An imposing former laird's house, with castellated farm- buildings and 19C. extension to rear, the red roof-tiles were ballast from visiting Spanish fish merchants. Interesting interiors and detailing.

]]> This A listed, classical laird’s house was built in 1754 for Sir Andrew Mitchell of Westshore, the stone work, including that of the garden walls encompasses free stones torn from Scalloway Castle. Original wooden panelling still survives within the house.

]]> Home of the Bruces of Sumburgh, Sand Lodge is an impressive laird’s house that dates from the 18th and 19th centuries. An unusual, category B-listed, building with many interesting features including red brick eaves, a restored doocot and some stone slate roofs.
Booking essential.

]]> Shetland's only wool spinning mill, established in 1980 and producing pure Shetland yarns, knitwear and woven material.

]]> On the most northerly hill-top in the UK, site one of our most strategic MoD tracking stations, a vital cog in North Atlantic defence. The radar station on the hilltop will be open for two tours, rebuilt in 1991, the 1940 original was destroyed by 197mph winds. Pre-booking essential.

]]> A rotunda design, with glass canopy over the landward side which shelters a ceramic mosaic, itself the result of a design competition. The station houses the controls, pumps, valves and switchgear ~ the 'tip of the iceberg' relative to the whole system. Informative guidance will be at hand.

]]> In October 2010, Total awarded Petrofac a lump-sum engineering, procurement, supply, construction and commissioning contract to develop the new Shetland Gas Plant (SGP) which, when completed, will facilitate the transportation of gas from the Laggan and Tormore fields back to Total’s gas terminal at St Fergus, near Peterhead, Aberdeenshire. Petrofac is executing the works and overseeing the development of the SGP through to its handover to Total in 2014.


The mobilisation phase of the Shetland Gas Plant project began with the manufacture and construction of the modularised accommodation block – the Sella Ness Accommodation Facility. Sella Ness opened in July 2011 and can now accommodate up to 850 people working on the project. The accommodation facility includes a shop, library, laundry, internet cafe, restaurant, gymnasium and bar, as well as a medical facility and five-a-side, all weather football pitch.

]]> Ever wondered what goes on inside the Sheriff Court? This doors open day come along, see inside the building, meet the players and see the court in action. After witnessing a mock trial you will get a tour around the B listed building and learn even more about the judicial system.

]]> Shetland’s very own artisanal cheese producers will offer visitors a chance to tour their factory this Doors Open Days.


BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Credit photo to shetlandcheese.co.uk

]]> Situated overlooking the West Voe beach in Sumburgh, the Shetland Christian Youth Camp (SCYC) holds its annual children’s’ camp in the summer holidays. SCYC is organised by Christians from Gospel halls across Shetland. The aim of the camp is to teach children the message of the bible and provide them with an enjoyable holiday. Visit the camp this Doors Open Days for an opportunity to tour the building and meet the organisers.

]]> Shutters Open 2009 is a chance for you to send us photographs of your experience of Doors Open Days 2009.

Perhaps you've captured a building from an unusual perspective, or maybe an exquisite architectural detail has caught your eye. We want to know how you have experienced Doors Open Days.

PLEASE ASK PERMISSION BEFORE TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS as photography is not permitted inside some buildings.

]]> Visit Kenny Johnson's workshop at its new address of 7 Clairmont Place to learn about his company Skyinbow and their range of electric fiddles.

This includes the award winning S1 electric violin and the Skyinbow pro that is used by some of the world's top violinists.

]]> This B listed church was completed by Alexander Ellis of Aberdeen in 1864. The building has recently undergone much restoration work including the preservation of the historic stain glass windows created by the renowned, great Gothic Revival architect Sit Ninian Comper.

The original bell from 1863 is now on display within the church.

]]> Designed by Robert Stevenson, this was Shetland’s first lighthouse, built in 1821, perched atop the cliffs of Shetland’s most southerly point. Neo-classical light tower and flanking pavilions, engine house, keeper’s accommodation and foghorn. Plans to conserve the buildings and create a major visitor and educational facility will start next year.

]]> Late 18th Century house with earlier adjoining böd, a scene of trade between Shetlanders and the Hanseatic fleet as long ago as 1684. More recently the building achieved fame as Shetland’s oldest pub. Now home to the Hillswick Wildlife Sanctuary for sick, injured and abandoned seals and otters.

