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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Trio of books celebrate Scotland’s fish

Drew Jamieson’s trio of books (Where the Wild Salmon Run, A Scottish Angler’s Companions and Where The Wild Trout Swim), are dedicated to salmon fishing, trout angling and days out with angling legends. His careful observations of trout and salmon, his advice on managing reservoirs and the classic waters for anglers make these three books…

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A life on the ocean wave for the Scottish pirates

Pirates and Privateers in the 18th Century provides an interesting account of pirates – a surprising number of whom were Scots in real life. They have been portrayed on the big screen, in plays and books as heroes, romanticising the reality of these criminals of the sea. This book destroys the myth of buried treasure…

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The former Queen of Scots with a famous brother

Margaret Tudor: The Life of Henry VIII’s Sister is brilliantly researched novel which transports the reader back to the 15th century. At times, this allows them to forget they’re reading non-fiction as they delve into the great and often hard life of a once Queen of Scots. Focused on Margaret Tudor, who is often overlooked…

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Scottish fable given new life in the 21st century

Originally a Scottish fable written in 1440 by Richard Holland, The Book of the Howlat is re-imagining of one of the poetic gems of medieval Scotland. It tells the moral story of being true to one’s own nature. Similar to the Ugly Duckling tale, this children’s book introduces the Howlat, a body-conscious young owl who…

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