Homecoming Scotland 2009

The Doors Open Days programme throughout Scotland is over for this year as the event ran for the four weekends in September.  Early indications are that locations and buildings attracted increasing numbers of the public - local and international.  There's  a strong 'feel good' factor in the survey responses already returned.   And the detailed evaluation is now underway.

Doors Open Days has much to interest tourists and visitors and offers a unique insight into the culture and heritage of Scotland.  It is unique because most events are run by volunteers from local communities.  This September you can discover Scotland’s extraordinary concealed architectural heritage; from private castles to eco-offices, artists’ studios to shipyards. 

Access is free.  Buildings not usually open to the public participate, many locations organise tours, walks, family activities, music and exhibitions to coincide with the event. 

This year the Scottish Civic Trust is working with partner organisations to encourage visitors to come to Scotland and explore our 'hidden heritage'.  This initiative is supported by Homecoming Scotland 2009.

Homecoming Scotland 2009 is a Scottish Government initiative managed by EventScotland in partnership with VisitScotland, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns.  From Burns night to St Andrew’s Day, a country wide programme of exciting and inspirational events and activities will celebrate some of Scotland’s great contributions to the world: Burns himself, Whisky, Golf, Great Minds and Innovations, and our rich culture and heritage.

If you would like to visit Doors Open Days in Scotland during September 2010, sign-up for news and we'll keep you up-to-date with the latest event details (dod@scottishcivictrust.org.uk).  Visit www.homecomingscotland2009.com for information about the wider event and Homecoming's Final Fling to celebrate St Andrew's Day at the end of November.