Join us for an activity-packed, history-focused charity day at Blair Castle, set against the stunning landscapes of Highland Perthshire.
Sunday 13th October 2024 10:00 AM – 16:00 PM
Ticket includes lunch in the ballroom plus exclusive activities
£25 per adult, £11.50 per child. (For children under 5, admission is free.)
This autumn, we are excited to present our “Women of Blair” charity day in collaboration with Smart Works Scotland, a remarkable charity that empowers women to re-enter the workforce through clothing and coaching. By purchasing a ticket, you’ll be supporting this important cause.
The ticket price includes a warm buffet lunch in the ballroom, where a cosy open fire will be lit. Female staff from the estate will be available to answer any questions about their role in this history-rich organisation.
Additionally, several special activities will be running on the day, you must book your place on each activity. Activities can only be booked if you are a Women of Blair x Smart Works Scotland ticket holder. All proceeds from the day will be donated to Smart Works Scotland.
We will have a designated Smart Works Scotland clothes drop-off area at the castle, please bring any workwear you would like to donate to the charity.
Hercules Garden Tour with Gardener, Jim
10:00 – 11:00
Join our knowledgeable gardener, Jim, as he guides you through the beautiful garden, sharing his expertise on the herbaceous borders, fruit trees, and vibrant pond.
Children’s Mini Ranger Experience with Ranger, Julia
10:00 – 11:00
The perfect activity for little rangers! Join Julia as she shows children what it’s like to be a ranger. She’ll explain how she monitors the wildlife on the estate, and together, you’ll help tidy a small area—stacking tree branches so wildlife can enjoy a new habitat. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Nature Walk with Ranger, Julia
11:15 – 12:15
Be at one with nature and enjoy the autumn colours on a walk through a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and hedgerows. Julia will share insights into the wildlife residing at Blair Castle, and with a bit of luck, you’ll spot some of it too.
‘Women of Blair’ History Talk with Archivist, Keren
12:45 – 13:15
Join our Archivist Keren as she shares interesting stories about the women of Blair Castle, from Margaret, Countess of Atholl in 1562 to today’s custodians, they have shaped its legacy through political activism, social reform, and management. Their strength, resilience, and innovation mirror the evolving roles of women, highlighting their power and influence on Atholl Estates.
Lunch in the Ballroom with Atholl Estate’s Staff
13:00 – 14:30
Warm up in the ballroom and join some of the great female staff of Atholl Estates for a cozy lunch and informal chat. Feel free to ask them any questions about their roles and working on the estate. With the fire lit, it promises to be a special autumnal gathering.
Castle Tour with Head Guide, Magda
14:45 – 15:45
Focusing on the incredible women who lived in and visited Blair Castle, Magda will guide you through its rooms, each revealing fascinating stories about the Women of Blair.
What’s on for children
Colouring competition in the Banvie hall
All day
If you were starting a new job, what would your outfit look like? Would it be bright and colourful, or smart and stylish? Draw your best idea, and you could win a prize!
Adventure playground
All day
Brand new for 2024 is our hidden playground in the woods. Our forest play area features a fantastic assault course for children to run, jump, balance and climb among the trees. It includes a wooden castle fort perfect for imaginative play and a sheltered picnic area with rustic log seating.
Children’s Mini Ranger Experience with Ranger, Julia
10:00-11:00
The perfect activity for little rangers! Join Julia as she shows children what it’s like to be a ranger. She’ll explain how she monitors the wildlife on the estate, and together, you’ll help tidy a small area—stacking tree branches so wildlife can enjoy a new habitat. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
About the charity
Smart Works Scotland are a UK based charity that exists to give women the confidence they need to reach their full potential, secure employment and change the trajectory of their lives. The women who go to Smart Works Scotland are referred from Job Centres, mental health charities, women’s refugees, homeless shelters, the prison service, care service and youth organisations.
63% of clients secure a job in a month. Once a woman has gained a role, she is welcomed back for a Second Dressing and receives a capsule wardrobe to last until her first pay cheque.
“We are delighted to partner with Blair Castle to offer this fantastic event to visitors and raise funds for Smart Works Scotland. Everyone is in for a real treat with the opportunity to enjoy a range of activities and meet the inspiring female staff who help to run the estate.” – Smart Works Scotland
To find out more about the charity click here.
Menus will be available soon.