Unique Scotland

John Harbour

John Harbour, from www.exclusivescottishvisits.co.uk, is your trusted, expert guide on the Unique Scotland podcast.

These carefully crafted, impeccably researched programmes connect you with this small but beautiful land.

You'll be introduced to the land itself, the people, and discover what makes them tick.

John then takes you on virtual tours of every part of Scotland, from the Borders, to the Lowlands and then onto the Highlands and Islands. The craggy mountains as well as the beautiful white sandy beaches.

Along the way, John covers the customs, traditions and culture, including the Clans - perhaps yours - and the part they played in the bloody Clan Wars.

New episodes are regularly added so please 'Subscribe' and visit www.exclusivescottishvisits.co.uk to find out more.

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#1
September 3 · 46 min
Scotland's Outer Hebrides - via the isle of Skye - not the easiest of places to get to, espeically when ferries are cancelled....
The Hebrides – Inner and Outer – Episode 1: John introduces the first episode of his Unique Scotland podcast on his Outer Hebrides trip as the beginning of a family adventure. Travelling with Pam, their Spaniel Minnie, and friends Irina and Philip and their two boys, Nicholas and Lucas, the journey had been meticulously planned for months. The intention was to travel from Edinburgh to Glasgow Airport, collect the family, continue to Oban and take the ferry directly to Barra, beginning an island-hopping journey through the Outer Hebrides. As John reminds us, however, the best travel stories are often the ones that don't go according to plan. Best laid plans..... The journey west begins with the family reunion at Glasgow Airport before heading towards the Highlands. The first stop is the beautiful conservation village of Luss on Loch Lomond where early Christian traditions are associated with Saint Kessog to its medieval Clan Colquhoun grave slabs and Viking connections. The route then continues through Tarbet and Arrochar, over the historic Rest and Be Thankful, before reaching Inveraray on Loch Fyne. Here the party admires Inveraray Castle and its planned town, while the boys particularly enjoy the atmospheric Inveraray Jail, bringing nineteenth-century justice vividly to life. The real drama begins in Oban, the traditional "Gateway to the Isles". The problem is not the weather but the shortage of available CalMac vessels, highlighting the wider importance—and continuing problems—of Scotland's island ferry network. A refund is offered, but with hotels, flights and the entire holiday depending on the crossing, John decides that simply abandoning the trip is not an option. Instead, the family accepts a rerouting via Skye, turning a major disappointment into an unexpected opportunity. The revised journey takes them north through Fort William and Glenfinnan, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. Nearby is the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, immortalised by the Harry Potter films. The road continues along the spectacular Road to the Isles to Mallaig, where the family boards the ferry to Armadale on Skye. Arriving on Skye, the unexpected diversion becomes a highlight in its own right. The group travels through Sleat, visits Armadale castle and learns about the powerful MacDonald Lords of the Isles before continuing towards Broadford and the dramatic Cuillin Hills. With storm 'Dave' following hard on their heels, the family finally make it to Uig where they spend the night before catching the next ferry to Barra on the Outer Hebrides. However, with more surprises in store, the story continues in the next episode…..
July 2 · 59 min
Weaving in Scotland - Harris Tweed is at the centre of this amazing weaving story and the great brand NIKE takes centre stage!
