AN “iconic” castle which features in the TV series Outlander has reopened to visitors following masonry work.
Doune Castle was shut as a precaution last year for essential high-level masonry inspections and a full survey of the site.
A special access corridor has now been put in place at the building, which reopened on Monday, and visitors can once again see the interior of the castle, including the courtyard, basement, and many of the smaller chambers.
The fortification, near Stirling, doubles as Castle Leoch in Outlander, the TV hit starring Caitriona Balfe and Sam Heughan.
Stephen Duncan, director of marketing and engagement at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which manages the attraction, said: “We are delighted to be able to reopen the interior of the castle once more after access restrictions were put in place for essential high masonry work.
“We know how keen visitors are to enjoy the castle, which is an iconic site and has featured in a wealth of productions, including most recently in Outlander.
“The castle and the surrounding village are a hugely popular destination, and we look forward to welcoming visitors back through the castle doors so they can enjoy this much-loved heritage attraction once again.”
HES said that some minor access restrictions will remain in place for ongoing conservation work.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here