]]> Award winning restoration of listed 18th century former town jail, customs house and post office. Now with the original clock tower and stone steps reinstated.

This striking pink harled building now houses one of Britain’s busiest lifeboat stations.

]]> A fine 17C haa (country house) located on its own island, built by James Mitchell of Girlsta, replacing Robert Cheyne's earlier fortified house. In late 19C, new owner Herbert Anderton (a Yorkshire woollen mill-owner) added a parallel wing with massive round tower (castellated and corbelled) with linking baronial hall, which includes a minstrel gallery, massive fireplace and full height stained glass windows. Exquisite original interiors and careful refurbishments. Contemporary shorebase on mainland.

 

]]> Opened in December 1999 this is Britain’s most Northerly brewery situated on Britain’s most Northerly isle. It is named, most suitably, after the home of the Norse gods where warriors were revived after drinking ale. There is a total of 6 different ales, from the first stage (mashing) to the last (packaging) you can learn how these different ales are produced.

]]> Shetland's state of the art waste recycling plant, which converts domestic and commercial waste into energy, via contained incineration, into energy, which powers Lerwick's district heating programme.

]]> Listed formal farm steading, comprising two interlocking U-plan single storey ranges enclosing a central courtyard. Contemporary with the adjacent Symbister House (now School). The North Range has been restored by Shetland Amenity Trust for the Whalsay History Group.

]]> The Chain Home Radar Stations were part of Britain's Air Defence System during the Second World War. Acting as an early warning system, there were 170 stations covering the whole of the UK. Skaw is of the original Chain Home design (other station-types were the Chain Home Low and Chain Home Extra Low). Most effective at tracking aircraft at 15-20,000 ft, it could detect aircraft at 100 miles or more given suitable atmospheric conditions. Extensive site with many structures surviving.

]]> A  “zero carbon” home, built on Britain’s most northerly island.  Designed by Michael and Dorothy Rea, the house has become a test-bed for living “off-grid”. 

The couple generate their power from renewable sources, run an electric car, and intend to grow most of their food at home in hi-tech greenhouses using a hydroponic growing system.

]]> With Norway under German-occupation during the Second World War, Shetland became the base for an operation using Norwegian fishing boats and crew to shuttle across the North Sea-supplying the Norwegian underground and returning with refugees. Established initially at Lunna, the 'Shetland Bus' operation moved to Scalloway in 1942.

]]> The ‘Old Haa of Brough’, was built by Robert Tyrie, a local merchant. He completed the 3 storey building in 1672, and it went on to become the home of various merchants and Hanseatic Traders.

The building is unique and was listed on 13 August 1971 as a building of local significance in Shetland, with its defining arches proudly curving towards the main road in front of the museum. It also has a beautiful walled garden with inuksuit statues constructed from Yell stone.

The Old Haa Trust, formed in 1984, acquired the building from the Shetland Amenity Trust, with the proviso that they would “look after the building on behalf of the people of Yell.” With this in mind, extensive repairs took place and the Old Haa was opened as a museum. The Trust later purchased the Smiddy next door, which was incorporated into the museum, and which now houses the Gift Shop and Gallery. The Old Haa is a partner of Shetland Geopark.

During the festival, the museum has several exhibitions on. Learn about the history of Yell, including 'New Connections across the Northern Isles' with artwork by John Cumming. Explore a natural history exhibition, including 'Oot and Aboot' photos by Ryan Nisbet. Dive deeper into the history of fishing and factories in the area. See a beautiful display of wool as part of the museum's Wool Week exhibition.

Photo credits: Robert Odie, Old Haa Trustee

]]> This building in Haroldswick Unst provided education in the area from 1880s to 1997. In the early days classes were conducted in three class rooms. The rooms had connecting doors and high windows.The adjoining house and garden once the home of the headteacher is now private. About 1988 the basic toilets were demolished to make room for a single story extension. The pupils and staff benefited from new toilets, a staff room and a spacious classroom. Pupil numbers decreased and in 1997 all pupils were enrolled at Baltasound school.

In the 1980s, a few enthusiasts realised that the way of life linked to the old methods of crofting and fishing was changing quickly and they established a small Heritage Centre. After some years, their collection was relocated to the now redundant Haroldswick school. Today the Heritage Centre is an accredited museum and a 3 Star Visitor Attraction.

