For Argyll

Robert Ferguson, Glasgow and West Buildings and Gardens Group Manager for the National Trust for Scotland has sent us the following response to the news item - below, under Community News - on concerns in Helensburgh about its major visitor attraction, Hill House. The house is also one of Argyll’s tourist destinations, supporting the widespread interest in Charles Rennie Mackintosh.Concerns have arisen because the house is open only in afternoons on a year round basis, with no variation for the major tourist season. Mr Ferguson’s response follows:

“I refer to the recent correspondence regarding opening times at the Hill House, Helensburgh.

The vast majority of National Trust for Scotland properties are open to visitors every day during the summer. Many do operate on an afternoon-only basis and this decision is based on a regular analysis of expected visiting patterns over several seasons, as well as careful consideration of our conservation responsibilities.

The Hill House is one of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s finest creations and its many original features require careful control of the environment. Our opening hours help us to ensure that we manage the crucial conservation requirements of an internationally important historic house, while giving daily access. On occasion, mornings can allow school parties and large tour groups access, thereby reducing pressure during normal opening times.

The Hill House is just one of 129 varied properties which the National Trust for Scotland, as a charity, maintains on behalf of the nation and we look forward to welcoming many Herald readers to our properties over the rest of the season.”