The earliest known Highland Games in Scotland are lost to the mists of time. One of the earliest proposed origins dates to the 11th Century, when King Malcolm III organized a foot race at Craig Choinich in Braemar to determine the swiftest amongst his men to be his messenger. Whatever the truth of this story,…
Visitors from all over the world travel to Balquhidder to see the last resting place of Scottish outlaw and hero, Rob Roy MacGregor. Named “Roy” (gaelic Rudh) due to his red beard, MacGregor was a thorn in the side of the establishment of his day, known for cattle rustling and later as an outlaw. He…
If you’re looking to challenge yourself this year, get out and explore Scotland, get fit and explore the history and heritage of the country, then this blog might be for you. Who were the Caterans? In the middle ages, cattle thieves known as the Caterans terrorized the areas around Glenshee. The gaelic ‘ceatharn’ (warrior)…
Glencoe is perhaps one of the most infamous glens in Scotland due to the Glencoe Massacre which occurred in 1692. Following the accession to the throne of William III, a royal proclamation declared that the new subjects were to declare their allegiance to the king before 1st January 1692. The MacDonalds did not take this…
The dam and fish ladder at Pitlochry have long been a popular sightseeing spot for visitors. The addition of a café and visitor centre in 2017 have added a fun and family friendly experience to the site. Construction began in 1946 and the dam has been operational since 1951. The water flowing down the River…
The “Heart 200” is a new driving route following the success of the popular “Northcoast 500” in the north of Scotland. The route passes through stunning scenery, with the rolling hills and farms of Perthshire and the rugged lochs and glens of the Trossachs. It also includes the cities of Stirling and Perth. We have…
Bo’ness Station is a lovingly preserved monument to Scotland’s industrial heritage and a great day out for all ages. The station consists of a single platform and track from which regular steam train journeys take passengers on a one hour round trip up the tracks to Manuel Station. The station, tracks and trains, are maintained…
Once again we are approaching the longest day and shortest night of the year, for centuries a cause for celebration among many populations. Just like most pagan rites, this tradition also seems to have gotten lost over time and it is only kept alive in certain parts of the UK. Here is what we know…
Tyndrum is a quiet rural village on the road north into the Scottish highlands. Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, it is popular with walkers looking to bag a couple of munros or explore the West Highland Way that runs through the village. But Tyndrum is also known for the hidden treasures that lie under these…
As the end of April approaches, it is almost time for the yearly celebration of Beltane. Currently known as the popular Fire Festival that takes place on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, this traditional Celtic event has a long and fascinating history that dates all the way back to the Iron Age. Meaning “Beltane” can…