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The latest issue of Hidden Scotland magazine is now live and ready to pre-order.

Inside this issue you’ll travel from the quiet bays of the Scottish Borders to the Isle of Rum, meet wildlife filmmaker Gordon Buchanan, discover Scotland’s best farm shops, explore beautiful boutique hotels, and dip into some of the country’s open-air lidos.

You’ll also find Lorna Freytag’s guide to Oban, a recipe from Edinburgh’s Lannan Bakery, beachcombing with Laurie Goodlad, and a detailed guide to Inverness and the surrounding area.

All pre-orders include:

→ A 'Brodie Castle' bookmark
→ A5 print of the front cover image

Order soon, as the A5 print and bookmark are available for a limited time only.

If you are a subscriber to Hidden Scotland magazine, then your order will automatically come with the bookmark and print.

We hope that you enjoy reading issue 12, and as always, thank you again for your continued support.

We will begin shipping magazines from Scotland early April.

What’s inside

We visit the quiet bays of the Borders, travel to the green contours of the Isle of Rum, meet experts in ceramics and wildlife film-making - Gordon Buchanan fans you’re in for a treat - and turn deserved attention to everything from modern lifestyle stores to medieval castles.

A common theme in the issue is a sense of character and purpose. We round up some of the country’s best farm shops, all of which reconnect people with local produce; visit a truly stylish selection of independent boutique hotels; and take a bracing dip in some of Scotland’s most notable open-air lidos (this is, after all, the Spring/ Summer issue).

There’s much more to enjoy, too. Artist Lorna Freytag gives excellent advice on how best to spend time in and around Oban, Darcie Maher of Edinburgh’s Lannan Bakery shares a recipe for spelt jammies, while writer Laurie Goodlad rambles the shorelines to highlight the many pleasures of beachcombing.

We take a detailed look at Inverness and the surrounding area, spotlighting what to see, where to eat and stay, and how to make the most of a trip to one of Scotland’s most varied regions.

All pre-orders will come with a free A5 print of our front cover image and a Brodie Castle bookmark. A note to all our subscribers, this is also included with your magazine.

To secure your pre-order click the link below.

Thank you, as always, for reading and supporting Hidden Scotland.

 

This week is sponsored by

Atholl Estates offers a wide selection of holiday accommodation for couples, families and groups wishing to explore beautiful Highland Perthshire.

Kabn - Loch Fyne

Today's weekly takes approximately 12 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

This week’s email takes you from a quiet Burns Supper at home to the extraordinary spectacle of Up Helly Aa in Lerwick, where Shetland’s Viking fire festival lights up the streets each January. Graeme Johncock shares the journey north, the rough winter crossing, and the atmosphere of a night built around torches, tradition, and community.

Our Sunday Special Offer is The Best of Edinburgh guide for £10, and we’re also sharing a closer look at Kabn on Loch Fyne, two off-grid cabins set up for slow days, big views, and time outdoors. The accommodation pick this week is Airdit in Fife, a peaceful base with easy access to St Andrews and the East Neuk.

Enjoy the quiz, and good luck.

1.What is the deepest loch in Scotland?

2.What is the name of the ancient sea stack that is the tallest in the UK, found in Orkney?

3.Which wall, built by the Romans, marks the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire in Scotland?

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

Burns Suppers & Burning Boats To Kick Off 2026

January is always a cold, dark, bleak month to deal with in Scotland. The fun- filled festivities of Christmas and Hogmanay have faded away, leaving empty pockets and sore heads behind. We’ve had storm after storm to handle, keeping most of us indoors and keeping me from doing much exploring!

However, there are two big events that really defined my January – one that I’m very familiar with and another entirely new to me.

The 25th of January is Burns Night for most of Scotland and many around the world. It’s a celebration of Scotland’s National Poet – Robert Burns. From humble beginnings, this farmer from Ayrshire became a celebrity toasted at the dinner tables of Scotland’s high and mighty thanks to his poetry.

Burns’ work revolved around everyday themes, written by a regular guy, which allowed it to speak to people more than a classically trained poet ever could. That’s the real reason we still celebrate it in the modern age and while I’m usually hired to perform at a big hall or public dinner, I decided to go back to the real roots of Burns Night this year, enjoying a quiet Burns Supper at home with friends.

The very next day, I found myself on a 12-hour ferry heading to Shetland in the very far north of Scotland. It was as rough a journey as I’ve ever experienced, the boat tossed around in stormy waters all through the night. There was a good reason I made the trip in such poor weather – it was Up Helly Aa time!

On the last Tuesday in January every year, Lerwick celebrates its annual fire festival. There are actually a dozen different Up Helly Aa events in different communities around the Shetland Isles, but Lerwick’s is by far the biggest and most famous. After experiencing it for the first time, I can testify that it lives up to its reputation.

Rushing off the boat, I made it in time for the first procession of the day, when the Guizar Jarl and his squad of 65 Vikings parade through the streets. This is the first look for most people of their expertly crafted armour, weapons and scale longship, based on a figure from the Norse sagas, which has remained a closely guarded secret all year.

The festival celebrates Shetland’s Scandinavian connection, having been part of the Kingdom of Norway for centuries. Up Helly Aa itself only goes back to the late 1800s, created as a way to channel the pyromania of local youths into something more productive.

Luckily, I had a local guide in the shape of Shetland With Laurie, who made sure I didn’t miss any of the day’s highlights. She led me through the streets to get the best view as Lerwick was suddenly lit up by the flames of a thousand torches. This is the pinnacle of the night, around 50 squads in fancy dress, carrying torches on their way to burn the Viking galley.

It was nothing short of incredible, but the celebration wasn’t over yet. We retired to one of the dozen party halls where the drinking, eating and dancing were broken up by the arrival of those squads to perform questionable party pieces. Even though I was an outsider, I was welcomed with open arms by the friendliest of locals.

They were far tougher than me though, still partying strong when I trudged to my hotel at 5am. What a way to bring warmth, light and laughter to the darkest of months!

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itineraries, click here.

Did you know tartan was once outlawed?

Tartan might feel like one of Scotland’s most familiar symbols today, worn proudly at weddings, Highland games, and formal occasions around the world. Yet for a time, it was seen as something far more threatening. After the Jacobite uprising and the defeat at Culloden in 1746, the British government moved quickly to dismantle the Highland clan system, which they viewed as a source of rebellion. Part of that effort included banning Highland dress, including tartan and kilts, under the Dress Act of 1746.

The law made it illegal for most Highland men to wear “the Highland clothes,” with punishments ranging from imprisonment to transportation. Soldiers in Highland regiments were exempt, meaning tartan survived in military use even as it disappeared from everyday life. The ban lasted for 35 years, only being repealed in 1782, by which point much of the traditional clothing culture had already been disrupted.

In the decades that followed, tartan returned in a very different form, embraced during the Victorian revival of Highland imagery and eventually becoming the celebrated national icon it remains today.

Sunday Special Offer

The Best of Edinburgh: A Hidden Scotland Guide
Get today for £10

Welcome to Hidden Scotland’s guide to Edinburgh, a city unlike any other. Scotland’s capital fits all manner of descriptions – time capsule, trendsetter, visitor magnet, festival heartland – but above all it simply is what it is: a place apart. Topped by a fortress and stuffed with big sights and mazy stories, it successfully straddles the last millennium and a half by somehow being both locked in the past and fixated on the future.

Kabn: nature’s little luxuries

Drawing inspiration from African safaris, Kabn delivers a connection to nature that is luxurious, restorative and responsible, with two Japandi off-grid cabins on the shores of Loch Fyne. Stays offer an almost instant exhale of tension, writes Emily Rose Mawson, as she meets Kabn’s founders to discover the journey that brought them here.

A Google search for the address of Kabn, two “luxury loch view cabin suites” on the eastern shores of Loch Fyne, reads: Unnamed Road, Cairndow. It’s suitably non-specific for a place that is swallowed by natural beauty, seven minutes along a private track from the main road in the Ardkinglas Estate, on the edge of a woodland of Scots pine and silver birch trees, on one of those crinkly coastlines that Argyll is renowned for. It’s a sound bath of birdsong, rustling leaves and lapping water, with air that carries the salty tang of seawater and the earthy scent of pine after rain.

“Visually, there’s this breathtaking contrast,” says Kabn co-founder Amber Pledge, of the cabins in their setting. “The wild beauty of Loch Fyne stretching out in front of you, shifting with the light throughout the day, and then the warmth and simplicity of the cabin waiting for you – natural wood, soft textures and huge windows that frame the landscape.” She pauses, then adds: “I think what captivates most people isn’t just what they see, smell or hear; it’s what they feel.”

The idea for the cabins started on safari in Africa, where Amber and her husband Charlie, then working in “structured corporate careers” as a debt finance lawyer and an insurance underwriter, saw “how beautifully luxury hospitality and sustainability can exist side by side in the wild”. These experiences don’t just offer comfort in extraordinary settings, says Amber. Instead, “they actively contribute to safeguarding wildernesses. There’s something profoundly visceral about being in the wild there. It’s a reconnection to what it really means to be human.”

Many conversations followed – “about the kind of life we wanted to build and about our shared love of travel and luxury hospitality” – before Amber and Charlie, who had spent a lot of time visiting Scotland over the years, settled on the “breathtakingly beautiful” location of Loch Fyne and started developing Kabn, with conscious intention. Design is purposefully understated, mixing Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian aesthetics and lots of glass, including a glass-slatted gable in Shio Kabn and a panoramic glass corner in Teru Cabin. With construction, the couple drilled down to the most sustainable details: the cabins were prefabricated off-site to minimise construction impact, they sit on light-touch, removable foundations, and are clad in charred timber, a naturally antifungal, eco-friendly alternative to chemical treatments. And amenities are thought through, too, with complimentary organic herbs and spices, handmade ceramics and organic, fair-trade linens – small touches that balance sustainability and comfort, according to Amber. “Ultimately, we want guests to feel that every choice we’ve made is done with intention,” she reflects. “It’s not just about being off-grid; it’s about creating an experience that feels luxurious, restorative and responsible.”

This article continues on our website, where you can read the full piece.

Behind the Lens with Robert Andrew

Photographer Robert Andrew has spent over a decade working in Scotland’s mountains, documenting the labour-intensive craft of upland path building. Armed with a manual Hasselblad and a deep respect for the terrain and the people who work it, his work captures a demanding, often overlooked world shaped by weather, effort, and endurance.

For just over ten years, I’ve lived and worked all over the Scottish mountains with a small close-knit team of men and women who toil their hearts out to construct, maintain, and improve a network of safe upland routes for all who enjoy the wilderness of the Scottish landscape. I’m a trained photographer, among other things; my first photograph of these characters was made shortly after being handed a pair of gloves on a cold morning in February 2012 on a snow-covered field in Balmaha, Stirlingshire, with the task of bagging 180 tonnes of quarried rock for the path rebuild on Conic Hill. In pursuit of these photographs, I stick to using an analogue 6 x 6cm Hasselblad camera – a system that has neither electronics nor batteries to succumb to the cold, wet, harsh environments of the mountain altitudes.

In many ways it has been a very rewarding experience. Learning the craft of upland path construction has afforded an excellent opportunity to build up an extensive archive of photographic material that, I hope, will offer viewers a unique insight into a little-known occupation, considered to be one of the most physically demanding out there. The photographs I’ve made are inseparably threefold in genre - landscape, portrait, and documentary. A 1st place award I received from the 2020 Scottish Portrait Awards may be somewhat testament to the interesting portraiture aspect of these photographs.

The path-work itself is an ancient craft using fairly primitive tools – heavy hammers, iron bars, buckets and spades. The tools are carried up into remote locations where they will remain until a project is complete, and then they are carried back out. The work is very physically draining, often involving long daily walks of up to 25 kilometres. On top of the physical nature of the work, one must be prepared to endure whatever the weather may bring, with nowhere to shelter when the weather turns severe. Whilst working in Scottish mountain environments, I’ve had to endure blizzards, savage gales, endless heavy rain, hail-storms, -20 degrees celsius wind chill, as well as fizzing clouds of the dreaded Scottish midges – the worst of all!

I keep journals of these exploits, and have many times tried to write something that might capture the essence or accurately describe aspects of this occupation. An excerpt from a journal kept during work on a path to the summit of Ben Alligin reads –

“It’s raining, and before we exit the vehicle guys are doing things in order to delay the pending misery ahead...fumbling in dry-bags, eating a snack, checking phones, rolling smokes, chatting...

Walking uphill our oilskin garments are not breathable and quickly build up moisture and condensation on the inside, which soaks into the wearer’s dry clothes underneath. A rainy trek in oilskins is particularly disheartening, because one way or another, dampness and discomfort is absolutely guaranteed.

It is difficult to describe how a very tired body actually feels while it is perspiring profusely inside a rubber suit, carrying tools and a weighty pack, on an uphill trek on relentlessly steep rough ground – often being blown in the opposite direction by strong gusting winds. It is not a fun time. Sticky, damp, overheating, sweating, breathing heavily, drained, exhausted, pursued by bloodthirsty horse-flies, but alive. On so many occasions such as these, I have seriously questioned the value of going through with this suffering.”

Despite days like these, the Scottish mountains have a sublime quality that seems to redeem them no matter what, for they are timeless masterpieces of nature. Even in the foulest weather, they inspire awe; they behold an endearing majestic beauty that has beckoned me back time and time again with spade, pinch-bar, bucket, and my old veteran Hasselblad camera.

Read the full article online.

To find out more about Robert click here.

This week's accommodation recommendation…

Airdit

A stay at Airdit offers a perfect place to slow down and soak in the stunning Fife countryside. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, yet with easy access to the likes of St Andrews, Dundee and The East Neuk, Airdit is a beautiful getaway for a break from the norm.

Find out more

Subscribe Today

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Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

 

This week is sponsored by

Atholl Estates offers a wide selection of holiday accommodation for couples, families and groups wishing to explore beautiful Highland Perthshire.

Burns Cottage

Today's weekly takes approximately 13 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

Each year, Burns Night takes place on 25 January to celebrate the life and legacy of Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns. Whether you call Scotland home or you’re marking it from further afield, it’s a day that pulls people back towards the same stories, songs and sense of place.

To mark the occasion, this week’s email follows Burns beyond Alloway, with Graeme Johncock tracing a route from his Ayrshire beginnings through Mauchline and Ellisland Farm, then on to Dumfries for the Globe Inn, the Burns Centre, his final home, St Michael’s, and the mausoleum.

There’s a Sunday Special Offer running today too. Issue 02 is £8 and comes with a free cover print and bookmark, and it’s also last chance to get the discounted Hidden Scotland set at £90 (usually £150), with The Best of Skye book included free this weekend.

Elsewhere, the wildlife feature looks at the Scottish wildcat and the conservation work underway to protect the Highland tiger, and this week’s accommodation recommendation is The Scullery in the Scottish Borders, a one-bedroom hideaway in the Yarrow Valley.

Enjoy the quiz this week, and good luck.

1.The chief of which clan was once known as the Lord of the Isles?

2.What is the highest village in Scotland

3.What is the name of Scotland’s only Unesco listed town?

4.In which village was Robert Burns born?

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

Following The Footsteps Of Robert Burns

Every year, thousands of people head to Alloway to see the birthplace of Scotland’s National Poet – Robert Burns. However, that’s just the start of the bard’s journey and I always encourage people to follow his footsteps just a little further. There are many more interesting places to see between his Ayrshire birthplace and burial in Dumfries!

Burns Birthplace Cottage & Museum

Alloway is the obvious place to start for anybody interested in Robert Burns. Not only can you find the restored cottage where he spent the first few years of his life, there’s also a wealth of artefacts on display in the museum!

Of course, there are plenty of things you would expect to find in a museum dedicated to a writer, like his desk or handwritten copies of poetry. To me, the most interesting items that give a real connection to Burns the man were basic things like his initialled sock or shaving razer!

Mauchline Burns House Museum

25 minute drive

As a young adult, Robert Burns took on a farm near Mauchline where he would meet the love of his life Jean Armour. It’s said that Burns’ dog ran over Jean’s clean washing at the drying green and her angry shouts were the first words they shared!

It’s free to explore the house where they lived together when first married, including the room Jean gave birth to the first of their children. There are rare manuscripts and other interesting items from the bard’s life as well as information about the people that inspired his poetry who lived in Mauchline.

Ellisland Farm

1 hour drive

If there’s one place that brings Burns’ story to life most for me, then it’s Ellisland Farm. Robert Burns built the farmhouse and worked it with Jean, finally living his dream life. Despite the hard labour and long hours, this is where most of his poetry and songs were created! Here, you can stand in the room where Auld Lang Syne was written or walk the river path where Tam o Shanter was conjured up!

It’s said that when Burns was offered his choice of plots for building his farm, he picked the prettiest spot over the best farmland. Clearly, he knew what he was talking about, but sadly the farm was never productive. In the end, he was forced to take on a job as an exciseman to help make ends meet and soon left Ellisland behind.

Lunch At The Globe Inn

15 minute drive

The 400-year-old Globe Inn was Robert Burns’ favourite drinking den, but these days it’s a very nice restaurant and bar. As well as enjoying some fine dining, you can book onto a tour to see some of the rooms familiar to the poet.

The highlight for me is the opportunity to sit in Burns’ actual chair like a true fanboy There’s only one rule though – you have to recite some Burns poetry or buy a round for the whole bar!

Robert Burns Centre

10 minute walk

Along the banks of the River Nith you’ll find another visitor centre dedicated to Robert Burns inside an old Mill. As well as the informational video and collection of items, it’s the scale model of Old Dumfries that I find truly fascinating! It’s displayed just as it would have been in the late 18^th century to give you a Burns-eye view of the town!

Dumfries Burns House Museum

10 minute walk

Like most buildings where Burns lived, his Dumfries home has been turned into a small museum. This is where the poet died at the age of 37 and Jean carried on living for 40 years after! It’s a real treasure trove of stories and you can even find Burns’ signature etched into the window!

My favourite item is a copy of Burns’ work dedicated to Mrs Graham of Fintry with the line, “May every child of yours, in the hour of need, find such a friend as I shall teach every child of mine that their father found in you.”

