Scotland
Whisky fan sums up his year in a new book
Whisky enthusiast Ash Parmar has summed up his year of drams in a new book. The whisky connoisseur, founder, CEO of Eight PM, and entrepreneur from Waikato, New Zealand, has been working in liquor retail for the last 15 years. And now he’s compiled his most memorable moments in My Whisky Journey 2019. Ash said:…
Read MoreBrash McKelvie – Being watched on the scales isn’t fun
Scottish Field’s online columnist Brash McKelvie sets foot onto the scales. Here are the cast of characters that share the vicissitudes of life: Scragend – a Rhode Island Red of indeterminate age and foul nature. Shitting Cat – does exactly what it says on the tin. The Beloved – a paragon of virtue and a…
Read MoreScottish Rural Awards postponed due to Corona virus
The yearly celebration of Scottish rural community spirit will be postponed for the first time in its six year history due to the corona virus pandemic. The awards will now take place on 25 November. Organisers Scottish Field magazine and the Scottish Countryside Alliance have taken the difficult decision to postpone the event which was…
Read MoreCapital letters for Alexander McCall Smith
Alexander McCall Smith reveals how crucial a role Edinburgh has played in his life as an author. I had an unusual childhood. I grew up in Zimbabwe, which was wonderful. It gave me an abiding interest in Africa; I certainly couldn’t have written the Botswana books without that influence. I value my memories of the…
Read MoreThey’re gardening on top of the world
Gardening on Orkney may be an uphill struggle, but Euan and Fiona Smith’s 150-year-old walled garden shows it is worth the effort. However, it presents challenges that would daunt even the most enthusiastic of gardeners. Beautiful as the islands are, the constant battle with the wind and rain, plus the lack of shelter, makes it…
Read MoreFinding great Scottish wildlife experiences
A family-friendly book, 100 Great Wildlife Experiences delivers exactly what it promises. Counting down 100 of the UK’s majestic fauna and flora, he takes his readers on a nationwide wildlife tour, recommending the best places to spot lapwings, willow warblers, pine martens and more in Scotland. While the simple ‘countdown’ structure does not allow for…
Read MoreRelocating red squirrels is saving the species
Relocating endangered squirrels offers a road to recovery. Safeguarding red squirrels in Scotland may be an ongoing concern, but the pioneering work of one man is offering hope for the future of this threatened species. Ornithologist and wildlife consultant Roy Dennis MBE has an impressive track record. His name is frequently linked with ospreys, a…
Read MorePlay that funky music – in a classic vehicle
A DJ booth with a difference, the FunkWagen camper is certainly going places. From scale models on key rings to popping up on coffee mugs and wallpaper, retro VW camper vans have been enjoying a comeback. And one resurgent vehicle has become the life and soul of the party. Brainchild of Edinburgh entrepreneur Jane James,…
Read MoreTime to put an end to the tartan terrors
Unless we call a halt to the riot of garish new designs threatening our national dress – such as the luminous Incredible Hulk tartan – we risk losing the collective pride in our plaid. Tartan has been rooted in Scotland’s heritage for centuries. The history of the fabric goes back to the checked and striped…
Read MoreA blue ling with pearl barley risotto recipe
Blairgowrie fishmonger and chef Willie Little has a passion for fish. He moved into fish wholesaling, owning the company Ocean Traders, which led to him setting up his award-winning fishmonger, Fish in Crieff. Selling the wholesale company, Willie was left with the fishmongers, but for a man whose working day starts at 5.30am and ends…
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