than 200 years ago, Clements believes Burns is still very relevant to issues facing Scottish society today. 'I think there's still a lot of questions that my generation of Scottish men are grappling with that Burns grappled with,' he said. 'Then I think there's also ongoing questions around Scotland's political status, what self-determination means, what a Scottish identity is. We talk about Scottish identity, but it's such a blanket term for something that's so wildly nuanced.' Clements said the archive shows that Burns expressed different views at different times about Scottish independence, the rights of women, the rights of men and how the class system functions. 'He was asking these questions 230 years ago and we're still trying to answer them now,' he said. 'And he is so embedded in our culture, how better to explore them than through someone who already forms so much of our sense of self?' He is delighted the National Trust for Scotland has supported the project and agreed for it to be staged in their properties. 'It's really exciting to be performing it in these historic buildings, opening them up in hopefully new and dynamic ways to people in Scotland – literally welcoming them in, but also allowing us to put on a really political and really provocative piece,' he said. 'Essentially, you're sitting at a Burns supper table with Burns over an hour, and we really take you on a journey through his through his life, his contradictions and his highs and lows. 'It's not your biscuit tin Burns. It's pretty provocative because, you know, like all of us, he contained contradictions and like all of us, he made mistakes.' Burns is often regarded as a working-class hero but Clements believes that does not further understanding of the man. 'That actually does him a disservice and does us a disservice,' he said. 'It's much more useful to look at him as a person who had exceptional talent in the context of his class, his gender, his time, and that's the kind of story that I've been drawn to. I think that's the show he deserves.' The Burns Project is at The Georgian House, Edinburgh, from August 2-16 (not 7 or 14)
Daily Record
4 days ago
- Daily Record
I love visiting quiet Scottish village that's regularly named one of UK's prettiest
The Scottish village is often dubbed one of the UK's prettiest thanks to its cobbled streets, ochre-hued houses, and stunning views of the Firth of Forth - and yet remains under the radar for tourists. Nestled along the northern coastline of the Firth of Forth, the charming village of Culross (pronounced "Coo-riss") is frequently hailed as amongst Britain's most beautiful - and rightly so. Boasting cobblestone streets, golden-coloured cottages, and terracotta rooftops, this immaculately maintained Scottish settlement transports visitors straight into a 17th-century masterpiece. Whilst destinations such as the Cotswolds or Cornwall capture most headlines for picturesque domestic breaks, Culross flies beneath the tourist radar. During a bright June afternoon, my mother, sister, and I embarked on a day trip to this tiny seaside community after hearing that Culross was worth a visit. That proved to be quite the understatement. The destination became amongst the most delightful locations we'd ever discovered - a genuine treasure that warrants significantly greater recognition. The village maintained a peaceful atmosphere, though not in any dull or abandoned manner. Given its remarkable photogenic qualities, you'd anticipate crowds of sightseers overwhelming the area. Yet that wasn't the case. Perhaps visitors gravitate towards more renowned locations like Cornwall, Devon, the Cotswolds or the Lake District for their summer escapes. Even Edinburgh, located less than an hour away, draws the majority of Scotland's holidaymakers. Our day began with a leisurely stroll through the winding, cobbled streets nestled between mustard-yellow homes, whitewashed cottages, and quirky chimneys. It felt as though we had travelled back in time, particularly when we arrived at the Mercat Cross and ambled uphill towards Culross Abbey. It's hardly surprising that Culross is a popular filming location for Outlander – parts of the village double as Cranesmuir in the series. In fact, it's not just Outlander – several films and shows have capitalised on Culross's 17th-century charm, including Captain America and The Little Vampire. We paused for lunch at a quaint tearoom called Bessie's Cafe, where we enjoyed soup and a sandwich. The tearoom itself was housed in one of the iconic ochre-yellow buildings, complete with a lovely outdoor area. After our meal, we popped into the small shops and galleries before making our way to the highlight of our trip: Culross Palace. The National Trust for Scotland maintains the palace, and I must admit, I wasn't prepared for its stunning beauty. The ochre-coloured merchant's house, which dates back to the 17th century, was constructed for Sir George Bruce, the Laird of Carnock. However, it was the garden that truly stole my breath away. It boasted rows of herbs, vegetables, and wildflowers, but the rose garden was the real star of the show - possibly the most beautiful I've ever seen. While Culross may be a coastal town, it's not your typical seaside destination. The waterfront is ideal for a leisurely walk, although the view across the Forth includes the industrial silhouette of Grangemouth's power station. There's a pebbled beach nearby - we didn't get to it, but I've heard it's perfect for a stroll at low tide. However, the charm of the village itself made up for missing out on it. There were more activities than we had time for. You can visit Culross Abbey, established in the 13th century, or follow the Fife Coastal Path, which offers stunning views over the water. The village also boasts a selection of inviting cafés and tearooms. The Mercat is a newly-opened café and homeware shop, while The Biscuit Café is renowned for its cakes and traybakes. If you're after something more substantial, The Red Lion Inn serves traditional pub grub. If you fancy a bit of shopping, The Biscuit Tin gift shop and The Biscuit Factory art gallery are delightful places to peruse. For accommodation, the elegantly stylish The Dundonald guesthouse and cottages were listed among The Times' best British hotels.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Daily Mirror
I visited one of UK's prettiest villages that tourists often skip for Cornwall or the Cotswolds
