SCOTLAND’S ATTRACTIONS OPEN FREE TO MARK ST ANDREW’S DAY

PRESS RELEASE FROM HISTORIC SCOTLAND

SCOTLAND’S FINEST HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS OPEN FREE FOR FOUR DAYS TO MARK ST ANDREW’S DAY

With St Andrew’s Day just a few days away, why not plan to celebrate Scotland’s national day with a visit to one of our country’s great historic sites?

Historic Scotland is offering the perfect incentive – free entry to 48 outstanding heritage attractions throughout the country for four days : Saturday 27th, Sunday 28th , Monday 29th and St Andrew’s Day itself, Tuesday 30th November.

Fiona Hyslop MSP, Minister for Culture and External Affairs said: “Enjoying a visit to one of Scotland’s finest historic properties is a wonderful way to mark our country’s national day and celebrate our rich heritage and culture as part of Scotland’s Winter Festivals.

“The offer of free admission, on the run-up to St Andrew’s Day and the 30th itself, will encourage and enable as many people as possible to do just that. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a memorable day out whilst appreciating and taking pride in our nation’s rich built heritage.”

The St Andrew’s free entry offer covers a selection of leading historic attractions across the length and breadth of Scotland.

This comprises sites in Orkney and the Western Isles – Skara Brae and the Arnol Blackhouse; in the North and Grampian – including Corgarff Castle, Elgin Cathedral, Fort George and Urquhart Castle; in Perthshire, Kinross and Angus - including Arbroath Abbey, Edzell Castle, and Huntingtower Castle; in the Central and West region – including Castle Campbell, Doune Castle, Iona Abbey, and Stirling Castle; in Edinburgh and the Lothians – including Edinburgh Castle, Craigmillar Castle and Dirleton Castle; in the Glasgow and Clyde region – including Bothwell Castle, Dumbarton Castle, and Glasgow Cathedral; in Fife - including Dunfermline Palace and St Andrews Cathedral, in the Borders - including Melrose Abbey and Smailholm Tower, and in Dumfries and Galloway - including Caerlaverock Castle, New Abbey Corn Mill, and Sweetheart Abbey.

Edinburgh Castle will also be getting in the St. Andrews spirit by turning blue for the duration of the free opening.

To find out your nearest participating attraction and details of opening times, you can text GO FREE to 84118. A complete listing of all properties included in the St Andrew’s free entry offer is also provided below.


Ends.


• St Andrew’s Day heralds the start of Scotland’s Winter Festival. Scotland’s Winter Festivals, which also includes Hogmanay and Burns Night, is a programme of more than 60 exciting and distinctive events designed to celebrate Scotland’s contemporary and traditional culture and promote Scotland as a year round festival destination. Find out more at www.scotlandswinterfestivals.com

• For the past four years, Historic Scotland has opened its doors for free at a wide range of its properties as part of a special Scotland-wide St Andrew’s Day promotion in celebration of our national day. This has proved extremely popular with visitors from this country and overseas and this year, the free entry offer has been extended to four days.

• Historic Scotland sites open free are:
Arbroath Abbey
•Arnol Blackhouse (not open on 28th November, Sunday)
•Blackness Castle
•Bothwell Castle
•Caerlaverock Castle
•Cardoness Castle
•Castle Campbell
•Corgarff Castle
•Craigmillar Castle
•Craignethan Castle
•Dallas Dhu Distillery
•Dirleton Castle
•Doune Castle
•Dryburgh Abbey
•Duff House
•Dumbarton Castle
•Dunblane Cathedral
•Dunfermline Palace
•Dundrennan Abbey
•Dunstaffnage Castle
•Edinburgh Castle
•Edzell Castle
•Elgin Cathedral
•Fort George
•Glasgow Cathedral (normally a donation only based site without admission charges)
•Huntingtower Castle
•Huntly Castle
•Iona Abbey
•Jedburgh Abbey
•Linlithgow Palace
•Maeshowe Visitor Centre
•Melrose Abbey
•New Abbey Corn Mill
•Rothesay Castle
•Skara Brae
•Smailholm Tower
•Spynie Palace
•St Andrews Castle
•St Andrews Cathedral
•St Vigeans
•Stanley Mills
•Stirling Castle
•Sweetheart Abbey
•Tantallon Castle
•Tolquhon Castle
•Trinity House
•Urquhart Castle

Opening times for Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle are from 9.30am to 5pm. For all other properties listed above, opening times are from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Loch Katrine deer threatened.