St Michael’s Church

A short stroll from the Robert Burns House is the beautiful St Michael’s Church. As the oldest church in Dumfries, there’s a lot of history packed in here with plenty of nods to Robert Burns. You can even sit in the Burns family pew, and imagine the poet watching a wee bug crawling in a girl’s hair, inspiring To A Louse.

The Burns Mausoleum

The graveyard of the church is full of fascinating graves, some incredibly elaborate, although that’s not what Burns got to begin with! Thousands attended his funeral, but he was laid to rest in a simple grave, squeezed in the corner.

In 1817, his body was exhumed to be placed in the bright white mausoleum that you can visit today. Open during the tourist season, it also holds two of his sons and Jean Armour. It’s a more fitting reminder of Scotland’s National Poet, somehow incredibly simple but still magnificently grand, just like Robert Burns himself!

Read this full itineary online today for free.

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itinearies, click here.

Did you know that Scotland may have invented football?

While English football fans like to chant “It’s coming home” during international football tournaments, recent investigations have suggested that it was really Scotland who invented modern football! Games called football have been played longer than records have been kept but were originally what we call mob football – closer to an enormous game of rugby than the beautiful game. While the English Football Association began to codify the rules in 1863, their game looked very different than we might expect, focusing on one player dribbling at a time. Then in Queen’s Park, Glasgow in 1867, a group of Scots started passing the ball instead, inventing the combination game and going on to dominate international matches for years, winning 10 against England and drawing 3 out of 14 games!

Sunday Special Offer

Order Issue 02 today for £8 and it will arrive with a free cover print and bookmark. It’s a spring-led issue, with puffins on the cover and features on wild foraging, wild swimming, Speyside whisky, Shetland knitting traditions, Argyll’s castles, Scottish folklore, and a hand-picked selection of remote places to stay across Scotland.

Scottish Wildcat - The Highland Tiger

As majestic as they are rare, Scotland’s wildcats are facing a desperate plight. Since they arrived in Britain over 9,000 years ago, numbers have dwindled to double digits. Here we trace their history, characteristics, and what is being done to save them.

Broad-winged golden eagles, magnificent-antlered red deer, and bright-eyed red squirrels – these are among the wildlife you might spot in the Highlands. The Scottish wildcat is also on the list, but to sight one? For that you would have to be extraordinarily lucky. Scottish wildcats, fondly dubbed Highland tigers, are an isolated population of the European wildcat, Felis silvestris, and numbers have dwindled to a worrying low. Experts describe the species as functionally extinct, with the remaining individuals too fragmented or hybrised to count.

Before you start picturing pussies purring, this is not a case of domestic cat gone wild. Wildcats can be a similar size to pet cats, but they have thicker, tiger-striped coats and blunt, bushy tails with distinct black rings. More importantly, the Highland tiger is one of our island’s last remaining natural predators. It has an angular jaw adapted for crunching live prey – mainly rabbits, mice and voles – and it pounces with power.

Wildcats moved into Britain as the glaciers melted, at the end of the last Ice Age, evolving from a population of European wildcats that became isolated by the English Channel. Historically, it lived across the UK, but is now only found in the Scottish Highlands, where Scottish Wildcat Action, the first national conservation plan for wildcats from 2015 to 2020, found evidence of the species in five areas – Morvern, Strathpeffer, Northern Strathspey, Angus Glens and Strathbogie.

The Highland tiger, whose Latin name translates roughly as ‘woodland cat’, thrives in extensive wild country and forest. So extensive deforestation spelled disaster for the species at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, when tree felling activities in England drove the cats north. More recently, much of Scotland has become farmed or deforested – only around one per cent of the country’s native pinewoods remain, according to rewilding organisation Trees for Life. Deforestation added to the troubles of the wildcat population, which had already faced persecution in the Victorian and Edwardian eras, when it was frequently shot for its fur. It first received legal protection in 1988.

Scotland’s wildcat population is now at a shocking low, with estimates ranging between a few dozen and a couple of hundred. Because the wildcats shy away from humans, getting a precise number is tricky. Tracking relies on trail camera technology and luring the cat to leave some of its hair on a Velcro pad to determine its so-called pelage score, or wildcat characteristics – to determine the percentage of wildcat DNA.

It is interbreeding with domestic cats – resulting in these so-called hybrids, which are neither domestic nor wild – that has created the greatest recent threat to the wild population. Saving Wildcats, a European partnership project, led by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), that builds on the work of Scottish Wildcat Action, warns that genetic introgression could soon wipe out the native wildcat, which is so iconic it has been used in clan heraldry since the 13th century.

Dr. Keri Langridge, Saving Wildcats Field Manager, explains: “Interbreeding with domestic cats continues to be a serious threat to wildcats in Scotland because there are so few of them, thanks to centuries of relentless persecution, and because their natural habitat has been destroyed and replaced with a human-dominated landscape where they are forced to live in close proximity to domestic cats.

Between 2022 and 2026, the Saving Wildcats initiative aims to release at least 20 cats per year into areas deemed safe – areas where threats have been removed and local communities and landowners are supporting wildcatfriendly practices. These include neutering and vaccinating pet cats, because “neutered and vaccinated cats present no threat”, according to Dr. Langridge. Communities can help by reporting sightings of feral cats so the initiative can trap, neuter, vaccinate and return them.

“Landowners can also help us by reporting sightings – particularly farmers, as feral cats often congregate around hay barns or other outbuildings,” Dr. Langridge continues. “And by managing the habitat in a way that benefits wildcats, such as encouraging rabbits and small mammal populations, and conducting precautionary predator control that does not involve indiscriminate methods, such as snaring.” 

The project is supported by the UK’s wildcat conservation breeding programme in over 30 zoos and wildlife parks across the UK, which is managed by the RZSS. In 2020, it reported a record breeding year, with 57 wildcat kittens welcomed into the world. They could be a lifeline for this majestic ancient species that, without our help, will soon no longer prowl the misty glens and deep forests it has called home for more than 9,000 years.

Read the full article online.

words // Emily Rose Mawson - photography // Saving Wildcats

This week's accommodation recommendation…

The Scullery - Scottish Borders

Tucked away in the heart of the Yarrow Valley, The Scullery is a one-bedroom boutique hideaway, eloquently designed for comfort, calm, and connection. Whether you’re escaping the city or craving a countryside reset, this is your space to slow down and just be.

Find out more

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Last Chance.

This month we’re running a very special offer on our magazine set. Receive every available issue for £90 (usually £150), and when you order the set this weekend, we’ll even include our The Best of Skye book (worth £18) free of charge, packed in with your order.

Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

 

This week is sponsored by

Atholl Estates offers a wide selection of holiday accommodation for couples, families and groups wishing to explore beautiful Highland Perthshire.

View from Stormhouse of Castle Stalker.

Today's weekly takes approximately 13 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

This week’s email starts in Dumfries and Galloway, where Louis D. Hall heads into the region that helped shape Peter Pan, then out across dark skies, forests, coasts and small towns with long memories. From there, Graeme Johncock takes the wheel for a daytrip from Oban to Glencoe, with stops that make the drive feel like the point rather than the gap between them, then finishes with a simple shortlist of places to stay nearby.

There’s a Sunday Special Offer running this weekend too. Our magazine set is £90 (usually £150), and we’ll include The Best of Skye book free with every set ordered before the offer ends. (last few hours).

Elsewhere, this week’s accommodation pick is The Coach House at Glen Dye, a restored former toll house beside the Bridge of Dye, now set up for exclusive-use stays with five bedrooms, a wood-fired hot tub, and access to the estate’s BYOB pub, sauna sessions, and shared spaces.

Enjoy the extra long quiz this week, and good luck.

1.What kind of weather does the Scots word smirr refer to?

2.If a Glen is a narrow Scottish valley, what is a wide valley known as?

3.Old Tom Morris, often called the “Father of Golf”, was born in which Scottish town?

4.Which Scottish Castle is associated with both the Mackenzies & Macreas?

5.What did John Dunlop invent?

6.Who was Rober Burns’ wife?

Dumfries and Galloway: The Land of Peter Pan

Dumfries and Galloway has long drawn storytellers, from Barrie’s Neverland to Burns, Reivers and writers who followed. Louis D. Hall traces its art, dark skies, forests, coasts and communities, and the wildness that sits close by.

Loch Troon

Defining this region depends on who you ask. Author of Peter Pan, J.M. Barrie, attributed the creation of his neverland tale to the ‘enchanted’ land where he spent much of his youth, ‘our escapades in a certain Dumfries garden… was certainly the genesis of this work.’ Inspiring Jessie M. King, EA Taylor and many of ‘The Glasgow Boys’, artists from Kirkcudbright might also agree. Fearing French invasion, however, over one hundred years previously, crouched over an ale in Dumfries’ Globe Tavern, Robert Burns illustrated the area with scenes of patriotism: The Nith shall run to Corsincon, And Criffel sink in Solway, Ere we permit a foreign foe. Before the Act of Union in 1603, hardy inhabitants in the east of the region may have disclosed a realm of violence and secrecy; Reivers - sheep and cattle thieves from both sides - roamed in darkness across the ‘Debatable Lands’ between England and Scotland. Beyond the UK, Sir Walter Scott brought Dumfries and Galloway to international fame in fictional books such as Guy Mannering and Redgauntlet, while writer John Buchan fuelled the romantic mirage of an escapists’ realm in Thirty-Nine Steps.

Yet as words and depictions continue to evolve, the essence of this place remains the same: eclectic in production, rich in history, and centred around community. Although one county, Dumfries and Galloway was once divided into three: Dumfriesshire, Wigtownshire and Kirkcudbrightshire (the last two collectively known as Galloway). Forging the border at the most easterly point of Dumfriesshire is the tweed, craft and textiles town of Langholm and the Famous Blacksmiths Shop of Gretna Green - a notorious elopement destination since the 1760s. If you head northwest up the river Annan, you come across Moffat, UK’s first ‘Dark Sky Town’ set in the heart of the Southern Uplands. With its own distillery and at the crossroads of three national trails, it’s a great spot for unrushed explorers and star gazers alike. Six miles north lies the historic hollow in the hills (1400 feet deep): The Devil’s Beef Tub. Named after the cow hustling Border Reivers, it also claims host to ancient woodland, the notorious sixth century ‘wizard’ Merlin, and Robert the Bruce; the King of Scots made use of this area during the Wars of Independence against the bordering English.

As impossible a task as it may be through words, attempting to impress the sheer extent of Dumfries and Galloway’s natural beauty is worthwhile. Once described as a ‘rural backwater,’ a sure source of the area’s rich biodiversity surely relies on its ‘out of the way’ location. In 2012, Galloway was recognised as Scotland’s first UNESCO biosphere, ‘a world-class environment for people and nature.’ At a local level, with centuries of sheep, dairy and beef farming, the area thrives chiefly on agriculture. While traveling through, nothing quite beats the sight of a herd of Belted Galloway cows roaming on a lush green hill, a thick white stripe belting their black bellies. Forestry is key here too. Dumfries and Galloway is home to the largest wooded region in Britain: the 300 square mile Galloway Forest Park. With over 7,000 stars and planets visible, and attracting rare birds such as Capercaillie, Golden Eagle, and Ospreys, nature’s hold is real and flourishing.

On the west side of the park lies Glentrool, otherwise known as the Galloway Highlands. While boasting Southern Scotland’s highest peak (the Merrick), it was from Loch Trool that Robert the Bruce launched his campaign which culminated in the Battle of Bannockburn. Beyond the dense life found among the forests, lochs, skies and verdant hills, the region has a multitude of protected areas that maintain the county’s immense biodiversity. To name but a few: Stranraer’s Glenwhan Gardens, ‘the most beautiful gardens in Scotland’; the birdwatchers paradise of RSPB Mersehead; Grey Mare’s Waterfall in Moffat Water Valley; the 20,000 acre Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve (a unique expanse of sand, sea, mud and merse along the Solway Coast), and Scotland’s most southerly point, the Mull of Galloway. Identifiable offshore by the operational 85-foot lighthouse, the Mull is a hidden gem beading out into the Irish Sea. Like much of the North Channel coastline, the Mull’s warm climate from the Gulf Stream allows for stunning gardens above, most notably the Logan Botanic Garden (‘Scotland’s Most Exotic Garden’). The wide stretching beaches below provide some of the best places in the UK to view mink whales, dolphins, puffins, kittiwakes and guillemots. Arrive on the last Sunday of the month and you’ll hear the lighthouse foghorn reverberate along the cliffs, booming across the water.

The verdant fields of Dumfries and Galloway

To read more of Louis Articles click here.

Sunday Special Offer

This weekend we’re running a very special offer on our magazine set. Receive every available issue for £90 (usually £150), and when you order the set this weekend, we’ll include our The Best of Skye book (worth £18) free of charge, packed in with your order.

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

A Daytrip To Glen Coe From Oban

The town of Oban on Scotland’s west coast is one of my favourite places to visit. It might be known as the Gateway to the Isles, but its position in Argyll also makes it the perfect place to explore areas of the Scottish mainland. In just one short hour, you can reach Glencoe in the north, but if you have the time, I’d recommend making it a daytrip!

Castle Stalker

Castle Stalker View
30 minute drive

Clinging desperately to a tiny island in Loch Laich, Castle Stalker makes one of the most picturesque views on the west coast. Once a stronghold of the Stewarts, in the 1400s their chief was killed by the Campbells, the castle captured and the chief’s baby son whisked away to safety!

Nicknamed Donald of the Hammers, the boy returned as an adult to raise the clan and win back his home! Incredibly, 200 years later, his descendants lost Stalker again in a drunken bet. Thankfully, it was restored in the early 1900s and remains in private hands.

There are occasional boat tours during the tourist season, but it’s impressive enough just to look at from the viewpoints by the loch or café on the hill.

Glencoe Lochan
25 minute drive

After travelling along the coast of Loch Linnhe, the Pap of Glencoe soon comes into sight. Before heading into the narrow glen itself, pass through the village to the hidden trail around Glencoe Lochan.

There are routes for all abilities in surroundings that most visitors miss. Skirting the loch is the quickest option, with conifers and mountains reflected in the calm surface of the water. The trees were planted by Lord Strathcona in the 1890s as a romantic gesture to help cure his Canadian wife’s homesickness.

Glencoe Visitor Centre
10 minute drive

One of the highlights of Glencoe involves a trip to the Visitor Centre. Weave your way through the shop and out the back to find the reconstructed Glencoe Turf House, showing how people in much of Scotland lived in the 17^th century!

The smell of peat smoke has been absorbed by the building, giving the surroundings even more character. Imagine a family sitting with their neighbours around the fire, telling stories of ghosts, fairies, kelpies and heroes!

In 1692, a regiment of soldiers were sheltered by the MacDonalds of Glencoe, in houses just like this, for almost two weeks. Shockingly, at 5am on the 13^th February, orders were given to the soldiers to massacre their hosts. It was an act of infamy that’s echoed down through history.

Lunch at Clachaig Inn
5 minute drive

Easily my favourite place to have lunch in Glencoe, the Clachaig Inn is packed with personality. It sits in the shadows of the mountains and the towering views outside can be a little bit intimidating!

My personal recommendation here is always the ham, cheese and chutney sandwich with a mug of soup.

Three Sisters of Glencoe
5 minute drive

The Three Sisters of Glencoe make one of Scotland’s most iconic scenes. These three hills, backed by even taller mountains, are simply stunning at any time of the year. There are a few different viewpoints along the glen, each giving a different appreciation of the surrounding scenery.

Feel free to go for a wander on the paths around the lower slopes and see if you can spot the entrance to Coire Gabhail. Often known as the Hidden/Lost Valley, this sheltered spot between Beinn Fhada and Gearr Aonach is said to be where the MacDonalds of Glencoe hid cattle stolen from their neighbours!

 Rannoch Moor Viewpoint~
15 minute drive

Leaving the mountains of Glencoe behind, you suddenly burst into the starkly different landscape of Rannoch Moor. This vast, flat expanse is a dangerous combination of lochans and bogs interspersed with tufts of heather, known as one of Europe’s last great wildernesses. On a clear, still day, the water reflects to distant peaks perfectly.

Kilchurn Castle
40 minute drive

Upon reaching Loch Awe, take a very short detour to the A819 layby overlooking Kilchurn Castle. Built in the 1400s by the Campbells of Glenorchy, their power grew astronomically until they abandoned this scenic spot for a more luxurious home in Perthshire.

Kilchurn fell into the dramatic ruin that we see today, perfectly seen from this spot across the water!

St Conan’s Kirk
5 minute drive

Not far away, the architectural wonder of St Conan’s Kirk is as beautiful as it is bizarre. While it looks centuries old, it was only constructed in the late 19th century! Walter Campbell built it as a chapel of ease for his old mother who struggled with the coach journey every Sunday to the church at Dalmally.

Entry is by donation and make sure to admire the effigy of Robert the Bruce as well as the view from the sundial out over Loch Awe!

Where to stay nearby…..

Stormhouse in Appin is a smart pick if you want to stay closer to Oban and Castle Stalker, while still being within easy reach of Glencoe the next morning.

Kabn on Loch Fyne suit anyone stretching the trip into a wider Argyll loop, with a quieter, design-led base away from the A82.

Glencoe House is the most direct option for a luxury stay in the glen itself, ideal if you want to slow the day down and avoid the late drive.

RiverBeds at Woodlands Glencoe is your own magical miniature hotel, tucked into the forest with a private Jacuzzi hot tub.

The Clachaig Inn is the classic Glencoe base, handy for food, a pint, and a straightforward overnight right in the heart of the glen.

No.26 By The Sea in Oban is a well-finished small hotel right on the waterfront, ideal if you’d rather keep Oban as your base and set off early.

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itinearies, click here.

This week's accommodation recommendation…

The Coach House, Glendye

This former toll house and resting/stabling place sits beside the original Bridge of Dye built in 1680. It has been in continuous use since then, latterly as a farm house. In 2022, we revitalised the building and reinstated its original purpose. The Coach House now has five bedrooms and three bathrooms. There is one family room, two double rooms and two twin rooms.

Find out more

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Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

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We hope you’re having a great start to the weekend.

This weekend we’re running a very special offer on our magazine set. Receive every available issue for £90 (usually £150), and when you order the set this weekend, we’ll include our The Best of Skye book (worth £18) free of charge, packed in with your order.

