The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) describes itself as the conservation charity that protects and promotes Scotland's natural and cultural heritage for present and future generations to enjoy. It was established in 1931 and (as of 2006) has 500 employees, over 290,000 members, and 1.7 million recorded visitors. It is similar in function to the National Trust, which covers England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and other national trusts worldwide. The Trust's Patron is Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay; the President is the Duke of Buccleuch, and the Chairman is Shonaig Macpherson. The Trust owns and manages over 127 properties and 760 square kilometres (180,000 acres) of land, including castles, ancient small dwellings, historic sites, gardens, and remote rural areas. Most grounds and open spaces are open throughout the year but buildings may generally only be visited from Easter to October, sometimes only in the afternoons. Originally, the NTS owned properties rather than "wilderness" areas. When the Trust took on the management of rural estates there was controversy concerning the siting of visitor centres, placing of signposts, etc. However, the Trust has learned to adopt a more sensitive approach, even to the extent of removing some intrusive facilities such as the original Glen Coe Visitor Centre. Annual membership of the NTS allows free entry to properties and "Discovery Tickets" are available for shorter term visitors. NTS membership also provides free entry to (English) National Trust properties and vice versa. The Trust has an independent sister organization in the United States, The National Trust for Scotland Foundation USA, headed by Curt DiCamillo. For the maintenance of its nature properties, the NTS also relies on the contributions of volunteers, with local circles of Conservation Volunteers working on projects during weekends. The NTS also organises working holidays called Thistle Camps on various properties. Activities undertaken during such camps typically include footpath maintenance and woodland work such as rhododendron control.
References
- About the National Trust for Scotland
- Bremner, Douglas. For the Benefit of the Nation. McGraw-Hill Contemporary. 2001. ISBN 978-0901625694
