The National Trust for Scotland has announced hat the historic visitor attraction is one of 11 properties owned by the charity which have beeen earmarked for closure as part of a cost-saving scheme.

Plans also include the loss of 91 jobs across the country, three of which involve permanent staff at Hill of Tarvit, plus seasonal workers.

Kellie Castle near Pittenweem has also been targeted in the move, but Falkland Palace has escaped the axe.

The NTS said Hill of Tarvit, an early 20th century country house, would be closed and a suitable tenant found.

It does, however, envisage that its 40 acres of gardens and estate — which includes a recently constructed hickory golf course — would be maintained and remain open to the public.

It is understood that it's business as usual for the moment at Hill of Tarvit with staff expecting to know more details about the proposal soon.

Blaming the economic downturn for the decision, NTS chief executive Kate Mavor said: "We will make every effort to work with our staff and external partners to minimise the changes to these properties.

"Our members and external partners can rest assured that we will only propose closure...if it is absolutely necessary."

Local politicians have been united in condemning the closure of Hill of Tarvit and the likely closure of Kellie Castle — if a deal for it to be run solely by volunteers can't be reached.

Stating the news was "devastating for tourism and the local economy," Iain Smith MSP said the loss of such significant sites would be felt for a long time to come.

North East Fife MP Sir Menzies Campbell added that both Liberal Democrat politicians would be seeking an urgent meeting with NTS chief executive Kate Mavor.

Mid Scotland and Fife MSP and shadow minister for culture, Ted Brocklebank described the move as "tragic" and said the decision surely went "against all the Trust stands for."

In his letter to Kate Mavor, which he also sent to Scotland's new culture minister Mike Russell, Mr Brocklebank has asked for the NTS to "seek all possible solutions short of closure."

He also called for all Fife Friends of the NTS to support this action.
In an early show of support for the Mansion House, the Seasons of Ceres group has announced it will donate 50 per cent of profits from its 'Gardeners Question Time' event on March 26 to the property.

Philip Riddle, VisitScotland's chief executive said: "This is disappointing news and underlines the challenges of the current economic situation.

"The National Trust for Scotland performs a crucial role, and its fascinating properties are a draw for visitors from around the world.
"I'm confident that they will come through this difficult time, with the same focus on quality that they have always had and will continue to welcome visitors for many, many years to come."