]]> Situated in Haroldswick and managed by the Unst Heritage Trust, the Boat Haven is a welcome stop for visitors. Built in 1994 the metal sheeted building is central to the Haroldswick area and near the sea. The Boat Haven's collection is comprised of anything linked to the sea.

Step inside the building and you can view a unique collection of wooden boats displayed on a shingle beach. This display shows the open boat development in Shetland and the North Atlantic area. One of the interesting artefacts is a barometer which used to hang outside the Haroldswick Shop. This was one of the few ways to check the weather before the boats put out to sea.

There is a historical mural at the far end of the Boat Haven depicting the old sixareen days. Sixareens is a traditional fishing boat used around the Shetland islands. Step outside and there is also a sixareen in the boat shelter to view! This boat gives the visitor a real sense of how vulnerable the fishermen were when at sea.

Visitors always receive a warm welcome from the knowledgeable custodian.

]]> Join the Shetland ForWirds for an afternoon workshop at the Unst Heritage Centre! The Shetland ForWirds are an organisation that promote and celebrate the unique Shetland dialect.

]]> The Waterside Bakery is the oldest bakery in Scotland.

It began trading in 1820 and is still owned and run by the Taylor family. Five generations on, Alexander Taylor, The Waterside Bakery still produces a fantastic range of Scottish and continental breads and baked goods. The bakery is unique and unrivaled, and is worth a visit.

]]> Bent Cemetery is the last resting place of Lord Hamilton (d 1479); the 1st Marquess of Hamilton and the 8th, 9th and 10th Dukes of Hamilton and their families.

]]> Bothwell Parish Church is the oldest Collegiate Church in Scotland in which worship is still held and is known as the "Cathedral of Lanarkshire". It is one of the most historic, architecturally beautiful and worshipful "A"-listed church buildings in Scotland.

We are a mainstream congregation of the national Church of Scotland comprised of men, women and young people of all ages and circumstance. As a congregation, we are very much aware of the privilege and responsibility which is ours inheriting such a place and, so, we are proud that our church is a church for everyone, whether they come to worship, learn or, simple, admire.

Apart from its obvious use as a centre of Christian worship, the building is much used for secular purposes. Concerts, recitals and exhibitions are regular features held by groups within the local community and beyond. The church has a strong relationship with South Lanarkshire Education Department and offers schools, both denominational and non-denominational, various tours/talks to meet their curriculum programmes. During summer, the church is open to the public. Tour guides are available each weekday and welcome visitors from throughout the world.

Image (c) http://bothwellparishchurch.org.uk

]]> Overlooking the Peeblesshire hills close to Biggar, Brownsbank Cottage was the home of writer Hugh MacDiarmid. 
The original interior was restored just as MacDiarmid had left it and contains numerous portraits and photographs of MacDiarmid and a unique collection of memorabilia. 
Past writers-in-residence have included award winning writer and publisher Matthew Fitt and the first Scottish Parliament Writer in Residence James Robertson, author of Booker prize nominated "The Testament of Gideon Mack".
]]> A rare chance to visit an operational fire station.

]]> Built in the 1730s by William Adam as a decorative feature in the grand design of the Hamilton Estates landscape, Chatelherault comprises four main pavilion buildings with linking walls. The western pavilion features fine Georgian plasterwork and woodcarvings. These rooms were used by the Duke and Duchess for entertaining hunting parties.

]]> The estate was established in the 14th century and remains in private ownership. Corehouse was built in 1824-27 by Edward Blore of London, who also worked on Buckingham Palace. It is considered the pioneer house in Scotland of Tudor Revival domestic architecture.

Corehouse has a picturesque profile with many shafted chimney stacks and carefully contrived massing so as to appear to have evolved in an unplanned manner. The interior is well conserved and is focused on a lantern stair tower.

Close to the house is Corra Castle built in the 15th century.

]]> This Parish Church dates from 1817 and is situated on a raised circular mound, indicating that this was once a religious site dating back to the 12th century. The village of Crawfordjohn was established in the 12th century by John, stepson of Baldwin, a Flemish Lord from Biggar.

]]> The Museum building, originally the Dower House of Douglas Castle, is situated adjacent to the ancient St Brides Church.  It houses six stained glass windows depicting coats of arms of the Douglas Earls. 

]]> Operational Community Fire Station.

