Urquhart Castle - surely a piece of landscape art. © Historic Scotland

From Shetland to the Scottish Borders, visitors keen to explore Scotland's heritage during the weekend of April 1 and 2 2006 will be able to take their pick of castles, palaces, abbeys and gardens as entrance fees are to be waived at more than 70 properties cared for by Historic Scotland.

The annual Spring Free Weekend takes in most of Scotland’s most impressive heritage sites and means a family of two adults and two children could save £24 on a fascinating day out at Stirling Castle, or £12 on a peaceful day exploring the ruins of Inchmahome Priory, in its idyllic grassy island location.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of this excellent opportunity to explore our country’s wonderful built heritage,” said Patricia Ferguson MSP, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport. “The Free Weekend provides a superb introduction to some of Scotland’s best historic buildings.”

The imposing vision of Stirling Castle, which has seen its fair share of history within its walls, including imprisonment and assassination. © Historic Scotland

Visitors to Stirling Castle will also get to see the newly replaced Boer War commemorative statue. The 2.5 metre bronze statue was originally erected in 1905 by the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and has just been for its first renovation.

The soldier returned to his post after having rust removed, a crack in his rifle repaired and repatination - which returned the warrior from green to a dark brown colour.

A special membership offer will also be available to those who join Historic Scotland over the Free Weekend. Six months free is being offered together with 18 months for the price of 12. Membership gives free access to Historic Scotland properties all year round and a 20 per cent discount in its gift shops.

“The Free Weekend is a fabulous chance to enjoy the great historic attractions in your own community or further afield,” said Jenny Hess Head of Marketing at Historic Scotland. “This is a great chance to try out what we have to offer and it need not cost you a penny. We also offer great deals for Scottish families and visitors to Scotland all year round.”

Melrose Abbey was destroyed by Richard II's English army in 1385, and the impressive remains that stand today are 15th century. © Historic Scotland.

A full list of the properties which will be free to visit can be found at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/spring as well as information on events happening throughout April and May.

There are also plenty of Easter holiday activities lined up for April. Historic Scotland is running a competition asking 5-12-year-olds to paint a boiled egg with a historical Scottish theme, site, place or character. On April 8 a photo mural of painted eggs will be unveiled at Edinburgh Castle.

Photos of decorated eggs should then be emailed to eggs@consol.co.uk or posted to Consolidated Communications, Hobart House, 80 Hanover Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1EL, including the entrant’s full name and address. The best one will win a year’s family membership to Historic Scotland, a VIP visit to Edinburgh Castle or venue of choice and a Ranger’s tour of Holyrood Park.

The special events for April will be followed up during the May Bank Holiday (April 28 – May 1) when museums and galleries across the country take part in Show Scotland – a long weekend of special events designed to creatively show off collections and venues. More details to follow!