Scotland (EXPLORE)

'Dedicated to the protection, preservation, study and appreciation of Scotland’s historic buildings ... We have around 1000 members throughout Scotland and beyond, with six regional groups organising local activities and carrying out casework. We are supported by a fantastic network of volunteers without whom we could not operate.'

'Non-profit organisation which exists to promote a greater understanding of Asia through the sharing of knowledge. We run regular events with global leaders from across Asia, with the aim of stimulating curiosity and fostering an environment to promote the exchange of knowledge.'

'An independent publishing house based in Edinburgh, Scotland. The company is built on traditions of the written and spoken word and is constantly looking to the future. Established in 1992, Birlinn Limited publishes books under a number of imprints: Birlinn; Polygon; BC Books; Arena Sport; and John Donald ... The long-standing aim of Birlinn Ltd is to create an inclusive staff team and nurture writers and illustrators who together reflect the diversity and stories of our nation and the audience who will read them. Whilst we sit at the heart of cultural life in Scotland, our authors are known far beyond, and we are proud of what we have achieved together since we started out in 1992.'

'At Books from Scotland, we feel that we are best representing the literature of Scotland when we are most effectively engaging people in those ideas and stories, in the diversity of landscapes, characters, themes and voices which have grown out of, or been influenced by, these shores. Scotland has a long, illustrious history of originating creative thought, and we believe the conversation is well served by the books which come out of this country.'

The BSS promotes the study of non-flowering plants and algae, fungi and lichens as well as flowering plants. In this broad scope we are unique among British botanical societies ... Activities include lectures, symposia, field excursions, field projects and an annual Scottish Botanists' Conference (held jointly with the BSBI) for exchange of information between botanists working in different areas.'

'Local groups are based in the Borders, Edinburgh, Fife, Glasgow and the Highlands (Inverness). These groups offer members (and non-members) a chance to meet other Humanists for interesting talks, discussion, socialising and much more. Membership of Humanist Society Scotland entitles you to attend their meetings, film nights, debates and social occasions.'

'Discover how local authorities work with organisations to take action for nature and how this benefits you and your area.' Localities providing access to details of 'live' Scottish Councils' and Regions' Local Biodiversity Partnerships discovered so far.

'We’re the largest member organisation in Scotland. As a conservation charity, we’re supported by more than 300,000 members and are funded largely by donations ... There are now 32 National Trust for Scotland Members' Centres, Members' Groups and Friends' Groups throughout Scotland, one in Cambridge and one in London. Members of the National Trust for Scotland can join one or more of the groups, usually on payment of a small annual membership fee ... The Centres give an opportunity to share interests and find out more about the Trust and Scotland's heritage. Most have varied programmes of talks, social events and day outings throughout the year.'

'We are a dynamic educational charity with far-reaching influence and a mission to inspire and inform. By thinking geographically, championing good practice, working with leaders and experts, and engaging with public audiences, we are precisely placed to inform policy, influence joined-up decision making, and inspire action, all to help address national and global challenges. We use our networks, knowledge and reputation to shape positive, practical policy solutions ... We run the best national talks programme in Scotland, Inspiring People, with illustrated talks from September to March each year. Our inspiring speakers – explorers, scientists, artists, academics, naturalists, leaders, communicators and enthusiasts – bring us amazing stories of journeys and adventures, and refreshing insights into current issues.'

'The Society was founded by the great Scottish physicist and natural philosopher Sir David Brewster in 1821 as an '"mproving society" dedicated to the promotion of invention and enterprise. Its original name - "The Society for the Encouragement of the Useful Arts in Scotland" - showed that it was concerned with the fields that we would now describe as science, technology, engineering and manufacture, but which were then known as the useful arts, as opposed to the fine arts ... In more recent times, the Society's meeting programme has been based on lectures given by expert and often distinguished speakers. The lectures cover a wide range of scientific and technical topics, but still with the original aim of keeping the membership informed about current concerns in science, engineering, medicine, and often with a topical edge. '

'Promotes and encourages the study of Scottish family history, and provides a forum for the exchange of information among members. SAFHS is an umbrella association of Scottish Family History Societies, and individual direct membership is not possible ... Annual Conferences are organised by member societies in conjunction with SAFHS who is willing to help and underwrite such events. They promote family history to the public through programmes of talks, sale of publications and recruitment of new members to societies. Those attending have the opportunity to meet others with similar interests and exchange ideas.'

'The purpose of the Scottish Beekeepers Association is to support honey bees and beekeepers and to improve the standard of beekeeping, and to promote honey bee products in Scotland through: * The advancement of education in relation to the craft of beekeeping; * The advancement of the heritage, culture and science of beekeeping ; * The advancement of environmental protection by conservation of the honey bee.'  Over 40 Affiliated Beekeeping Associations support the work of the SBA.

'Set up in 1967, to help people connect to their built heritage and take a leading role in guiding its development ... Our Mission is to celebrate Scotland’s built environment, take action for its improvement and empower its communities.'

'SOC exists to promote the study, enjoyment and conservation of wild birds and their habitats across Scotland. On the face of it, the SOC is a birdwatching club with 15 local branches across the country and a growing membership of over 3000. We bring together like-minded individuals with a passion for birds, nature and conservation, through a programme of talks, outings, conferences and via the Club's quarterly members' journal, Scottish Birds. We are heavily dependent on keen volunteers and the support of our membership.'

Founded 1933: 'We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming to all who share our interest in the wide range of plants that fall under the scope of the "rock garden" from the tiniest cushion plants to trees ... The SRGC supports local Groups in many parts of Scotland and the North of England and is always open to helping form new groups. The main remit of the SRGC is to spread the word and share the fascination for the plants at every level of expertise catering for all from the absolute beginner and the world’s top professionals at the same time'.

'Founded in 1780 and incorporated by Royal Charter in 1783, the Society’s purpose is “to investigate both antiquities and natural and civil history in general, with the intention that the talents of mankind should be cultivated and that the study of natural and useful sciences should be promoted”.'

'The Theosophical Society in Scotland is a part of the world-wide theosophical movement with its centre in Adyar, India. The Society is dedicated to the comparative study of religion, science and philosophy and the practice of the Art of Self-Realisation. The Society is composed of members of different religious backgrounds who are united in a belief that mankind is a spiritual family and that humanity can have a glorious future through a compassionate and intelligent way of living.'

Founded 1984: 'The Society’s aim is to promote the knowledge and appreciation of the life & works of Richard Wagner ... We hold meetings monthly from September to June/July and a residential study course in the summer ... We welcome guests to our talks, and offer substantial discounts should you decide to become a member. Students are eligible for free membership and attendance at the talks.'