The state-of-the-art Battle of Bannockburn visitor centre will open its doors to the public tomorrow (1 March 2014).

This joint project between the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) and Historic Scotland supported by a Heritage Lottery Fund grant of £3.94m – commemorates the famous battle which took place on the site 700 years ago in 1314. The new centre is the first tourist attraction in the world to use state-of-the-art motion capture techniques to immerse visitors in a realistic and historically accurate medieval battle in 3D.

Colin McLean, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland, said: “With its ground-breaking approach, there has been a real buzz and excitement about the opening of Bannockburn, and rightly so. It takes the visitor experience to a new level using cutting edge technology to immerse everyone in the history and heritage of this iconic battle site.

“We are extremely proud that Bannockburn joins other leading heritage sites across the UK that have reaped the long-lasting benefits of HLF funding. For centuries the Battle of Bannockburn has inspired artists, writers and political thinkers worldwide. It will now inspire a whole new generation as it establishes itself as a significant international tourist destination and a valuable education resource.”

Notes to editors

A new look for 2014: The Battle of Bannockburn project is an exciting partnership between the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Scotland, funded by the Scottish Government and the Heritage Lottery Fund. An innovative new visitor centre, sensitive landscaping and the painstaking conservation of the hilltop monuments will change the way visitors experience Bannockburn, making it a truly world-class site for this defining moment in Scotland’s history.

The new Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre will use state of the art installations to interpret and explain the circumstances that led up to this pivotal event in our history and its consequences. The Scottish Government has committed £5million through Historic Scotland, and £4.1million has been awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Bannockburn tickets

Tickets are on sale now for the new Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, opening 1 March. Entry is limited and by timed slots only. Ticket costs are between £8 for a child/concession and £30 for a family ticket for 2 adults and up to 4 children. Trust members go free. Secure yours now by enlisting at The Battle of Bannockburn website.

Heritage Lottery Fund

Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) aims to make a lasting difference for heritage, people and communities across the UK and help build a resilient heritage economy. Funding for the Bannockburn Centre was made by HLF’s Board who are responsible for awarding grants of over £2million to projects throughout the UK. Grant applications of under £2million are considered by HLF’s Committee for Scotland.

To date HLF has invested over £611m in Scotland’s heritage. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, every aspect of Scotland’s heritage has benefitted.