Scottish public values its iconic heather moorlands

Scotland’s bonnie purple heather is one of the country’s most characteristic habitats with heather, berries and grassland accounting for around 50 per cent of all Scotland’s uplands. But how much do we love it, and expect to see it in bloom in late summer, and do we know the many benefits it brings? With the…

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Coronavirus claims Hippfest silent film festival

The acclaimed Hippfest silent film festival, which was due to take place this weekend, has been postponed over Coronavirus fears. Falkirk Community Trust announced that the festival, held at Scotland’s oldest purpose-built cinema in Bo’ness, will no longer go ahead. The tenth festival, which was due to run from 18-22 March, was to celebrate the…

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When vampires came to the Scottish Highlands

I have always been a fan of the vampire genre, but this is a first for me: a tale of blood sucking horror set in the Highlands of Scotland. Despite the odd juxtaposition of genres, this is an enjoyable tale that I found difficult to put down. The lead character, Mark Campbell is well developed…

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Architectural gem for offers over £8million

Seton Castle, a late architectural masterpiece designed by Robert Adam in 1789 and built using stone from Seton Palace (said to be Mary Queen of Scots’ favourite residence), has been launched onto the market. Presented by Savills and Rettie, and situated within 10 miles of Edinburgh in the lush East Lothian countryside close to the…

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Burns Cottage rethatched in conservation project

Burns Cottage is ready for anything the weather can throw at it. Thatcher Dave Brooks this week added the final sheaf of wheat to the roof of the Bard’s cottage in Alloway. The cottage, owned and looked after by the National Trust for Scotland is undergoing extensive conservation work by the charity, including the replacement…

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Distillers launch a new drinks apothecary range

The Harris Wild Rose Tincture is the first release from the Isle of Harris Distillery’s new drinks apothecary range. Designed to complement Isle of Harris Gin serves and cocktails, the range is created in collaboration with plantswoman and herbalist Amanda Saurin. It can be added as required to create subtle new variations of the Harris…

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Ardbeg launches search for new distillery manager

The Ardbeg Distillery has launched a search for a new distillery manager. In October this year, Mickey Heads will retire as manager after 13 years in the role. During Mickey’s time, he has played a part in the spectacular growth of the Ardbeg brand while maintaining the impeccable quality of the whisky. He has also…

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Relocating 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…

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Play 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,…

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Capturing an estate in its year-round glory

Straloch Estate sits on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park, a diverse and beautiful spot for visitors. Photographer John MacPherson’s challenge was to capture the essence of this vast estate as a birthday gift for owner Lucy Holt from her husband Will. ‘I was approached to show the way the estate changes over the…

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