]]> The present B listed building built by James Pollock as completed in 1775, the Scotch Belfry Tower by Robert Pollock was added in 1818. Behind the Church is the Kirk yard where notable gravestones include the parents of the famous surgeons William and John Hunter and Rev. James French, minister of the Old Parish Church (1791-1835), who was tutor to the young Walter Scott. The 18th century mausoleum of the Stuarts of Torrance family has recently been restored.

]]> The majestic Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve sits at the gateway to the Clyde Valley Woodlands.  It boasts an inspirational landscape of three dramatic waterfalls, beautiful ancient woodlands and abundant wildlife, all within easy walking distance.

]]> At Gladstone Court Museum you can stroll through streets from the past and visit small shops and business premises including a chemist, cobbler, grocer, ironmonger, bank, schoolroom and printer's. ]]> Part of the Energy Saving Trust Green Homes Network. Please contact Jacqueline Mackenzie to book a time slot - 0141 3033131, email Jacqueline_mackenzie@thewisegroup.co.uk

]]> Biggar Museum Trust rescued this 17th century farmhouse from its original site at Wiston.  They rebuilt and refurbished it in the Burn Braes in 1975. 

]]> A rare chance to visit an operational fire station.

]]> Celebrating 100 years of learning in the building on Auchincampbell Road.

 Visit www.hamilton.s-lanark.sch.uk for more information.

]]> Hamilton Mausoleum was one of the finest private tombs in the country and is now one of the town's most famous buildings. It was built as a tomb and monument to Alexander, 10th Duke of Hamilton, nicknamed "El Magnifico" but was incomplete at the time of his death in 1852. The chapel has a massive dome (over 36 meters high), magnificent bronze doors and a stunning floor made up of different marbles from around the world. One of the first things you will probably notice however is its amazing 15 second echo is one of the longest in the world! Two huge lion sculptures overlook the entrance to the crypt below where you can still see the niched for the bodies of the members of the Hamilton family. Parking available at Low Parks Museum. Additional information: visitors are advised to wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear and to familiarise themselves with the health and safety guidelines provided at the site.

]]> The current congregation, formed in 1966, is made up of two congregations, both formerly members of the Congregational Union of Scotland. The present building opened in 1872, being the new building for Park Road E.U. Church founded in 1845, a congregation formed mainly by a section breaking away from St. James' Congregational Church, which included the parents of David Livingstone. This latter church formed in 1807, eventually settled in Auchingramont Road in a building opened in 1873. The Livingstone family were added to the Church Roll in 1835, and it was this Church David Livingstone attended prior to missionary Service with the London Missionary Society. The current Church retains some Livingstone memorabilia.

]]> Disused derelict water mill site owned by Mr Jim Orr, Charleston Parks Farm, Lanark. Clydesdale Mills Society formed to explore the history of the site by the study of archive records and excavation.

OS maps indicate the site was disused in 1986 but prior to that there was substantial industrial activity using water wheels to power grain mills, lint milling and grinding of bones to produce fertilister. There was also sidelines - arving bone and antler to make knife handles, crushing of flax (lint) seed to produce linseed oil along with a blacksmith's shop.

]]> A rare chance to visit an operational fire station. Lanark Fire Station is the Area Headquarters for South Lanarkshire.

Please note that this is an operational Fire Station therefore engines may be unavailable.

]]> Lanark Museum houses a collection of items which illustrate the ancient and varied history of the town.

Includes and exhibition based on a "Timeline of Lanark" and includes collection items from the Stone Age, Roman Times and Medieval Artefacts as well as more modern items relating to the 1910 Airshow and 1913 Ford Motor Show.

]]> Run entirely by volunteers in the historic village of Leadhills, the railway incorporates period diesel locomotives and 0.75 mile of narrow gauge track. Also a signalbox formed from material recovered from the branch line viaduct.

Leadhills has the memorial to William Symington (early pioneer of steam navigation), a curfew bell which regulated the miners' lives, and a Miners Library with a collection of books going back to the 1741 formation of the Library. Leadhills was the birthplace of the poet Allan Ramsay.

]]> Founded in 1741 Leadhills Miners Library is the world's oldest working-class subscription library. Containing 3,000 of some of the rarest books in Scotland, the library is recognised as being of national importance.

As well as its book collection, the library holds the records of the Scots Mining Co from the 1730s to the 1850s in 42 volumes. The library also contains an impressive collection of letters, documents and photographs that combine to tell the history of Leadhills and its people.

