Social Values Assessment Report: Fyvie Castle, Gardens and Estate

Abstract

This report is based on the findings from a rapid, qualitative assessment of the social values associated with Fyvie Castle, Gardens and Estate, a property in the care of the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) in rural Aberdeenshire. The main body of the report provides a brief context to the assessment, outlines the research process and methods, summarises the findings, and considers their potential implications. It also notes the gaps and limitations of the study, suggesting future research directions. The assessment found that the property is valued by multiple communities, with overlapping interests, values, and activities associated with different aspects of the Castle, gardens, and grounds. However, competing claims of moral ownership, the different roles and functions ascribed to the property (including how it operates as a public space), and the wide range of activities and attachments, also give rise to differing expectations and views regarding what is important and appropriate for its future management and conservation. The findings are illustrated with material from interviews, surveys, participant observation, and participatory methods. This assessment was undertaken as one of the pilot studies for the collaborative research project, Social values of NTS heritage places: towards an organisational approach.