The village is often described as one of the prettiest villages in the UK - and with good reason. Just one look at its cobbled lanes and ochre-hued houses, and you'll feel like you've stepped into a 17th-century painting. Nestled on the northern banks of the Firth of Forth, the village of Culross (pronounced "Coo-riss") is often hailed as one of the UK's prettiest villages – and it's easy to see why. With its quaint cobbled streets, warm ochre-hued buildings, and distinctive red-tiled roofs, this immaculately preserved Scottish burgh transports you straight into a scene from the 17th century. While popular spots like the Cotswolds or Cornwall usually steal the limelight for idyllic countryside retreats, Culross remains somewhat of a secret amongst British holidaymakers. On a bright June day, my mum, sister, and I embarked on a day trip to this small coastal gem after hearing that Culross was a place not to be missed. That recommendation turned out to be quite the understatement. The visit revealed one of the most enchanting vilages we've ever come across - an undiscovered treasure that surely warrants more recognition than it currently receives. The village exuded a peaceful atmosphere, yet it was anything but dull or deserted. Considering its picture-postcard appeal, you would anticipate a throng of visitors. Surprisingly, that wasn't the case. Perhaps it's overshadowed by the draw of more renowned destinations such as Cornwall, Devon, the Cotswolds, or the Lake District for summer getaways. Even Edinburgh, less than an hour's drive away, seems to capture the bulk of Scotland's tourism. Our day began with a leisurely stroll through the winding cobbled streets, nestled between mustard-yellow homes, whitewashed cottages and quirky chimneys. It felt as though we'd travelled back in time, particularly as we approached the Mercat Cross and ambled uphill past Culross Abbey. It's hardly surprising that Culross serves as a filming location for Outlander – parts of the village double up as Cranesmuir in the series. In fact, it's not just Outlander – several films and shows have capitalised on Culross's 17th-century charm, including Captain America and The Little Vampire. We paused for lunch at a quaint tearoom called Bessie's Cafe, where we enjoyed soup and a sandwich. The tearoom itself was housed in one of the iconic ochre-yellow buildings, complete with a lovely outdoor area. After our meal, we popped into the small shops and galleries before making our way to the highlight of our trip: Culross Palace. The National Trust for Scotland is responsible for the palace, and I must admit, I wasn't prepared for its stunning beauty. The ochre-hued merchant's house, which dates back to the 17th century, was constructed for Sir George Bruce, the Laird of Carnock. However, it was the garden that truly stole my heart. It boasted rows of herbs, vegetables, and wildflowers, but the rose garden was the real star of the show - possibly the most beautiful I've ever seen. While Culross is technically a coastal town, it's not your typical seaside destination. The waterfront provides a pleasant walk, although the view across the Forth includes the industrial silhouette of Grangemouth's power station. There's a pebbled beach nearby - we didn't venture down to it, but I've heard it's ideal for a low tide stroll. Regardless, the charm of the village itself made up for missing out on the beach. There's more to do than we had time for. You can explore Culross Abbey, established in the 13th century, or take the Fife Coastal Path for stunning views over the water. The village boasts several cosy cafés and tearooms. The Mercat is a newly-opened café and homeware shop, while The Biscuit Café is renowned for its cakes and traybakes. If you fancy something more substantial, The Red Lion Inn offers traditional pub grub. If shopping is on your agenda, The Biscuit Tin gift shop and The Biscuit Factory art gallery are delightful places to peruse. For accommodation, the elegantly stylish The Dundonald guesthouse and cottages have been listed among The Times' top British hotels.
The Herald Scotland
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Castle with gardens inspired by world-renowned artists
A specially curated exhibition of the works of the internationally-acclaimed print maker, who is native to the North East of Scotland, recently opened at the Castle and, inspired by one of Furneaux's abstract works, Daguin has created a striking new planting scheme that has transformed part of Drum's historic walled garden. Two bold beds anchor either side of a dramatic, geometric arbour, a bespoke structure crafted by local blacksmiths in response to Furneaux's use of line and form. Designed by Laurie Daguin, the two bold beds anchor either side of a dramatic, geometric arbour (Image: Discover Gardens) The planting itself mirrors the artist's palette, with layered blocks of yellow, grey, blue and black flowers, contrasted against hard landscaping in natural stone. Together, they offer a dynamic visual echo of Furneaux's work and a contemporary counterpoint to the garden's more traditional sections, which include an old wood of ancient trees, a garden of historic roses and a play park made from natural materials, where young visitors can run off steam. The Irvine family, owners of Drum Castle for over 650 years until the National Trust for Scotland took over its care, were significant patrons of the arts and the permanent collection boasts works by Van Dyck and Raeburn, alongside pieces by established family artists Hugh [[Irvine]] and Anna Margaretta Forbes [[Irvine]]. Another National Trust for Scotland property which has strong links to the world of art is Kellie Castle in Fife, where the garden of the 500-year old property was revived by renowned Scottish architect Robert Lorimer and then by his son, the sculptor Hew Mortimer. Kellie Castle (Image: Discover Gardens) The Mortimers developed an Arts and Crafts theme for the walled garden, filling it with roses, honeysuckle and delphiniums. They also turned a former archery court into a sheltered space for growing peaches, filled the bee boles set into the walls with wicker skeps and allowed hens to roam free amongst the flowerbeds. Their aim was to recreate a traditional Scottish 'pleasaunce', a medieval, enclosed garden set hard against the castle, in contrast to the fashion in later centuries for setting walled gardens at some distance from the main house. The planting mirrors the artist's palette, with layered blocks of yellow, grey, blue and black flowers, contrasted against hard landscaping in natural stone (Image: Discover Gardens) Details The gardens at Drum Castle are open daily, 10.30am - 4pm. The exhibition, 'Paul Furneack: North by East' is free to visit daily until October 31 2025. For more information, visit The grounds are open daily, dawn to dusk and entrance is free. Tel: 01330 700334 Drum@ In Association with Discover Scottish Gardens