]]> The museum incorporates structures from the 17th to the 21st centuries and two grade A listed buildings.  This is the oldest surviving building within Hamilton Burgh's former boundaries. 

]]> The architect, Alex Cullen, was commissioned in 1903 to construct new premises in Cadzow Street, Hamilton for Lodge Hamilton Kilwinning No. 7. The new premises were required due to their existing temple being required to be demolished to allow tramcars to get from Cadzow Street to the tramway traction house in Bourned Street; this demolition at the "Bottom Cross" in Hamilton opened a way through to form Keith Street.

The Masonic Buildings were opened in 1904 and have been classified as a Category B listed building. It is constructed in the Scots Renaissance style with stugged coursers and polished ashlar dressings which create many distinctive features on the exterior of the building.

The interior of the building has changed very little since constructed in 1904 except for the addition of two War Memorial plaques. The original furniture and fittings are still used in the lodge premises and many internal features of Masonic symbolism are in evidence. There are particularly good stained glass features within the building.

The buildings are believed to be one of only two examples of the public commissions of Alex Cullen who later founded the practice of Cullen, Lochhead and Brown, an architectural practice which still practises within Hamilton to the present.

Lodge Hamilton Kilwinning No.7 is the oldest masonic lodge in Lanarkshire and has existed in the town of Hamilton since the late 17th century. The lodge has minutes dating back to 1695 and financial records and artefacts dating back into 1680s.

]]> Here in the Moat Park Heritage Centre you will find models of Clydesdale's past from geological times to the present. Among other colourful characters from history you will encounter an Iron Age family and one of the invading Roman soldiers in Scotland from around 1,900 years ago.

]]> Rutherglen Boundary Stones were erected to mark the boundary of the ancient Royal Burgh of Rutherglen from the 16th century until the 1950s. Until 1974 the stones were inspected every three years by the Town Council in the ceremony of the Redding of the Marches.

]]> Learn more about this beautiful Carnegie Library Building, built in 1907. Rutherglen library is a fine example of a Scottish Carnegie Library which retains its original Edwardian features such as a stunning stained glass dome, oak panelling, art nouveau cornincing, ornate fireplaces and the original Librarian's office.

]]> Rutherglen Old Parish Church had been a site of Christian worship for almost 1400 years. The present church designed by JJ Burnet between 1900 – 1902, being the fourth built here.

]]> This Category A listed, Scots Baronial town hall and tower was designed by Charles Wilson in 1861-2. The east wing was added in 1876 by Robert Dalgleish and John Thomson. The building was converted to offices in 1967 before being closed to the public in the 1980's.

In 1996, South Lanarkshire Council embarked on an ambitious project to bring about the restoration and development of this important landmark building. In March 2005, the building was finally re-opened at a cost of £12.5m, which is South Lanarkshire Council's largest single capital project to date. The beautifully restored building is now the centrepiece of the Rutherglen Town Centre regeneration project and is well worth a visit.

The building accommodates: The Grand Hall, with its magnificent restored barrel vaulted ceiling, will be a superb flexible venue for functions, dances, dinners, performances etc. Modern stage lighting and audio/visual facilities have been incorporated as have full catering facilities.

A drop-in cafe for the public has been created in the modern atrium extension to the rear of the Town Hall.

An Exhibition Hall is also available which offers another area for small functions, events and performances and also hosts exhibitions.

Fully integrated wedding facilities are available, which can accommodate small to large weddings, and provide full function facilities too. A Registration, District Court and Licensing Office have also been built into the ground floor.

Arts and Crafts rooms have been created on the upper floors of the east wing. These include a dark room, pottery room, exhibition room and facilities for painting.

]]> In 1734 the Scots Mining Company built a house at Leadhills for their agent and manager, James Stirling. The House was designed by William Adam, one of a family of architects, and whose great achievement is Hopetoun House.

The house at Leadhills is probably the only surviving small house that William Adam built. The wooded areas have never been altered or "improved".

]]> The Southern Upland Way, from Portpatrick to Cocksburnpath, reaches its highest point, Lowther Hill, 2379ft, near Leadhills. Lowther Hill was once used as a place of burial of suicide victims who, because of their sin of having taken their own lives, could not be buried in the hallowed ground of a churchyard.