Survival of Highland stag is threatened
by culling and starvation
Hamish Macdonell - The Times
Last updated November 1 2010 12:35AM

Scotland’s iconic red stags are facing the twin threats of culling and starvation — and two of the country’s biggest countryside quangos are to blame, according to campaigners. The Scottish Gamekeepers’ Association warned yesterday that the number of stags had fallen to crisis levels in some areas of Aberdeenshire, Angus and Perthshire and another severe winter could kill off the survivors. Peter Fraser, vice-chairman of the association, blamed Scottish Natural Heritage for the problem because, he said, the quango was treating stags like “vermin” and culling them to excess in an attempt to protect local plants.
Forestry Commission Scotland was also criticised yesterday for its treatment of deer. The commission was accused of condemning deer to starve after fencing off large areas of woodland surrounding Loch Katrine in The Trossachs. Residents near the loch claimed contractors working on the Great Trossachs Forest Project had fenced off large tracts of ground, excluding deer from their natural habitat.
The fate of Scotland’s stags is no less controversial than that of the 9ft Emperor of Exmoor killed in England last week. According to the Gamekeepers’ Association, the number of Scottish stags has fallen so dramatically that some estates have had to give refunds to shooters, depriving local economies of thousands of pounds.
The industry is worth £100 million a year in Scotland and nature tourism is estimated to bring in more than £1 billion annually. Mr Fraser said where it was once possible to see as many as seven herds of red deer, he was now lucky if he saw one. “We have been very short of stags,” he said, adding that this was caused by Scottish National Heritage trying to protect rare plants such as the arctic willow and Caledonian pine from over-grazing.
Scottish National Heritage said in a statement: “We view deer as an asset, not only to local communities, but also to Scotland as a whole.”
The situation around Loch Katrine is more specific, but no less serious, according to local campaigners. Residents fear that the Forestry Commission fences, placed to protect newly planted trees from being eaten by the animals, will mean that deer around Loch Katrine will “die trying to reach food and protection”.
Community representatives said there was “a fight going on” against the building of the fences. Jan Young, who lives near the loch side, said yesterday: [ “Forestry Commission Scotland might just as well issue a death sentence on these deer as they are likely to die trying to reach food and protection from the bad weather.” Forestry Commission Scotland would not comment on the issue.

Marketing our Self Catering Holiday Cottages in Loch Lomond and Trossachs

Trying to find the best way of promoting our self catering holiday cottages is always an area of concern because although what you have in place may be effective now, there is no guarantee this will still work in the future. The methods of business promotion are constantly changing, for example when we first started the internet was almost non existant as a means of advertising our lochside holiday cottages, we had to advertise in the brochure of the holiday cottage agencies.

Now we have our own websites with online bookings etc http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/ that work very effectively along side the agencies and their websites and brochures. We are now slowly entering the new era of using Flicker, Twitter, Facebook.

The problem is now deciding if we should continue to stay with the agencies and pay their high commission fees or risk using only our own sites. The benefits are we would save about £10000 some of which could be used to fund our own marketing initiatives. We also already have one cottage Waterside Cottage which is independant from the agencies and is generally fully booked each year. The anxiety is that the level of booking would drop and and cost more than the commission.

Oh the joys of business planning.

Whisky Tasting at Lomond and Trossachs Cottages

Enjoy a Whisky tasting session at the cottage

For an evening of fun, entertainment and a bit of learning you just can't beat a whisky tasting!

Hosted by a local whisky ambassador from Ealain Gallery Whisky Club http://www.ealaingallery.co.uk , enjoy these informal whisky tasting events in the comfort of our luxury cottages.

Enjoy an evening with knowledgeable and friendly whisky tutors...who will guide you through
5/6 malts of your choice, be that a whisky region, distillery or a tour around the country, the
choice is endless. Focusing on providing the juicy details you really want to know, letting you
in on a few distillery secrets and stories.

A tasting lasts around two hours. It could be pre or post dinner, or even as part of the meal with
the whisky selected completing the food.

