Guided wellbeing

Explore our curated wellbeing events, playlists, and walking trails taking place at our historic sites.

If you feel that you need a place to rest amid the hustle and bustle of your busy life, we’ve got your back. As part of your wellbeing toolkit, we believe that many of Scotland’s historic sites might help you take a breath and recuperate. 

There isn't just one way to look after your wellbeing. You may prefer mindful moments in a breathtaking landscape, a guided walk that feeds your mind as well as your soul, or a playlist with uplifting music to accompany you on your travels.

What to expect

Browse our curated recommendations below to get inspired by our wellbeing focused activities, or you can explore our self-paced wellbeing options.

Get more ideas from our crowdsourced online exhibition where Historic Scotland staff and visitors share how these spaces have boosted their wellbeing. You too can get involved and share your experience with us. 

A few purple flowers are in the foreground and behind them, in the background, are the Calanais Standing Stones.

Guided events

Our events programme includes a wide range of activities held at our sites. All of these could benefit your mental, emotional or physical wellbeing. We’ve got something for everyone! 

  • Join our walking trails to spot elusive wildlife.
  • Uncover the fascinating lives of our prehistoric ancestors at one of our exclusive evening tours.
  • Explore historic landscapes with our knowledgeable guides to hear about local folklore and legends. 
Browse our guided events

Trails from our experts

Who better to suggest the best walks and peaceful spots than those who know our historic sites best. Our staff share their top recommendations to help you explore hidden corners, stunning viewpoints, and reflective spaces across Scotland. 

To learn more about each part of the trail, click into each photograph. 

Dryburgh Abbey trail

A drawing of the lands in and around Dryburgh Abbey with marked locations where tree species can be found. Before you start: Tree trail A hand drawn illustration depicting wildlife that can be spotted in the area including flowers and birds Before your start: Wildlife spotter Exterior view of the ruined abbey at Dryburgh flanked by a large tree Step 1: Enter via the abbey shop View of Dryburgh Abbey nave via a Romanesque arch Step 2: Explore the nave View of a stone carved arched entrance to Dryburgh Abbey Step 3: Visit the Cloister and Chapter House View of a bench in the foreground overlooking part of Dryburgh Abbey grounds Step 4: Meander through the Laird In the foreground are the legs of the photographer and in the background, the ruins of Dryburgh Abbey Step 5: Rest and relax A view overlooking the river close to Dryburgh Abbey Step 6: Head down to the river A small sign leans against a tree in the foreground and the abbey ruins are in the background Step 7: Retrace and exit The exterior of a monument which has a cupola upon red stone pillars. Step 8: Walk to the Temple of the Muses A statue of three women Step 9: Rest at the Temple of the Muses

Fort George trail

This photograph is of the exit/entrance of Fort George which consists of a narrow doorway leading out to a wooden walkway. Before you start: Click image for info A view of the main road leading away from Fort George Step 1: Start from outside the fort In the foreground is a rocky beach, and on the left hand side - in the background is the sea, A few houses are situated on the right hand side. Step 2: Follow the path along the shore In the foreground is a bench that is looking out over the sea, which is in the background Step 3: Rest and take in the view An individual is paddleboarding on the sea at dusk Step 4: Spot the wildlife A photograph taken from the sea with dolphins in the water and Fort George in the background Step 5: Keep your eyes open for dolphins A close up of a bulbous, orange flower with a sunset in the background Step 6: Pause to smell the flowers A wooded area with sunshine shining through the limbs of the trees Step 7: Listen to the birdsong A view of a path leading to a car park Step 8: Head for Ardersier Step 9: Rest and recuperation
A reenactor dressed as a knight sits on a bench and wears headphones. He is smiling and looks relaxed.

Soundtracks to heritage

Enhance your wellbeing walks with our themed Spotify playlists, designed to complement the landscapes, atmosphere, and stories of our historic sites.

Get inspired

Browse our crowdsourced exhibition to find inspiration from those who experience wellbeing benefits from the historic sites in our care.

Browse our crowdsourced exhibition

Disclaimer

All recommendations within Historic Places, Breathing Spaces is designed to supplement your own wellbeing programme and toolkit and does not constitute medical advice on the part of Historic Environment Scotland.