A RANGE of attractions and venues, some rarely accessible by the public, are set to throw the doors open in Clackmannanshire this month.
The 35th Doors Open Days is set to unlock places and stories across the Wee County during the weekend of September 28-29, providing free access to venues and events.
Organised and co-ordinated in the area by Clackmannanshire Heritage Trust, there are 26 places and events in this year’s programme.
Alloa Fire Station
Always a huge hit with families, Alloa Fire Station will be open between 2pm and 5pm on the Sunday.
Booking is not necessary, but visitors will be asked to leave in case an emergency call comes in.
Clackmannan Tower
The Wee County has more medieval tower houses per square mile than anywhere else in Scotland and tours of ever-popular Clackmannan Tower, the earliest part of which was probably built by a kinsman of Robert the Bruce in 1359, are already fully booked.
However, guided tours are still available at equally impressive Sauchie Tower, built circa 1415 by Sir James Schaw.
The tower is still in a remarkable condition and has been taken over by Clackmannanshire Heritage Trust in the last few years, with hopes in can be restored fully.
Visits will be by guided tours on the Sunday but booking is not necessary. Stonemason Erik Ramsay will be demonstrating stone carving from 10am to 12noon and from 1pm to 3pm.
Alloa Tower
One of the largest towers of its kind, Alloa Tower will also be open from 12noon on both days, with last entry at 3pm.
Owned by the National Trust for Scotland, the tower was home to the distinguished Erskine family, Earls of Mar, from the 14th century until 1800.
Menstrie Castle
Another historic property, Menstrie Castle will also be open between 12noon and 4pm on the Sunday.
The manor house was the birthplace of Sir William Alexander, who sought to establish a new colony called Nova Scotia.
Visitors will be able to hear about his life and learn how the scheme failed.
Alloa Mosque
Various places of worship will also be welcoming visitors with Alloa Mosque added to the programme for the first time this year.
Those heading along will be able to enjoy a guided tour while hearing about the historic links between Scotland and the Muslim world.
READ MORE: Former Alloa Advertiser reporter John Simpson dies
Clackmannanshire Heritage Trust’s Susan Mills, area co-ordinator and trustee, said: “We are delighted that so many people and organisations, more than ever before, are participating in this year’s Doors Open Days weekend and are grateful for their continuing enthusiasm and support.
“We are happy to have six new events and venues in the programme and hope that everyone will welcome lots of visitors during the weekend.”
Visit tinyurl.com/58md5u8r for the full programme.
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