3/4 nights in Nov / Dec @ £295 - sleeps 6, including Whisky Tasting session



Lochside Apartment Loch Katrine, Lomond and Trossachs Cottages
3 Bedroom Self catering just 10 yards from Loch Katrine in the Loch lomond and Trossachs Park.

http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/

Lochside Apartment, 3 bedroom sleeps 6

Loch Katrine Lady of the Lake Winter sailings

Sparkling Winter Weekends at Loch Katrine
SAILING DATES – WINTER 2010/11
(November 2010 to March 2011)
‘Lady of the Lake’ will depart Trossachs Pier on the following dates

Saturday and Sunday

•6th and 7th November
•13th and 14th November
•20th and 21st November
•27th and 28th November
•4th and 5th December
•11th and 12th December
•18th and 19th December
SAILINGS EVERY DAY – 27th December 2010 until 2nd January 2011

Saturday and Sunday

•12th and 13th February
•19th and 20th February
•26th and 27th February
•5th and 6th March
•12th and 13th March
•19th and 20th March
•26th and 27th March
•ADULT FARE - £10.00
•CONCESSION FARE - £9.00
•CHILD (u.16) FARE - £7.00

Tel(01877) 332000

•Panoramic Cruises on ‘Lady of the Lake’
•Fully heated saloon with exhilarating views of Loch Katrine
•20% OFF on all Family Tickets(*)
•10% Winter Savings on Family Cycle Hire with Katrinewheelz
•Katrine Café for lunch and refreshments – Enjoy a FREE Piacetto Coffee or Sir Henry tea with your lunch. (Subject to Minimum Spend: £5.00 per person)
Katrine Café, Katrinewheelz and Katrine Gifts Open on all Sailing Days - 11.00am until 3.00pm. ‘Lady of the Lake’ departing on all Sailing Days at 1.30pm (1-hour cruise)

(*) Discount available on all bookings for 2 adults travelling with one or more child (aged under 16). Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Sailings are subject to revision due to weather conditions, operational reasons, or passenger numbers.

Group Reservations Available Call (01877) 332000. Hire ‘Lady of the Lake’ for your own exclusive cruise – Full on-board catering services available.

Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottages, Loch Katrine

Autumn brings out the best in the Trossachs !
By Nick Mitchell Scotsman Newspaper 21st October 2010

The Trossachs has a sleepy charm of its own that is best discovered in the autumn months.

• Sailing out on Loch Katrine

A visit to the secluded forests and calm lochs at this time of year will be rewarded with an endless array of reds and oranges as the trees stage their annual, fleeting burst of colour.

A good place to start is by taking a boat trip on Loch Katrine. Until the end of October they have daily sailings for tourists and day-trippers departing from the the eastern edge of the waters.

The small jetty and visitor centre is just a short drive from Callendar, which is itself easily accessible from Glasgow and the central belt, making it an ideal destination if you want to spend an afternoon away from the urban hubbub.

• On board the evocative Sir Walter Scott steamship

We made it just in time for the 1.30pm cruise on the Steamship Sir Walter Scott, which took us about halfway out and back in just under an hour.

The steamship itself is an item of historical note. It has been sailing these waters since 1898, when it was transported piece by piece from Dumbarton, and is now believed to be the UK's first green passenger vessel after it was recently refurbished to run on biofuel.

• Looking west towards Stronachlachar

The famous 19th century writer from which the vessel takes its name centred his 1810 narrative poem The Lady of the Lake around Loch Katrine, which he describes in a memorable line as "one burnished sheet of living gold".

It's not hard to see why this peaceful stretch of water inspired Scott as you sail past deserted, rocky little islets and ancient forests mirrored at the water's edge.

• White farm houses nestle on the northern shores of the loch

Scottish folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor is said to have been born in a 17th century stone cottage at Glengyle at the head of Katrine, and we were told by one of the guides during our cruise that the idyllic farm houses on the banks of the loch were once used as hide-outs during the Jacobite uprising.

But beneath the romantic allure of Loch Katrine is a vital function. The loch supplies the bulk of Glasgow's drinking water and several islands were submerged when the water level was artificially raised six feet for the purpose.


• The late afternoon sun shimmers on the loch

Having left Loch Katrine by three o'clock, there's still plenty of time to take in the surrounding area with a drive around the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. This area of protected woodland and moorland runs from the east shore of Loch Lomond to the rugged terrain of Strathyre and is a worthwhile detour from the main road.

The roadside views of golden forests reflected in glassy lochs is a sight to behold, and more than a little reminiscent of similar picture postcard scenes in the Canadian Rockies.





• A view of the amusingly named Loch Drunkie in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park

From here on we continued up and over the Duke's Pass, past the David Marshall Lodge and down into Aberfoyle, where you can grab a bite to eat and set off for a much less scenic drive home.

