Why your support matters
The historic environment is Scotland’s story. It belongs to us all and it never stops. It’s part of our everyday lives, it shapes our identity, it tells us about the past, the present – and even points the way to the future.
What we care for
Over 330 sites of national historic importance across Scotland including castles, ancient settlements, underground archaeology and historic land.
More than 5.5 million archive assets, documenting the evolution and growing understanding of our heritage and people.
Over 45,000 items in our collections, from the Honours of Scotland to ancient carved stones.
Who we reach
Over 4.6 million visitors to our historic sites each year.
More than 60,000 school children and community learners taking part in our learning programmes.
Around 176,000 members worldwide.
Over 2 million members of the public and researchers using our online resources to access knowledge.
What we do
With your support we can do more to look after and share Scotland’s heritage now, and in the years to come. Your support will help us to:
Conserve more of our valuable historic places, collections and archives
Train even more craftspeople to keep traditional skills alive
Research approaches and techniques to address the challenges facing Scotland’s heritage
Inspire learners of all ages
Support us
How we use your donations
Your donations have helped us to bring Scotland’s history to life.
The incredible tapestries at Stirling Castle were made possible through generous donations. The Quinque Foundation of the United States played a particularly important role in funding these glorious tapestries, as did the dozens of individuals and Trusts who chose to support us.
The organisation is working to shape futures, and our historic places.
Investing in the future
Donations also help us to invest in new technologies for investigating Scotland’s past. For example, this geophysical surveying equipment was purchased with funds gifted by the Historic Scotland Foundation. Today, the equipment helps us to investigate Scotland’s ‘hidden history’, and offer specialist training and engagement events to share this expertise with others.
Preserving traditional skills
Donations from individuals, organisations and grantmakers, like the William Grant Foundation and CMS Charitable Trust, enable us to train more people in traditional skills that Scotland needs to keep our heritage alive. Whether it is blacksmithing, sign-making, traditional building, slate-roofing, stone mason and stone carving or stained glass, each traditional skill needs support, so it is not forgotten.
For one of our donors, Charles M. Scott, this is a key reason for their support: “Historic Scotland’s projects help young people in developing traditional skills, gain self-esteem and show them that there is a career in caring for our heritage. That’s why I support Historic Scotland. The organisation is working to shape futures, and our historic places.”
Get in touch
If you would like to discuss how your donation could support our work, please email us at fundraising@hes.scot
Ways to support us
Make a donation
Make a donation to HES, and help make sure Scotland’s heritage continues to be cherished, understood, shared and enjoyed.
Leaving a gift in your will
Leaving a gift in your will is a highly meaningful way to give. It helps us protect Scotland's history for future generations to enjoy.
Membership
Find out about the brilliant benefits of Historic Scotland membership. Sign up today and start planning your next visit.
