Three historical recipes from Blair Castle archives

The magnificent grounds of Blair Castle welcomed the BBC Landward food van in episodes four, five and six of the latest series. Presenter Dougie Vipond and chef Nick Nairn reimagined dishes from the castle archives including potted trout and haunch of red deer venison, enjoyed by Queen Victoria during a visit to the estate in…

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Skullduggery and danger in the Munro saga

Clan feuds, skullduggery and medieval warfare feature in A House Divided, a turbulent tale of 16th century Scotland and France. In this eagerly awaited sequel to Turn of the Tide, Skea continues the story of the Munro family who are forced into hiding by William Cunninghame. Gripping from the get-go, with drama and intrigue woven…

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A mystery as the Clearances take hold on Skye

Anna Mazzola sets a dark and gothic scene in The Story Keeper, a period novel which explores multiple plot lines that weave together to form a story about a broken community, death and folklore. Mazzola’s careful attention to detail reveals the extent of the research that has gone into the writing of this book, which…

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A trip down memory lane to lost train routes

Julian Holland takes train lovers back in time to when some of Britain’s most stunning railways were in use, exhibiting historical photographs from their time in action.  A visual experience for enthusiasts which tells of 50 of the UK’s long lost railways and their original purpose and use in the present day. Breathe in the…

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McIlvanney was the godfather of tartan noir

Long before Rankin or Welsh had ever picked up a pen, William McIlvanney had already created some of the most iconic hard men in Scottish literature. The writer, who died in December 2015, casts a shadow over the literary world in Scotland even today, and his memory lives on with a prize named after him…

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So much to see in these 20 recommended walks

Raasay, with its rocky coastlines, dense forests and beautiful lochs, is a paradise for walkers. The twenty routes in this illustrated guide, Exploring Raasay, explore the spectacular scenery of this special island. Following tracks through forests, along coastlines and up to the summits of Dun Caan, walkers can enjoy some of the best views available…

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Volunteers sought for dementia golfing project

A project supporting people with dementia to be more active and healthy is recruiting golfing buddies. Movement for Memories, launched in September 2018, and delivered by Edinburgh Leisure is looking for volunteer Golf Buddies to support people living with dementia to be physically active. The project is supported with funding from the Life Changes Trust.…

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Get ready to enjoy a cruise on the River Tay

The starting date for the 2019 season of boat trips on the River Tay has been revealed.  From 16 May to September local people and visitors are being encouraged to discover the wildlife and sights of the River Tay with a range of fantastic boat trips. Trips include a return sailing from Broughty Ferry Harbour…

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This whisky celebration is a labour of love

The Scotch Whisky Treasures is a beautifully produced history of whisky distillation. Written by Scotsman Tom Bruce-Gardyn, who considers it a blessing to have grown up with Scotch whisky, he guides you through our most celebrated whisky regions, from Speyside to the Highlands and Western Isles. Award-winning drinks journalist and author Bruce-Gardyne’s passion for the…

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Fling yourself into the world of arts and crafts

Visitors can can discover the creative secrets of the artists and makers when taking part in Scotland’s leading open studios weekend. This year Spring Fling artists and makers are offering visitors the chance to learn about everything from painting and illustration to textile design, printmaking and pottery. There are even workshops and master classes on…

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