How can you visit Edinburgh and not go to one of the National Trust areas? According to the National Trust website, they care for over 100 sites in Scotland. They’re probably some of the most stunning places you will ever visit.
Well, that’s difficult to say. In Scotland, from the villages to the cities to the hills, everything seems breathtaking. But there’s something special about the perfectly maintained, peaceful National Trust areas that will leave you signing up for the National Trust membership. In our opinion, renting a motorhome is the perfect way to see as many as possible.
Below, we’ll tell you about our top 4 National Trust locations in Scotland and why we think they’re so special.
What is the National Trust?
The National Trust is a UK-based charity organisation that protects and cares for historic sites and natural landscapes across the UK. In total, the National Trust states there are 500 historic sites and natural areas under its maintenance in the UK.
And when it comes to historic sites and natural landscapes, nowhere does it better than Scotland.
You can sign up for a National Trust membership that grants you free access to all 500 National Trust areas and free parking at the sites. The membership prices are:
- Adults (26+): £96 per year or £8 per month
- Young Persons (18-25): £48 a year or £4 a month
- Junior (5-17): £12 per year, and under 5s go free.
There are also joint memberships and family options for a slightly reduced price.
The Best National Trust Areas in Scotland
Glencoe
Glencoe is one of the most iconic places in Scotland. There are no words to describe this place. Seeing it for the first time will truly take your breath away. The mountains, history, wildlife, adventure – everything about it will leave you in awe.
Nestled in the Highlands, there are many things people might not realise it’s famous for, and being a National Trust location is one of them. Other than being simply outstanding, it’s famous for being the set of Harry Potter, James Bond’s Skyfall, Braveheart, and more.
Not the entire area of Glencoe is a National Trust area, but the Glencoe National Nature Reserve is. The visitor centre and turf house are open from 09:30 to 17:00, and there’s actually no entry fee to this National Trust location.
West Africa, The Highlands
Located at the western end of the Glen Affric National Scenic Area, West Affric doesn’t get enough credit. The area is absolutely massive. A river runs through the middle with mountains and hills towering at either side. And at this time of the year, the snow will start to appear at the top of the mountain range, making it even more magical.
There are 4,000-year-old Scots pine stumps in the peatlands, stunning wildlife such as the rare black grouse and golden eagles, and native forest, beautiful lochs and rugged moorland to explore.
Again, this area is free, so we highly recommend visiting.
Craigievar Castle, Aberdeenshire
Of course, we had to throw a castle in here; it’s Scotland. Scotland has well over 2,000 castles, but you know one will be extra special when the National Trust manages it.
Located near Alford, Aberdeenshire, Craigievar is full of history, armour, and art. The uniquely pink exterior is rumoured to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle and is home to one of Scotland’s first house martin towers.
Although building took place between 1575 and 1595 before being finished by William Forbes around 1626, it’s one of the most beautifully preserved castles in Scotland. During winter, entry is £17.00 for adults, £38.50 for a family, or free if you have a National Trust membership.
Glenfinnan and the Glenfinnan Monument
Surrounded by mountains on the shores of Loch Shiel, the Glenfinnan Monument is our final National Trust area. Glenfinnan itself isn’t a National Trust location, but we thought we’d include it because of how spectacular it is.
This Highland gem is a tribute to the people who died fighting for the Jacobite cause during the 1745 Jacobite Rising. It was also the set for some of the Harry Potter films and the location where you can see the iconic Hogwarts Express cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
It’s a tranquil, scenic area to enjoy an afternoon. There are plenty of walks from the visitor centre to explore.
If we could include them all, we’d tell you to visit every National Trust area in Scotland. You just know it will be a good day out when the National Trust sign is at the entrance. Remember to check the opening time and entry fees before you visit!