Egg-cellent Easter breaks in Scotland
Whether you want to live like royalty in a castle, cosy up in one of our cottages or stay by the sea, find your perfect Easter holiday destination at the National Trust for Scotland. We offer breaks either for the Easter weekend (from Good Friday to Easter Monday) or for a longer stay for the whole family over the school holidays.
Over the Easter weekend, we have 35 Easter Egg Trails taking place at our properties across Scotland, from the Highlands to Dumfries & Galloway.
Please chick out (!) our Easter story for details of trail opening times
Highlands & Islands
Brodie Castle & Estate
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
Cormack Lodge
Sleeps: 2/3 (1 double)
Nestled within the beautiful grounds of the National Trust for Scotland’s 16th-century Brodie Castle is Cormack Lodge, an idyllic retreat for up to three people. Enjoy full access to the castle grounds where you can take a romantic stroll on a tranquil evening, or discover the history and culture of the castle itself, before stopping at the café for a hot drink.
Garden House
Sleeps: 6 (1 double, 1 twin and 1 bunk)
In the grounds of Brodie Castle, on the outskirts of Forres in Moray, is this magnificent, detached cottage. Set over two storeys and sleeping up to six guests, Garden House is an idyllic, pet-friendly setting for a family getaway. Enjoy easy access to the 16th-century Brodie Castle as well as the Playful Garden, which explores the Brodie family’s history. The popular beaches of Findhorn and Nairn are nearby too.
North East Scotland
Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
East Wing
Sleeps: 4 (1 double and 1 twin)
A duplex apartment with access to a traditional walled garden, this beautiful apartment is part of Castle Fraser, one of the largest tower houses in Scotland and dating back to the 1450s. This is a wonderful place to discover old Scotland – take a castle tour to discover family portraits, ornaments and mementos, each with their own fascinating story.
Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
East Lodge
Sleeps: 4 (1 double and 1 twin)
Set against the dramatic backdrop of rugged hills and at the entrance to historic grounds is East Lodge, a charming ground floor cottage. Spend your days strolling around the Crathes Castle estate; there’s plenty of history and wide range of wildlife to discover while meandering through the impressive gardens.
Drum Castle, Garden & Estate
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29–Sun 31 March
Courtyard Cottage
Sleeps: 2 (1 double)
Courtyard Cottage is a first floor apartment within the historic courtyard of Drum Castle. Steeped in 700 years of history, this property was once home to the Irvine family. Stories from their rich history are told through the antique artefacts and interiors throughout the castle.
Fyvie Castle, Garden & Estate
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
Preston Tower Apartment
Sleeps: 12 (3 double and 3 twin)
Stretching across Fyvie Castle’s Preston and Seton Towers, providing stunning accommodation for up to twelve guests, this grand castle apartment is the ultimate choice for a memorable escape to Scotland. Explore the stunning redeveloped gardens of Fyvie Castle, now home to Scottish fruits and vegetables, with impressive lawns to roam and picnic in!
House of Dun, Garden & Estate
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
North Stables
Sleeps: 4 (2 twin)
Resting in a quaint sandstone courtyard, North Stables offers a welcoming retreat for a group of four to explore this charming coastal region. Beautifully refurbished to a high standard throughout, this first floor apartment ensures a memorable stay at any time of the year.
South Stables
Sleeps: 4 (2 twin)
A beautiful base from which to explore the delights of Montrose, South Stables can be found in the former stable block of the House of Dun. This first floor apartment exudes character and charm throughout with an eclectic mix of classic and contemporary features.
Pitmedden Garden
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
Beechgrove Cottage
Sleeps: 4 (1 double and 1 twin)
Nestled within the beautiful wooded grounds of Pitmedden Garden is this delightful single-storey cottage. A wonderful base from which to enjoy the delights of Aberdeenshire, Beechgrove Cottage is the perfect pick for an Easter break.
North Wing
Sleeps: 7 (3 double/twin and 1 single)
North Wing forms part of a large manor house and is suitable for a group of up to seven guests seeking to explore the delights of rural North East Scotland, whilst still being within easy reach of ‘The Granite City’ and the coast. Marvel at the present-day beauty of 5 miles of immaculate hedging, creating intricate patterns that weave through the grounds. Over 80 varieties of apple are grown here, accompanied by elegant fountains offering the tranquil sounds of flowing water.
