View historic Traquair in series of videos

In response to the Covid-19 crisis, Traquair House has come up with the novel idea of virtual guided tours of the house.
By Kevin Janiak
Published 28th May 2020, 09:38 BST
Catherine Maxwell Stuart at Traquair House.Catherine Maxwell Stuart at Traquair House.
Catherine Maxwell Stuart at Traquair House.

In common with all other visitor attractions, Traquair has had to close its doors to the public as a result of the lockdown.

With no clear idea yet of when the house and grounds will be able to reopen, thoughts turned to how visitors could experience the house online.

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Catherine Maxwell Stuart, 21st Lady of Traquair, came up with the idea of filming some mini videos, each lasting no more than three minutes, that will lead you on a virtual guided tour of the house.

Filmed by her daughter, Charlotte, the first film was launched on YouTube this week with great success.

Mrs Maxwell Stuart said: “Our idea is to build up a box set of around 20 mini videos which will give people an introduction to the history of the house and enable you to see into the rooms online.

“They are all filmed on an ipad so intended to be more quirky and homemade as opposed to a polished professional product, but you are guaranteed a personal insight into this extraordinary home.”

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The introductory video has had over 600 views in the first couple of days with viewers watching from all over the world.

A view of Traquair’s maze through one of the house’s windows.A view of Traquair’s maze through one of the house’s windows.
A view of Traquair’s maze through one of the house’s windows.

“We need to keep showing people all the wonderful places there are to visit in Scotland to inspire visitors to come back and visit us when lockdown restrictions are eased.”

It’s hoped Traquair will be able to open later in the year when it is safe to do so, but in the meantime is directing people to experience Traquair through a different medium.

The videos can be accessed at https://bit.ly/3d94U87

Related topics:YouTubeScotland

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