Posts by Kenny Smith
The Graffiti Project led to a funky artistic Scotland
In 2007 Alice Boyle managed to persuade Brazilian street artists to paint a phantasmagoria on the ancient walls of her family home, Kelburn Castle, in Ayrshire. The Graffiti Project became a global sensation and a symbol of a new, funkier Scotland. Yet when it came to her own hopes of becoming an artist, she was…
Read MoreOur top 10 of Scotland’s very own jurassic parks
From mammoth tusks to reptilian remains, Scotland is home to a surprisingly large number of fossil finds. Over the years, many prehistoric discoveries have been made, and here we round up 10 of our favourites. 1. Giant scorpion In 2010, while walking in north east Fife, Dr Martin Whyte from the University of Sheffield stumbled…
Read MoreB&B in the shadow of Ben Nevis is on the market
One of Fort William’s best-known B&Bs is now on the property market. Presented for sale by Bell Ingram, The Gantocks, which enjoys panoramic views across Loch Linnhe and the Ardgour Hills, is currently operating as a 5* Bed and Breakfast but would equally make a superb family home. The spacious accommodation at The Gantocks is…
Read MoreAn interesting guide to Scotland and the Scots
This entry in Winn’s ‘I never knew that’ series sees the author take a tour around Scotland detailing the people that have made this great land what it is. Various luminaries are detailed alongside their achievements and legacies. He also focuses on various well-known families and we learn of notable members of these clans and…
Read More10 fascinating facts about… Oban and Argyll
Situated on Scotland’s scenic west coast, Oban is known as the Gateway to the Isles. With its name being derived from its Gaelic name An t-Òban, which means The Little Bay, the titular bay is a perfect horseshoe shape that offers spectacular views as the sun sets. Oban is a great place for tourists heading…
Read MoreFranco Manca is a sweet option with sourdough
If I’m honest, they had me at sourdough. I’m a sucker for the deliciously flavoursome, crisp, yet chewy bread. The only way to top it (sorry) would be to add cheese, veg and meat to create a delicious sourdough pizza. Enter Franco Manca, one of the latest additions to the burgeoning dining scene in Edinburgh’s…
Read MoreTwo new limited edition Tomatin expressions
Award-winning Highland distillery Tomatin has today announced the release of two new limited-edition expressions. They will be releasing a 2009 Caribbean Rum Finish and 2006 s Finish. The 2009 Caribbean Rum expression was initially matured for nine years in traditional Scotch Whisky Oak Casks before a one year finish in first fill Caribbean Rum Barrels.…
Read MoreScottish Crime Book of the Year finalists revealed
The four finalists have been revealed for the McIlvanney Prize – the award given for the Scottish Crime Book of the Year. The winner will be presented with the honour at the opening reception of Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival at the Church of the Holy Rude, Stirling on Friday 20 September. The finalists…
Read MoreFormer farmhouse offers a great modern home
A well-presented former farmhouse with attached refurbished steadings on a quiet country lane is now for sale in central Scotland. Newton Farm, presented by Robb Residential, as the name suggests, was at one time a working farmhouse with traditional attached steadings. The house has been in the same ownership since 2007, during which time it…
Read More10 fascinating facts about the Loch Ness Monster
The Loch Ness Monster has been a source of mystery and fascination for over a thousand years. From its earlier reported sighting to the modern day, the waters of Britain’s largest body of fresh water have intrigued the world. A New Zealand scientific team this week revealed their findings after studying DNA traces found in…
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