The set includes 10 issues + Skye guide free
Issue 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11

We’re also currently working away on Issue 12 and can’t wait to share what’s inside with you.

If you’d like to subscribe, you’ll get early access to each issue in April and October, with every copy arriving hand-wrapped in tissue and sealed with a sticker, plus a free bookmark and an A5 print of the cover.

We hope you have a fantastic weekend, and look out for the Hidden Scotland email tomorrow, we have an extra long quiz for you this week.

Thank you, as always, for reading and supporting Hidden Scotland.

 

Sunday 11th January 2026

The Cairngorms Reindeer

Today's weekly takes approximately 12 minutes to read.

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We’re kicking off the week by heading underwater. From dolphins and porpoises to the return of humpback whales, this week’s main feature explores the marine life found just off Scotland’s coasts, along with the stories of the people working to protect it. There’s also a fresh itinerary from Graeme Johncock, this time exploring the lochs, legends and landscapes of Rothiemurchus and Glen More in the Cairngorms.

Plus, this Sunday’s special offer is now live. Save over 30 percent on our set of Hidden Scotland Magazines, issues 02 to 11, now £90 while stocks last.

1.What kind of weather does the Scots word smirr refer to?

2.If a Glen is a narrow Scottish valley, what is a wide valley known as?

3.Which Scottish Castle is associated with both the Mackenzies & Macreas?

A World Beneath the Waves

When searching for some of Scotland’s most impressive wildlife, it helps to look where the eye doesn’t usually see.

Sauna on a Boat, Loch Tay

Scotland is famous for its wildlife. But when you picture it, you probably see a red deer on a misty morning, a red squirrel on a pine tree, or a golden eagle soaring through the sky.

However, there is much more Scottish wildlife than what can be seen on land and in the air. In fact, the waters around Scotland hold some of our best (and biggest) creatures. From the diminutive harbour porpoise to the enormous fin whale (the world’s second longest-living animal), over 28 species of dolphin and whale call the Scottish coastline home. Minke whales are the most commonly spotted whale species, occurring mainly during the summer but with some individuals remaining over the winter. 

Humpback whales are also making a return, and the Hebridean seas host one of the highest densities of harbour porpoise in Europe. There is even a resident pod of orcas, known as the West Coast community. Unfortunately, the pod hasn’t reproduced in decades and so may not be around for much longer. 

On the whole, whales and dolphins appear to be doing very well in our waters, and with them, they have brought new opportunities for coastal communities as people flock to see these unique animals. But, like many other European countries, Scotland’s relationship with whales wasn’t always so respectful.

A History of Whaling 

For hundreds of years, ships departed Scotland bound for remote parts of the world with a single goal in mind: hunting and harvesting whales. Whaling was an extremely lucrative trade. Whale oil was used for street lighting and in-home heating and was a crucial component in the jute sacking industry. While the meat would have rotted long before reaching home, a single whalebone might sell for up to £3,000 and would be used as a high-end construction material that found particular use in the assembly of corsets. Dundee, Peterhead and Greenock were Scotland’s most important whaling ports, and the Southern Ocean and Antarctica the most common destination. In fact, the first known photographs of Antarctica were taken during the Dundee Whaling Expedition in 1892, and Antarctica’s geography is littered with Scottish place names, including Dundee Island, Mount Dalrymple and the Scotia Sea. In 1986, the International Whaling Commission banned commercial whaling around the world. However, whaling had effectively ended in Scotland long before this date, as the industrial revolution increased reliance on alternate fuels and whaling trips became prohibitively costly. And yet, a legacy remains. In fact, if you find yourself on The Shore in Leith, you will see a harpooning gun that was once used in this cruel industry. 

If you go down to the waters today 

After centuries of persecution, whale populations are believed to be recovering worldwide. This gives us an incredible opportunity to study these elusive mammals, and there are several Scottish organisations devoted to doing just that. Based on the Isle of Mull, the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust (HWDT) has been pioneering the conservation of whales, dolphins and porpoises in the waters of western Scotland for over two decades. Today, much of HWDT’s work is learning about the different populations off Scotland’s coast and helping them thrive. “You can only protect what you understand, so we’ve been trying to deepen the knowledge of whales and dolphins in Hebridean waters,” says Morven Summers, Communications Manager at HWDT. 

“Our conservation work is underpinned by our long-term data collection programmes. Through citizen science and long-term research projects, HWDT generates the knowledge and evidence needed to drive effective marine conservation.” This is important because, while whaling has ended, whales and dolphins still face many threats. “Globally, whales and dolphins are faced with climate change, bycatch, pollution, habitat degradation, to name a few,” continues Morven, “Off the west coast of Scotland, we are concerned about noise pollution and entanglement in fishing gear and marine debris.” “Entanglement is the largest identified cause of death due to human activity in minke and humpback whales in Scottish waters.” But, partially through the efforts of HWDT, there is hope. Recently, a ground-breaking project to help reduce wildlife entanglement in creel fishing gear in Scottish waters was announced. 

The first of its kind in the UK, this project brings together commercial creel fishers, NatureScot, research scientists, and marine mammal conservation and rescue charities to better understand the scale and impact of marine animal entanglement in Scottish waters. Creel fishers participated in training events and workshops to promote best practise, reduce entanglement risk, and learn how to safely disentangle marine animals from their gear. It’s just one of many programmes around the country that aims to ensure that Scottish waters are always welcome to whales and dolphins, as well as the visitors they inevitably bring.

Want to see for yourself? 

So, where can you go to see whales and dolphins for yourself? Well, if you’ve got sea legs and fancy getting out on the water, a boat trip will offer some of the best and certainly closest encounters. There are now guided boat tours and whale watching cruise operators around the Scottish coastline. The HWDT advise always going with an operator that has undergone WiSe training. The WiSe Scheme teaches boat operators how to responsibly watch for wildlife on the water, and details of certified tour operators can be found on the WiSe website. And if you are lucky enough to see a whale or dolphin in Scottish waters, you can contribute to the work of the HWDT by reporting the sighting using the free Whale Track app. These sightings help the HWDT track the movements of coastal species and uncover the mysteries of rare visitors, including humpback and orca. Every sighting adds to the growing understanding of whales and dolphins in Scottish waters. So whether you see a pod of humpback whales or a single harbour porpoise, add your sighting and help the HWDT learn about and protect the species. If you’d like to support the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust or report a cetacean sighting, visit their website on hwdt.org or download the free Whale Track app.

To find a certified tour operator or to learn more about the WiSe Scheme, you can visit wisescheme.org.

words // Kieran Lynn - photography // Becky Dudley

Sunday Special Offer - The Set

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Save on the complete set of Hidden Scotland Magazine issues 02 to 11, now £90 from the original £150. Each edition is filled with rich photography, in-depth features, local recommendations, and inspiring stories that uncover the character and charm of Scotland. From coastal escapes to cultural insights, this bundle makes a thoughtful gift or keepsake for anyone passionate about Scotland. Please note, Issue 01 is not included as it is sold out.

£90.00 £150.00

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

A Day In the Cairngorms – Rothiemurchus & Glen More

In the heart of Scotland, you’ll find the Cairngorm mountains and at the heart of the Cairngorms, you’ll find Rothiemurchus & Glen More. Tucked away behind the popular town of Aviemore, it’s a vast estate with lochs, hills, forests and above all else, stories. Sometimes I treat it as a stopping point between Perth and Inverness, but if I have the time, it’s the perfect place to spend an entire day!

Gylen Castle

Loch an Eilein
15 minute drive from Aviemore

After leaving the town and heading along a few winding roads, you’ll reach Loch an Eilein where there’s a good-sized car park, although it costs a small fee. The name means the loch of the island and if you head along the path through the trees along the right-hand side of the water, it soon comes into view. Even in its dilapidated state, you can’t miss the ruins of Loch an Eilean Castle, taking up almost the entire island with the water lapping at its walls. Built in the 13th century, it was once home to the notorious Wolf of Badenoch. Amazingly, it was still lived in by Jean Gordon when she sheltered fleeing Jacobites there after Culloden in 1745!

White Croft Company

Before heading back to the car, take a short detour to the White Croft Company shop in an old cottage near the toilets. While you can grab some snacks or ice cream inside, it’s the scattered collection of antiques and local crafts that always grabs my attention!

The Doune of Rothiemurchus
5 minute drive 

One of my favourite locations to show people isn’t far away at the Doune of Rothiemurchus. There’s no car park, so it can take a little bit of time to walk from the nearest safe space, but it’s well worth the effort. As you plod down a grassy track between ancient pines, oaks and sycamores, eventually an enclosure surrounded by yew trees appears. Inside lies the ruins of an old church with very peculiar grave covered in a metal cage. That’s the resting place of Seath Mor, chief of Clan Shaw in the 14th century and said to be a fearsome warrior. It’s believed his spirit roams Rothiemurchus challenging travellers to fight! On his grave, 5 strange looking stones can be seen beneath the cage. Local legend says that anybody who touches the stones will suffer great misfortune and there were so many victims that the grave had to be protected this way in the 1980s!

Lunch at the Rothiemurchus Barn
5 minute drive

After spending the morning on Rothiemurchus estate, it makes sense to eat some local produce at the Barn! The specials are laid out canteen style with local meat usually on the menu, although I tend to go for the Cullen Skink. You can find more local produce in the wee shop next door.

Loch Morlich
10 minute drive

Deeper into the mountains along Glen More, Loch Morlich with its beautiful sandy beach. No matter the weather, this scenic spot is a special place with crystal clear water reflecting the vast forest and surrounding mountains. For anybody interested in water sports, there are boats, kayaks and canoes available to hire or it’s a 6km circuit around the loch if you need to stretch your legs.

Cairngorm Reindeer Herd
2 minute drive 

For something truly unique, these mountains are home to Scotland’s only wild herd of reindeer! A visit to the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre gives you the chance to get up close and personal with these amazing animals that once roamed much of Scotland. Sadly, they were hunted to extinction and so this reintroduced herd have to be carefully managed. If you have plenty of time, then tickets are available to head out to the hills to feed the main herd for a couple of hours. For those without the time or fitness to manage that, the reindeer spend a few days in a paddock at the centre on rotation. They can’t be fed or handled in the paddock, but you’ll still be able to admire them up close!

An Lochan Uaine
45 minute walk

End the day with a short hike out to an extraordinary wee place. An Lochan Uaine is much smaller than Loch Morlich, but it’s got a very special quality – it’s green! Nobody knows for sure where the Green Lochan gets its colour, theories stretch from the reflection of the trees or a special type of algae, however, storytellers know better. We know that this is where the fairies wash their clothes! Fairies are typically portrayed wearing green, so the colour of their laundry has leaked into the water here and turned it this vibrant colour! It’s a quiet spot and an easy stroll to get here, just hope you don’t bump into any mischievous fairies on the walk back!

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itinearies, click here.

Did you know that Wick in Caithness was once a dry town?

When we think of prohibition, minds might jump to 1920s USA, but Wick in Caithness was a dry town for almost twice as long as America! In the later 1800s, Wick was a major herring port and during the fishing season, the workers drank a lot of whisky to keep them going. The drunken state of the workforce got so bad that by 1922, the people of the town voted for prohibition. Every pub and bar in the town had their license revoked, with secret drinking dens popping up around the streets instead. Secret knocks and passwords were needed if you wanted to gain entry. Everybody else took the train to Lybster or Thurso on the weekend, until the ban on alcohol was lifted 25 years later

Enjoy 10% Off Your Winter Escape at Atholl Estates

Atholl Estates is offering 10 percent off winter stays across a selection of Highland lodges and cottages, available from early January through to March. Set across woodland and lochside locations near Blair Atholl, the properties range from shepherd huts and traditional cottages to contemporary cabins. It is a good time to explore Highland Perthshire at a quieter pace, with winter walks on the doorstep, Pitlochry Festival Theatre nearby, and House of Bruar within easy reach.

10% OFF WINTER STAYS*
USE CODE: BOXINGDAY10

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*Valid for stays from 5th January - 15th March 2026.

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Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

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Just a quick note to let you know about a one-day January sale running today across our magazines and guidebooks.

It’s a good moment to add to your Hidden Scotland collection. For a limited time, back issues from Issue 02 through to Issue 11 are available for £10 each, making it easier to complete your set or pick up any editions you may have missed.

There are also special savings on our Edinburgh and Isle of Skye guidebooks. Both are designed for thoughtful trip planning, with clear routes, local insight, and carefully researched detail, whether you’re returning to a familiar place or planning a first visit.

If you’d prefer everything in one go, the full magazine set is also available to purchase.

We’d also love to hear your ideas for Issue 12. We’re currently working on it, and if there’s anything you’d like to see covered, or any feedback you’d like to share, just reply to this email.

We hope you enjoy the rest of your Sunday.

Thank you, as always, for reading and supporting Hidden Scotland.

 

Sunday 4th January 2026

Sauna on a Boat, Loch Tay

Today's weekly takes approximately 13 minutes to read.

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Happy New Year from Hidden Scotland. We hope 2026 has started well, wherever you are reading from.

We start out on the water, with a new collection highlighting some of Scotland’s best water-based experiences, from sea kayaking and wildlife boat trips to outdoor swimming pools and lochside saunas. There’s also a fresh island walk from Graeme Johncock, who heads just across the water from Oban to explore the quieter paths and stories of Kerrera.

There’s a very special Sunday offer running today too. All back issues of Hidden Scotland Magazine, from Issue 02 through to Issue 10, are available for £10 each, making it a good moment to add to your collection or pick up any editions you may have missed.

1.Who was Scotland’s first First Minister in 1999?

2.On which island would you find Kinloch Castle?

3.Which Scottish TV show features the detective Jimmy Perez?

The Best Water Experiences in Scotland

Some of Scotland’s most memorable days out happen away from roads and footpaths. This collection brings together a range of water-based experiences found across the country, from guided activities such as rafting, canyoning, coasteering and eFoiling to quieter ways of spending time on the water, including sea kayaking, wildlife boat trips and loch cruising.

Sauna on a Boat, Loch Tay

Sauna on a Boat, Loch Tay
A floating wood-fired sauna moored on Loch Tay, pairing steady heat with cold-water dips, loch views and optional cruises from Taymouth Marina.
Find out more

Jupiter Artland Gateway Pool
Timed outdoor swimming sessions in an artist-designed pool within Jupiter Artland, offering structured cold-water bathing in a carefully managed setting near Edinburgh.
Find out more

Sea Safari from Oban
Fast wildlife boat trips from Oban exploring islands, sea lochs and tidal waters, with regular sightings of seals, seabirds and marine mammals.
Find out more

Inchree Falls Canyoning
Guided canyoning experiences near Fort William, following waterfalls and rock pools through a narrow gorge with jumps, slides and swims led by qualified instructors.
Find out more

St Monans Tidal Pool
A restored tidal swimming pool beside St Monans harbour, offering sheltered sea swimming on the Fife coast in a simple, community-maintained setting.
Find out more

Sea Kayak Oban
Guided sea kayaking trips and courses from Oban, exploring sheltered sea lochs, islands and coastline with experienced local guides.
Find out more

Lost Shore Surf Resort
An inland surf centre near Edinburgh with a programmable wave pool, offering coached sessions and consistent conditions for beginners and confident surfers alike.
Find out more

Stonehaven Open Air Pool
The UK’s only heated Olympic-sized outdoor seawater pool, set on Stonehaven seafront and open seasonally for lane swimming, family sessions and events.
Find out more

Wild Isles Sea Kayaking
Small-group sea kayaking trips from Oban, focusing on west coast waters with options ranging from day journeys to multi-day coastal expeditions.
Find out more

Wildlife Boat Trip from Findhorn Marina
Short wildlife boat trips from Findhorn Marina, offering close views of seals, seabirds and coastal scenery on the Moray Firth.
Find out more

eFoiling Beneath the Forth Bridges
Guided eFoiling sessions on the Firth of Forth, allowing riders to glide above the water beneath the iconic Forth Bridges with expert instruction.
Find out more

Eden Springs Loch Wild Sauna
A wood-fired sauna beside a quiet freshwater loch in Fife, combining heat, cold-water immersion and a calm rural setting.
Find out more.

To view the full collection click here

Sunday Special Offer - All back issues of Hidden Scotland Magazine £10 today only.

Now is a good moment to add to your Hidden Scotland collection. For a limited time, back issues from Issue 02 through to Issue 10 are available for £10 each, making it easier to complete your set or pick up the editions you may have missed along the way. Each issue offers a snapshot of Scotland at a particular moment, with journeys, people and places that remain just as relevant today.

There are also special savings on our Edinburgh and Isle of Skye guidebooks. Both are built for thoughtful trip planning, with practical routes, local insight and carefully researched detail, whether you are revisiting a familiar place or planning a first trip.

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

Walking On Kerrera

Scotland has around 100 inhabited islands, some large and some small. The Isle of Kerrera is definitely on the smaller end of the scale. It’s the long, low bit of land that makes Oban such a good harbour and while seen by thousands every year, few make the effort to visit. Kerrera feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Oban and it’s quickly become one of my favourite islands to escape to for a day’s walking!

Gylen Castle

Catch The Tiny Kerrera Ferry
5 minute drive from Oban 

The main ferry to Kerrera leaves from Gallanach, just a few minutes south of Oban. It’s a tiny boat and the only vehicles allowed are for island residents. If there’s any more than 12 people waiting, the ferry will go back and forward until they’re all over. Don’t worry if you don’t make the first cut, the trip takes less than five minutes each way and, in my opinion, standing there with the wind rushing past and waves spraying up is all part of the experience!

Follow the Southern Loop

Kerrera is split into two halves and while both can make for good walks, it’s the southern section that’s most interesting to me. Following the track takes you first round the large Horse Shoe Bay with beautiful views back to the mainland. Keep your eyes open for the little teapots and cups on fence posts leading the way!

Admire Dail Righ

On the other side, an inconspicuous fenced area, probably filled with sheep is known as Dail Righ – King’s Field. It's said that this is where King Alexander II decided to start taking back the Hebrides from the Norse in 1249. They had been taken by Norway over a century earlier, but Alexander felt strong enough to begin his conquest. That night, with his fleet anchored in the bay, the king was visited in his dreams by saints Columba, Magnus and Olaf. They all warned him not to land on Kerrera, but he ignored the prophetic visions and after stepping ashore at this spot, he had a fit and died!

