Queen Victoria's Historic Picnic Cottage Restored by National Trust for Scotland

The 19th-century cottage, originally built by Princess Louise, will reopen to the public in 2025 after extensive restoration.

The cottage, located on Mar Lodge Estate near Braemar, was in a poor state when acquired by the National Trust for Scotland in 1975.
Restoration work began in June 2023 and included clearing rubble, repointing mortar, and installing new doors, windows, and floors.
A covered wooden porch, part of the original design, was reinstated based on archaeological findings and archival drawings.
Specially commissioned furniture and information boards will enhance the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into royal leisure activities.
The project, supported by funding from the NTS USA Foundation, aims to preserve the cottage's 'fairytale' charm for future generations.