Weaving in Scotland In this episode of 'Unique Scotland', John Harbour explores the history and cultural significance of weaving in Scotland, inspired by his previous interview with Clare Campbell of the Highland tartan mill, Prickly Thistle. The podcast traces Scotland's textile heritage from its earliest beginnings through industrialisation and into the modern era. He talks about the survival of hand looms in the Outer Hebrides, especially in the Isle of Harris where the woven material is legally protected. And how did one man, with a loom in his garden shed satisfy NIKE's demand for 20,000 metres of cloth. You will hear an interview with Donald John Mackay who satisfied that order. Although ancient textiles rarely survive in Scotland's climate, archaeological evidence shows that Scots were working with fibres and woven fabrics thousands of years ago. Over centuries, weaving became an essential part of rural life, with families producing cloth in homes, crofts, and villages. This domestic industry laid the foundations for Scotland's later textile evolution. Scottish weaving developed around four key fibres, each shaping different regions and communities. Wool, Scotland's most iconic fibre, was produced from sheep in the Highlands, Islands, Borders, and upland regions, leading to famous products such as tweed and tartan. Flax, used to make linen, was cultivated mainly in eastern Scotland and supported important industries in Fife, Angus, and Perthshire. Cotton, imported through Atlantic trade, fuelled the growth of textile mills in Paisley, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, and New Lanark, transforming clothing and fashion. Jute, imported from Bengal, turned Dundee into one of the world's leading industrial textile centres, producing sacks, canvas, and other durable materials. The Industrial Revolution transformed Scottish weaving by moving production from homes into mechanised mills. While industrialisation brought growth, employment, and international trade, it also disrupted traditional ways of life, reducing the role of hand spinners and weavers and creating new factory-based working conditions. Two of Scotland's most famous textiles are Tartan and Tweed. Tartan became closely associated with Highland culture, clan identity, and ceremonial dress. Tweed developed as a practical woollen cloth suited to Scotland's rugged climate before becoming internationally recognised for its quality and connection to country life. Royal patronage, particularly from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert at Balmoral, helped elevate tweed's prestige. The pinnacle of Scottish weaving tradition is Harris Tweed, produced in the Outer Hebrides. Protected by law, Harris Tweed must be made from pure virgin wool, dyed and spun in the islands, and handwoven by islanders in their homes. Its unique colours, durability, and craftsmanship have made it one of the world's most respected fabrics, demonstrating how traditional skills can thrive in modern markets. John's interview with Donald John Mackay, a Harris Weaver for 70 years, brings to life this cottage industry where Harris Tweed is protected by law. Today, Scotland's textile industry combines large-scale luxury manufacturers with smaller craft businesses and independent weavers. Companies in the Scottish Borders, Elgin, Dundee, and the Outer Hebrides continue to produce world-class fabrics, while businesses such as Prickly Thistle emphasise sustainability, local identity, and traditional craftsmanship. Ultimately, Scotland's weaving story is one of adaptation, resilience, and cultural continuity. From prehistoric fibres and cottage industries to global fashion and luxury textiles, weaving remains deeply connected to Scotland's landscape, communities, history, and identity. You will also hear an interview with Dan, an army veteran whose cancer diagnosis brought him to Scotland to make memories for his family. John, a Navy veteren himself, organised the tour and a special visit to the prestigious Army club in Edinburgh, the Royal Scots Club.
#2
April 28 · 54 min
TARTAN - Clare Campbell of Prickly Thistle: From Accountancy to Artisan – Incredible revival of Scottish Heritage Through Tartan and Century-Old Looms
Clare Campbell, a trailblazing Highlander renowned for her innovation in the weaving and designer clothes industry, is driven by a deep passion for authenticity and identity. Clare's remarkable journey began in 1978, when she was born in Inverness, the Highland capital of Scotland. With two younger brothers, Clare drew inspiration from her mother, who has always been a guiding light in her life. Like many, Clare's family faced heartbreak, losing her brother Paul just before Christmas in 1998 at the age of 19. This profound loss reshaped Clare's outlook on life, instilling in her and her family a renewed appreciation for its fragility and value. In the years that followed, Clare married her childhood sweetheart Allan, became a mother to Paul and Charli, and pursued a career as an accountant. While raising her young family and supporting Highland businesses, Clare's entrepreneurial spirit grew. By late 2015, she discovered her true calling: uniting her love for the Highlands, her creative vision, and her dedication to craftsmanship into a pioneering mission: The pursuit of sustainable excellence with Tartan cloth woven, not on modern machines, but on original century old looms. Clare's journey as an industry leader was clear, despite the challenges she anticipated. Determined to revive the art of storytelling through tartan design, she set out to restore artisan weaving skills and introduce disruptive designer collections to the Highlands. As the founder and owner of Prickly Thistle, and the outlet store called Rebel Row in Inverness, Clare has established a brand synonymous with Scottish heritage, creativity and endurance. And this Brand has been discovered by the likes of Fendi, the historic Italian luxury fashion house with a number of famous names buying into the product including Sam Heughan or Jamie Fraser of Outlander. Clare Campbell's pioneering story in weaving and designer clothing is extraordinary and it is with pleasure that Unique Scotland Podcast brings Clare's incredible story (and lovely Inverness accent) to you wherever you listen.