Many short routes link to the SUW are available, further information can be found on the website – www.southernuplandway.com  

]]> Built in 1799 this building replaced the church in Carluke Churchyard. Construction was completed in 1800. It was designed by Henry Bell, who built the "Comet", Europe's first passenger-carrying steam ship, and built at a cost of £950. The building incorporates two features from the old church it replaced, an arch inside the porch and a window with slender fluted pillars in the front of tower.

The porch to the front, a hall to the rear and the apse accommodating the organ and choir were added around 1890, as was a heating system. The pink sandstone arch was built at that time and it is likely that the free-standing (and movable) pulpit was also installed then. A further hall was added in 1931 and in 1999/2000 the halls were remodelled and refurbished and a new kitchen added.

Within the church are an organ by H Willis and Sons installed in 1903, stained glass windows including one made by Gordon McWhirter Webster in 1932 (Webster?s designs for all eight ground floor windows are on display) and a pulpit fall and companion communion table runner by Marilyn E W McGregor DA (1999). Outside there is a Memorial garden, the Garden of Hope.

]]> St Mary's Episcopal Church is in communion with the Church of England. The congregation was founded in 1847 and the building was completed in 1848. It has links with the Cameronian Regiment and some of their colours are on display in the church.

The church is also linked to the Dukes of Hamilton who were instrumental in its foundation.

Recent changes funded by the congregation and by various Charities have resulted in the development of the St Mary?s for All Centre to enable the facilities to be used for social and community purposes.

]]> St Nicholas Church dominates the foot of Lanark High Street. It was built in 1774 on the site of the 12th century chapel. Above the main entrance is a statue of William Wallace by Robert Forrest, 1820.

The tower and its bell formerly belonged to the Royal Burgh of Lanark and are now the property of South Lanarkshire Council. The interior of the church boasts many fine stained glass windows dating from the 19th Century and the roof is supported by an unbroken span of timber beams. External restoration from 2008 - 2010.

]]> Strathaven is the third oldest operational airfield on the west of Scotland mainland - the other two being Prestwick and Glasgow Airports.

An additional attraction this year is the construction of the Richard Murphy designed house.

It was founded by The Scottish Flying Club in the early 1950s after a decade of searching for a site to replace their former base at Glasgow's Abbotsinsch Airport.

Gp Cpt George Pinkerton, chairman of the Scottish Flying Club when it bought Couplaw farm in the 1950s, was the pilot who shot down the first German aircraft over British soil in WW2.

He was still chairman in the 1970s when the airfield was given to the RAF Benevolent Fund so it "would continue to be used for flying". This is probably why many people think it is an ex-wartime airfield.

Flying clubs based at Strathaven over the years include the West of Scotland Flying Club, Glasgow and Strathclyde University Gliding Club, the Rutherglen Flying Group and the Strathclyde Gliding Club.

The airfield was sold by the RAF Benevolent Fund in 2005 to microlight aircraft instructor Colin MacKinnon, whose Microlight Scotland flying school had been based at Cumbernauld Airport.

The airfield is now back in the hands of the revived Scottish Flying Club and is being completely refurbished. And we are determined to keep that traditional grass runway flying club atmosphere.

]]> Strathaven is the third oldest operational airfield on the west of Scotland mainland - the other two being Prestwick and Glasgow Airports.

An additional attraction this year is the construction of the Richard Murphy designed house.

It was founded by The Scottish Flying Club in the early 1950s after a decade of searching for a site to replace their former base at Glasgow's Abbotsinsch Airport.

Gp Cpt George Pinkerton, chairman of the Scottish Flying Club when it bought Couplaw farm in the 1950s, was the pilot who shot down the first German aircraft over British soil in WW2.

He was still chairman in the 1970s when the airfield was given to the RAF Benevolent Fund so it "would continue to be used for flying". This is probably why many people think it is an ex-wartime airfield.

Flying clubs based at Strathaven over the years include the West of Scotland Flying Club, Glasgow and Strathclyde University Gliding Club, the Rutherglen Flying Group and the Strathclyde Gliding Club.

The airfield was sold by the RAF Benevolent Fund in 2005 to microlight aircraft instructor Colin MacKinnon, whose Microlight Scotland flying school had been based at Cumbernauld Airport.

The airfield is now back in the hands of the revived Scottish Flying Club and is being completely refurbished. And we are determined to keep that traditional grass runway flying club atmosphere.

