Our Great British Heritage

OUR PLACES

The historic places in our care span six millennia and include palaces, houses, hill figures, castles, abbeys, industrial sites, Roman forts and even deserted medieval villages.  Caring for these places and their collections for the benefit of this and future generations is a cornerstone of everything we do.  

The former home of the 10th Earl of Cassillis (a man who really liked to show off his wealth), Culzean Castle is a place of outlandish opulence. Perched on the Ayrshire cliffs, it was designed for one of Scotland’s oldest families – the Culzean Kennedys – by Robert Adam, the top Scottish architect of his day. From the famous Oval Staircase, to the vast collection of pistols and swords on display, to the expansive surrounding parkland and manicured gardens, there are lots of reasons why it’s one of the best castles in Scotland.

The history of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Journey back in time and uncover the history of the Chelsea Flower Show. Discover its humble beginnings as an event in a single tent, how it fared during the war and its rise to be the most famous flower show on earth. 

Book now for the Chelsea Flower Show 2024 simple on line booking

In collaboration with

 'Find my Past'

1921 Census Unlimited Access

Over 71 million pages dating from the 1700s. Leaen how to use the Archives with easy-to-follow guides plus your scoop of the day! Read millions of newspaper pages free.

Discover historical maps at Ordnance Survey. Choose city and town maps circa 1896 - 1904 use in conjunction with British Newspaper Archives to find exact locations from the era.

Pour over a copy of ST&G's Great British History Map or a map of Ancient Britain - great gift ideas

The Soil Association was founded in 1946 by a group of people concerned about the health implications of increasingly intensive farming systems following the Second World War. 

Starting out on a single farm they now influence the government on UK food, farming, and land use policy and help communities across the country connect through food. Organic certification by the Soil Association is one of the highest accolades.