We are also running Easter Egg Trails at Craigievar Castle, Haddo House and Leith Hall in Aberdeenshire, and Barry Mill and J M Barrie’s Birthplace in Angus.
Edinburgh & East
Hill of Tarvit Mansion & Garden
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29–Sun 31 March
East Cottage
Sleeps: 5 (2 double and 1 single)
Originally built for the estate workers and gardeners, this Edwardian dwelling is set within its own enclosed garden near to the original stable block. This is the perfect choice for a tranquil family holiday to the beautiful region of Fife.
Middle Cottage
Sleeps: 4 (2 twin)
This single-storey cottage, with roses climbing the exterior walls, boasts homely charm and is ideal for a group of four to enjoy a picture-perfect retreat in this incredible location. Staying within these stunning grounds means guests can explore all of the beautiful gardens, woodland, open heath and parkland, perfect for bracing morning walks and picturesque afternoon strolls.
Upper West Wing Flat
Sleeps: 4 (1 double and 1 twin)
Resting over part of the first floor of the grand Edwardian Hill of Tarvit Mansion, Upper West Wing Flat is an elegant apartment providing up to four guests with a home-from-home base. The main mansion house boasts lavish furnishings, a Chinese porcelain collection and paintings by acclaimed artists, making this a truly unique choice for your Scottish escape. Nearby is the wondrous coastline of the East Neuk of Fife, with quaint harbours, pristine beaches and plenty of eateries offering freshly caught seafood.
West Cottage
Sleeps: 5 (1 double, 1 twin and 1 single)
Originally built as a home for the estate workers who maintained the mansion, West Cottage today provides a welcoming retreat for up to five guests near Cupar in Fife. Enjoy the benefits of a ground-floor layout, and relish the lovely scenery of the well-kept grounds as well as having your own private garden space.
House of the Binns
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
Gate Lodge
Sleeps: 2 (1 double)
Enjoying a superb setting near Linlithgow, with views over the landscaped parkland and the River Forth, Gate Lodge offers an opulent interior adorned with contemporary artwork and artefacts. This is a unique, dog-friendly cottage ideal for couples and friends, plus two canine companions.
We are also running Easter Egg Trails at Culross, Kellie Castle, Newhailes, Priorwood Garden and the Hermitage.
South & West
Culzean Castle & Country Park
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
Also nearby Easter Egg Trail at Robert Burns Birthplace Museum: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
Ardlochan Lodge
Sleeps: 4 (1 double and 1 twin)
A stylish ground-floor property, Ardlochan Lodge is surrounded by the beauty of Culzean Country Park, on the outskirts of the charming town of Maybole. This contemporary cottage provides a couple or a small group of friends with all you could need for a wonderful stay by the Ayrshire coast.
Brewhouse Flat
Sleeps: 4 (1 double and 1 twin)
This former brewhouse lies in the west wing of the castle and was added to the grounds in 1780 to supply estate workers with their staple drink of beer. Today, the lower ground floor flat combines traditional features with contemporary charm. Explore the grounds to discover 600 acres of woodlands and gardens, along with 3 miles of scenic coastline.
North Segganwell
Sleeps: 2 (1 double)
Once home to the estate workers of Culzean Castle, including shepherd William Kirkland who lived here with his wife and four children, North Segganwell now offers a beautiful, beach-front base from which to explore this wonderful area of Scotland. Boasting a coastal theme that’s in keeping with its location, as well as several traditional features, this ground floor cottage is a delightful escape at any time of year.
Royal Artillery Cottage
Sleeps: 4 (1 double and 1 twin)
Boasting wonderful sea views across to Arran, Royal Artillery Cottage is a characterful, ground-floor holiday home at the heart of Culzean Castle’s sandstone stable block. Once the living quarters for the grooms, coachmen and stable boys responsible for the Marquess’s horses, it now offers a group of up to four guests a highly desirable base for a coastal escape to Scotland. The cottage is well suited to a variety of groups, with sliding doors and a ramped entrance offering an accessible entrance for all.