.....End of article.....

Why not come and stay at Lochside House 10 yards from Loch Katrine in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs Park.

http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/

Stirling Castle, Loch lomond and trossachs Cottages at Loch Katrine

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: 05/10/10

STEP BACK IN TIME TO THE 17TH CENTURY - AND THE SIEGE OF STIRLING CASTLE

Stirling Castle on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th October

The year is 1651 and Stirling Castle is under siege. Scotland has been defeated by the Auld Enemy at the Battle of Dunbar, the English army has invaded the south of the country and is desperate to lay claim to the majestic stronghold of Stirling which guards the route north.

Come along to Stirling Castle on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th October and step back in time to the days of the Covenanters and this crucial period in the history of both the castle and Scotland.

The two-day Holding Scotland For The King 1651 family event revisits this important siege -which heralded the rapid collapse of Scottish control in the face of the English invasion – and brings to life the characters and weapons of both the Scots and English troops of the period.

A large cast of historical interpreters and costumed performers will be staging a spectacular series of colourful parades, with artillery and firepower displays, musketry exchanges and pike drill, and static tableaux providing an insight into battle camp and garrison life.

Events Manager Nick Finnigan says: “The 1651 siege of Stirling Castle, although brief, was incredibly important and marked a turning point in the history of our country. Our costumed performers will be highlighting the background – why Scotland was at war with England and the eventual outcome - illustrating what military life would have been like for the troops involved, and demonstrating a variety of interesting aspects such as the weaponry and costume of the period.”

The programme for both days is as follows:

 12:00 Opening parade into the castle from the Esplanade and welcome in the Inner Close.
 12:30 Story of the siege in the Great Hall
 13:00 The Siege begins - musket skirmish from the walls
 13:30 The clothes of the mid-17th century – Great
 14:00 Artillery display
 14:30 Pike drill
 15:00 Parade of musketeers and display of
 15:30 The soldiers of the 17th century
 16:00 Display of firepower featuring cannons and muskets and culminating in the closing parade of the army out of the castle

Holding Scotland For The King 1651 is on from 12.00 noon to 4pm on both days, with all the entertainment and activities included in Stirling Castle’s normal admission price: adults, £9.00, concessions £7.20, children £5.40, and free for Historic Scotland Members.

 Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s grandest castles due to its imposing position and impressive architecture. From the castle’s ramparts, visitors can take in views over two of Scotland’s most important battle sites – Stirling Bridge (1297) and Bannockburn (1314). The castle is at the head of Stirling’s historic old town, off M9 junction 9 or 10. Tel: 01786 450000. For details of opening times and further information on the castle, visit www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk.
 Major conservation work has been carried out at Stirling Castle over many years to preserve the attraction as a major national and international monument. An ambitious £12 million scheme, the Stirling Castle Palace Project, is currently underway (due for completion in Spring 2011) to restore and refurbish the Royal Palace at Stirling and present the Royal Lodgings as they might have appeared in the heyday of Scotland’s Stewart court in the mid 16th century. An interpretive display on the court of James V will be created in the palace vaults and a Renaissance Gallery on the upper floors of the palace will house the original Stirling Heads, a rare group of intricately carved oak ceiling medallions depicting kings,queens, courtiers and mythological creatures. Costumed interpreters will bring to life the history of the 16th century to enrich visitors’ enjoyment.

 Stirling Castle is one of the most popular of 345 outstanding heritage properties and sites in the care of Historic Scotland. Ranging from prehistoric dwellings to medieval castles, and from cathedrals to industrial buildings, these include some of the leading tourism attractions in the country.For further details of all of Historic Scotland’s sites visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places

 Historic Scotland’s Mission is: to safeguard Scotland’s historic environment and to promote its understanding and enjoyment.

Photo's from Elie, Fife

Callander Jazz Festival near Loch Lomond and trossachs cottages

http://www.callanderjazz.com/

Fri 1st - Sun 3rd October

The 5th annual Callander Jazz and Blues Festival will take place over the weekend of 1st / 2nd / 3rd October 2010. The Festival Event is centred in the Trossachs town of Callander which is the eastern gateway to the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park an area of outstanding scenic beauty and historical interest.