Climb The Iron Age Fort

After skirting round Little Horse Shoe Bay, keep your eye’s open for a rocky outcrop across an open grassy field. It doesn’t look like much from the ground, but that’s an Iron Age fort that’s evidence of Kerrera being inhabited for over 2000 years! It’s a short but steep hike to the top and once there, the low stone walls around the perimeter are unmistakable. The views up and down the Sound of Kerrera are spectacular from here, you can see why the island’s early residents picked this spot.

Grab Lunch From The Kerrera Tea Garden

The path then moves away from the coast, heading inland and over a ridge where you’ll spot one of Kerrera’s big attractions. It’s not a castle or waterfall but a tiny tea garden. Some people make this whole trip just to visit here and the soups, sandwiches and coffee are well worth it! Just be aware that it’s only usually open between April and September.

The Kerrera Tea Garden

Explore the Ruins of Gylen Castle

As you carry on south, around a small cliff, the spectacular ruin of Gylen Castle comes into view. Impossibly perched high on a crag above crashing waves, it’s an impressive icon of the island. A short hike will take you up to the tower house and it’s possible to go inside and explore what’s left of the tiny tower. Gylen is a fairly new castle by Scottish standards, only built in 1582 by Clan MacDougall. It helped to guard access through the Sound of Kerrera but would only be inhabited for 65 years. In 1647, the Royalist MacDougalls were besieged by a Covenanter army and forced to surrender and watch the castle be destroyed after their water supply ran dry!

Catch Spectacular Views To Mull

While the first half of Kerrera’s southern loop is all action from King’s deaths to ruined castles, once you reach the western side of the island, it’s a much calmer affair. While there isn’t an abundance of historical sites, the views more than make up for it. I often find myself stopping again and again to take in the sweeping views to the mountains of Mull in the west and the low-lying Isle of Lismore further north. You’ll pass ruined cottages beside modern homes and most likely cows lazing on the beach! These tracks were once drovers roads for cattle heading to market using Kerrera as a stepping stone from Mull.

Browse At Balliemore Farm Shop

Just before arriving back at the ferry pier, you’ll spot the Balliemore Farm Shop. There’s usually locally raised meat to buy here as well as crafts, sweets and ice creams for hot days. It’s the perfect way to support the local community of this special wee island before heading back home!

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itinearies, click here.

Did you know that Scottish brothers set the record for rowing the Pacific?

In August 2025, three Scottish brothers, Jamie, Ewan and Lachlan Maclean, beat the world record for fastest unassisted row across the Pacific Ocean. Using only their own power, they made it across 9000 miles of ocean in just under 140 days! They raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for clean water projects in Madagascar, braving storms and monster waves along the way. Lachlan Maclean was even washed overboard at one point, but was thankfully attached to a safety line!

Find out more

Cuillin Hills Hotel, Isle of Skye.

This old hunting lodge now a familyowned hotel, is cradled by 15 acres of mature grounds and looks down onto Portree’s pastel-painted harbour and over the Sound of Raasay to the Cuillin mountains beyond.

Built by the Macdonalds in 1865 as a shooting lodge, the family began to spend more time here in the early 20th century after their main residence, Armadale Castle, fell into disrepair. The property was sold in the 1950s, however, and briefly used to house workers from Holm Mills, before being converted into a country house hotel in the 1960s.

Today, it is a handsome hideaway with 39 contemporary rooms, some in turrets, many with dreamy views. The restaurant also looks out to sea and showcases the best of Scotland’s produce with starters such as local Misty Isle Gin-cured salmon on a bed of Orbost-grown salad and pickled samphire and mains including North Atlantic hake with a Dunvegan crab butter sauce.

Find out more

PDF digital copies of issue 11 now available

Issue 11 of Hidden Scotland Magazine is now available as a downloadable digital edition. This Autumn Winter 2025–26 issue is included with every digital subscription, with a one-off purchase available for readers who prefer to buy individually. Inside, you will find wild saunas across Scotland, thoughtful journeys to Mull, Iona and Arran, profiles of dedicated makers, family stories from the outdoors, and a closer look at the red squirrel. Designed for unhurried reading, the digital edition is ready to enjoy wherever you are this season.

Buy Now

PS As a digital subscriber, you receive access to our full archive of back issues, digital guidebooks, and our trip planning tools to help shape future journeys across Scotland.

Sign up today

Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

It is with great pleasure that we introduce you to the sponsors of Issue 11.
We invite you to learn more about them by clicking their logo.

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

Hi {{ first name |}}

Happy New Year from all of us at Hidden Scotland ✨

As we step into 2026, we wanted to share a quick update. We have a small number of our 2026 Hidden Scotland calendars remaining, now available half price while stock lasts.

The A3 landscape wall calendar is printed on heavyweight matt art paper, with a full A4 image each month alongside space for daily notes and a separate section for monthly plans. The photography spans Scotland across the year, from Glen Rosa on Arran in January through to Dumfries and Galloway in December, with places such as Tobermory, Melrose Abbey, Chanonry Point and Rogie Falls marking the months as they pass.

Designed to sit on the wall all year, the calendar is ring bound and finished to the same standard as our magazine. Each monthly image can be kept or framed once the page has turned.

The front cover features Rubha Hunish on Skye, photographed by Simon Hird.

Shop now

January is often a good moment to start thinking ahead, and this week we are also offering reduced prices on two of our most popular guidebooks.

The Best of Skye explores one of Scotland’s most compelling islands, taking in key walks, places to eat, and quieter corners alongside the better-known landmarks. It is designed as a practical companion for planning a future visit, whether that is months away or just beginning to take shape.

The Best of Edinburgh offers a detailed guide to Scotland’s capital, moving beyond the obvious highlights to explore its layered history, neighbourhoods, and cultural life. It is equally useful for first-time visitors and those returning with more time to spend.

You can find the calendar, along with both guidebooks, on our website while stock lasts.

Thank you, as always, for reading and supporting Hidden Scotland.

 

Sunday 28th December 2025

traditional signwriter Thomas Payne taken by Simon Hird

Today's weekly takes approximately 15 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

This week’s email arrives in that quieter stretch between Christmas and Hogmanay. We hope you had a good few days, whether spent close to home or further afield, and that the pace has eased a little.

This edition leans into that feeling, with stories shaped by craft, travel, and reflection at the close of the year. You’ll meet traditional signwriter Thomas Payne and spend time with the detail and care behind his work on Scotland’s streets.

There’s a new journal from Graeme Johncock, written as winter settles in, moving through local places, December traditions, and the moments that mark the turn of the year. You’ll also find a fresh quiz, a short history note, and a selection of thoughtful reads to see you towards Hogmanay.

1.What is Scotland’s motto?

2.Which Scottish city was known as the Second City of the British Empire?

3.What remote point was Dundee’s RRS Discover built to reach?

Signs of the Times - Meet traditional signwriter Thomas Payne

Walk down any typical high street in Scotland today and you will no doubt notice the overwhelming number of signs vying for your attention with their gaudy colours and eye-catching fonts. It wasn’t always this way, however. Photographs of town centres that pre-date the availability of cheaply printed signage depict beautifully painted shops decorated by skilled signwriters who used a limited number of lettering styles and traditional techniques to present basic information about a building’s occupants.

Our high streets are constantly evolving and recently there has been an increase in the number of independent businesses occupying premises vacated by chain retailers, banks and other companies that are choosing to focus on their online presence. These local boutiques, barbers, beauty salons, cafés and restaurants are more likely to invest in quality signage that reflects the values of their brand in order to make a good first impression on customers. That means more work for the small community of signwriters who continue to practice a trade that often goes unnoticed but can have a powerful subliminal appeal.

“A hand-painted sign has a perceived sense of quality and tradition that is still universally understood,” says Thomas Payne, who is part of a new generation of signwriters helping to create contemporary, Instagrammable designs for clients looking to add a personal touch to their shopfronts. The 35-year-old, who has adopted the playful moniker ‘Thomas Paints’, can often be spotted perched on a ladder with his palette and brushes in Edinburgh, the Lothians and occasionally further afield, or glimpsed through a shop window applying gold-leaf lettering to the inside of the glass. Since launching his business in 2015, he has painted hundreds of hanging signs, windows and shopfronts, as well as working on more quirky commissions such as decorating a pizza delivery truck or creating a mural for Hibernian Football Club. When asked about his reasons for pursuing such an unusual and specialist career path, he answers straightforwardly, “I just like looking at nice signs.” Dig a little deeper, though, and there is more to the story.

Payne gained a B.A. Hons in Furniture Design and a Masters degree in Product Design from Edinburgh College of Art before working his way up through various agency roles. One year, his wife bought him set of brushes and some paints for Christmas and suggested he try his hand 58 at making some signs for an exhibition. “I was bored with working on a computer all the time,” says Payne, speaking from his workshop and studio in Longniddry, which is filled with old signs he collects to inspire his work. He is now so dedicated to his craft that he is on a mission to paint every sign in the village, and even offers his services for free if local businesses can’t afford to hire him. “If I see a sign that’s ugly or deteriorating it drives me bananas,” he says, pointing to projects for the village shop and primary school as examples of his pro bono work. “It’s good to give something back to the neighbourhood, although I’m really doing it for me so I don’t have to look at bad signs,” he jokes.

Payne’s process combines traditional painting skills with his design background, which allows him to create bespoke signs with a modern or classic feel. He uses computer software to develop ideas with his clients and prepare them for painting, but once he’s up on the ladder the process is much the same as it would have been for sign painters a century ago. The designs are plotted onto paper using a special printer that pierces tiny holes in the surface. The stencil is then fixed to the surface and chalk dust is blown through the holes to create a temporary outline that provides a guide for painting (a modern version of a traditional technique known as pouncing).

Payne uses quill-shaped sable brushes to apply durable oil-based enamel paints from a wooden palette, resting his painting hand on a mahl stick to prevent slippage and to keep it away from the wet paint as he works. He says his goal is not to paint perfectly, but rather to leave “flair and bounce and fluidity” in the shapes and lines he produces. “After years of painting, my eyes are tuned to what a well- painted letter should look like,” he claims. “It still needs to look neat but I like the edges to be subtly curved or flared to retain that hand-painted feel.” 

The results speak for themselves and Payne’s clients clearly recognise the value that a hand-painted sign brings to their business. Florist Rebecca Henderson, who commissioned Payne to decorate the frontage of her shop on South Queensferry’s historic High Street, says she gave him free rein to design the signage and was delighted with how it turned out. “I wanted my sign to be more than just a name above a shop,” she explains, adding: 60 “It needed to uphold the traditional features of the building and the High Street. The design and style Thomas came up with just feel right here.” For Payne, helping business owners to realise such an important aspect of their branding provides him with moments of supreme satisfaction. “I’ve had several clients look at a sign I’ve painted and just burst into tears,” he says with a grin. “It’s definitely not why I do it but that’s a really nice feeling.” 

The majority of Payne’s work involves painting onto signboards or shopfronts but he also takes on more unusual commissions, such as adding lettering to tiled roofs or applying a logotype to the side of the towering 40-metre-tall Port of Leith distillery in Edinburgh. Working out the logistics of how to accurately transfer his designs onto these awkward surfaces is one aspect of his craft that Payne finds particularly rewarding. “I love figuring out how to paint on something that’s a bit unique or hard to get to,” he says. This claim is backed up by the case studies featured on his website, which include examples of signage expertly painted onto brick, corrugated cladding, harling, roofs and rough stone walls. If you can paint on it, he’ll find a way.

In addition to sign painting, a few years ago Payne taught himself the traditional craft of glass gilding; applying sheets of 23-and-a-half-carat gold leaf to glass using water to produce a lustrous mirror finish. “The Victorians used gold leaf to add decorative elements to shop fascias because it’s UV stable and it will never fade,” he explains, adding that he learned by practising on pieces of glass purchased at charity shops. In addition to gilding shop windows, Payne spends most Fridays working on house numbers, which he says are a great way to end the week because “they’re often the finishing touch to someone’s home renovations and it’s lovely to see a client’s happy face when they’re done.” 

Almost eight years into his sign painting venture, Payne is currently busier than ever, with between 30 and 40 active projects ongoing at any given time. He employs an assistant to help him complete many of his larger jobs and his client list now includes important institutions such as the National Museum of Scotland and the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh. He admits that he entered into the profession at a good time and has been aided by the rise of social media, which is a useful tool for promoting his work. He has over 10,000 followers on Instagram, who delight in his quirky posts including oddly satisfying videos of him slowly pulling off masking tape to reveal clean paint lines on various surfaces. 

Despite all of his success to date, Payne remains grounded and focused on a simple yet important objective. “I just want to make shops and high streets more attractive with well considered designs,” he insists, modestly. With his help, our town centres might just regain some of their former glory.

This article as taken from issue 07 of the Hidden Scotland Magazine, grab your copy here.

Follow Thomas on Instagram or check out his website.

words // Alyn Griffiths - photography // Simon Hird

Our 2026 Calendar

We are delighted to be back with our wall calendar for 2026. Enjoy a selection of stunning photography that captures some of Scotland's best bits throughout the year.

The A3 landscape wall calendar is printed on a beautiful matt art paper stock that makes the images really stand out. The landscape layout allows for an A4 image on one side, which can be utilised as a print afterwards.

As well as a square for each day for you to add those all important events and special dates you have coming up in the new year. There is also a notes section for any additional information you need to jot down for that month.

Special Sunday Offer

£5 off our 2026 calendar.

Use code SUNDAY5 to redeem.

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

An Eventful Year Comes To An End

As the year winds down, the winter weather closes in and the days get shorter, this isn’t the time for traipsing all over Scotland hunting down good stories and scenic spots. That doesn’t mean I can just put my feet up and take a break though, I just made sure to stay a little closer to home.

Luckily, I’m right in the heart of Fife and there’s plenty of interesting places to visit nearby as well as festive events to get you in the spirit!

Walking around Culross is always a treat, but the historic village feels entirely different when the summer crowds are gone. The cobbled streets were almost eerily quiet and I only saw a handful of people the entire day. While unfortunately Culross Palace was closed for the winter, it did mean that I managed to get a seat in the Biscuit Café without a problem!

Even closer to home, it’s a tradition for towns and villages around Scotland to organise a street party for their Christmas light switch on. I was there for my local town Cupar’s event, with mulled wine, fairground rides and a few stalls to keep us entertained. Even more popular than that, throughout December Santa’s sleigh drives around every nearby village to delight the kids while raising money for local charities!

The real highlight of December for me was a visit to the Bowhouse Market near St Monans. This converted steading has really gained in popularity since it opened as a regular market showcasing some of the best produce from the East Neuk of Fife. Not only did I stock up on Christmas presents from Scottish producers that mean a lot more than something ordered off the internet, I also filled up on delicious street food sourced from the farm next door.

Amazing to think that we almost didn’t have anything like this in Scotland - Christmas was actually banned for hundreds of years! It was strongly discouraged by the Presbyterian Church of Scotland after the Reformation in 1560, Christ’s Mass just being too Catholic and full of frivolity.

In the 1600s, it was made officially illegal, with people punished just for baking Yule Breads or putting up decorations. The law was eventually repealed, but Christmas remained something barely celebrated in Scotland until it became a holiday in the 1950s, meaning that Hogmanay (New Years) was a much bigger deal!

As I type this, the Daft Days are coming – the time between Christmas and Hogmanay when it’s hard to remember what day of the week it is or count how many mince pies you’ve eaten. It’s a time to sit by the fire, stay warm and play games or share stories. To me, that’s the real joy of this time of year, not opening presents or eating a feast, but spending time with friends and family.

I hope you get to do the same. Lang may yer lum reek and best wishes for 2026!

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itinearies, click here.

Hidden Scotland Guide Books

Hidden Scotland’s guidebooks to the Isle of Skye and Edinburgh are now available, each offering a focused, carefully edited way to explore two of Scotland’s most compelling destinations. The Skye guide looks beyond the obvious, covering places to stay, landscapes to seek out, food, culture, and quieter corners across the island and Raasay. The Edinburgh guide turns to the capital, bringing together history, walking routes, cafés, galleries, shops, and day trips beyond the city. Both are practical, well-researched, and designed to be read before you arrive and carried with you once you do.

Charlottefield

Sleeps 4 guests in Perthshire.

Nestled in a perfect spot underneath an ancient Caledonian forest of oaks and birch, Charlottefield looks across the glen and down to the  River Tummel. With miles of trails and tracks to explore this is a great base for a family who want to stay on nature’s doorstep. With two comfortable bedrooms and an open-plan living room and kitchen, Charlottefield is a wonderfully comfortable home to come back to after exploring everything Atholl Estates and Perthshire has to offer.

After a long walk to a loch, or climbing one of the nearby Munros relax in the wood-fired outdoor bath in the former woodshed next to the house. Nature enthusiasts can forage in the fields and forests, and might spot our resident pair of golden eagles soaring, red squirrels, deer and beavers.

Find out more here.

Love what we do? Subscribe today

A Hidden Scotland subscription brings the magazine straight to your door, twice a year, before it reaches the shelves. Each issue is carefully edited, beautifully printed, and focused on places, people, and stories that reward curiosity. Subscribers receive every issue first, wrapped by hand and accompanied by a bookmark and an A5 cover print. It is a quieter, more considered way to explore Scotland, guided by writers and photographers who know the country well.

Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

It is with great pleasure that we introduce you to the sponsors of Issue 10.
We invite you to learn more about them by clicking their logo.

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

 

Sunday 21st December 2025

Calanais Standing Stones

Today's weekly takes approximately 14 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

This week’s email arrives on the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year in Scotland. It’s a point in the calendar that has carried weight here for thousands of years, long before Christmas or Hogmanay settled into place, when light, weather and survival shaped daily life far more directly than they do now.

That sense of season runs through much of what follows. Graeme Johncock continues his journey along the wild coast of Lewis, moving between standing stones, brochs and blackhouses that feel especially grounded at this time of year. There’s a closer look at why the winter solstice mattered so deeply in ancient Scotland, alongside a warming detour through some of Skye’s best cafés, well placed for short days and long drives.

