Most of National Trust for Scotland’s buildings in Edinburgh and Lothians set to open next month

The majority of National Trust for Scotland’s buildings, estates and gardens in Edinburgh and the Lothians will be open for visitors from the end of April, in line with the easing of lockdown rules.

Many outdoor locations have been accessible for exercise throughout the winter, including the grounds at Newhailes and Inveresk Lodge Garden.

From April 30, the conservation charity will open the Georgian House in Edinburgh’s Charlotte Square from Wednesday to Sunday and the mill and shop will open at Preston Mill, East Lothian, between Thursdays and Mondays.

Newhailes House in Musselburgh will also open from April 30 with pre-booked tours, with the estate already open daily and the play park open daily from April 2.

The reopenings are subject to the government’s planned lockdown easing for Scotland.

National Trust for Scotland chief executive, Philip Long OBE, said: “Everyone at the Trust is looking forward to welcoming our visitors back to the beautiful places we protect. Across Edinburgh and the Lothians, our teams are hard at work preparing for reopening and giving everyone a warm, and of course, safe welcome.

“Our charity is very grateful to the Scottish Government, our members and donors whose support and generosity means we can re-open more properties than we’d thought would have been possible this year. So many people love these places and after such a difficult year, all of us at the Trust are pleased to be able to share this positive news, and so many of our special places once again.”

Malleny Garden in Balerno is currently open daily and the grounds of House of the Binns, West Lothian, are also open but the house there remains closed.

The Georgian House is set to reopen from April 30. Pic: National Trust for Scotland

The Trust is urging anyone planning to visit to check the latest opening information on www.nts.org.uk before travelling, as some properties have different opening patterns this summer.

The website also contains information for visitors on safety measures in place and tips for visiting responsibly.

Caring for the countryside costs the charity millions of pounds each year. Supporters are being asked to donate to help the Trust help nature, both now and in the future. Find out more HERE.

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Preston Mill will also reopen. Pic: National Trust for Scotland

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