This years musical event stages over 50 live performances spread over 22 venues and features a host of local, national, and international musicians playing live for you entertainment and appreciation every style of jazz and blues music with just a hint of soul thrown in.
A long weekend of superb live music with constant performances plus Jazz Cruising, Jazz Parades, Open Mic Sessions for both jazz and blues vocalists and instrumentalists, workshops hosted by professional musicians even an inter-denominational Jazz Church Service.
The Callander Jazz and Blues Festival is now firmly established on the UK Festival map and is one of the largest rural music festival events in Scotland. Visit the Heart of Scotland and experience a weekend of first class entertainment amongst the early Autumn splendour of the Trossachs.


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Join the Jazz Cruise
One of the highlights of the Callander Jazz Festival is The Jazz Cruise on the SS Sir Walter Scott on beautiful Loch Katrine. 2 hours cruisng the 7 miles of Loch Katrine listening to the band with refreshments served on board. Take in the stunning views of Ben Venue and Glen Gyle, once the home of Rob Roy MacGregor.

There is a covered sun lounge area and a viewing deck and lounge should the weather be inclement.

Spaces are limited therefore booking in advance is highly recommended. This was a great day out in 2009 as the weather was sunny and everyone had a great time listen to Winstone's Pennine Jazz Band.

Specials at Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottages

SPECIAL OFFERS AT LOCH LOMOND AND TROSSACHS COTTAGES

3 Bedroom Waterside Cottage, sleeps 6

OCTOBER 22nd 3 nights @ £350

5 Bedroom Lochside House, sleeps 10

SEPTEMBER 11th 7 NIGHTS @£650

3 Bedroom Lochside Apartment, sleeps 6

11 Sepember 2 nights @ £220 sleeps 6

17 September 3 nights @ £270 sleeps 6

http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/

Waterside Cottage a lochside Cottage, Lomond and Trossachs

Waterside Cottage, Loch Lomond and Trossachs Park

3 bedroom Cottage just 10 yards from Loch Katrine with great loch views.

7 nights from 27th August for Special rate of £ 600

Late Deal Waterside Cottage, Lomond and Trossachs Cottage

Late deal at Waterside Cottage 3 Bedroom cottage 10 yards from the water at Loch Katrine in the Lomond & Trossachs Park. Sleeps 6.

27th August 7 nights for £600

Call 0141 644 0914 or 07590 010860

http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/

Local events around Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottages

Details from Historic Scotland Summer Magazine about local events in and around Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottages.

This information is provide for guests of Lochside House, Lochside Cottage, Lochside Apartment and Waterside Cottage at Loch Katrine, Lomond and Trossachs.

http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/

Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottages

The bay at Stronachlachar Loch Katrine in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs Park. Lochside House and Lochside Cottage at Loch Katrine in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs park
Self catering holiday cottage from lomond and Trossachs Cottages. http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/

Factors Island at Loch Katrine today 3rd June 2010.

Photo from around Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottages at Loch Katrine

Pictures of sunset around Loch Katrine yesterday 26th April 2010

These are some of the views around Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottages at Loch Katrine.

http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/

Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottages, Special Offers

SPECIAL OFFERS AT LOCH LOMOND AND TROSSACHS COTTAGES


3 Bedroom Waterside Cottage, sleeps 6

MAY 16th 5 nights for £370

5 Bedroom Lochside House, sleeps 10

May 8th 2 nights for £390

3 Bedroom Lochside Apartment, sleeps 6

April 26th 5 nights £240

May 8th 7 nights for £370

http://www.lomondandtrossachs.com/

For all your self catering holiday cottage and cottages and houses in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs Park National, Scotland. Great places for walking such as the West Highland Way along Loch Lomond. Hire a bike and enjoy cycling at Loch Katrine in the heart of the Trossachs. Visit the tourist attractions of Aberfoyle and Callander. Sailing on the Sir Walter Scott or at Kinlochard Sailing Club or Loch Earnhead.. Try quad biking at Kinlochard or Go Ape activity centre at the David Marshall Lodge Aberfoyle. Visit Loch Lomond at the Inversnaid Hotel just minutes away where you will find Rob Roys cave. Climb some of the local attractions like Ben Lomond, Ben Venue and Ben Ann. Sail on the lassy of the Lake at Loch Katrine. Enjoy tea and scones at the Pier Tea room cafe, Stronachlachar, Loch Katrine. You will find accomodation to suit all your needs. B&B bed and breakfast, hotels guest houses, self catering cottages, hostels. restaurants. Bike hire around loch Lomond and Trossachs for cycling, boats for hire. fishing boats even a seaplane on Loch Lomond. The Lake Hotel is great for Bar meals at Lake of Mentieth. The Forth in has great atmosphere at Aberfoyle friendly locals. Tourist information at Aberfoyle and Callander and woolen mills to with shops and cafe.