As the year draws to a close, we’d like to wish you a happy Christmas period and a good start to the New Year. Thank you for reading and supporting Hidden Scotland, and for spending some of your time with us over the past year.

What’s in this week’s email.

1.Which Angus castle was once home to the Queen Mother?

2.Which clan’s chief became the Earl of Huntly?

3.Which part of Scotland is famous for its density of ancient monuments?

Start 2026 with the Hidden Scotland Calendar

We are delighted to be back with our wall calendar for 2026. Enjoy a selection of stunning photography that captures some of Scotland's best bits throughout the year.

The A3 landscape wall calendar is printed on a beautiful matt art paper stock that makes the images really stand out. The landscape layout allows for an A4 image on one side, which can be utilised as a print afterwards.

As well as a square for each day for you to add those all important events and special dates you have coming up in the new year. There is also a notes section for any additional information you need to jot down for that month.

Cafés on Skye: The Best Stops for Coffee, Cake and a View

For an island that can feel far from everything once you leave the main road, Skye has an impressively strong café scene. It’s not just concentrated in Portree, either. Good coffee and baking turn up across the peninsula roads and along the long, practical drives between sights, often in places that began life as something else, a former bakehouse, a croft building, a village shop, a container on the edge of a car park.

Here are some of our favourites, for the full list check out our Isle of Skye Guidebook.

Lean To Coffee

A ruined crofter’s cottage with makeshift seating scattered through open-to-the-elements or Perspex-roofed ‘rooms’, the café itself in a converted container. On the menu, honey-soaked chai latte and matcha latte, homemade granola, sticky cinnamon buns and sourdough toasties: the ‘Noserider’ filled with Strathdon blue cheese, pear and candied walnut.

Amy’s Place

It’s all about owner Alison’s homemade cakes – with a side of soup – in this purple painted, tin-roofed tea room on the road to Elgol. Tuck into a slice of traditional raspberry jam-filled Victoria sponge, lemon and elderflower, lime and blueberry, chocolate or Millionaire (a nod to millionaire’s shortbread) cake, washed down with a pot of tea from Tiree.

Coffee Bothy

A small, friendly café just off the main road in Broadford offering hearty breakfasts, toasted bagels, filled rolls, and proper coffee. It’s a good option for an early start, and popular with both locals and travellers looking for something unfussy and satisfying before heading north.

Birch

This pared-back little coffee shop down an alley in Portree, all granite-grey woodwork on the outside, pale wood and a Scandi-chic vibe within, was set up by Niall Munro in 2021 after spending time in Australia where he was inspired by the café culture in Melbourne, the home of the flat white. Now evolving into a sleek mini-chain there’s a roastery on the edge of Portree, also serving coffee and cake, where customers can learn more about the coffee and get an insight into the roasting process, and a second café in Inverness, launched in spring 2024.

The Hungry Gull

On the specials board you’ll find dishes such as Pork Belly Benedict; ‘poachies on sourdough with a gochujang hollandaise and sesame’, on the counter white choc chai sticky buns and biscoff-stuffed cookies. This popular pitstop also offers takeaway in the evening; classic fish and chips along with the Gull Burger topped with Orkney cheddar, smoked bacon, caramelised onion with a side of hand-cut chips.

Bog Myrtle

The founders of the Skye Bakehouse – Mania (the pastry chef) and John (the baker) – took over this leafy, pot plant-laced vintage-chic café in 2023. Think old velvet sofas and stools positioned in front of picture windows for sea-gazing while you tuck into a pretty bowl of basmati rice with pesto, tzatziki, broccoli and pickled red onion – or nibble a sticky cardamom bun or salted caramel brioche doughnut.

YURTea&Coffee

SkyeSkyns on the Waternish Peninsula runs a quirky pop-up tea tent during the summer with a woodburner for cooler days, sheepskin-strewn seating inside, picnic tables outside, a barista on board, home-made soup, quiche and cakes. Rhubarb and custard sponge anyone?

An Crùbh

Gaelic for ‘the hub’, An Crùbh is a bright contemporary café, shop and events space built by the local community. There’s a cosy inglenook and woodburning stove for dreich days, outdoor seating for when it’s brighter and vast picture windows framing spectacular mountain views.

Cafe Cuil

From Hackney to the Highlands; Clare Coghill opened the first Café Cùil in East London in 2019 before heading home to launch this sprawling, barn-style red-roofed eatery on her home turf. Famous for its brunch and showcasing the best of Hebridean produce, on the menu you’ll find Cuil kimchi toasties along with Scottish smoked mackerel on sourdough toast with blood orange, pickled fennel and pea shoots.

Looking for more Skye inspiration? check out our latest guidebook here.

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

The Wild Coast of The Isle Of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis is the largest and most populated island in Scotland; a place you could spend a week in and barely scratch the surface. While there’s a lot of island to cover, it’s the northwest side that packs the biggest punch in my opinion In just 20 miles, you can visit standing stones, beautiful beaches, ancient towers and traditional blackhouse cottages. More than enough to make one incredible day out.

Calanais Standing Stones by Sam Rogers

Calanais Standing Stones

My first stop of the day is always the Calanais Standing Stones, arriving before the crowds that can sometimes take over this ancient site. To me, walking amongst these 5000-year-old stones is something that needs to be enjoyed quietly. Known in Gaelic as “fir bhrèige” – False Men, they look like giant humans silhouetted against the sky. We don’t know what the stones were used for and to make things even more interesting, there are around a dozen sets of stones scattered about Calanais. It would take you most of the day to get out to them all, but if the main circle is busy, a walk to one of the smaller groups can be a breath of fresh air!

Callanish Alpacas
5 minute drive

Alpacas might not be what you expect to find on the Isle of Lewis, but this small charity is more than just a curiosity. They rescue and care for a wide range of animals including chickens, turkeys, peacocks and pigs – expect a fair bit of noise when you visit! Every animal has a name and you can find out about them all on a guided tour, with snacks and coffees available in the Alpacaccino Café. It’s worth it just to sit in the turquoise double decker bus!.

Hebridean Copper Kettle Fudge
5 minute drive

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, a quick stop at a famous local honesty box might be right up your street. The Hebridean Copper Kettle Fudge box is just alongside the main road and there’s always a wide range of flavours available. I go for Irn Bru, but that might be an acquired taste!

Dun Carloway Broch
10 minute drive

For 2000 years, Dun Carloway Broch has stood on this small hill with spectacular views across the jagged coastline. Built without any mortar, these towers are unique to Scotland, with a staircase spiralling up between two concentric walls. You can actually still climb part of those ancient stairs! In the 16th century, a group of MacAuleys were camping inside Dun Carloway after stealing some cattle from their Morrison rivals. Unfortunately for them, the Morrison Chief caught up with them, climbing the broch’s walls to throw burning heather inside and flush the raiders out!

Gearranan Blackhouse Village
10 minute drive

To get an idea of slightly more recent history, make sure to visit the Gearranan Blackhouse Village. Built in the late 1800s, these thatched-roofed stone buildings are perfectly designed for the wild west coast of Lewis. While many blackhouses were abandoned throughout the 1900s, residents here adapted with electricity and running water. Sadly, this way of life just wasn’t sustainable anymore and the younger generation left. The last inhabitants left in 1974, but thankfully the village was preserved for us to learn what life was like here.

Lunch in Gearranan Blackhouse Village

There’s no better place for traditional Scottish food than the café at Gearranan. Enjoy great soup and, if you’re lucky, some local seafood in rustic surroundings.

Dalmore Beach 
10 minute drive

With all of the incredible history on Lewis, sometimes I need to remember to just stop and enjoy the scenery. That’s not a problem at Dalmore Beach, just one of a number of sandy beaches along this coast, with water so stunning that you almost forget how cold it is!

Whalebone Arch
15 minute drive

It’s always worth the quick stop to see one of the most unusual gates in Scotland. Standing outside the old postmaster’s house in Bragar are the enormous jawbone of a blue whale! The harpooned beast was washed up in 1920 and while most locals filled up with valuable whale oil, the postmaster Murdo Morrison had his eyes on something bigger. The lower jaw was dragged here on a sledge and erected at his gate, along with the harpoon hanging from the centre!

Arnol Blackhouse
5 minutes drive

While Gearranan might have given you an idea of what traditional Hebridean communities once looked like, to get a proper feeling of life in a blackhouse you need to visit Arnol. Make sure you’re prepared for the peat fire burning in the centre of the floor, the smoke often fills the space! Stepping into the dark room is like stepping back in time and to me, it’s a space that screams storytelling. It’s easy to imagine people sitting around this fire on long, dark winter nights to tell tales of giants, monster and heroes!

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itinearies, click here.

Why the winter solstice mattered so deeply in ancient Scotland

Today marks the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year and one that has carried meaning in Scotland for far longer than the modern calendar.

Long before Christmas or Hogmanay took hold, midwinter was a moment that demanded attention. Food supplies were stretched, weather was unforgiving, and the return of light mattered in very real terms.

On Orkney’s Mainland, that awareness is built into stone at Maeshowe. Raised around 2800 BC, the chambered tomb looks modest from the outside, a low mound in open farmland. Inside, its construction tells a different story. A long, narrow passage is aligned to the south-west so that, on clear evenings in the weeks around the solstice, the setting sun reaches deep into the central chamber. For a short window each year, light touches the back wall before fading again. The effect is brief and precise, and it still works more than five millennia after it was built. Maeshowe is not an outlier.

Across Scotland, prehistoric sites show a close understanding of seasonal cycles. The standing stones at Callanish on Lewis are tied to lunar movements linked to the long winter nights.

Elsewhere, cairns and circles suggest similar concern with time, light, and the turning year. These were not decorative choices. They required planning, observation, and a long view of the landscape and sky.

Today, the solstice passes quietly for most, yet the pull remains. Access to Maeshowe around midwinter is booked years in advance. People still gather, still wait, still look for those first small signs that the days are lengthening again. On the darkest day of the year, Scotland’s oldest monuments continue to do exactly what they were built to do.

Win a 5 night stay at Kabn

We’re delighted to partner with Kabn to introduce their Creative Retreats this winter - immersive stays of 5 nights or more crafted for artists, writers and thinkers seeking space to be inspired by nature.

With the soft crackle of the wood-burning stove, panoramic views over Loch Fyne and the rare quiet that only winter brings, each Creative Retreat is an opportunity to reflect, create or simply be.

To celebrate the launch, we’re giving you the chance to win a 5-night stay at Kabn plus a Hidden Scotland Gift.

Enter via Instagram

Cut off time is today and the winner will be announced by 24th December 2025. Over 21s only. Stay to be completed before 31 March 2026. T&Cs apply.

Creative Retreats are available in both of Kabn’s award-winning off-grid cabins on Loch Fyne, with Kabn 2 featuring a beautiful writing desk setup on request.

Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

It is with great pleasure that we introduce you to the sponsors of Issue 11.
We invite you to learn more about them by clicking their logo.

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

 

Sunday 14th December 2025

Chanonry Point

Today's weekly takes approximately 13 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

This week’s email takes you from the Black Isle to the southern tip of Shetland, with stories and suggestions that celebrate Scotland’s quieter corners. Illustrator and shop owner Tori Gray offers her insider’s guide to exploring the Black Isle, from sea swims and local coffee spots to browsing handmade finds. Meanwhile, Graeme Johncock continues his journey north, uncovering tales of ancient brochs, wartime bravery, and windswept headlands in Shetland.

We’ve also got a few festive reminders. Our 2026 Calendar is nearly sold out, and the limited Christmas edition of Hidden Scotland Magazine is down to the last few copies. There’s still time to enter our winter escape giveaway too, with a two-night stay at The Lovat on Loch Ness up for grabs.

1.Which part of Scotland is associated with Doric

2.Which Scottish economist is famous for writing “Wealth of Nations”?

3.What is the name of the Scottish trifle soaked in whisky?

A weekend exploring The Black Isle - a local’s guide

Tori Gray lives and works in Fortrose in the Black Isle. In this feature Tori shares her insight into the area’s top attractions, activities, as well as where to eat, drink and shop like a local.

Meet your local guide - Tori Gray

I’m Tori, illustrator and owner of Harbour Lane – a bricks and mortar shop selling the work of over 100 different UK-based makers and small businesses. We are best known for our range of homeware that features my illustrations that we handmake to order in store. Our lampshades are our hero product with people buying one and then coming back for more and more. We have had our shop in South Queensferry for eight years and just moved up to the Black Isle in December so that we could open shop no.2. We live above the shop so we can juggle shop life with parenting our two young kids. In fact Calder was born in the middle of the shop renovations and was only just eight weeks old when we opened the doors to Harbour Lane Highlands.

How long have you lived in the Black Isle, and what brought you here?

We have lived in the Black Isle for just over six months now so I suppose we are still newbies to the area but we have completely fallen for it. We moved here in the depths of winter when I was eight months pregnant because we’d found a house with a shop attached that would allow us to juggle shop owner life and parenting without the need to commute. Both the house and the shop were ‘fixer-uppers’ but it was perfect for us and what we wanted to try and achieve.

What is it that you particularly enjoy about living and working in this part of Scotland?

I know we haven’t been here long but inspiration hit immediately. We live just a five minute dog walk from the beach so we are there twice a day, every day. I’m always happiest next to water and our local harbour is such a hub of activity. From sailing, to paddle boarding and a whole bunch of wild swimmers, there is always something different happening in the water no matter the weather so you can’t help but soak that all up.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to explore the area?

My first bit of advice would be to bring clothing to suit every eventuality. It is the Highlands after all so the weather is ‘changeable’ at best, but also to give yourself plenty of time. I know it doesn’t look like a huge area on the map but it definitely needs more than a day or two to fully explore and discover all the hidden gems we have here. I think people possibly think they can do it as a wee ‘day trip’ from Inverness and although you’d definitely still enjoy that, you’d be missing out on so many things the area has to offer.

Can you give us a rundown on what the Black Isle is like as the seasons change, and in your opinion when is the best time to visit?

We haven’t been here a full year yet but I would say we have experienced the two extremes of the seasons. Winter is definitely cold and dark, things slow down and quite a few businesses reduce their opening hours. I don’t mind that though as everything feels calmer and quieter. It’s the chance to reflect and get cosy compared to the summer when it barely gets dark and there is much more of a buzz about the place. Both are good, it just depends what vibe you’re looking for.

Chanonry Point

Tori’s ideal weekend in the Black Isle..

DAY 1 

Start the day with a dog walk or a swim down at Fortrose beach to get the endorphins going and then walk up and grab a just-out-the-oven pain au chocolat from Bakhoos Bakery to help warm you up. Then mosey along the road to visit us at Harbour Lane and get your dopamine hit from a bit of retail therapy. All that shopping obviously makes you hungry so nip along to IV10 and grab something fresh and yummy to help you refuel. End the day with a locally brewed beer from Black Isle Brewery.

DAY 2

Check the tide times so you can catch a glimpse of the dolphins out at Chanonry Point then hop in the car and make your way over to Cromarty to get a coffee and a cake from Slaughter House Coffee. Then a wander along the front to take in the view and treat yourself to an ice cream from the van in Fishertown Inn. Cromarty has lots of independent shops so it’s great for a nosey and to treat yourself to something before grabbing a takeaway pizza from Sutor Creek and heading home.

To read the full article and all of Tori’s suggestions, click here.

To learn more about Harbour Lane, visit their website.

Last few Calendars remaining

We are delighted to be back with our wall calendar for 2026. Enjoy a selection of stunning photography that captures some of Scotland's best bits throughout the year.

The A3 landscape wall calendar is printed on a beautiful matt art paper stock that makes the images really stand out. The landscape layout allows for an A4 image on one side, which can be utilised as a print afterwards.

As well as a square for each day for you to add those all important events and special dates you have coming up in the new year. There is also a notes section for any additional information you need to jot down for that month.

Special Sunday Offer

Add our new Hidden Scotland 2026 Calendar to your order and enjoy £5 off as a seasonal thank-you. The calendar features twelve A4 photographic prints and is produced on premium matte stock, making it a beautiful addition to any wall.

Use code 2026 to redeem.

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

A Day In The South Of Shetland

It takes a bit of effort for most people to get to Shetland, but a trip to Scotland’s most northerly islands is well worth it. I’ve been lucky enough to make the journey a few times and every time I’m blown away by the local history, scenery and culture. Shetland is unlike anywhere else in Scotland and just a single day in the south of the main island makes that very apparent.

Wander Lerwick’s Old Town

Most journeys to Shetland will involve stepping off a ferry in Lerwick in the early hours of the morning. I like to start the day exploring the old streets of the islands’ main town. One house stands out in particular, known as The Lodberrie, famous as the home of Jimmy Perez in the hit TV show – Shetland. There were once many more buildings like this, right on the shore with their own warehouse that allowed merchants to move goods immediately inside rather than carting it along from the harbour.

The Lodberrie, famous as the home of Jimmy Perez in the hit TV show – Shetland

Explore Clickimin Broch
5 minute drive

On the edge of Lerwick, you get your first taste of Shetland’s ancient history at Clickimin Broch. Standing on a peninsula in a small loch, this is one of dozens of brochs around the Shetland Isles. These drystone towers were built around 2000 years ago and while most are just piles of stones, Clickimin has been tidied up in recent history.

We don’t know much about how brochs were originally used, but wandering the few stone passageways and admiring the carefully constructed 5m high walls gives a small insight into the builder’s lives. It’s hard to believe that a man called Hugh Mackay cared so little that he robbed much of the stone to build his stables in the 19th century!

Visit The Old Capital Of Scalloway
10 minute drive

Travelling west across the mainland brings you to the old capital of Shetland – Scalloway. It’s home to one of the few castles in the Northern Isles and although the doors are closed for conservation, it has a story so dark that’s maybe for the best. This was built in the 16th century by Patrick Stewart, the most wicked man in Shetland history. He ruled by fear and oppression, using locals as forced labour and legend says their blood is mixed into the mortar of the castle. He was eventually arrested by the Scottish crown after being caught hiding in the tower of Scalloway Castle!

Learn About The Shetland Bus

Near the castle you’ll find a monument to one of the most remarkable stories from World War II. When the Nazis invaded Norway in 1940, many fishing boats escaped across the sea to find shelter in Shetland. Amazingly, they then volunteered to go back! The fishing boats were used to smuggle weapons and agents into Norway, loading up with refugees for the return journey. Forced to wait for the longer winter nights, it was an extremely dangerous journey carried out by incredibly brave men and forever remembered as The Shetland Bus!

