Women of Blair x Smart Works Scotland Charity Day

When is this event?

1. 13th October 2024

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Join us for an activity-packed, history-focused charity day at Blair Castle, set against the stunning landscapes of Highland Perthshire.

Sunday 13^th 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
Step back in time and listen to captivating stories of how the duchesses lived in the castle over the years. Discover their daily routines, way of life, and the visitors who came to stay.

Lunch in the Ballroom with Atholl Estate’s Staff
13:00 – 14:30
Warm up after an autumnal walk and join some of the great female staff of Atholl Estates for a cozy buffet lunch in the ballroom. The fire will be lit, making this a really special autumnal lunch.

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
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
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
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 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 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.

There will be a work clothes donation box at the castle, please bring any unwanted smart clothing to donate to the charity.

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