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A Spring Escape: Explore the Charm of 5 of Scotland’s Most Beautiful Historic Houses

A Spring Escape: Explore the Charm of Scotland’s Historic Houses As spring breathes new life into the landscape, Scotland transforms into a tapestry of colour, wildlife, and long, light-filled days. From castle gardens bursting with bulbs to dramatic coastlines and ancient woodlands, this season is the perfect time to explore the country’s most storied estates. Here are five unforgettable HeritageXplore houses to inspire your next springtime adventure in Scotland. 1. Glamis Castle, Angus With its fairytale turrets and royal legacy, Glamis Castle is a jewel of Scottish heritage. As the childhood home of the Queen Mother and the setting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth, it’s rich with stories. In spring, the estate’s gardens and arboretum burst into colour with daffodils, cherry blossom, and carpets of bluebells. The drive through the tree-lined avenue alone is worth the trip. Why go now: Spring flowers, guided tours, and peaceful woodland walks. Visit Glamis Castle 2. Mount Stuart, Isle of Bute Mount Stuart is nothing short of extraordinary. This Gothic Revival mansion, set against the Firth of Clyde, is surrounded by one of Scotland’s finest designed landscapes. In spring, the gardens become a riot of colour, with rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias all in bloom. Inside, the house is equally jaw-dropping, with star-studded ceilings and stained glass. Why go now: Island serenity, garden wonders, and one of Britain’s most astonishing interiors. Visit Mount Stuart 3. Blair Castle, Perthshire Set in the heart of Highland Perthshire, Blair Castle is a vision in white surrounded by acres of wooded trails and wild beauty. In spring, the Hercules Garden and Diana’s Grove come to life with fresh foliage, flowering bulbs and soaring Scots pines. The estate is also home to Highland cattle and red squirrels, making it a wildlife lover’s paradise. Why go now: Blossom, blue skies, and Highland grandeur. Visit Blair Castle 4. Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeenshire Few places match the drama of Dunnottar Castle. Perched on a clifftop overlooking the North Sea, its ruins are hauntingly beautiful in the soft light of spring. With seabirds wheeling overhead and wildflowers dotting the clifftop paths, a visit here is nothing short of cinematic. Pair it with a coastal walk for the ultimate spring escape. Why go now: Fewer crowds, wild coastal views, and atmospheric ruins. Visit Dunnottar Castle 5. Scone Palace, Perth The crowning place of Scottish kings, Scone Palace is steeped in history and surrounded by glorious parkland and gardens. In spring, the grounds come alive with colour—especially the Pinetum, where exotic conifers and carpets of daffodils create a magical setting for a wander. There are also peacocks on the lawn and red squirrels darting through the trees. Why go now: Royal history, riverside walks, and spring wildlife. Visit Scone Palace

