Historic Environment Scotland Reviews 

I'm surprised there are no reviews of the organisation's "Trove" website. I searched for information on the Scottish Enlightenment. Most of the results were Aerial views of mountaintops (?). Their drop-down list of centuries only went as far as the 13th (!!), and their search function was ineffective. :-(

We have a family membership and love it. Used it for Stirling Castle, Doune Castle and Bothwell Castle and great days out. Plan to use it for Edinburgh Castle and Linlithgow Palce. Well recommend.

Scara Brae visitor centre. I don't want my intelligence insulted by being confronted with women's period products in a vending machine in the men's toilets. Why does Historic Scotland display such political and unscientific sentiments rather than focus on its job.

Visited Stirling Castle yesterday (15th April 2026) with a Group of pensioners a couple of whom had mobility issues.The provision of a Mobility Vehicle and Driver was invaluable for these people. The vehicle was on a non pre arranged basis. The staff were extremely supportive and helpful in arranging the vehicle, on a couple of occasions, with minimum waiting time and an efficient process. This service was a major part of making our visit a success. Thank you.

Visited Glasgow cathedral today, New chandeliers are being installed in the choire, The area is kept clear by horrible red and white tapes. (totally inappropriate ina religious building , and no work was taking place No signs giving explanation of what was happening, Terible presentation for one of Scotland' most visited sites.

Recent media revelations show problems with racism/ drunkenness/ inept financial management and infighting.

On Monday, 5th October 2025 I had the pleasure and privilege of being one of a party of four who were led on a tour of Stirling Castle, including the ‘Secret Stirling Tour’, by Ross Blevins, Interpretive Events and Guiding Manager.

There are not enough superlatives to express the immensity of our enjoyment or how impressed we were with Ross as our guide.

Ross is highly erudite, and astounded all of us with his encyclopedic knowledge. His passion, enthusiasm and humour were extremely engaging, as he brought Scottish history and that of Stirling Castle to life with his outstanding delivery.

Thank you, Historic Scotland, and thank you, Ross for providing a day to remember and truly the best tour we have ever experienced!

Nothing is open, don't waste your time. Absolute disgrace of an organisation.....

I honestly feel like everything they look after is top notch and the staff are passionate as well

A great organisation helping preserve our heritage. I've been a member for two years, and got great value from it exploring Scotland's history. In addition, its' offered discounted or free access to sites in England. HES seems to be a well run organisation with lots of public activities throughout the year, encouraging families to get out and explore Scotland's heritage. Staff are well trained, usually enthusiastic, and helpful.

I have to make mention of the staff in all the properties we visited who were extremely polite, friendly and knowledgeable. A huge thanks to all. Sadly there are so many places affected by necessary remedial work that we'll rest our membership for now but will doubtless rejoin at some point as it's wonderful value for money. Edinburgh, Stirling, Urquhart, Blackness Castles + so many more we wouldn't have seen without the membership.

I like this organization but their membership is not worth the money because most of the sites are closed :) or booked out or you are not allowed to take pictures or videos. I will be definitely canceling membership with them.

There is one positive - that they care about those places and staff is usually nice (Dunfermline, Stirling etc awesome people)