Day Four

A visit to Scotland in 2009 would not be complete without a visit to Ayrshire, the birthplace of Robert Burns, Scotland’s world-famous poet.

Along with a visit to his home in Alloway, enthusiasts can also visit Souter Johnnie’s Cottage, immortalised by Burns in the unforgettable Tam O’Shanter, and the Bachelors’ Club. In 1779 Burns attended dance lessons at the Bachelors’ Club and then formed a debating club in 1780, drawing up the ten Rules of Membership for the society.

One rule stated that to be a member, one had to be a bachelor living in the parish of Tarbolton thus earning the property its name. Robert Burns was also initiated into Freemasonry in the upper room in 1781.

Day 5

Take a trip north to the National Trust for Scotland’s new world-class visitor centre at Culloden Battlefield near Inverness. With a 360-degree total immersion theatre, multi-lingual battlefield guides and spectacular rooftop views, Culloden is an essential visit for every itinerary.

The centre’s gift shop offers a selection of exclusive products including Culloden 10-year-old Single Malt Whisky. Why not join in the celebration of Homecoming with ‘From Battle to Exile’ – a weekend of ancestral events on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May at Culloden? The first event in Culloden’s Year of Homecoming traces people’s experiences from the battlefield to years in exile through costumed presentations, music, and an exciting new tour of the battlefield.

You can get FREE access to all of the above properties with a National Trust for Scotland membership. To find out more visit www.nts.org.uk/Join
For more information on Homecoming 2009 at National Trust for Scotland properties, visit www.nts.org.uk/homecoming