Hogmanay While the rest of the world celebrates New Year’s Eve, in Scotland we celebrate “Hogmanay”. But what does it mean? Etymologists have debated the derivation of the word and there is no one accepted source. The word first appears in a 1443 Latin source as “hagnonayse”, with the first appearance in English being…
It is the 21st of December, one of those days that will always carry a somewhat magical feel with them. The winter solstice marks the beginning of the coldest season, and over the centuries it has been widely celebrated by many different cultures because of its connotations. But what does it actually represent? What are…
Our stunning Scottish mountains were named after Sir Hugh T. Munro, the first man to catalogue them. Hundreds of hiking enthusiasts travel across the country each year to tick new peaks off their list, but these climbs are no walk in the park. If your new year’s resolutions include conquering some of them, make sure…
There’s nothing better than coming in from the cold, curling up in front of a log-fire and opening a good book this winter. And with Christmas fast approaching you might be on the lookout for those last-minute presents for friends and relatives. Well, there are plenty of great places to pick up some fantastic reads.…
One of the best things about spending the holidays away from home is that you will not have to cook, if you do not want to. If you would like to dine out and indulge in a few local delicacies, here are a few suggestions for you. Achray House, St. Fillans Enjoy a romantic…
Scotland is well-known for its stunning vistas, with majestic mountains and lochs alive with fish and folktales; waterfalls crashing from the heights of the glens, forests and fairy pools, rugged highland landscapes and fertile farmland. The night brings a spectacle above to rival that of the picturesque colours and contours below, with constellations unfolding across…
Whether you celebrate the holidays or not, Christmas markets are among the most joyful events to attend this time of the year: from unique decorations and gifts to delicious foods and fun activities, these fairs truly have something to offer to everyone. However, it is easy to be overwhelmed by all the bright lights and…
The 2018 Netflix movie “Outlaw King”, stars Chris Pine as Robert the Bruce in his quest for the crown of Scotland. The film was shot on location in Scotland giving it a sense of authenticity. The film also had an overwhelming response to a call for local extras to play footsoldiers in Robert the Bruce’s…
On the 150th year after his birth, Glasgow is celebrating the life and work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, one of Scotland’s most renowned artists. Since January 2018 the lively city has been honouring his memory through numerous events and exhibitions, but if you have not had a chance to explore the Glasgow Mackintosh venues yet,…
Samhain is usually celebrated at sunset on the 31st of October. It is the traditional Celtic festival marking the coming of winter and the “darker half” of the year. Many rituals associated with Samhain have been carried down the years and co-opted by other religions or events. Samhain was believed to be a “liminal” time…