Lunch in The Hoswick Visitor Centre
20 minute drive

One of my favourite places for lunch in Shetland is the Hoswick Visitor Centre, usually packed with locals. Make sure to try the local delicacy of bannocks with salt beef which go very well with soup!

Grab A Gift From Shetland Woollen Co

Almost next door to the visitor centre, the Shetland Woollen Co makes an excellent place to pick up a lasting souvenir. Shetland has a long history of knitwear and not only do their traditional jumpers look good, but they come in very handy on a cold day!

Cross Over To St Ninian’s Isle
15 minute drive

One of the most beautiful scenes in Shetland is the tombolo of sand leading to St Ninian’s Isle. Waves crash on either side as you make the short walk over to this tiny island that was once home to a medieval chapel. In 1958, a schoolboy uncovered a buried hoard of Pictish silver there, a copy of which is held in the Shetland Museum in Lerwick!

Discover the Shetland Crofthouse
15 minute drive

Walking inside the Shetland Crofthouse is like stepping back in time, as if the last inhabitant has just gone to tend the animals. It’s presented exactly as it would have been in the 1870s, complete with peat fire burning in the hearth! It’s simple but it’s very homely and would once have been a common sight across Shetland. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, friendly and willing to answer all of your questions about the various tools and toys scattered around the croft!

Walk Through History At Jarlshof
10 minute drive

Jarlshof is easily one of the most incredible places I’ve ever visited, where you can literally walk through thousands of years of history. In the late 1800s, a storm uncovered evidence of something exciting beneath the ground and as archaeologists dug through the sand, they peeled back layers of history.

Now, visitors can walk through Neolithic huts, Bronze Age roundhouses, a broch, Viking longhouses and a medieval farmhouse! It’s truly incredible to see how many times this seaside spot was reused by Shetlanders who probably had no knowledge of what was beneath their feet!

Climb to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse

At the very southern tip of the Shetland mainland, a short uphill walk takes you to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse. On a clear day, the views are vast from up here and seabirds soar and dive all around the cliffs. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sun dip before retracing your steps north back to Lerwick!

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itinearies, click here.

Win a Winter Escape to the Lovat Hotel

Escape to the banks of Loch Ness with a two-night stay at @thelovatlochness in Fort Augustus.

We’re giving one winner the chance to experience this beautiful Highland hotel, complete with breakfast each morning and dinner for two at @stationroadlochness

To enter head over to our Instagram for more details

Cut-off time is Sunday 18th December at 12pm, with the winner announced the next day.

The stay can be taken between 15th Dec ’25 and the end of April ’26, excluding Christmas and Hogmanay, and is subject to availability.

Last Chance to order

Gift the Limited Christmas Edition of Hidden Scotland Magazine with a parcel that feels special the moment it arrives.

Gift the new Hidden Scotland Magazine – Issue 11 this Christmas. Each copy arrives beautifully hand-wrapped in bespoke paper designed by Scottish illustrator Joy Nevada, ready to place under the tree.

Inside, the magazine is accompanied by a collectable A5 art print of the front cover image and a Hidden Scotland bookmark, all presented in our custom Hidden Scotland box. You can send it directly to the recipient or have it delivered to you for gifting in person.

P.S. Our Christmas Gift Box has now sold out, though there’s still a great selection of festive gifts available. You can browse the full range here and use the code CHRISTMAS15 for 15% off your order.

Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

It is with great pleasure that we introduce you to the sponsors of Issue 10.
We invite you to learn more about them by clicking their logo.

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

Hi {{ first name |}}

The Hidden Scotland Weekly will be landing in your inbox shortly. Before that, just a quick note to say there is still a small window left to place Christmas orders, with UK delivery available until Thursday 18 December.

Christmas wrapped copies of Issue 11, the 2026 Hidden Scotland calendar and pieces from Scottish makers are all available while stock lasts. Use code CHRISTMAS15 for 15% off today.

If you fancy popping into our shop at Milton of Crathes in Aberdeenshire, you will find a full range of Christmas-wrapped magazines, calendars, and Scottish-made pieces, with doors open until 3pm on Christmas Eve.

Here is a small selection of what's available this weekend.

Our 2026 Hidden Scotland Calendar

Our 2026 wall calendar is also back, showcasing stunning photography from across Scotland. Printed on beautiful matt art paper in an A3 landscape layout, it features an A4 image each month, space for daily notes, and a section for jotting down plans for the year ahead. Shop Now

Shop now

Gift Wrapped Issue 11

This year’s gift wrapping returns for Hidden Scotland Magazine Issue 11, featuring paper designed by Scottish illustrator Joy Nevada, a festive tag option, and an A5 art card of our much loved squirrel cover image by photographer Bret Charman.

Each wrapped magazine comes with a festive gift tag, either left blank for your own message to deliver by hand or completed with a handwritten note from us using the message you provide. A Christmas sticker on the tag lets the recipient know it’s not to be opened until 25th December.

Shop now

The Best of Skye

The Isle of Skye is a place of rare wonder, a wildlife-rich spread of bays, peaks, cliffs and ridges. The views are big, but the prospect of adventure is even bigger. We hope this curated Hidden Scotland guide – which takes in everything from the best walks to the finest restaurants – helps you to have your own unforgettable island escape.  

Find out more

The Best of Edinburgh

Welcome to Hidden Scotland’s guide to Edinburgh, a city unlike any other. Scotland’s capital fits all manner of descriptions – time capsule, trendsetter, visitor magnet, festival heartland – but above all it simply is what it is: a place apart. Topped by a fortress and stuffed with big sights and mazy stories, it successfully straddles the last millennium and a half by somehow being both locked in the past and fixated on the future.

Find out more

We’ve also handpicked a range of products from talented makers and designers across Scotland, from handcrafted candles and ceramics to art prints, books, and cards. Each piece celebrates creativity and craft, making it easy to find something special for everyone on your list.

Shop Now

Use code CHRISTMAS15 for 15% off today.

 

Sunday 7th December 2025

Ceannabeinne Beach by Simon Hird

Today's weekly takes approximately 13 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

This week’s email heads north to the cliffs, caves and quiet beaches around Durness, where Graeme Johncock continues his journey along Scotland’s far edge. You’ll find history, folklore and a few surprises woven through this rugged stretch of coast, along with a beautifully told story from photographer Virginie Chabrol on an icy morning atop Goatfell.

With Christmas now in full swing and the last posting dates approaching, we’ve gathered a small selection of Scottish-made gifts from the shop to help with your festive planning. Thoughtful pieces, well crafted, with plenty still available if you’re ticking off a list this weekend.

If you’d like more Scotland delivered to your door, you can subscribe to Hidden Scotland Magazine. Subscribers receive each issue first, along with a free print and bookmark, and can now view a PDF version of Issue 11 through our new digital subscription.

1.Where was William Wallace captured?

2.In Scots, what does the word crabbit mean?

3.Which historic castle was used as Castle Leoch in Outlander

Glencoe Lochan - A Canadian Love Letter

Many people view Glencoe as only a place to stop briefly and marvel at the iconic Three Sisters while passing through. They might think that walking here is only for those adventurous hikers heading up to Bidean nam Bian or the Pap of Glencoe. Fortunately, there’s another option. A gentle stroll for all abilities and with a tender love story behind it.

Amidst the landscape of soaring mountains and heather, the serene Glencoe Lochan is a welcome change. If the woodland walk feels a little out of place in this area of the Highlands, then that’s because it is. This entire area was created as a little slice of Canada by Lord Strathcona in the 1890s. 

Born in Forres, Donald Alexander Smith didn’t start off life with a silver spoon in his mouth. His father worked as a saddler, but Donald was lucky enough to benefit from a school education. After being offered an apprenticeship as a lawyer, the young man looked set for an ordinary, respectful life. That was until his uncle, the explorer John Stuart, returned to Scotland from Canada and filled the boy’s head with wild stories of adventure. 

Aged 18, Donald set off across the ocean to make his fortune with the Hudson’s Bay Company. There he met the beautiful, free-spirited Isabella Hardisty. The pair were immediately drawn to each other but there was a problem. Isabella already had a son with another man and Donald wasn’t somebody who would welcome a scandal. In the end, even this figure of respectability couldn’t ignore his heart. 

Donald took in Isabella’s son as his own and the couple were soon married with another child of their own. Over the years, he rose through the ranks in the company, becoming incredibly wealthy in the process. He even made a name in politics and from his humble beginnings, Donald was created Baron Strathcona and owner of Glencoe Estate. 

Donald built Glencoe House and moved back to Scotland with his family. The couple loved each other dearly but the new Lady Strathcona loved one thing above all others, her Canadian homeland. Even amongst the majestic beauty of Glencoe, with her husband at her side, she longed to see the trees and lakes of Canada again. 

Donald was crushed to see the love of his life so unhappy in Scotland. Instead of simply moving his family back to Canada, he tried his best to bring Canada to them. In a grand romantic gesture, Lord Strathcona created the beautiful scenery around Glencoe Lochan, planting the area with trees shipped over from British Columbia. 

Sadly, Donald’s efforts were in vain. Even this picturesque landscape wasn’t enough to cure Isabella’s homesickness. Before long the couple left Glencoe, heading back to the Canadian mountains. It may not have been enough to convince Lady Strathcona to stay but today this Canadian love letter is a perfect alternative to the more strenuous routes in the area. 

Walkers can take their pick from three routes either around Glencoe Lochan, through the soaring woodland, or a steeper path up the hillside.

words // Graeme Johncock - photography // Daniel Casson

Have you got your 2026 Calendar?

We are delighted to be back with our wall calendar for 2026. Enjoy a selection of stunning photography that captures some of Scotland's best bits throughout the year.

The A3 landscape wall calendar is printed on a beautiful matt art paper stock that makes the images really stand out. The landscape layout allows for an A4 image on one side, which can be utilised as a print afterwards.

As well as a square for each day for you to add those all important events and special dates you have coming up in the new year. There is also a notes section for any additional information you need to jot down for that month.

Special Sunday Offer

Add our new Hidden Scotland 2026 Calendar to your order and enjoy £5 off as a seasonal thank-you. The calendar features twelve A4 photographic prints and is produced on premium matte stock, making it a beautiful addition to any wall.

Use code 2026 to redeem.

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

Driving Scotland’s North Coast

In recent years, the north of Scotland has had a lot more attention thanks to the North Coast 500, but the coastline between Durness and Thurso often gets rushed along. It’s somewhere packed with history and folklore in some of the most beautiful surroundings – all things I like to focus on when travelling!

It doesn’t matter which direction you go, there’s a lot see between point A and B on Scotland’s north coast.

Balnakeil Church

Starting almost in the very northwestern corner of the mainland, Balnakeil is just a short hop from the village of Durness. Beside a beautiful sandy beach, you’ll find the ruins of an old church that’s home to two very different men.

An obelisk remembers Rob Donn Mackay, a poet, a cowherd, a poacher turned gamekeeper and somebody who stood up for social justice! Although illiterate, his words are an incredible commentary on the turbulent 18^th century Highlands, thankfully written down by the local minister’s daughter.

Inside the church you’ll find a stone marking the resting place of a much less respected character. Duncan MacMorrach, known as MacMurdo, was a dangerous enforcer for the local Mackay Lairds and somebody you didn’t want to cross, otherwise you might disappear…

Smoo Cave
10 minute drive

One of the most spectacular sights anywhere in Scotland, Smoo Cave is an impressive natural wonder. This enormous cavern hasn’t just been formed by the waves crashing into the cliff, but by a river that pours through a hole in the top too! On most days, once inside, you can follow a walkway to get pretty close to the crashing waterfall.

This place is packed with legends, from the murderous MacMurdo disposing of bodies down the hole to the evil Wizard of Reay – a former resident of the cave. It doesn’t take long to walk around, but you can see why a place like this is firmly rooted in local folklore!

Ceannabeinne Village Ruins
5 minute drive

There’s only a small parking lane and it’s easy to miss, but the ruins of Ceannabeinne Township are well worth taking the time to explore. In 1841, this was a busy community of 50 people but by 1842, it was entirely abandoned.

Follow the trail around the information boards and learn how the local families fought against their forced evictions. It was part of the brutal Highland Clearances, with landowners more interested in profit than in people. The residents may have lost their battle, but their plight soon brought around lasting change!

Ceannabeinne Beach
2 minute drive

Just below the township, but accessed from another car park, Ceannabeinne Beach is one of the best examples of the many stunning beaches on the north coast. It’s a bit of a hike down, but worth it if you have the energy to get back up. If the weather is good, thrillseekers can even zipline across the beach from the cliffs on either side!

Loch Eriboll Viewpoint
30 minute drive

The scenery as you drive around Loch Eriboll is breathtaking and it’s well worth stopping at the viewpoint to take it all in. It’s been used as a natural harbour for centuries, including by King Haakon’s Norwegian fleet on its way to the Battle of Largs.

It became important during WWII, with bombers using the islands to practice their operations and later seeing the surrender of 33 Nazi U-boats! 

Lunch At Norse Bakehouse
30 minute drive

Delicious food with a beautiful view, sit outside if the weather is good enough and enjoy one of their delicious focaccia sandwiches!

Castle Varrich
5 minute drive

This is clan Mackay territory and the chief’s old tower keeps watch at the top of a hill above the village of Tongue. It’s a very small ruin and takes around an hour round trip to walk to, but the sweeping views from the top of the walkway inside make it worthwhile if you have the time.

Strathnaver Museum
30 minute drive

Found in the old church at Bettyhill, the Strathnaver Museum is packed with local history and one of my big highlights from the entire north coast. While there’s history stretching back thousands of years, including a Pictish stone in the graveyard, there’s a strong emphasis on the Highland Clearances.

One of the most poignant items in the collection is also probably the largest - the church pulpit where the minister was forced to read the eviction notices. Hundreds of people gazed at this very structure when they heard the news that flipped their world upside down!

Forsinard Flows
45 minute drive

As you head east, you’re leaving the mountains behind and entering the Flow Country. While it’s a bit of a detour, the vast peat bog is best seen from the tower built at Forsinard Flows.

Take in the vast landscape from here and keep your ears and eyes open for the wide variety of birds that call this place home, but make sure to get back across the walkway before sunset – you don’t want to risk stepping in the bog on your way back to the car!

Written by Graeme Johncock To check out more of Graeme’s Scottish Itinearies, click here.

Visiting the Isle of Skye in 2026?

Welcome to Hidden Scotland’s guide to the extraordinary Isle of Skye. Many islands around Europe can claim to be blessed with grand scenery, but precious few can match the raw, elemental drama of Skye. Craggy slopes and muscular headlands stretch across the map like works in some gargantuan open-air gallery, while a glimmering array of lochs, burns and white-sand bays offset the towering geology. 

The island is no pocket-sized retreat. Covering more than 1,650 square kilometres, it stands as a realm of its own, a land where eagles soar, skies brood and single-track roads snake off into the distance. As a cultural destination, meanwhile, it’s vibrantly alive, with a string of historical settlements and a population of some 12,000. Among these locals runs a rich vein of creativity and a long tradition of producing artists, musicians and makers – indeed, spend long enough among Skye’s cloud-snagged mountains and wave-bashed peninsulas and it’s hard not to feel inspired yourself.    

The following pages are your guide to making the most of the island (as well as its far smaller but similarly lovely sister island, Raasay). In your hands you’ll find an overview of the best places to stay, the best things to do, the best locations to visit and the best spots to eat and drink.

As you’ll no doubt be aware, visitor numbers here can be high in peak season. With this in mind, we’ve also made an effort to spotlight a whole host of lesser-known attractions, championing the places and people that truly make Skye what it is. It’s somewhere to explore at length, a destination where the choicest rewards are often found in the quietest, most unexpected places – and we hope this guide allows you to enjoy this very special island to the full.

Use code CHRISTMAS for 10% off today only.

The Lodge at Dun Aluinn

Dun Aluinn is a striking Queen Anne-style house, carefully restored and reimagined as a contemporary, design-led retreat while preserving its original period detailing. Grand proportions, ornate plasterwork and polished wood floors set the tone, offset by a curated collection of modern furnishings including a tangerine Patricia Urquiola sofa and a 5.5-metre bronze dining table, custom-made to seat twenty guests. The interior palette leans into inky blues, warm neutrals and tactile materials, with handpicked artworks and textures layered throughout. Despite the scale and elegance, the mood is intimate. Roaring fires, soft throws and long valley views lend the house a warmth that’s immediate and quietly immersive.

Find out more here.

Behind the Lens with Virginie Chabrol

Photographer Virginie Chabrol shares the story behind one of her most striking images, captured during a summit camp on Goatfell, the highest peak on Arran. Braving freezing winds and heavy mist, she found the perfect moment in fleeting conditions—when a figure emerged from the fog and brought the scene to life

Arran is said to be Scotland in miniature. It is crossed by the Highland Boundary Fault and, like the mainland, is divided between flat and fertile areas and mountainous landscapes. This was my first visit to the isle, despite several years spent in Scotland and its proximity to my adopted home town of Glasgow. Yet, I had felt compelled to explore the tumultuous slopes and rocky ridges of the Goatfell range since I had seen a photo taken from its highest peak. 

It was in autumn. James – my partner and fellow photographer – and I knew that rain was coming but according to the weather forecast we had a clear window of a few days. We took our chances. Our plan was to climb Goatfell and to camp on its summit to make the most of the light. 

Goatfell was hidden in the clouds when our ferry reached Arran and the weather did not improve during our walk up the mountain. We pitched our tent in a sea of thick clouds and hoped for the best. At least, it was not raining... 

Little did we know that we would wake up in a frosted ice world! Outside the tent, the rocks scattered on the summit were all covered with rime ice drawing delicate feather-like patterns. No need to say the views had not improved. Were they even getting worse? It was hard to say as we could barely see a few metres away. 

The cold and the wind were biting, but the atmosphere was magical and so we quickly began wandering around, exploring the summit draped in its new frozen coat. James and I quickly lost sight of each other as often happens when photographing. The landscape was totally alien – a photographer’s dream – so we had to make the most it. 