#1
March 29 · 35 min
Scottish TARTAN - Episode 1 - The threads of Scottish identity - Scotland's journey
The threads of Scotland's identity, Tartan's journey I'm sorry to say that Tartan was not invented in Scotland. Gasp, horror, but this is just a reality that we will have to live with. In fact, when you've listened to this Podcast, you'll realise that this Iconic symbol of Scotland is so important to this country because of what Scotland did to this chequered cloth rather than inventing it. Scotland's Tartan's story begins with the 'Falkirk fragment', a simple undyed wool check, found in the town of Falkirk, used to stopper a Roman coin hoard in the third century. Though modest, it reveals that patterned twill weaving long predated Scotland, with similar checks found across ancient Eurasia. In early and medieval Scotland, tartan was practical rather than symbolic, shaped by local dyes, regional weaving traditions, and the ecology of the Highlands. The belted plaid later became the defining garment of Highland life, and during the Jacobite risings tartan gained political meaning as a visual marker of rebellion. After Culloden, the Dress Act attempted to suppress Highland identity by banning tartan, but it survived in remote communities and military regiments. In the nineteenth century, Romanticism, Sir Walter Scott, and firms like Wilsons of Bannockburn reinvented tartan as national dress and created the modern system of clan tartans. Diaspora communities from all over the world embraced tartan as a portable homeland, while the British Empire enhanced it's reputation. In the twentieth century, designers, political movements, and popular culture reinterpreted tartan again, turning it into a flexible symbol of identity, rebellion, and heritage. Tartan endures because people continually weave meaning into it, transforming simple cloth into a powerful cultural emblem and one that has come to define Scotland's identity.
#2
March 11 · 31 min
Clans of Scotland - their Rise, Fall and Rise Again - Episode 2
This episode of Unique Scotland examines the journey of Scottish clans from their origins and rise, through dramatic decline, to their modern revival. The podcast traces the clans' history from ancient times, highlighting their resilience, feuds, and adaptation to changing political landscapes. It explores the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, the Jacobite risings, and the catastrophic Battle of Culloden in 1746, which led to brutal government suppression and dismantling of the clan system. The subsequent Highland Clearances forced many to emigrate, creating a global Scottish diaspora. Despite these hardships, the clan spirit endured, evolving into a cultural rather than political force. The 19th-century romantic revival, driven by figures like Sir Walter Scott, reimagined clan traditions and popularised tartan and Highland dress. Today, clans exist as societies, celebrating heritage through events, tartans, and storytelling. The episode emphasises belonging, identity, and the enduring influence of Scots worldwide. Personal reflections and invitations to engage further round out the narrative, affirming that the clans' legacy lives on through community, memory, and tradition.
#1
February 6 · 38 min
Clans of Scotland - their rise and fall - Episode 1 - From the bloody battle of Coire na Creiche to the crushing of the Lords of the Isle ......
