Doors Open Day enters its third weekend. On 19th and 20th September it’s the turn of: Aberdeenshire; Dundee; Falkirk; Glasgow; Highlands (Caithness); Scottish Borders and West Fife to showcase stunning buildings, gardens and well-known landmarks, each with a story behind them.
It is a bumper weekend for places to see for free so we’ve made a few suggestions.
Aberdeenshire: Auchtaven Township
Auchtavan is about 6 miles north-east of Braemar. The buildings are a rare survival of a traditional Highland clachan or fermtoun (small village or hamlet). Visitors will have the chance to go back in time to explore how the communities of the past actually lived in the settlement.
Dundee: Broughty Castle Museum
Out and about in Dundee this weekend? Pop into Broughty Castle and hear about the sieges and battles over the years and the interesting military history of the castle, while enjoying the beautiful views of the river and esplanade.
Image: www.flikr.com/neilwilliamson
Falkirk Steeple
If you know Falkirk, you will recognise the Steeple as the iconic landmark of the town, now used as a box office. Stories from the past include a lightning strike which destroyed the spire. One casualty from the incident was “Irn Bru”, a Barr’s delivery horse. During this weekend there will also be the rare chance to explore the two prison cells.
Glasgow
There is a huge array of events in Glasgow this weekend – from talks to walks – so we couldn’t pick just one.
The Briggait
First up, The Briggait. Glasgow’s former fish market is now an arts venue. Visitors will have the chance to take in the building’s stunning and unique architecture, learn more about its fascinating history and take in some fantastic visual art at the same time.
Image: www.flickr.com/michaelgallacher
Wellpark Brewery
If you don’t fancy that, check out Wellpark Brewery (Tennent Caledonian), the largest brewery in Scotland. Take a tour through the brewing process and learn about one of Scotland’s best-loved brands.
Image: www.flickr.com/marcosacchi
The Pipe Factory
The former factory is used by a group of artists, writers & architects. It is Italian Renaissance inspired and features the most intricate and ornate use of brick to be found in the city. Find out about the ongoing restoration plans if you visit this weekend.
Highlands (Caithness): Waterlines Visitor Centre
For Doors Open Days, Waterlines Heritage Centre is teaming up with the “Seafood – See here!” project, which is helping people to enjoy more local seafood. The cafe will add a special seafood dish to the menu and visitors can enjoy a walk from the harbour up the old fish path past the Brethren Well, with spectacular views of the Caithness coast.
Scottish Borders: Borders Family History Society
If you are interested in building your family tree, this is the day out for you. Explore your family history in the Border Counties (Berwickshire, Peeblesshire, Roxburghshire and Selkirkshire). Help will be on hand if your roots are elsewhere too.
West Fife & Dunfermline: Scottish Vintage Bus Museum
Around 180 buses from across the globe in various states, from fully restored to wrecks awaiting lots of TLC. The huge exhibition hall displays artefacts relating mainly to the Scottish Bus Industry. You can also visit the workshop where wonders are worked.
Image: www.flickr.com/craigmurphy
This is just a taste of where you can visit this weekend. Check out the full programme of events at the Doors Open Day website.