]]> Built in 1650 by William, the Second Duke of Hamilton, then resident in Strathaven Castle, the Town Mill was to play an integral part in the working life of Strathaven for three and a quarter centuries.

After 1714 Strathaven Castle ceased to be occupied and soon fell into disrepair. The Mill, however, was kept in operation until the original building was destroyed by fire in 1820. Rebuilt with a slate roof, the Mill was given an added storey in 1877 to make room for a larger water wheel.

In 1902 an iron gangway was built to connect the main building to the grain store. Water-wheel drive was replaced by a hydro-electric installation in 1935. Production ceased in 1966.

The Town Mill is now owned and administered by Strathaven Arts Guild.

]]> The Tower of Hallbar was built in response to a 1535 Act of Parliament directing those with land to the value of 100 pounds in theare to construct a tower, thirty foot square, to protect his household from English border raiders.

]]> A gem in the crown of Scotland's industrial past. Hard hats on, you can enter a real lead mine, see the cottages of the mining families who lived and worked here between 1740 and 1890, and pan for some of the purest gold in the world! Visit one of Scotland's oldest subscription libraries: the miners' desire for education prompted them to form a 'reading society' and buy books as early as 1756. 3000 rare books - and a multimedia presentation - put flesh on the bones of the past.

Visitor Centre, tearoom and museum shop.

STB access category 2: assisted wheelchair.

]]> The building was opened on 25th May 1968.

]]> 18C miners' cottage, open in conjunction with the Scots Mining Company House.?

]]> The Old East Parish Church on Farmeloan Road first opened its doors in 1904. Like most churches during this time period its uses were not restricted to religious activities. Indeed, throughout its history the church hall played host to a literary society, Women?s Meetings and even hosting a TV showing of the Queen?s Coronation to a packed out hall.

It was in 1983 that the Rutherglen and Cambuslang Housing Association took ownership of the building and converted the hall into offices while the construction of the Aspire Business Centre was completed.

In 2014 First Minister Alex Salmond announced new capital funding investment as part of the Commonwealth Games Legacy. With the help of Clyde Gateway, Healthy n Happy were able to purchase the building and work towards creating an exciting new community venue.

It was the following year that Healthy n Happy were able to move into the premises. Following a complete refurbishment, a new community hub, Number 18 was ready to open its doors to the public.

Our two ground floor meeting rooms are perfect for large gatherings or private one to ones. Fitted with Smart board technology the larger room is also great for courses and classes. Upstairs our events and venue space can be used for a range of purposes, including live music, arts n crafts and movie nights. The third floor is home to Cambuslang and Rutherglen?s community radio station, CamGlen Radio 107.9FM. Up there you can normally find its friendly volunteer?s interviewing an up and coming band, preparing shows or creating a new jingle.

]]> The present church of Pettinain is the successor of earlier places of Christian worship upon or very close to this site. Little is known of the church?s origins, but it was a chaplainry attached to St Kentigern Church, Lanark, in 1150, when both churches were granted by David I to the abbot and canons of Dryburgh Abbey.

In the mid-fifteenth century Pettinain appears to have been separated from its mother church, but it remained one of the possessions of the Dryburgh monks until after the Reformation in 1560.

The lordship of the parish was granted to the Earl of Mar in 1604, and from the 1630s until 1874 patronage was exercised by the Carmichaels of Westraw, later the earls of Hyndford.

The parish enjoyed its own minister until 1952, when it was linked with nearby Carmichael.

In 1972 the parish was linked with Covington and Thankerton, and in 1995 all were united in the new parish of Cairngryffe. Pettinain Church was taken into the care of the Scottish Redundant Churches Trust (SRCT) in May 2000.

The elevated position of the church, its east-west alignment in common with mediaeval churches, and its setting within what may be a very old burial ground, all point to the church occupying an ancient site.

In 1588 the church is recorded as having a thatched roof and two glass windows. A floor of beaten earth was later replaced by flagstones and then by the existing wooden floor.

The present church probably dates from about the end of the seventeenth century or early eighteenth century, and has a typically simple rectangular plan.