In this episode of Unique Scotland, John Harbour explores the origins and evolution of the Scottish clan system, tracing its roots from the painted Picts and the Gaels of Dál Riata, through Viking invasions, to the formation of Alba (early Scotland). The clans emerged as tightly-knit communities bound by kinship, loyalty, and mutual protection, thriving in Scotland's rugged landscapes. Clans were not solely based on blood ties; many adopted the chief's surname for solidarity, and associated families, known as Septs, became integral parts of clan society. The episode recounts famous feuds, such as those between the MacLeods and MacDonalds, and highlights the significant influence of powerful clans like the MacDonalds, MacLeods, Campbells, and Mackays. The dissolution of the Lordship of the Isles in 1493 by James IV marked a seismic shift, as the Crown sought to centralise control over the Highlands, leading to tensions between traditional Gaelic communal landholding and feudal systems. Despite political, economic, and social upheaval, clans remained resilient, adapting to changing circumstances and maintaining their identity and traditions. The episode concludes with a reflection on the enduring spirit of the clans and a promise to explore their decline and modern resurgence in the next instalment.
#1
Dec 23, 2025 · 11 min
Scotland - Christmas and New Year Traditions - For centuries, New Year (Hogmanay) has been revered over Christmas celebrations
Imagine Scotland locked in winter's grip: snow whispering across cobbled streets, hearth fires glowing against the dark, families drawn close for warmth. While much of the world fixes its gaze on Christmas Day, Scotland's true winter soul once beat loudest on another night entirely — Hogmanay, New Year's Eve. Ancient, fierce, and alive with ritual, Hogmanay was not simply a celebration. It was survival, identity, and hope rolled into one blazing night. No one knows exactly where the word Hogmanay comes from — perhaps Old French, perhaps Norse, echoes of Yule carried on northern winds. Its origins hardly mattered. The Scots claimed it and it has flourished ever since. In 1560, the Scottish Reformation reshaped the nation. The newly formed Presbyterian Kirk condemned Christmas as a "Popish" feast, and by 1640 Parliament had banned it outright. December 25th became an ordinary working day. For generations, there were no Christmas trees, no carols, no gifts — only cold labour and dark skies. But celebration did not disappear. It moved - to the New Year. Hogmanay became Scotland's great release — a night of fire, song, and superstition when the year itself could be cleansed and reborn. Homes were "redded": floors swept, ashes cleared, debts settled. Only a clean house could welcome a clean future. As midnight approached, the world seemed to hold its breath. Then came first-footing. The first person to cross a threshold after midnight would shape a household's fortune for the year ahead. It had to be a tall, dark-haired visitor — a lingering memory of blond hair Viking terror — carrying gifts heavy with meaning: coal for warmth, bread or black bun for food, salt for flavour, a coin for prosperity, and whisky for cheer. Doors opened. Glasses filled. Neighbours moved from house to house, laughter growing louder as night blurred into morning. Across the Highlands and islands, fire took centre stage. Ancient pagan echoes flared to life as flaming rituals lit the darkness, burning away evil and calling back the sun. Nowhere is this more vivid than Stonehaven, where huge blazing fireballs are swung through the streets by locals - a spectacle of raw power and communal joy that has endured for centuries. Today, Hogmanay has burst onto the world stage. Edinburgh ignites with torchlight processions, roaring street parties, and fireworks crowning the castle sky. Visitors from every corner of the globe feel it — the pulse of something older than the city itself. And yet, beneath the spectacle, the heart remains unchanged. At midnight, hands link. Voices rise. Auld Lang Syne carries across streets, hills, and glens, a song of memory, friendship, and shared humanity. The old year is released. The new one welcomed with thunderous cheers. In Scotland, Hogmanay is more than celebration. It is defiance — a promise that even in the deepest winter, fire will burn, songs will be sung, whisky will warm the blood, and hope will return. It is the past roaring into the present, daring the darkness to linger. So if you ever stand on Scottish soil as the year turns, wrap up against the cold, learn the words of Auld Lang Syn, raise a glass — and step into a night where history, community, and joy collide in one unforgettable moment.
