Newbattle Abbey College hides a wealth of Scottish history – but if Heritage Development Officer Rae McGhee had her way, it would be uncovered for all to see. Built on the site of a medieval Cistercian Abbey, the house has been remodelled and extended over several centuries and today showcases the best of Scottish craftsmanship and interior design.

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Edinburgh has been a part of the Scottish landscape since the 7th century; thus, it is no surprise the city is full of surprising secrets to be explored and enjoyed. One of my favourites is Dunbar’s Close Gardens.

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Mavisbank House lies unobtrusively in Loanhead, tucked away unseen in a hidden valley. It is a sorry sight. Weeds sprout from the roofless gutters; the lintels are skewed and broken. Large metal barriers with huge locks imprison the house to keep out visitors – it is a danger to anyone who ventures too near. But now help is at hand as a £2 million stabilisation programme is announced.

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Trinity House, open to the public while the property of Historic Scotland, is still also the headquarters of the Incorporation of Mariners and Ship’s Masters of Leith, whose activities have catered for the welfare of its members since the 14th century.

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