Forty two and the meaning of historic Scotland
Edinburgh Castle
The meaning of life may be 42 and the question forgotten according to the author, Douglas Adams but Historic Scotland hasn’t forgotten what 42 means. It is the number of its attractions that will be open completely free to us next weekend.
This is part of the St Andrew’s Day celebrations and Historic Scotland has regularly contributed to the festivities by throwing open its doors on a weekend close to the day. For a list of all 42, see the Historic Scotland website.
The open day is part of the “Visit for Free” programme which celebrates three festivals during the winter months. The other two are Hogmanay and Burns Night and all the free openings have proved to be very popular with visitors. So established does the “tradition” seem that it is surprising that it dates back just five years.
On St Andrew’s Day itself, Edinburgh Castle, St Andrews Castle and the cathedral will also be open free to visitors.
Apart from the forty two, Historic Scotland has another 303 heritage properties in its care. In the future maybe a few more sites can be opened free as well. This new tradition is one that perhaps other bodies could copy on national days or even village open days. It could encourage us not only to visit but spend as well!
image courtesy of Historic Scotland
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