#1
Nov 25, 2025 · 37 min
Letter from Scotland - November 2025 - A warm, humorous, and atmospheric tour through Scotland's latest news
This November 2025 edition of Letter from Scotland offers a warm, humorous, and vividly atmospheric tour through the country's latest news, landscapes, and quirks. Host John Robert Mackay Harbour begins by setting the scene of a classic Scottish November—rain in all its forms, fading heather, unpredictable light, and a blend of melancholy and mischief that marks the season. From there, the episode explores a patchwork of stories that reflect Scotland's unique character. The reintroduction of beavers to Glen Affric, centuries after their extinction, marks a hopeful milestone for rewilding, while in Fife, Cowdenbeath Football Club makes headlines by launching free season tickets for dogs—an irresistibly Scottish blend of humour and community spirit. Scotland qualifying for the world cup adds considerable excitement to the stories. Politics features too, with renewed controversy over the long-running ferry construction scandal at Ferguson Marine and surprising revelations about ministerial disengagement from Historic Environment Scotland amid ongoing organisational turmoil. Yet, these heavier stories are balanced by the daily rhythms of rural life: gamekeepers worrying about dwindling grouse numbers, islanders cancelling fireworks to protect swans, and families enjoying traditional events like the Scottish Game Fair at Scone Palace. John also highlights modern cultural moments—from viral TikToks about Scottish weather to a satirical village Facebook page that has grown into a community fundraiser. Meanwhile, castles and islands up for sale, secret supper clubs, and even illegally released lynx add touches of whimsy and wonder. Together, these stories paint a rich portrait of Scotland as a place where resilience, humour, heritage, and wild beauty coexist—quietly extraordinary in every corner.
#4
Oct 18, 2025 · 54 min
Glasgow - Shipbuilding on the Clyde - ghosts of the past, appear in this riveting story of Glasgow's River Clyde, once the beating heart of global shipbuilding.
This special episode delves into the rich maritime legacy of Glasgow's River Clyde, once a global powerhouse of shipbuilding. From the early 19th to the mid-20th century, the Clyde's shipyards were at the forefront of industrial innovation and naval craftsmanship, producing thousands of vessels that left an indelible mark on world history. This prolific output earned Glasgow the prestigious title of the "Second City of the British Empire," a testament to its pivotal role in global trade, warfare, and transportation. Although shipbuilding on the Clyde can be traced back to the 15th century, it was the Industrial Revolution that truly transformed the region into a maritime titan. Key developments such as the deepening of the river and innovating construction techniques enabled the building and launch of much larger ships. These infrastructural advancements, coupled with the era's technological progress, catalyzed a boom in ship production. By the late 1800s, the Clyde was responsible for building an astonishing 20% of the world's ships, a feat that underscores its global significance. The episode not only explores the technical and historical aspects of Clyde shipbuilding but also brings to life the human stories behind the steel. Listeners are treated to tales of iconic ships constructed along the riverbanks—vessels that played crucial roles in shaping the geopolitical and economic landscape of their time. These narratives highlight the ingenuity, resilience, and craftsmanship of the workers who toiled in the shipyards, often in challenging conditions, to produce some of the most renowned ships in maritime history. Adding a deeply personal dimension to the episode is the perspective of a veteran shipyard worker-manager-shipyard owner who began his career at the age of 16 and dedicated over four decades to the industry. His firsthand account offers invaluable insights into the day-to-day realities of life in the yards, the camaraderie among workers, and the pride they took in their contributions to a globally respected industry. His reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the human element at the heart of industrial achievement. For those interested in visualizing this remarkable chapter of Scottish history, you can view some photographs on the Unique Scotland website www.exclusivescottishvisits.co.uk. These images capture both the grandeur of the Clyde's shipbuilding heyday and the remnants of its once-bustling shipyards as they stand today. In essence, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to Glasgow's shipbuilding heritage—a story of innovation, industry, and identity. It celebrates the River Clyde not just as a geographical feature, but as a symbol of Scotland's contribution to the world's maritime legacy. Through historical context, personal testimony, and visual storytelling, the episode paints a vivid picture of a bygone era that continues to resonate in the cultural memory of Glasgow and beyond.
