Glenfinnan

Galmstrup Architects have worked continuously since 2019 with the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) preparing strategic masterplans and conducting conservation works for a number of their islands and estates in the Western Highlands. Sites include the double UNESCO World Heritage site St. Kilda, NNR and SSSI sites Torridon, Kintail and Glenfinnan and the islands Fair Isle, Canna and Staffa. Our work combines masterplanning and feasibility studies with community engagement, content and interpretation strategies, and a pragmatic approach to operation and implementation.

At Glenfinnan we were first commissioned to provide a feasibility study for a new Visitor Center replacing the NTSs existing facilities. We were then asked back in 2022 to provide a strategic masterplan and visitor study based on a number of community and stakeholder conversations. The Glenfinnan Visitor Centre sets in the spectacular Highland landscape overlooking Loch Shiel and the monument for the 1745 Jacobite Rising on one side, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct where the famous Jacobite steam train crosses. The proposal unites views to the monument and viaduct from a viewing platform forming the roof of a new visitor center, while absorbing the many peak time visitors during summer.

CLIENT: National Trust for Scotland
LOCATION: Glenfinnan, Scotland
MASTERPLAN: Galmstrup Architects
ARCHITECTURE: Galmstrup Architects
VISITOR EXPERIENCE: Cultural Projects