House open April to September but Ranger service operates all year round. Maree is the sole ranger.
Education talks, guided walks and so on.
She met Richard Basker when she was litter picking on the beach at South Queensferry.
Maree gave a background history of the house – opened 1699 when Charles was 1st Earl of Hopetoun. Now on the 11th Earl. Oldest part is Bruce House (1699) designed by William Bruce, who also remodeled Holyrood House. In 1720 William Adam added symmetrical extensions (collonades and stable blocks) and added a 4th floor.
Hopetoun 100 acres – contarctors manage gardens. Lone ranger manages the rest along with a herd of Red Deer. The ranger service has been operating here for 40 years. The grounds are internationally important for fungi. Activities throughout the year include kids events, guided walks and trails.
Volunteers help out as well as junior rangers.
Upcoming events – 7/8/17 ‘Outside In’ (4-5pm); 28/8/17 Time Travellers’ Tour (4-5pm); 20/9/17 Autumn Wander (10-1pm); 15/10/17 Fungi (2pm)
www.hopetoun.co.uk
Vote of Thanks – David Cormack
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