#1
May 25, 2025 · 46 min
A SCOTSMAN IN NEW YORK - Screeching Police sirens mixed with Scottish bagpipes sort of sums up New York's Tartan Week where thousands of Scots descended upon the city 'that never sleeps'
Scotsman in New York NEW YORK is, undoubtedly, one of the most exciting cities in the world and I can't believe that I have just visited for the first time. Thankfully I have now been to see this amazing metropolis for myself and this Podcast shares that experience with you. From screeching Police sirens to bellowing bagpipes, this was an adventure worth waiting for. It is only a few weeks since I returned from New York and I was absolutely buzzing after my first visit to the Big Apple, to such an extent that I'm inserting this bonus Podcast detailing my experience in the city and the excitement of being part of Tartan week when thousands of Scots pour into the metropolis to join thousands more diaspora Scots who come from all over America to enjoy this bagpiping, drum thumping, highland dancing, whisky drinking throng. It is incredible. The Tartan Parade actually marched up 6th Avenue, waved on by thousands of people who lined the streets. Of course this was just one part of my journey, and I share with you the wonderful times I had at Met Cloisters, Central Park where I recorded a busker singing John Lennon's song, Imagine, not far from where he used to live and was killed. I visit the Empire State Building, the Vanderbilt experience and the Peak restaurant at Hudson Yards, and all at a height of 1400 feet. I walk the Highline and take a gastronomic tour around Chelsea Market. Well, let me share my experience of New York with you, not just Tartan week but my overall visit which was a whirlwind of both tourist sites and off the beaten track places which were just as wonderful.
#3
Apr 15, 2025 · 40 min
Glasgow City - Episode 3 - Kylie Minogue clearly loves Glasgow - I wonder if she rides the Clockwork Orange when she's in town
In this third Episode on Glasgow city, we have just come to the end of University Avenue, arriving at Byers Road, a favourite place for University Students to eat and drink. What is the scandal surrounding the Tennant Pub? And what does a Clockwork Orange have to do with Glasgow's underground railway system, the third oldest in the world. I'll be mentioning the conversion of 19th century Town Houses to hotels and find out where Kylie Minogue stays when she is visiting Glasgow. Down on the waterfront we will visit the Scottish Exhibition Centre to see an arena that looks like a spacecraft and the other one that looks like an Armadillo. Across the other side of the River Clyde, we will visit the science centre and I'll tell you about the Glasgow Tower that earned the Guinness World Record, for its ability to be rotated 360 degrees in the presence of wind. We will also be visiting a couple of the 20 art galleries and museums that adorn Glasgow which has some of the most eminent collection of arts and historical antiques in Europe. Oh, and don't forget the musical arts centres where our opera house sits opposite Scotland's centre for bagpipes. Could one say that the sounds are not dissimilar?
#2
Mar 11, 2025 · 40 min
Glasgow City - Episode 2 - Did Madeleine Smith poison her lover. Just one of teh stories as we tour this wonderful city
In this second Episode of Glasgow we leave Glasgow Green and travel from the East, along the river Clyde and past the Clutha bar that suffered such a tragedy a few years ago. We pass through the centre, traversing St Vincent Street to see some fabulous buildings including a Greek and Egyptian styled church reflecting the eclectic architecture of Glasgow. The street names reflect famous people and battles that were fought and you will hear how Nelson lost his eye and hear about the building that now houses the implement that removed the shrapnel during the battle. You will hear of the callous poisoning of Madeleine Smith's lover and how on earth did she walk free having bought the arsenic just a few days before. We will cross over to Charing Cross and hear of the square mile of Murder. Then, onto the wonderful Gilbert Scott building that makes up Glasgow University and also to extraordinary Hunterian Museum before arriving at Byers Road. Fascinating places to hear about and some fascinating tales to tell.