A striking feature of the church is the extraordinary west gable, like a giant buttress with tiers of masonry tapering up to support the bellcote. The external stair leads to a door set in the gable, giving access to the gallery or ?loft? inside. The fine ?birdcage? bellcote boasts fluted pilasters, a bold entablature, ball finials at each corner, and a giant ball to cap the pyramid roof. Barely legible round the frieze is the inscription ?Holiness becomes the house of God?. The bell is by the Edinburgh founder John Meikle, dated 1622.


]]> Our resident historian Gordon Cook, along with passionate members of Blantyre Old, have gathered a wealth of material that brings the Reformation to life, as well as photographs showing how Blantyre has grown and developed.? We have collected stories of families connected the church over the generations and there will be some displays to share more recent history as well.? Not only is the building beautiful with its detailed rose window, it has a peaceful atmosphere. It also contains the font bowl from the baptism of David Livingstone.

]]> Constructed in 1876 to meet the demands of a growing mining community, Cadzow Parish Church is now recognised by Historic Scotland as a Category B listed building. It has served the residents of Hamilton as a parish Church for over 140 years and remains an active Church of Scotland Congregation.

There are a number of artistic and architectural features that make Cadzow a worthwhile visit including many stained-glass windows depicting the stories of the bible, an unusual high arched ceiling that makes the church an ideal setting for musical performance, as well as many ornately crafted wood and plaster works.

Cadzow prominently features its war memorials and includes a book of remembrance beneath a stained-glass window commissioned by the congregation after WWII.? A special attraction to the church is our Forster and Andrews organ, one of only 23 in Scotland.

]]> Cuthbertsons commenced trading in 1936 and has participated in many varied aspects of agricultural and general engineering since its formation and is well known throughout the world for expertise, innovation and quality of product. It specialises in the construction of snowploughs and spreaders.

]]> Tour of the church and grounds with a small handout describing the history of the building, and refreshments will be available. The church will remain available for prayer during the Doors Open period. Disabled access can be catered to on request

]]> Set in the Pentland Hills near Edinburgh, Little Sparta is Iain Hamilton Finlay's greatest work of art. Finlay moved to the farm of Stonypath in 1966 and, in partnership with his wife Sue Finlay, began to create what would become an internationally acclaimed garden across seven acres of a wild and exposed moorland site.

Collaborating with stone carvers, letterers and at times other artists and poets, the numerous sculptures and artworks created by Finlay, which are all integral to the garden, explore themes as diverse as the sea and its fishing fleets, our relationship to nature, classical antiquity, the French Revolution and the Second World War. Individual poetic and sculptural elements in wood, stone and metal are sited in relation to carefully structured landscaping and planting. In this way, the garden in its entirety is the artwork.

]]> 29 Spittal St., Stirling FK8 1DU

Saturday 15th September: 12.00 – 4.00

This beehive bastion on the Old Town Wall, behind Allan’s Primary School, dates from the 1500’s. It later served as a gunpowder store, was converted into a Doocot sometime in the 1700’s and, more recently, was renovated in 2003. The Old Town Wall itself is constructed directly onto the rock which, in many places throughout the Old Town, is only just below the ground surface. Three gun loops are visible from the south side of the wall. Take this rare opportunity to come along and see inside and find out a bit more about this little building.

Limited disabled access

]]> Bannockburn FK7 8EY

Bannockburn House is Category A Listed and has survived largely unchanged since the 17th century, apart from a Victorian extension. After over 50 years of dormancy the house and surrounding gardens and grounds were bought by the local community in December 2017 - with help from public donations and grants from organisations including Stirling Council and the Scottish Land Fund. A dedicated group of volunteers is now breathing new life into the house and grounds with the aim of creating a community hub providing a range of activities and resources to benefit future generations. Come and discover the house's connections to centuries of history, and its links to the worldwide tartan trade.

Booking essential. Tours are by arrangement only, to book your place please go to http://www.bannockburnhouse.scot/bannockburn-house-events/ and follow the links. Anyone not booked will not be able to visit the building.

Limited disabled access

]]>

This amazing Category B Listed baronial mansion dates from 1868-72 and was designed by J C Walker. It is situated within its own attractive parklands which now overlook the adjacent safari park. Come and meet some of the people who live and work here, ask questions and see what a special place this is.

Visitors can look around the house themselves or join one of the regular guided tours of the house and grounds - tours will last approximately 30 minutes. Children and families are most welcome and children can enjoy the new activity trail and flying fox!

Limited disabled access to main building - due to stairs.

]]>