Lomond and trossachs Cottages details of walking events

Walking Events in Scotland from www.Walkhighlands.co.uk ( see www.walkhighlands.co.uk for full details )

10 - 16 April Walk Islay walking festival on Islay http://www.walkislay.co.uk/

16 - 18 April Huntly Walking Festival - 1st year for this festival which features a wheelchair walk, walk with artist Hamish Fulton, a mass sponsored walk, and an evening ceilidh. See website for details. http://www.huntly.net/events/page.php?event_id=79

17 April The Munro Society's Irvine Butterfield Memorial Lecture, 7pm Birnam Institute, £7. Jim Crumley, Scotland's foremost nature writer. http://www.themunrosociety.com/eventsdiary.html

18 April - Walking with Birds, Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick, 8am. Early morning guided walk. Email info@seabird.org for more details and booking.

29 April - 3 May - Spirit of Speyside - ok its whisky rather than walking but the events offer plenty of chances to explore the fabulous local scenery in between music and drams - some guided walks. http://www.spiritofspeyside.com/

Coming up

1 - 8 May - Caithness & Sutherland Walking Festival http://www.walkcaithness.com/index.shtml

15 - 21 May Ballater Royal Deeside Walking Festival ,
http://www.royal-deeside.org.uk/RDnews/walkweek.htm

19 - 23 May Keswick Mountain Festival see website for details, http://www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk/

28 - 31 May Glen Affric Walking Festival http://www.naturalhighguiding.co.uk/affric.htm


www.lomondandtrossachs.com

5 Bedroom Lochside House 6 nights £690, Lomond and Trossachs cottages

Lochside House 5 Bedroom sleeps 10

Special offer 6 nights at Lochside House 23rd May 2010

We have a gap period of 6 nights right on the waters edge of Loch Katrine just 10 yards from the water. Situated in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs Park.

www.lomondandtrossachs.com

Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottage Special Offers

SPECIAL OFFERS AT lOCH lOMOND AND TROSSACHS COTTAGES


3 Bedroom Waterside Cottage, sleeps 6
MAY 16th 5 nights for £420

5 Bedroom Lochside House, sleeps 10

April 17th 2 nights for £390

May 8th 2 nights for £450

www.lomondandtrossachs.com

Travel Insurance for holiday Cottages in Loch Lomond Park

Here's a question. Should guests have their own travel insurance for damage done to the property they are staying in?

Today I had a flood at 2 of my properties because a guest left the tap running in a sink with the plug in from 5am until 7am. The upper flat damaged the ceiling and walls of the property below. I now have holes in my ceiling which were made to stop the ceiling from collapsing and stains on walls that will need repainting.

Fortunately for me I had guests in the house below who spotted it at 7am and were able to get the tap turned off so that the ceiling did not collapse and cause a potential costly repair bill.

I have building and contents insurance etc. that has a large excess due to previous water damage claims so if I had to claim there would be a large shortfall.

In this case it just needs polyfilla and paint so I will do this with out a claim or cost to my guests. The guest below have been accomodating and not made a fuss about the inconvenience to their holiday either, which might not have been the case, and could have involved large refunds etc. I will still make a partial refund.

But all of this made me wonder how many guests actually take out travel insurance and does it cover damage done to property by accidents? Most will probably take it out if abroad but not if staying in the UK.

Are Owners expected to foot the bill for damage and pay the insurance excess and increased premiums? Trying to claim costs back from people without insurance would be a very difficult business involving courts etc which would not look good for business.

I think the reality is like me most owners will foot the bill. Maybe the answer is cleaning / housekeeping deposits. I have always tried to avoid this as it just implies a lack of trust in people.

Anyway thats my rant over
Richard

Historic Scotlands Top 10 visited Attractions in 2010

Historic Scotlands Top 10 visited Attractions in 2010



Historic Scotland’s Top 10 properties are:

1. Edinburgh Castle

2. Stirling Castle

3. Urquhart Castle

4. Linlithgow Palace

5. St Andrews Castle

6. Fort George

7. Caerlaverock Castle

8. Melrose Abbey

9. Skara Brae

10. Iona Abbey

www.lomondandtrossachs.com

Holiday Cottages in Loch Lomond and Trossachs Park

Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottage Guest Attractions to visit

Scotland’s earliest human face takes to the road
5,000 year old ORKNEY VENUS to go on tour

http://www.youtube.com/historicscotlandtv


Scotland’s earliest human face, the Orkney Venus is to go on temporary display at venues across Scotland.