#1
Feb 12, 2025 · 36 min
Glasgow City - Episode 1 - The largest city in Scotland, once named the Second city of the Empire. Modern, vibrant and full of surprises
Glasgow City – Episode 1 – A Panoramic Tour Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, is not the Capital of the country as that honour goes to Edinburgh with it's Royal Castle and Palace. There is however, a constant buzz around the city which boasts 5 Universities, the Oldest of which is Glasgow University founded in 1451. It hosts two of the best of Scotland's football teams and it is renowned for its nightlife and theatreland. The city has grown from the beginnings of an early church established in the 6th century by Saint Kentigern or Saint Mungo as he is know locally. Sadly most of the medieval city has gone and there is now an eclectic mix of architecture mainly from the late 18th century to the more modern 21st century buildings with only St Mungo's Cathedral and Provand's Lordship still standing from the much earlier period. In this first Episode, I am going to take you with me through the city streets, pointing out the main buildings and giving you background and context of what we see including wonderful architecture and extraordinary sculptures that adorn the city. We will start with how Glasgow came about and look at the symbols that adorn the city and are associated with it's Patron Saint, Saint Mungo. We will commence this panoramic tour of Glasgow starting at the centre of the city in George Square and we will look at some of the wonderful buildings including the City Chambers or the Mayor's office. We will be driving from the modern centre of the City, out to the Medieval Cathedral and down the old High Street and on to Glasgow Green and the Peoples Palace and I will be explaining all the prominent buildings and landmarks as we go. There are some extraordinary stories behind the facades and I look forward to telling you all about this fine city.
#4
Jan 1, 2025 · 40 min
Letter from Scotland Dec 24 - Shipwrecks, Shenanigans and Sheepdogs all feature in the 2024 review of last year. Some incredible stories....
LETTER FROM SCOTLAND – End of Year Review Shenanigans, Sheepdogs and Shipwrecks litter the pages of this good news final Letter from Scotland of 2024. The bad news of the old year is left behind as the stories from this Podcast focus on the good news. So, if you only revel in crisis-driven bad news, then switch off now. Political shenanigans are confined to the bin. Warm hearted sheepdogs take their place as do one eyed cats, but the finale' of this Newsletter is left to an extraordinary story of a Shipwreck survivor and the niece who travelled to the North West of Scotland to visit the site and to hear, first hand, of her uncle's incredible survival. We visit Loch Ewe where the SS William H Welsh, a United States Liberty Ship, sank in a terrible storm in February 1944. Out of 74 crew, only 12 men survived and John King, uncle to Margie Gill, was one of those men. It is not just a story of survival, but one of great fortitude and heroism on the part of locals who lived in the area of Altbea, around Loch Ewe. It is about Crofting women who fought their way across open boggy terrain in atrocious weather to get to the survivors and to keep them alive in freezing conditions. It is a good news story of simple folk overcoming overwhelming odds to help those in desperate need. It's about Highland folk, doing what Highland folk do – provide Highland hospitality at its best. Hear from Roy Macintyre, now 90 years old, who was witness to this tragedy and met John King, uncle to Margie Gill. This Letter from Scotland – review of 2024 – is about putting last year to bed and looking forwards with hope for 2025. Enjoy!
#2
Nov 25, 2024 · 53 min
Edinburgh's Coast - EAST LOTHIAN Episode 2
Discover the extraordinary secrets of an incredible coastline to the east of Edinburgh in the County of East Lothian. It is an area of regal beauty with golden sandy beaches, medieval castles, the largest concentration of championship links golf courses in the world, gourmet restaurants and fabulous coastal and upland walks. In this second Episode, we will start where we left off in the previous Episode having just left the village of Direlton with a view of the small hill, Berwick Law, up ahead on the right hand side. We will drive down to North Berwick and look at the fabulous Sea Bird Centre with interactive cameras to look directly into the nest of the sea birds on the Bass Rock. We will hear about the Bass rock, with it's castle and place of imprisonment over the centuries. We will then take the coast road down to Dunbar with an amazing sculpture nearby called Dunbear, a 15 foot Brown Bear – what is it doing there? We will then return to Edinburgh via East Fortune to see the extraordinary Museum of Flight and then onto Athelstaneford, the village where the Scottish Flag, the Saltire, was born. We will pop into the lovely market town of Haddington to see it's lovely shops and cafés before having a look at the village of Gifford, a real hidden gem of a village with it's quirky cafés and ancient church with a connection to the American Declaration of Independence. A wonderful area, with some wonderful stories and so close to Edinburgh
S1 · E2
Oct 7, 2024 · 48 min
The Scottish Borders (E2) - An exquisite part of Scotland with so much to offer. Ruined Border Abbey, Sir Walter Scott's Abbotsford House and the banditry of the Reivers....
