Best Practice Case Studies

Crathes Castle, Grampian
- But what can visitors do?

Year round opening is here to stay at Crathes Castle in Grampian, having started as a trial only two years ago. The first year was assisted financially by Scottish Enterprise Grampian.  From November to March, the National Trust for Scotland-owned castle is now open from Thursday to Sunday, and the castle grounds, the shop and restaurant are all open daily.

Whilst the castle entry fees are just enough to cover costs, the secondary spend in the shop and restaurant makes the whole operation profitable. As a result, there are now five full-time equivalent posts through the winter that did not previously exist. And of course it means that winter visitors to the area have a special attraction to visit. A lot of effort was put into press coverage the first year of winter opening, and word has got about. Visitor numbers have been maintained through the second season, with a mix of those on holiday in the area, day trippers and locals visiting.

The National Trust for Scotland is working hard to reposition this property as a year round destination, putting in a new restaurant and reviewing the catering provision. To broaden the appeal they are also busy constructing an aerial trekking course- Skytrek - an assault course high in the trees that will be open all year.

Further Information: www.nts.org.uk, www.ntsholidays.com

This case study features in the publication 'Wake up to Winter'.  You can download the full publication at the bottom of this page.

Case study added March 2006

Back to 'Best Practice' menu page