South Segganwell
Sleeps: 2 (1 double)
On the idyllic shores of the Ayrshire coast, you will find this inviting single-storey cottage. South Segganwell makes a wonderful choice for a couple seeking a seaside escape. Spend your mornings discovering the 600 acres of country park surrounding the cottage with your canine companion, while the 3 miles of stunning coastline provides an unforgettable backdrop to your walks.
Garden House
Sleeps: 5 (1 super-king, 1 double, 1 single)
Within the grounds of Culzean Country Park, near the popular town of Maybole, is this three-bedroom traditional detached cottage. Garden House pairs high-quality furnishings with traditional character, offering a lovely dwelling for couples or a family of five. The holiday cottage enjoys a peaceful location surrounded by woodland, and has its own private, enclosed garden for dining alfresco.
Clocktower
Sleeps: 6 (1 super-king, 1 double, 1 adult bunk)
The Clocktower enjoys an exceptional courtyard setting for a group or family of six, with lovely views across to the magnificent castle and out towards the sea. This is the perfect spot for enjoying all the estate has to offer. Discover woodland walks, a Swan Pond, formal gardens, fruit-filled glass houses, and exciting play areas for the children to enjoy.
North Firbank
Sleeps: 4 (1 king, 1 twin)
This beautiful semi-detached cottage has been carefully restored by the National Trust for Scotland to offer up to four guests superb holiday accommodation in a truly unique setting. North Firbank enjoys a peaceful location and offers wonderful views over the surrounding countryside and up towards Culzean Castle. On warmer days, you can enjoy your meals alfresco in your very own private sunken garden, followed by a walk around the expansive country park.
Holmwood
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
In and around Glasgow, we are also running Easter Egg Trails at the Tenement House, the Hill House, Geilston Garden, Greenbank Garden and Weaver’s Cottage.
Coach House
Sleeps: 5 (1 double, 1 twin and 1 single)
Originally used as the stable accommodation for the coachman and his family, the Coach House now offers a family of five a memorable holiday spot. This is a great place to discover the sights of Glasgow, along with 5 acres of mature gardens to explore on your doorstep.
Threave Garden
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
Gate Lodge
Sleeps: 5 (1 double, 1 twin and 1 single)
Boasting views across the garden that blooms with daffodils in the spring, Gate Lodge makes a spectacular choice for an idyllic escape. Once home to the housekeeper of the Gordon family, the cottage now provides a superb space to enjoy a piece of baronial splendour. Soak up your surroundings in the morning in your own private garden, observing the red squirrels and nuthatches that regularly visit, before exploring the wider grounds of the Threave Estate.
Also nearby:
Port Donnel Cottage at Rockcliffe
Sleeps: 5 (1 double, 1 twin and 1 single)
A secluded, whitewashed two-storey house resting on the shores of the Urr estuary in the coastal village of Rockcliffe, 14 miles from Threave. Boasting unrestricted coastal views and a private beach, this is a beautiful base for exploring Dumfries & Galloway. The region features an undulating coastline of rocky shoreline and sandy beaches, the UK’s first Dark Sky Park and an abundance of outdoor activities and cultural attractions for you to discover.
Bunkhouses
Ben Lomond
Easter Egg Trail (Rowardennan): Sun 31 March
Ben Lomond Bunkhouse
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 2
The bunkhouse is ideally situated for those wanting to climbing Ben Lomond, as an overnight stop if you’re walking the West Highland Way, or for a group who just want somewhere quiet to enjoy the outdoors.
Brodick Castle, Garden & Country Park
Easter Egg Trail: Fri 29 March–Mon 1 April
Shore Lodge Bunkhouse
Sleeps: 14
Bedrooms: 4
This bunkhouse is situated in the grounds of Brodick Castle on the Isle of Arran, off the west coast of Scotland. It’s ideally positioned for access to the beach, Goat Fell and Brodick town centre. Arran offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hill walking, mountain bike trails and sea kayaking along the coast.
Please call our Holidays team for the latest availability on 0131 458 0305 and choose option 2, or email holidays@nts.org.uk
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