Conservation works happening at our sites

1 Inspections Programme

In April 2022, we launched a  nationwide programme to inspect 206 sites in our care with masonry exceeding 1.4 metres* in height. Prioritising high-risk locations, we initially focused on 70 key sites.

Over the course of the two-year inspection programme, our specialist teams surveyed these properties across Scotland, meticulously examining the stonework by hand. We identified and are undertaking any necessary repairs, and while some sites still have access restrictions in place due to ongoing conservation work, over 90% of the sites in our care are now accessible to visitors.

This project is part of a broader piece of work to assess the condition of all 206 sites by early in 2026. We are progressing as planned, determining the scope of repairs required as the inspections take place. While some local access restrictions may be necessary while inspections and repairs take place, further site closures are not expected.

Since beginning the programme, we’ve inspected over 100 sites and reopened 59 where access restrictions were implemented, with more to reopen on a rolling basis. Take a look at a list of sites with restored access.

The background

We care for a diverse estate of over 300 historic properties across Scotland. Each site presents unique conservation challenges shaped by factors such as age, construction materials and location.

The changing climate is accelerating the deterioration of many of our historic buildings, with increasing instances of stonework decay and masonry fall posing risks to visitors, staff, and the fabric of the sites themselves. While this is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors, climate change is a significant driver in reassessing how we manage our properties.

To protect the public and our historic environment, HES has implemented a proactive programme of inspections and repairs. This has involved temporary site closures and access restrictions in some cases. These measures were essential to ensure the safety of visitors and staff while we assessed the condition of our properties and while we undertake any necessary conservation work identified.

Our dedicated teams have worked tirelessly to accelerate this vital programme, including carrying out inspections throughout the winter months to maximise progress. These actions demonstrate our determination to safeguard Scotland’s historic environment for future generations.

Inspections explained

Take a look behind the scenes at the biggest challenge facing Scotland's historic buildings

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* The masonry level has since been increased to 1.5 metres.

2 Our Progress

Our high-level masonry project has progressed well, with the initial inspections on key sites completed in spring 2024. Some sites that we inspected needed relatively little work to make them accessible again, however, others will require more work before we can restore full access.  

At inspected sites, essential safety work, including slate repairs, lightning conductor fixes, invasive weed removal and bedding of stones, has been completed where feasible to allow for partial reopening.  

While undertaking the inspections and essential safety repairs, we've also been exploring innovative ways to share the stories of our temporarily closed sites. Enhanced on-site interpretation, including new signage, has been developed. Immersive experiences like 3D models, audio tours, and virtual trails also offer visitors fresh perspectives on these remarkable places until they can be fully explored.

Fencing lessons

Take a behind-the-scenes look at our work to add interpretation to sites affected by our high level masonry inspections

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What happens next

Since completing the initial priority inspections in March, our teams have continued assessing all structures over 1.4 metres at our sites. Ongoing repair work is being prioritised based on safety and conservation needs. As repairs progress, we will gradually increase access and reopen closed sites where it is safe to do so.

It’s important to remember that Scotland isn’t alone in facing these threats - the challenge of conserving historic buildings is global, and we are sharing our experiences and learnings with heritage organisations worldwide.

If you'd like to learn more about the inspections you can read our blogs explaining the project.

Our visit a place pages have up to date visitor information on access at sites and events taking place at our sites.

Moving Forward

Our High-Level Masonry Engagement Coordinator, Chloe Woodsford, takes a look behind the scenes at the work taking place to get sites ready for visitors in 2024.

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3 Sites involved

The following is a list of sites undergoing inspections and where full access restrictions are in place:

Last updated: 12 August 2024

Which sites can I visit?

Many of Scotland’s most-loved visitor attractions remain open, including Edinburgh Castle, Skara Brae, Stirling Castle, Fort George, Urquhart Castle and more.

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4 Sites with access restored

The following is a list of sites where access has been restored, either fully or partially, since undergoing inspections and repairs where necessary. Work at these sites may also be ongoing. Please visit the site pages for more information on any restrictions that might remain in place.

If you would like to know more about work already undertaken, we have published some of our high level masonry inspection reports that have been completed.

Last Updated: 12 August 2024