The 5,000 year old figurine- also known as the Westray Wife, was discovered last summer by archaeologists working on the Historic Scotland excavation at the Links of Noltland, on the Orkney island of Westray. The figurine is the only known Neolithic carving of a human form to have been found in Scotland.
Measuring 41mm by 31mm- the Venus is made from sandstone and depicts a human face and body. The name comes from its resemblance to prehistoric carvings from elsewhere in Europe- often referred to as Venus figurines.

The exhibition will open this Saturday (13th March) at the Chapel Royal at Stirling Castle and will remain in Stirling until 26th March before progressing to Kilmartin House in Argyll and Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness. It will then return to Orkney for the summer and will be on display at the Westray Heritage Centre before moving to the Orkney Museum in Kirkwall.

Minister for Culture and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop said;
“This was a find of tremendous international as well as national importance, so it is fantastic that people have the opportunity to see the Venus first hand.
“By taking it on tour across Scotland we want to ensure that as many people as possible get to see the Orkney Venus and find out more about the vast amount of activity that is going on to protect and enhance our rich archaeological heritage.”

As well as providing an overview of recent research on the Venus, the exhibition will tell the story of the current excavations on Westray. The Links of Noltland is one of Orkney’s richest and most threatened sites, with severe wind erosion causing the collapse of the dune system which has protected the archaeology for thousands of years.

Richard Strachan, Senior Archaeologist at Historic Scotland explains;
“The Links of Noltand is one of the most fascinating sites in Scotland – with extensive evidence still surviving about the people who lived there from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age.
“The site is under our care, and each year archaeological teams record and preserve as much information as we can from the site – as the wind strips away and uncovers different layers.
“The discovery of the Orkney Venus was further confirmation of the importance of this site- and the secrets it may hold. It is extremely rare to find any replicas of the human form dating from this period- this is the first of its kind in Scotland, and certainly one of the best preserved.
“Research is still ongoing looking at the possible origins of the figure - was it for example a sacred object or used for decorative purposes, and we hope that people will take the opportunity to come along and see this mysterious and extremely rare creature.”

For opening times and further information please visit www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/orkneyvenus or to see a sneak preview of the Venus please go to www.youtube.com/historicscotlandtv.
8 March 2010
PHOTOGRAPHY IS AVAILABLE FROM HISTORIC SCOTLAND


The Orkney Venus:
The Orkney Venus will be at the following venues and dates:
• Stirling Castle: Sat 13th March – Friday 26th March
• Kilmartin House: Friday 2nd April – Sunday 18th April
• Urquhart Castle Thursday 22nd April – Sunday 9th May
• It will then return to Orkney for the summer season will be on display at the Westray Heritage Centre before moving to the Orkney Museum in Kirkwall.



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Loch Lomond and Trossachs Cottage guests should visit Stirling Castle Easter Event

Historic Scotland

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: 10/03/10

CELEBRATE SPRING AND ENJOY AN EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA AT STIRLING CASTLE

ONE OF SCOTLAND’S MOST MAGNIFICENT HISTORIC PROPERTIES GEARS UP FOR A WEEKEND OF REVELRY

Looking for some Spring cheer after the long winter? Then make sure you head for Stirling Castle this Easter for a great day out. The stunning stronghold is gearing up for a superb weekend of family fun and entertainment.

‘Easter Revelry’ - on Saturday 3rd April, Sunday 4th and Monday 5th – promises a packed programme of light-hearted amusement for all ages. A colourful cast of costumed characters will be performing comedy, magic, puppetry and interactive shows. And with everything included in the normal admission price to the castle, great value, as well as great fun, is guaranteed.

Historic Scotland events manager Nick Finnigan said: “We’ve got a fantastic line-up of entertainment in store at our big ‘Easter Revelry’ event at Stirling over the three days, and a really talented cast of performers.

“There will be a jester and juggler, a puppet show based on tales from Scottish history, music and dancers, and a hilarious panto-style comedy show featuring ‘Baron Hardegg’ and ‘Squire Softboiled’ - characters who were a huge hit at our previous popular Easter events.