I kept shooting – interesting details and shapes, disappearing paths, icy boulders emerging from the mist... but even if the conditions were incredible I knew I was missing something. The mountain was lost in the clouds and everything was in the same shades of greys and whites. Without any element to give depth and scale, it was hard to make sense of it all, photographically. 

Then James appeared from nowhere – a shadow moving in the fog - and it all clicked perfectly. The boulders next to me, the human barely visible, the greyness of it all... I could tell the story of the eeriness of the moment in one single frame. 

When shooting personal projects and stories, I don’t like staging my photos as it feels like I lose spontaneity. Sometimes, though, I will ask people to stay where they are when I can see I could use a little bit more time to get the photo I want. The wind and the lack of visibility made it impossible in this case and I only had time to shoot a few frames before James disappeared again. Yet, I was lucky it was enough time to get what I knew would be the photo revealing our experience.

Words & photography by Virginie Chabrol

Want to share your photograph and stories? reply to this email with your ideas.

To read the full article click here.

Gift the Limited Christmas Edition of Hidden Scotland Magazine

Gift the Limited Christmas Edition of Hidden Scotland Magazine with a parcel that feels special the moment it arrives.

Gift the new Hidden Scotland Magazine – Issue 11 this Christmas. Each copy arrives beautifully hand-wrapped in bespoke paper designed by Scottish illustrator Joy Nevada, ready to place under the tree.

Inside, the magazine is accompanied by a collectable A5 art print of the front cover image and a Hidden Scotland bookmark, all presented in our custom Hidden Scotland box. You can send it directly to the recipient or have it delivered to you for gifting in person.

P.S. Our Christmas Gift Box has now sold out, though there’s still a great selection of festive gifts available. You can browse the full range here and use the code CHRISTMAS for 10% off your order.

Quiz Answers

Issue 11 Sponsors

It is with great pleasure that we introduce you to the sponsors of Issue 10.
We invite you to learn more about them by clicking their logo.

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

We hope your weekend is off to a great start. With the festive season now in full swing, we’ve gathered together some of our favourite Scottish-made gifts to inspire this week’s Christmas shopping. Our Christmas Collection is a good place to start, followed by a handpicked selection of Books, Food and Drink, Lifestyle pieces, Children’s gifts, Prints and our growing Card Collection. Each category is filled with thoughtful, well crafted items from makers and independent studios across Scotland.

We also have a very limited number of our Christmas gift wrapped copies of Hidden Scotland Magazine Issue 11 still available. Each one is wrapped in illustrated paper by Joy Nevada and finished with a seasonal tag and art card, making it an easy and meaningful gift.

For this weekend, we are offering a special price on our new Hidden Scotland 2026 Calendar. Add it to your order and receive £5 off with code 2026 at checkout. The calendar features twelve A4 photographic prints on premium matte stock, with space for notes and plannin`g each month. The prints can be kept and framed once the year has passed.

Below, you’ll find a curated edit of featured products chosen for this week’s email, from small batch food and candles to prints, books and festive pieces. These are some of our favourites for gifting, sharing and enjoying at home.

Hidden Scotland Magazine Issue 11 Limited Gift Edition

This limited gift edition of Issue 11 of Hidden Scotland Magazine includes a handwritten note of your choice, a bookmark, and an A5 print of the cover image

Find out more

Haar Merry Christmas Coffee

This is Haar Coffee’s first Christmas release, created for the colder months and made to share. The blend brings together coffees from Brazil and Colombia, roasted with the same care that defines every Haar batch. In the cup, it offers notes of milk chocolate, marzipan and cranberry, with a smooth, steady character tha

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Scottish Bothy Screen-Printed Decoration

Add a touch of Scottish charm to your festive season with this enchanting Bothy ornament. Screen-printed by skilled artisans in Jaipur on sturdy, sustainably made board, each decoration features vibrant designs on both sides and a soft 10cm cotton loop for easy hanging. Crafted from 100% recycled paper, this 7 x 7.5 cm

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Wild Sauna

Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the UK's burgeoning wild sauna scene. This comprehensive guidebook unveils a hidden world of outdoor sweat lodges, from repurposed horseboxes on windswept beaches to bespoke saunas nestled in ancient forests. Discover over 175 unique locations, each offering its own blend of

Find out more

A Place In Scotland : Beautiful Scottish Interiors

A Place in Scotland is a collation of interior spaces that represent a rejuvenated Scottish vernacular that has emerged over the past twenty years. Something is happening in Scotland – a new confidence – and inspirational voices are redefining what 'Scottish style' really is. Banjo and Alexander see this manifesting in

Find out more

Hidden Scotland Calendar 2026

We are delighted to be back with our wall calendar for 2026. Enjoy a selection of stunning photography that captures some of Scotland's best bits throughout the year. The A3 landscape wall calendar is printed on a beautiful matt art paper stock that makes the images really stand out. The landscape layout allows for an

Find out more

Ocelot Chocolate Blood Orange Organic Dark Chocolate

A smooth, rich, organic dark chocolate made with beans grown in Virunga National Park, Eastern Congo - infused with sweet, tangy blood orange, and a touch of creamy vanilla. A nod to the much-loved British ‘chocolate orange’ - taken to the next level of sophistication and taste perfection. Ingredients: organic cocoa ma

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The Best of Skye: Curated by Hidden Scotland

Introducing Hidden Scotland’s guide to Skye. The Isle of Skye is a place of rare wonder, a wildlife-rich spread of bays, peaks, cliffs and ridges. The views are big, but the prospect of adventure is even bigger.

Find out more

Highland Berries Candle

Immerse yourself in the enchanting aroma of Cairn Candle Co's hand-poured candle, designed to elevate any space with its beautifully balanced fragrance. This diverse blend features a harmonious mix of cranberry and raspberry, complemented by refreshing notes of green apple, citrus, and grape, all resting on a warm vani

Find out more

Stay for Supper : Laid-back Vegetarian Food to Share

Xanthe Ross brings her relaxed, generous style of cooking into print with Stay for Supper, a collection of vegetarian recipes designed for gatherings. Inspired by her years running supper clubs, the book is full of meals that are easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy with others—whether you're feeding two or twenty.

Find out more

Scotland's Stories by Graeme Johncock

Everybody loves stories and Scotland is full of them. Every town, village, glen, loch, nook and cranny has a tale to tell and it's these stories that bring those places to life. Scotland's Stories is the key to unlocking those legends and seeing these incredible places in a new light.Loch Garve looks very different whe

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The Best of Edinburgh: A Hidden Scotland Guide

Introducing Hidden Scotland’s guide to Edinburgh, a city unlike any other. Scotland’s capital fits all manner of descriptions – time capsule, trendsetter, visitor magnet, festival heartland – but above all it simply is what it is: a place apart.

Find out more

Wild Isle Style : Resourceful And Sustainable Interior Design Ideas

Living on the remote island of Mull has inspired Banjo to be resourceful and inventive in his design outlook. With sustainability and budget in mind, he combines vintage finds with clever design and re-purposes the old, re-imagining it into something new. From contemporary to classic, his spaces are characterful, curat

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Glenshee Pottery Original Bothy in Tan

Glenshee Pottery, located in the picturesque region of Angus, is renowned for its expertly handcrafted ceramic bothies, including the distinctive 'Wee Bothies' in tan. Each of these charming miniatures is shaped and glazed by hand, ensuring every piece is a one-of-a-kind representation of traditional Scottish craftsman

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Skíō Pottery Reclaimed Mug

A perfect to hold, medium-sized mug, great for every brew — Made from a mixture of recycled clay from the Skíō studio, reclaimed and re-thrown into these beautiful mugs then dipped in the signature Meadowsweet glaze to finish. Approximate measurements: 8oz. 7–8cm wide / 7–8cm high. Each mug is hand-thrown on the wheel,

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Hebridean Baker Marmalade Shortbread

This small batch-baked Shortbread is delightfully light and crisp, brimming with flavour. Enjoy these morsels with tea or coffee, or savour them alone as a tempting snack. Infused with the essence of marmalade, their delightful and airy texture will leave you yearning for more. Contains Wheat, Gluten, Milk, Soya, Oat M

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Haar Low Tide Beans 220g Bag

Low Tide is built on balance and comfort — a 50/50 blend of naturally processed coffee from Brazil and washed Caturra from Nicaragua. It’s structured for milk but holds its own without it, delivering notes of chocolate, roasted nuts, and toffee. This is our most grounded profile. A blend designed to be consistent, appr

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Dark Honey & Tobacco Candle

Slow down, take a step back and restore balance in your life. Light The Kindred Folk's scented candles to create an ambient atmosphere and allow the quiet to envelop your mind. Transform your home into a sanctuary and indulge yourself with the rich Dark Honey & Tobacco fragrance. Top Notes: Tobacco, Honey, Spices,

Find out more

Caledonian Forest Candle

Immerse yourself in the enchanting essence of Scotland with the Caledonian Forest Candle from Cairn Candle Co. Inspired by the country’s former temperate rainforest, this beautifully tranquil fragrance evokes the serenity of long woodland walks beneath a lush canopy. Experience a harmonious blend of pine, herbal, and g

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Bare Bones 70% Peru Christmas Special Chocolate

This incredible cacao is from a single farm and has been expertly grown by Benedicto Morataya. He has specially selected fine-flavour genetics that flourish in the farm's terroir + carefully monitors the fermentation process.  Taste notes of apricot, medjool dates + cashew with a long molasses finish. Origin: San Vicen

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Special Weekend Offer

Add our new Hidden Scotland 2026 Calendar to your order and enjoy £5 off as a seasonal thank-you. The calendar features twelve A4 photographic prints and is produced on premium matte stock, making it a beautiful addition to any wall.

Each month includes generous daily squares for planning the year ahead, along with a notes section for extra reminders. It’s an easy way to bring more of Scotland into your home throughout 2026, and the prints can be kept and framed once the month has passed.

Use code 2026 on checkout to apply the discount.

P.S. Our Christmas Gift Box has now sold out, though there’s still a great selection of festive gifts available. You can browse the full range here and use the code CHRISTMAS for 10% off your order.

 

Sunday 30th November 2025

Iona Abbey

Today's weekly takes approximately 15 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

This week’s email takes you from the standing stones of Kilmartin Glen to the shores of Islay, where wintering geese fill the skies and the island settles into its quieter season. Graeme Johncock shares the final chapter of his touring year, travelling from ancient rock art and hilltop castles to the strongholds of the Lords of the Isles. There’s a look at Rhuroin, a peaceful Highland escape on Loch Shieldaig, and a beautifully observed feature on Islay’s autumn arrivals from wildlife guide David Dinsley.

You’ll find this week’s quiz, a new seasonal favourite from Edinburgh Honey Co., and an update on our 2026 Hidden Scotland Calendar, which is already proving popular ahead of the new year.

As always, a few discoveries, a few stories, and something special from the shop.

1.Which is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides?

2.Which small island lies off the coast of Kintyre?

3.Which Scottish Queen was forced to abdicate in 1567?

Have you got your 2026 Calendar?

We are delighted to be back with our wall calendar for 2026. Enjoy a selection of stunning photography that captures some of Scotland's best bits throughout the year.

The A3 landscape wall calendar is printed on a beautiful matt art paper stock that makes the images really stand out. The landscape layout allows for an A4 image on one side, which can be utilised as a print afterwards.

As well as a square for each day for you to add those all important events and special dates you have coming up in the new year. There is also a notes section for any additional information you need to jot down for that month.

Special Sunday Offer

Add our new Hidden Scotland 2026 Calendar to your order and enjoy £5 off as a seasonal thank-you. The calendar features twelve A4 photographic prints and is produced on premium matte stock, making it a beautiful addition to any wall.

Use code 2026 to redeem.

Graeme Johncock, the travel blogger and storyteller behind Scotland's Stories, is now bringing his adventures to us in a weekly column. He will journal about his explorations around Scotland, sharing fascinating stories and highlighting unique places to visit. Accompanied by his dog Molly, Graeme continues to uncover and share the rich history and beauty of Scotland.

Scotland’s Quiet Season Begins

As November begins, Scotland’s tourist season ends with the majority of attractions, cafes, castle and accommodations closing their doors. Usually this is when I would start to take a little bit of time off from showing people around the country and rest before getting back out there to do some exploring for myself. However, I had one last tour to pack in before then!

That trip took me to two places that underlined an important point I love making, what I consider the essence of real Scottish adventures. You don’t always need to visit the big-name attractions or spend lots of money to enjoy your time here. Scotland is blessed with fascinating places and spectacular views that are just out in the open, waiting for you to find them.

The first place that reminded me of this was Kilmartin Glen, somewhere that I’ve visited plenty of times, but it never gets old. Well, actually it stays old – very, very old! The glen is absolutely packed with standing stones, burial cairns and strange, swirling rock art that stretches back thousands of years!

Kilmartin Glen: Temple Wood Stone Circle

Not everybody is as fascinated by ancient history, but they’re bound to be impressed by a walk up to Carnasserie Castle. Even at this time of year, the door is left unlocked for visitors to wander the ruined hall and climb up to the top of the still sturdy tower. Once home to the first Protestant Bishop of the Isles, he certainly knew how to pick a good view.

From Kilmartin we were heading to Islay, somewhere that I haven’t been able to spend as much time in as I’d like. It’s famous for whisky, with 10 currently working distilleries and more on the way – the majority of them notable for their smoky flavour. However, there’s a lot more to find on this island than just a tasty dram!

This was the main base of the Lords of the Isles, chiefs of Clan MacDonald who controlled vast swathes of Scotland’s west coast. From Finlaggan on Islay, they held parliaments with chiefs of other clans, issued proclamations and granted land, just like a king would do. While the visitor centre was closed, walking around the ruins of Finlaggan is just as atmospheric regardless.

Finlaggan

That might have been where all the administration took place, but the MacDonald stronghold on the island was at Dunyvaig Castle. It’s a crumbling ruin today, but it still clings dramatically onto a cliff above crashing waves in the south of Islay.

It was “blowing a hoolie” when I approached and it took more than a little effort to stay upright in the wind. Even the seals were taking shelter, with about a dozen bobbing around, keeping a watchful eye on me, apart from one diving for fish. That was all the inspiration I needed to go looking for some lunch.

There’s one place I was very happy hadn’t closed for the winter yet – The Islay Oyster Shed on the shore of Loch Gruinart. The oysters are grown in the water right beside the café and thankfully they had a cooked option for me. As much as I like to fit in with the locals, I’ll take lemon and breadcrumbs over raw oysters any day!

Written by Graeme Johncock

Edinburgh Honey Co. Gingerbread Infused Honey

Indulge in the festive charm of Edinburgh Honey Co.'s Gingerbread Infused Honey, a delightful 120g jar that captures the essence of the holiday season. Crafted in collaboration with Spice Kitchen, this exquisite honey blends Scottish Rapeseed Honey sourced from Longniddry with the warm, spicy notes of gingerbread.

Perfect for enhancing your Hot Toddies, cosy evening teas, or as a sweet touch in your baking, this honey is more than just a seasonal treat. With its rich pollen content, it also offers potential relief from hay fever, making it a thoughtful addition to your pantry. Embrace the warmth of Scottish sweetness and elevate your festive moments with this unique infusion.

Use code CHRISTMAS for 10% off today only.

Rhuroin

Rhuroin is a Highland self-catering holiday house, in a woodland setting on the shores of Loch Shieldaig. The house sits in an enviable position, with views to the iconic red roofed house, Inverbain Island and the Torridon mountains. It is set amongst mature Scots pine, rowan and birch trees, and a sheltered bay adjacent to the property is home to otters and herons. There is direct access to the water for wild swimmers and kayakers and space to store your kayak by the shore. A rough lawn runs down to the sea and at the right time of the year, pods of dolphins can be seen feeding in the loch.

Find out more here.

The Wintering Geese of Islay

Photograph by David Dinsley

Autumn is a season of change: leaves are shed, fires lit, fungi flourish, ghost stories are shared, and our skies buzz with migrating birds. Here in the Inner Hebrides, tens of thousands of geese journey back to us. Travelling from Greenland each year, these noisy birds make their annual pilgrimage back to the Isle of Islay, escaping the harsh winter of their arctic breeding grounds for a milder Hebridean one.

This seasonal surge of geese is a spectacle to behold, with wave after wave of them arriving around early October. Arriving from the north, with Mull to their rear, they begin their descent into the mouth of Loch Gruinart and on towards the head of the loch, where they arrive on the Gruinart flats. In a matter of just a few weeks, Loch Gruinart is completely transformed into a hive of noisy activity, as hundreds of geese become thousands, and a wall of sound envelops the landscape. Upon their arrival, the geese will congregate across the surrounding mudflats, salt marsh, and grasslands, using this part of the island as a meeting location to socialise and gather, before eventually spreading across Islay as winter progresses. Though high numbers of birds do remain around Gruinart throughout, Bridgend is also an important location with both of these sites situated on tidal sea lochs; they are used as key roost sites. Thousands of geese roost together on the loch, mudflats and salt marsh for safety.

The two key species we have as wintering tenants are the Barnacle Geese, and to a lesser extent the Greenland White-fronted Goose. Both very different looking species of geese, but equally as charismatic. In recent years, around 30,000 Barnacle Geese and 5,500 Greenland White- fronted spent the winter on Islay. Their calls provide an indicative soundtrack to winter on the Queen of the Hebrides. 

Photograph by David Dinsley

Barnacle Geese are unmistakable in their pied appearance; they have a distinctive black neck, head and breast, silvery belly, and sport a creamy- white face. These are by far the most numerous goose and are easily seen from the roadsides as they graze on the grasslands, foraging for leafy grasses. You’d be hard pressed to visit Islay during the winter months and not see several hundred of these birds without even trying - approximately 60 per cent of the Greenland population of Barnacle Geese spend the winter with us on Islay.

My particular favourite is the Greenland White- fronted Goose, a gorgeous dark brown bird with white under-tail feathers and black blotches or ‘tiger stripes’ on the belly of the adults; these markings being unique to each individual bird, much like a fingerprint to us. Other more distinctive features are their bright-orange legs and bill, and the classic white on the forehead of adults, giving them their namesake attribute. White-fronted Geese tend to socialise in family groups, and prefer peatland and damp meadow habitats, something we have in spades out here. Unlike the more numerous Barnacle Goose, the white-fronts don’t roost on sea lochs and salt marsh, instead choosing to roost on the bog pools of local moorland and peatland.

