Policy Position: Historic Environment Scotland

Scattering Ashes Policy at Historic Scotland (Historic Environment Scotland)

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is responsible for the care and management of more than 300 of Scotland’s most important historic sites, ranging from prehistoric settlements to great royal castles and abbeys.

The organisation has confirmed that the scattering of cremated ashes is permitted at many sites in its care, subject to clear and sensible conditions.

Historic Scotland is currently reviewing its policy

Special restrictions at major castles

Due to the volume of requests received, additional restrictions apply at Scotland’s most visited fortresses.

Scattering of ashes at:

• Edinburgh Castle

• Stirling Castle

may only be granted where the deceased had a clear military connection to the castle. This reflects both the ceremonial role of these sites and the sheer number of enquiries received each year.

How to make an enquiry

Go to the Historic Environment Scotland website  (Bereavement services | Historic Environment Scotland) for more information. I would also be grateful if you could remove all the contact information and replace with the following email bereavement.services@HES.scot.

Sites in Historic Environment Scotland’s care

HES manages an extraordinary range of places that frequently hold deep emotional meaning for families, including:

• Edinburgh Castle

• Stirling Castle

• Urquhart Castle

• Glasgow Cathedral

• Skara Brae

• Iona Abbey

• Fort George

• Linlithgow Palace

• St Andrews Castle

• Melrose Abbey

Not all sites will be suitable, but many enquiries are considered sympathetically where the request is discreet and environmentally responsible.

About Historic Environment Scotland

Historic Environment Scotland is a non-departmental public body established under the Historic Environment Scotland Act 2014. It is also a registered charity (Scottish Charity No. SC045925), with its principal office at Longmore House in Edinburgh.

A note on accuracy

This information reflects Historic Environment Scotland’s stated position as updated in July 2026  As policies and site sensitivities can change, families should always contact HES directly to confirm the current position before making any arrangements.