Traitors star encourages Scots across Lothian to reconnect with nature and discover local historic sites
BBC star teams up with Historic Scotland
Traitors star Matty Hyndman is encouraging people across Lothian to take time out and discover the well-being benefits of the region’s most historic places.
In the latest survey, 59 per cent of visitors to Historic Environment Scotland sites in 2025/26 reported an improvement in their well-being after spending time at a site.
To help more people experience these well-being benefits, Matty and his dog River are highlighting the unique opportunities to explore history and nature at sites across the country, including Linlithgow Palace in West Lothian.
Best known for being the Faithful who asked to be recruited in on Series 4 of BBC’s The Traitors, which aired earlier this year, Matty inspires people to get outdoors through his social media channels and his ‘Wee Gay Hike Club’, which brings together LGBTQ+ people, friends and allies to explore Scotland on foot.
He said: “No matter the weather, getting outdoors can give a huge boost to your mental health and well-being. It is so important to broaden your horizons, get out of your usual routine and really make the most of your spare time.
“Spending some time in nature is a brilliant way to clear your head and reconnect with yourself. One of the great things about Lothian is that you can discover these incredible historic places with fascinating stories.
“That’s why I’m really excited to be working with Historic Environment Scotland to highlight the huge range of places to explore.
“We can all be guilty of overlooking some of these amazing places that are right on our doorstep. You don’t always need to travel far, it’s just about getting outdoors, exploring somewhere new and soaking up the history and nature benefits.”
From East Lothian to West Lothian, Historic Scotland has curated a list of the top five places across Lothian where visitors can connect with nature, experience well-being benefits and take in their rich history.
The five sites to explore are: Craigmillar Castle - Venture out to Edinburgh’s ‘other castle’, a peaceful rural retreat just beyond the city walls, where centuries of additions created a maze of rooms, towers and hidden corners. Explore the castle’s connection to Mary, Queen of Scots then wander through the parkland and its veteran trees for a taste of the countryside within the capital.
Linlithgow Palace - Sat along Linlithgow Loch, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots is surrounded by the peaceful green expanse of Linlithgow Peel. Explore the palace ruins, then follow the path around the loch to enjoy fresh air and views across the surrounding landscape. The loch is home to an abundance of wildfowl and wildlife and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, making it a wonderful place to slow down, reconnect with nature and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Corstorphine Dovecot - A rare 16th-century dovecot in the grounds of Corstorphine Hill. Discover this well-preserved historic building and learn about its original purpose nesting pigeons. The dovecot forms part of the Corstorphine Heritage Trail, making it a fascinating stop as you explore local landmarks in the leafy Corstorphine village.
Seton Collegiate Church - Soak up the mindful atmosphere at Seton Collegiate Church, one of the finest medieval churches to survive in Scotland. Home to a college of priests from 1470, it survived the reformation, Jacobite uprising and attacks from local militias. Today its tranquil grounds offer the perfect peaceful East Lothian setting to relax and reflect.
Holyrood Park – This former royal playground is an iconic city park in the heart of Scotland’s capital and home to thousands of years of geological history. Explore tranquil lochs and watch for birds and other wildlife across miles of scenic walking routes, or get up-close to the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel. Visitors can also climb 251 metres to the summit of Edinburgh’s extinct volcano, Arthur’s Seat, for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and beyond.
Roger Curtis, interim director of operations at Historic Environment Scotland, said: "Scotland's historic places have so much to offer. They tell the stories of the people and events that shaped our country, but they can also provide an opportunity to step away from our busy everyday lives and spend time outdoors.
"Whether it's exploring a castle, wandering through a garden or simply taking in the view, we hope this campaign encourages people to discover the many different ways they can enjoy Lothian’s historic places."
For those inspired to explore more of Lothian and beyond, Historic Environment Scotlands membership offers the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of historic attractions throughout the year.