So why do so many geese come to Islay?

Islay has an oceanic climate and doesn’t sit very high above sea level, and so has an abundance of grassland, arable land, stubble, fen, and large areas of estuarine and salt marsh habitats on the lower ground, providing perfect conditions for foraging and roosting geese. Nature reserves such as RSPB The Oa, and in particular RSPB Loch Gruinart manage large areas of their grassland and wet meadow habitat to provide feeding grounds for the geese throughout the winter - Gruinart being an internationally import wintering site for both of these species. An area of wet grassland features known as ‘the Gruinart flats’ is vitally important for feeding geese and wading birds. Huge numbers can easily be seen from the road that goes through this location and it’s well worth stopping in one of the many lay-bys to soak in the wildfowl ambience with stunning views. 

We are also joined by Greylags, Brent Geese, and the occasional Pink-footed Geese. Most years, the occasional rarer vagrants are recorded, species including Red-breasted Geese, Todd’s Canada Geese, Lesser White-Fronted Geese, and Cackling Geese; caught up in the flocks of Barnacles and White-fronts as they travelled south on their migration. Trying to pick out these odd rarities amongst a sea of several hundred other geese isn’t always a picnic, but a challenge that the wintering twitchers are always geared up for.

In recent years, the abundance of so many geese hasn’t gone unnoticed. White-tailed Eagles, the largest raptor in the UK, have rapidly learnt to take advantage of this bountiful food source. These massive birds of prey now gather in larger numbers than ever before and annually set their sights on this wintertime feast. It’s no surprise that White-tailed Eagles from across Scotland make their return to Islay to take advantage of such prey availability. For the younger eagles that join us, this is an excellent opportunity to practice and hone their hunting skills whilst food opportunities are so fruitful. The drama of an eagle hunt is an incredibly exciting event, the goose flock exploding into the sky in an adrenaline-fuelled cacophony of noisy wing beats and frantic vocalisations, with massive eagles cutting through the flock to grab an unfortunate victim. 

If you’re on Islay between October and April and you want to savour something that isn’t served in drams, then you have to experience the sight and sound of thousands of overwintering geese. A nature spectacle up there with some of the best, and right here in Scotland.

Words & photography by David Dinsley

To read the full article click here.

Gift the Limited Christmas Edition of Hidden Scotland Magazine

Gift the Limited Christmas Edition of Hidden Scotland Magazine with a parcel that feels special the moment it arrives.

Gift the new Hidden Scotland Magazine – Issue 11 this Christmas. Each copy arrives beautifully hand-wrapped in bespoke paper designed by Scottish illustrator Joy Nevada, ready to place under the tree.

Inside, the magazine is accompanied by a collectable A5 art print of the front cover image and a Hidden Scotland bookmark, all presented in our custom Hidden Scotland box. You can send it directly to the recipient or have it delivered to you for gifting in person.

Shop Now

P.S. Our Christmas Gift Box has now sold out, though there’s still a great selection of festive gifts available. You can browse the full range here and use the code CHRISTMAS for 10% off your order.

Quiz Answers

If you would like to email us about any suggestions or feedback please email hello@hiddenscotland.co with the subject feedback. Thanks!

Gift the Limited Christmas Edition of Hidden Scotland Magazine

Gift the Limited Christmas Edition of Hidden Scotland Magazine with a parcel that feels special the moment it arrives.

Gift the new Hidden Scotland Magazine – Issue 11 this Christmas. Each copy arrives beautifully hand-wrapped in bespoke paper designed by Scottish illustrator Joy Nevada, ready to place under the tree.

Inside, the magazine is accompanied by a collectable A5 art print of the front cover image and a Hidden Scotland bookmark, all presented in our custom Hidden Scotland box. You can send it directly to the recipient or have it delivered to you for gifting in person.

Each wrapped magazine comes with a festive gift tag, either left blank for your own message or completed with a handwritten note from us. A Christmas sticker on the tag lets the recipient know it’s not to be opened until 25th December.

Special Sunday Offer

Add our new Hidden Scotland 2026 Calendar to your order and enjoy £5 off as a seasonal thank-you. The calendar features twelve A4 photographic prints and is produced on premium matte stock, making it a beautiful addition to any wall.

Each month includes generous daily squares for planning the year ahead, along with a notes section for extra reminders. It’s an easy way to bring more of Scotland into your home throughout 2026, and the prints can be kept and framed once the month has passed.

Use code 2026 on checkout to apply the discount.

P.S. Our Christmas Gift Box has now sold out, though there’s still a great selection of festive gifts available. You can browse the full range here and use the code CHRISTMAS for 10% off your order.

 

Sunday 23rd November 2025

Winter has arrived at Park Cottage, Cairngorms

Today's weekly takes approximately 15 minutes to read.

Hi {{ first name | }}👋

This week’s email begins with an important reminder for anyone sending gifts overseas, as the final posting date for international delivery arrives on 24 November. From there, we head north to Shetland for Laurie Goodlad’s in-depth guide to Up Helly Aa, a winter festival unlike anything else in Scotland. Laurie takes you through the history, the procession, the long night of celebrations and the practical details that help you make the most of a visit.

You’ll find new arrivals in the shop, including the return of the Orange Spice Candle Tin from Cairn Candles, a Christmas favourite, along with a closer look at Park Cottage on Alvie Estate, a Highland retreat surrounded by the drama of the Cairngorms. Graeme Johncock continues the journey with a full day along the Kintyre coastline, from the ruins of Tarbert Castle to Skipness, Carradale, Saddell Bay and Campbeltown.

As always, there’s this week’s quiz, a few things we think you’ll enjoy and details on the Christmas Gift Box before the deadline approaches.

1.Which is Scotland’s longest ferry route?

2.Which is Scotland’s most southerly whisky distillery?

3.Which is the official Scots Language Town?

Last Chance to Order for International Delivery

Our last posting date for international Christmas orders is approaching, with 24 November as the final day to guarantee delivery in time for the holidays. If you’re sending Hidden Scotland gifts overseas, now is the moment to order.

Wrapped copies of Issue 11, our Christmas Gift Box, the 2026 calendar and products from Scottish makers are all available while stock lasts.

Each wrapped magazine includes a festive tag and an art card, and gift boxes are prepared with care and detail. Place your order soon to make sure it reaches friends and family abroad before Christmas.

Use code CHRISTMAS for 10% off today only.

Your Essential Guide to Up Helly Aa

If you’re looking to experience a wild northern winter, punctuated with a dash of culture, fire and Viking tradition, then Up Helly Aa is an unmissable experience in Shetland’s cultural calendar. Laurie Goodlad explains the best way to make the most of Shetland’s festival of fire.

With no more than six hours of daylight throughout January, Shetland is a land of winter darkness. It’s an island hammered by Atlantic storms, fierce winds and biting cold, but within this, Up Helly Aa is the event longanticipated throughout the year which lights up the night sky and warms the hearts of thousands of participants and onlookers every year.

Between January and March, the islands celebrate the festival of Up Helly Aa, with 12 Fire Festival and Up Helly Aa celebrations featuring fiery processions, Viking dress and all-night parties following the burning of a Viking longship. Of these, the largest and most well-known is the Lerwick Up Helly Aa, which takes place on the last Tuesday of January.

Up Helly Aa’s roots can be found in the 19th-century tradition of ‘tar-barrelling’, a practice, eventually outlawed, which saw the town’s young men rolling burning barrels of tar through the narrow streets of Lerwick throughout the 24-day festival of Yule.

Up Helly Aa is not an ancient festival from Viking and Norse times but a celebration with its roots firmly embedded in Victorian Shetland, and like any proper Victorian soiree, theatrical pomp and ceremony were, and still do, flow unbridled.

Lerwick Up Helly Aa’s festivities last for 24 hours, attracting thousands of visitors each year from across the globe. A torchlit procession, led by the Guizer Jarl (chief Viking), weaves its way around the streets of Lerwick with over 1,000 people carrying burning torches. Following the parade, the guizers or squads (as participants are known) throw their burning torches into a replica Viking longship and sing the Norseman’s Home. The atmosphere during the procession is electric as street lights are extinguished, and spellbound spectators throng the streets, jostling for the best view. As the town glows under the light of the burning torches, the smell of paraffin and smoke permeates everything, as the rousing cheers echo around the buildings into the cold night sky.

After the ceremonial burning, a night of celebration commences as around a dozen public halls open their doors to welcome the squads (or groups) of guizers who perform a sketch or dance for the crowds. These are private, ticketed parties, and those attending must get an invite from one of the venue’s hosts or hostesses who organise the after-party. With impressive spreads of soup, sandwiches and home bakes, everyone remains wellfuelled, ensuring they can dance right into the next day.

During these 24 hours, Lerwick’s rule is handed over by the police to the Guizer Jarl, and the Town Hall proudly flies the Raven Banner flag

Top tips for enjoying Lerwick Up Helly Aa 

Book ahead. Up Helly Aa is a popular event, with accommodation booking up sometimes years in advance and travel to the islands limited. You can get to Shetland by overnight ferry from Aberdeen or fly from most Scottish airports with Loganair. Bring warm clothing and waterproofs as the procession is often cold, wet and windy – but the effort to watch it is well worth it! Arrive early to the procession to ensure that you get a good viewing point. Attend the Junior procession for better views with less people. The day after Up Helly Aa is a public holiday so you may want to stock up on food supplies beforehand. Check what else is on around Up Helly Aa, including pop-up markets and musical concerts. 

What to expect on the day 

Lerwick takes on a whole new character on Up Helly Aa day, and with a real festival feel buzzing around the town, the atmosphere is electric. The Jarl Squad Timetable (available online at www.uphellyaa.org) provides all the key timings for the event. Check this before you attend so that you can make the most of the day and know where to see them and when. Check out the Up Helly Aa Bill at the Market Cross for a tongue-in-cheek, satirical look at events in the community over the past year. The Bill is available from 6 am on Tuesday until 5 pm.

Timings 

0900 
Muster at the Lerwick Legion and follow the Jarl Squad towards the Esplanade in the centre of town with the galley. The galley remains here, beside the Bressay Ferry Terminal, until 6 pm. 

1500 
Jarl Squad visit Shetland Museum & Archives. Book a ticket online at www.shetlandmuseumandarchives.org.uk. 

1730 
Attend the Junior Procession before the main parade. Fewer people turn out for this, so you’re assured a good view of proceedings and plenty of photo opportunities. 

1930 
Main procession, torchbearers begin at Hillhead

After-party tickets: Hall tickets/invites are generally reserved for locals; however, they can sometimes be sourced. If you are looking for tickets for the halls, contact the Tourist Office for information, or keep an eye on the local press as tickets become available throughout the day. You DO NOT need a ticket/invite to attend the procession, only the after-parties.

words - Laurie Goodlad // photography - David Gifford

To read the full article online click here

Back in Stock! Orange Spice Candle Tin

Introducing the Orange Spice Candle Tin by Cairn Candle Co, a captivating fragrance that brings warmth and zest to any room, no matter the season. Originally a festive favourite, its blend of spiced notes and fresh nectarine has become a year-round staple. The cosy, uplifting scent combines cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove with a burst of bright orange to create a comforting and joyful atmosphere.

Use code CHRISTMAS for 10% off today only.

Park Cottage, Cairngorms

Set on Alvie Estate near Aviemore, Park Cottage is a beautifully restored Highland retreat for up to six guests. Traditional from the outside yet stylish within, it combines wood-burning comfort, mountain views, and a garden hot tub with easy access to walks, wildlife, and the natural drama of the Cairngorms.

Find out more here.

Travelling the Kintyre Coastline

If you enjoy getting off the beaten track in Scotland, the Kintyre Peninsula is definitely for you. This part of Argyll deserves a lot more attention, but because it takes a little more time to get to, it took me until last year before even I visited! I was blown away by how much Kintyre had to offer in just a single day’s journey.

Tarbert Castle

Begin at the very top of the peninsula in Tarbert, a harbour town protected by a prominent, but sadly ruined, royal castle. Only a small remnant remains of what was once an enormous fortress, guarding not just passage up Loch Fyne, but also across land.

The name Tarbert literally means “Drag Boat” and it’s where sailors could drag their vessels across a narrow strip of land to save travelling all the way round Kintyre! The castle has a long history, but most people climb up here just for the view. Be aware that there are usually sheep roaming, so keep dogs on leads.

Skipness Castle
30 minute drive

First built by the powerful MacSweens in the early 1200s, Skipness Castle is a much more impressive sight! The walls are just a stone’s throw from the water and along with Lochranza Castle on Arran, they guard passage through the Kilbrannan Sound.

It’s grown over the centuries, falling first into the hands of the MacDonalds and later the Campbells and even in its ruined state, it’s remarkably intact. Through the summer months, you’ll be able to climb right up onto the tower for spectacular views of Arran!

Skipness Chapel

A short stroll along a grass path brings you to Skipness Chapel, moved here away from the castle by the MacDonalds. It’s much larger than the average church from this time, showing just how important the castle once was and you’ll find ornately carved graveslabs of important residents from the past. As you walk back from the chapel towards the car park, make sure to pop into either the smokehouse or seafood cabin to sample some local delicacies!

Take A Walk At Carradale
40 minute drive

As you head south, the views of the Arran mountains are stunning, but keep your eyes on the narrow winding road! Once you arrive in Carradale, it’s time to stretch your legs and you’ve plenty of choice. You could wander the small village, down to the harbour and beach or head into the trees of Crow Wood. If you’re feeling really energetic, you could head to the very top of Cnoc nan Gabhar – Deer Hill and back down in around two hours.

Beinn an Tuirc Distillery
15 minute drive

You’ve earned a drink after all of that and thankfully, Beinn an Tuirc Distillery isn’t far away. This is where Scotland’s “other” national spirit is made – delicious gin! This is a small, family run operation, powered by hydroelectricity so not only is your tipple tasty, but it’s sustainable too!

You can book onto a guided tour of the distillery, get in depth with the gin school or just enjoy a taste in the café. This is also a great spot to enjoy lunch with soup and a sandwich!

Saddell Abbey
10 minute drive

In a little hollow at the meeting of roads, the 12th century Sadell Abbey seems very removed from the world. Founded by the famous warlord Somerled, who carved himself out a kingdom from parts of Scotland under Norse control, it shows he was as pious as he was violent. There’s not a lot left to see of the abbey building, but the collection of carved gravestones protected in a shelter are amongst the best in Scotland. To me, these are an incredibly evocative link to the past, a clear sign of the warrior culture in the West Highlands and they’re enough to get any imagination running wild!

Saddell Bay & Castle
10 minute walk

A short walk away leads you towards Saddell Castle, once home to the Bishop of Argyll and actually built using stone from the abbey ruins. Today, it’s a holiday home, but you can walk past it straight onto the sweeping sand of Saddell Bay. You might recognise it from the famous “Mull of Kintyre” music video, but I can’t promise a pipe band will appear on the beach behind you…

Explore Campbeltown
15 minute drive

Known as the Victorian Whisky Capital of the World or sometimes “Whiskyopolis”, Campbeltown is one of the most underrated places in Scotland. It might not be home to dozens of distilleries anymore, but it’s packed full of character and history. Walk past the 650-year-old town cross to explore the streets and independent shops like Coorie Doon or Kintyre Larder.

Glen Scotia Distillery

It wouldn’t feel right to visit Campbeltown and not enjoy a dram, it is what made the town famous after all! My favourite is undoubtedly Glen Scotia, a place that truly represents the spirit of the town. Even if you’re not in time for a tour, it’s worth stopping into the shop to try a sample and pick up a bottle. It’s the perfect way to reward yourself after an epic day exploring the Kintyre coast!

To read online and view more of Graeme’s Stories and itineraries click here.

Buy gift wrapped issue 11 today

This year’s gift wrapping returns for Hidden Scotland Magazine Issue 11, featuring paper designed by Scottish illustrator Joy Nevada, a festive tag option, and an A5 art card of our much loved squirrel cover image by photographer Bret Charman.

Each wrapped magazine comes with a festive gift tag, either left blank for your own message to deliver by hand or completed with a handwritten note from us using the message you provide.

A Christmas sticker on the tag lets the recipient know it’s not to be opened until 25th December.

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The final posting dates for Christmas are approaching, with international orders closing on 24 November and UK deliveries open until Friday 19 December.

If you are planning to send Hidden Scotland gifts this year, now is the right time to order. Wrapped copies of Issue 11, our Christmas Gift Box, the 2026 calendar and pieces from Scottish makers are all available while stock lasts. Each wrapped magazine includes a festive tag and an art card, and gift boxes are prepared with care.

Use code CHRISTMAS for 10% off today.

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Our 2026 Hidden Scotland Calendar

Our 2026 wall calendar is also back, showcasing stunning photography from across Scotland. Printed on beautiful matt art paper in an A3 landscape layout, it features an A4 image each month, space for daily notes, and a section for jotting down plans for the year ahead.

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Gift Wrapped Issue 11

This year’s gift wrapping returns for Hidden Scotland Magazine Issue 11, featuring paper designed by Scottish illustrator Joy Nevada, a festive tag option, and an A5 art card of our much loved squirrel cover image by photographer Bret Charman.

Each wrapped magazine comes with a festive gift tag, either left blank for your own message to deliver by hand or completed with a handwritten note from us using the message you provide. A Christmas sticker on the tag lets the recipient know it’s not to be opened until 25th December.

Shop now

Christmas Gift Box

We’ve also created a Hidden Scotland Christmas Gift Box, carefully wrapped and filled with some of our favourite Scottish treats — from luxury handmade Braemar chocolates and a Kindred Folk candle to your choice of Haar coffee or Napiers winter spice tea. Each one includes a wrapped copy of Issue 11, an art card, and a bookmark. All boxes will be sent on Wednesday 10th December to arrive in time for Christmas.

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We’ve also handpicked a range of products from talented makers and designers across Scotland, from handcrafted candles and ceramics to art prints, books, and cards. Each piece celebrates creativity and craft, making it easy to find something special for everyone on your list.

Use code CHRISTMAS for 10% off today.