“And as well as all of that, we’ll have a ‘World of Owls’ interactive display, offering visitors a chance to get a close look at a range of different types of owls, and watch some of these fascinating birds of prey taking part in flying displays.”

Gillian MacDonald, Stirling Castle Visitor Services and Business Development Manager said: “Our three days of excellent entertainment offer superb value for money – plus, of course a chance to explore one of Scotland’s most outstanding historic attractions, so we hope that as many families as possible will join us here at Stirling Castle this Easter.”

‘Easter Revelry’ takes place from noon to 4pm on each of the three days over the Easter Weekend. Stirling Castle admission charges are: adults, £9.00, Concessions £7.20, Children £5.40, and entry is free for Historic Scotland Members.




 Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s grandest castles due to its imposing position and impressive architecture. From the castle’s ramparts, visitors can take in views over two of Scotland’s most important battle sites – Stirling Bridge (1297) and Bannockburn (1314). The castle is at the head of Stirling’s historic old town, off M9 junction 9 or 10. Tel: 01786 450000. For details of opening times and further information on the castle, visit www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk.
 Major conservation work has been carried out at Stirling Castle over many years to preserve the attraction as a major national and international monument. An ambitious £12 million scheme, the Stirling Castle Palace Project, is currently underway to restore and refurbish the Royal Palace at Stirling and present the Royal Lodgings as they might have appeared in the heyday of Scotland’s Stewart court in the mid 16th century. An interpretive display on the court of James V will be created in the palace vaults and a Renaissance Gallery on the upper floors of the palace will house the original Stirling Heads, a rare group of intricately carved oak ceiling medallions depicting kings,queens, courtiers and mythological creatures. Costumed interpreters will bring to life the history of the 16th century to enrich visitors’ enjoyment.

 Stirling Castle is one of the most popular of 345 outstanding heritage properties and sites in the care of Historic Scotland. Ranging from prehistoric dwellings to medieval castles, and from cathedrals to industrial buildings, these include some of the leading tourism attractions in the country. Among these are Edinburgh, Stirling and Urquhart Castles, Skara Brae, and the Border Abbeys. For further details of all of Historic Scotland’s sites visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/properties and for more information on Stirling Castle, visit: www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk

 Historic Scotland’s Mission is: to safeguard Scotland’s historic environment and to promote its understanding and enjoyment.

Visitors to the formidable garrison fortress of Dumbarton Castle will, on Saturday 20th March, be transported back to the troubled times of the 17th c

PRESS RELEASE From Historic Scotland
DATE: 05/03/10

SOLDIERS AND SIEGE AT DUMBARTON CASTLE

Visitors to the formidable garrison fortress of Dumbarton Castle will, on Saturday 20th March, be transported back to the troubled times of the 17th century for ‘The Siege – 1640’.

This informative, entertaining event will focus on the story of Dumbarton Castle during the Scottish wars of independence, when Covenanters and Royalist troops clashed to gain control of the castles and forts throughout the country which were the backbone of its strategic defences.

A series of enlightening presentations involving costumed performers from re-enactment group ‘Fraser’s Dragoones’ will highlight how effectively historical re-enactments can bring these dark days to dramatic life. Visitors will learn about the goals of the two opposing forces and why they were so passionate about their cause. And weaponry displays will demonstrate the combat challenges of fighting with the musket and infantryman’s pike, and the skills required to handle them.

Historic Scotland events manager Nick Finnigan said: “Dumbarton Castle’s impressive strategic location on a volcanic rock overlooking the Firth of Clyde, made it a key gateway, and it played a significant role – as a Dark Age fortress, medieval castle, and garrison fort in the 17th and 18th centuries - in the shaping of Scotland’s history. Through the centuries its control was fought over repeatedly and it figured prominently in the Scottish struggle for independence.

“The various activities of ‘The Siege – 1640’ offer a great opportunity for all the family to learn more about the past of this fascinating castle, to appreciate its importance during the wars of the mid-17th century, and how it was battled over. Our presentations and displays will shed light on why Covenanters and Royalist troops were so opposed, and why it was so crucial to them to win control over properties like this - to the extent that they were prepared to sacrifice their lives in the process.”

‘The Siege – 1640’ at Dumbarton Castle takes place from 12.00 noon to 4pm on the 20th and entry is included in the admission price ( Adult £4.20, Child £2.10, Concession £3.20 and free for Members of Historic Scotland).

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