Achi news desk-
Built around the time of the Reformation in 1560, Elcho Castle shows a transition in Scottish building styles, from castle to mansion.
The castle combines a grand exterior with an interior that provided great comfort and privacy for its noble occupants and their guests.
Little has changed since it was built, apart from a new roof and new window glazing added in the 1830s.
READ MORE: More than 20 historic sites across Scotland to welcome visitors back
Access restrictions have been put in place as a safety precaution while Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which manages the site, has introduced new measures to manage the impact of climate change on its heritage assets, an issue which affects heritage owners in worldwide, as part of its high level masonry programme.
Elcho Castle, Rothesay Castle and Whithorn Priory are among the latest sites to reopen following inspections and necessary repairs to the stonework, with over 90 per cent of the total HES sites across the estate now accessible.
The High Level Masonry Program is the result of ongoing risk assessment and sample surveys and assesses the impact of climate change on sites as well as the extent of deterioration caused by a number of other factors, including the materials used in construction the building, its age and physical location.
Liz Grant, Regional Visitor and Community Manager (Central) at HES said: “Elcho Castle is a fantastic site and we are delighted to welcome visitors back.
“Situated by the River Tay and home to a rich history, work on the site has helped us ensure that visitors can once again enjoy this important piece of our heritage.”