Firework Champions 2025: A Dazzling Display at Britain's Historic Estates

This summer, the night skies above some of Britain's most magnificent stately homes will come alive with color, music, and competition as the Firework Champions series returns for 2025. Set against the backdrop of historic estates, these events offer an unforgettable experience for families, couples, and firework enthusiasts alike. πŸŽ† What is Firework Champions? Firework Champions is the UK's premier firework competition, where top pyrotechnic teams go head-to-head, each presenting a 10-minute display choreographed to music. The audience plays a crucial role, voting via text to crown the night's champion. The evening culminates in a breathtaking finale by a guest display team, ensuring a night to remember.SoGlos+4Epic Fireworks+4fireworkchampions.co.uk+4fireworkchampions.co.uk+2SoGlos+2Epic Fireworks+2 🏰 2025 Event Schedule This year's events are hosted at seven stunning locations:Eventbrite+2blasteventsllc.com+2Epic Fireworks+2 Stanford Hall – 2nd August 2025A beautiful hall surrounded by 700 acres of private woodland. Epic Fireworks Arley Hall – 9th August 2025A much-cherished family home known for its warm and intimate atmosphere. Visit Plymouth+2fireworkchampions.co.uk+2Epic Fireworks+2 Belvoir Castle – 16th August 2025Ancestral home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, offering panoramic views of the Vale of Belvoir. Epic Fireworks Newby Hall – 23rd August 2025A breathtaking site situated beside the River Ure, featuring exquisite gardens. Epic Fireworks Eastnor Castle – 6th September 2025Nestled in the dramatic setting of the Malvern Hills, this castle offers a picturesque backdrop. Epic Fireworks Hatfield House – 13th September 2025A stunning country house set in expansive parkland in Hertfordshire. The Sun+11Epic Fireworks+11eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk+11 Ragley Hall – 20th September 2025The stately home of the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford, surrounded by 400 acres of parkland. Epic Fireworks 🎟️ What to Expect Four Spectacular Displays: Three competing teams and one guest finale.Epic Fireworks Audience Voting: Cast your vote via text to decide the winner.Flickr+3SoGlos+3Epic Fireworks+3 Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy food stalls, entertainment, and the option to picnic or camp overnight.Epic Fireworks+5SoGlos+5futureinns.co.uk+5 Professional-Grade Fireworks: Witness category 4 fireworks, the largest available in the UK, choreographed to music.fireworkchampions.co.uk+3fireworkchampions.co.uk+3Epic Fireworks+3 πŸ“Έ Visual Highlights πŸ“… Plan Your Visit Tickets are available now, with options for standard entry, premium parking, and camping. Early booking is recommended as these events are popular and often sell out. πŸ‘‰ Book your tickets and find more information here Experience the magic of fireworks set against the grandeur of Britain's historic estates. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning fan, Firework Champions 2025 promises an evening of awe-inspiring entertainment.

Comedy at the Castle 2025: Unmissable Nights of Laughter in Historic Settings

This July, Devon’s skies will ring not with cannon fire or royal fanfare — but with laughter. Set against the grand backdrop of Powderham Castle, Comedy at the Castle 2025 is bringing two exceptional evenings of stand-up to one of the UK’s most picturesque heritage venues. If you’re after the perfect summer evening — think award-winning comedians, a dreamy riverside estate, street food, and chilled drinks — this is it. 🎀 The Line-Up: Two Blockbuster Shows πŸ“… Friday 18 July – Frank Skinner & FriendsOne of the UK’s most enduring comedy icons, Frank Skinner headlines the Friday night show with his trademark blend of sharp wit and affable charm. He’s joined by a powerhouse support line-up: Larry Dean – Scottish Comedian of the Year with rave reviews from Live at the Apollo Kane Brown – London’s favourite for energy-packed sets Kate Barron – Canadian-born, brilliantly observational Freddy Quinne – Your host for the evening and the night’s comedic glue πŸ‘‰ Book Friday tickets here πŸ“… Saturday 19 July (Evening Show) – Russell Kane & MoreSaturday night brings another titan of the UK comedy circuit: the kinetic and unmissable Russell Kane. Expect machine-gun delivery and razor-sharp social commentary. Gary Delaney – King of one-liners and Mock the Week regular Matt Bragg – Dry, clever, and quickly rising Laura Smyth – Warm, relatable, and wickedly funny Freddy Quinne returns as compère πŸ‘‰ Book Saturday evening tickets here β˜€οΈ Make a Weekend of It While HeritageXplore is selling tickets to the Friday and Saturday evening headline events, there’s even more going on across the weekend at Powderham: 🎟️ Saturday 19 July (Afternoon) – Joel Dommett, Red Richardson, Jen Brister and more take the stage (not bookable via HeritageXplore, but well worth catching). πŸ” What to Expect Open-air comedy in a spectacular heritage setting Delicious street food stalls and full bar options Bring your own blanket or chair for relaxed festival-style seating 18+ only – grown-up giggles guaranteed Gates open from 6pm, with shows running until approximately 10pm 🏰 Why Powderham? One of Devon’s finest estates, Powderham Castle has been home to the Courtenay family for over 600 years. With views across the Exe Estuary, ancient oaks, and a tranquil setting, it’s the kind of place you’d expect to read poetry — but why not laugh until you cry instead? 🎫 Don’t Miss Out Tickets for both headline shows are already selling fast, with prices starting from just £10. These events are strictly 18+ and have limited capacity, so book early to avoid disappointment. πŸ‘‰ Browse both events and book now on HeritageXplore