With things starting to warm up following the recent cold snap, now is the perfect time to get out and see the best of what Scotland has to offer.
From charming seaside towns perfect for a weekend getaway to historic and mysterious castles said to be haunted by ghosts, there is certainly no shortage of fascinating destinations in Scotland to head to this spring.
If you're a movie buff, there are also countless locations dotted around the country where iconic films such as 2001: A Space Odyssey and Chariots of Fire were shot. Meanwhile, Outlander fans are spoilt for choice when it comes to Scottish locations were the hit historical drama was filmed.
One of these that is well worth a visit is Newhailes Estate in East Lothian. The Musselburgh estate includes Newhailes House itself — a Category A listed building that dates all the way back to 1686 — and its extensive gardens, along with a café and even an adventure play park for the bairns.
If you are familiar with the fourth season of Outlander, you will know that its first episode sees Jamie sitting down with North Carolina Governor William Tryon to discuss land grants. What you may not know, however, is that Governor Tryon's 'North Carolina' is actually Newhailes.
Currently managed by the National Trust for Scotland, the house was originally built and lived in by Scottish architect James Smith. The spectacular home was constructed in the Palladian style after Smith became inspired by the architecture while in Rome.
Unfortunately, within around a decade, Smith was forced to sell the grand property as money was tight. In the centuries that followed, Newhailes passed between various owners, before it was given to the National Trust for Scotland in 1997 following the death of its final owner Sir Mark Dalrymple.
Since then, it has undergone major conservation work after opening to the public in 2002 — in a ceremony attended by then-Prince Charles. No major renovation works have been carried out, however, allowing the home to remain "frozen in time".
According to the National Trust for Scotland, it was once famous for having one of the largest private libraries in Europe and its collection remains one of Scotland's most important private collections. Today, the house is home to a "treasure trove of curiosities".
Meanwhile, among the 34 hectares of parkland and woodland that the estate is situated in, there are numerous gardens and even an apiary. The Weehailes play park has also been "specially developed" for younger children with its Newhailes theme so that they can learn while they play.
After exploring Newhailes House and learning about its history, you can head to the Stables Café, which serves up a range of soups, sandwiches and sweet treats. Ahead of summer, an ice cream parlour and traditional sweet shop has also opened, which are sure to be popular among younger visitors.
If you feel like heading out and doing something a bit unique this weekend, then Newhailes is certainly worth a visit especially if you are an Outlander fan — just don't expect to see the governor of North Carolina.
More information about Newhailes House can be found on the National Trust for Scotland website.
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