SCOTTISH BORDERS – PART 2 So many people who rush to the Highlands and Islands of Scotland miss the amazing beauty of the Lowlands, and the Borders area of Scotland in particular. This Podcast takes up where we left off in Part 1 and we start at the incredible Jedburgh abbey with a walk around the town to see the Old Castle jail before heading off to Mary Queen of Scott's house where you'll hear of her ill health after visiting her lover, Bothwell. Then we'll drive to another lovely ruin at Melrose and I'll let you know a little more about the lives of the monks who lived in these places to give you an insight into Monastic life. And what does Melrose Abbey have to do with the heart of our greatest king, Robert the Bruce? We'll also look at the towns of Selkirk and Galashiels that have so much to offer and we will then head over to have a look at Abbotsford House, the home of Sir Walter Scott the most celebrated Scottish author of his generation. Before we end, I'll tell you about the Border Reivers, renegades and outlaws, who controlled the Border area for hundreds of year. You will also hear from previous Guests, the Wood family, and an incredible chance meeting with a close relative they never knew existed. This will have quite an effect on you. You will also hear from another of my guests, the celebrated American author Mary Anne Edwards, who writes the Detective series 'Charlie McClung' and it was apt that we finished our tour at Abbotsford House where Mary Ann could study Sir Walter Scott, our own celebrated author. You can find her 'Charlie McClung' series of books on Amazon.
Aug 14, 2024 · 36 min
The Scottish Borders (E1) - Don't let the peace and tranquility of this southern region of Scotland fool you. The Border lands were dangerous in medieval Scotland where only the fittest survived.
In this Podcast, we are going to travel from Edinburgh down to the Borders passing through some medieval villages on route. We will be travelling on roads built by the Romans in the 1st and 2nd centurie and we'll be looking at some scintillating castles and other fascinating buildings on our way. You will hear of true Thomas or Thomas the Rhymer whose prophesies were uncannily accurate and also of Maiden Lilliard, the warrior lady who had her legs chopped off during the battle of Ancrum and continued to fight against those who had killed her lover. We will also look into the ruined Border Abbeys at Dryburgh and Kelso and take a look at Roxburgh castle ruins where James 2nd of Scotland was killed by one of his own cannons. The ruins stand in the grounds of the fabulous Floors castle, home to the Duke of Roxburgh. And as dramatic historical events have ebbed and flowed, the gentle waters of the river Tweed, which gave its name to the famous Tweed fabric, continues to meander throughout the Border region although most of the woollen mills have now closed. If you wish to contribute a small sum towards the creation of my Podcasts, please go to. https://buymeacoffee.com/uniquescotland
S1 · E1
Jul 11, 2024 · 56 min
Edinburgh's Coast - EAST LOTHIAN Episode 1
Discover the extraordinary secrets of an incredible coastline to the East of Edinburgh in the County of EAST LOTHIAN. It is an area of regal beauty with golden sandy beaches, medieval castles, the largest concentration of championship links golf courses in the world, gourmet restaurants and fabulous coastal and upland walks. In this first Episode, we start in the town of Musselburgh where the Romans left their mark in the first century, to Carbery Hill, the battleground where Mary Queen of Scots lost her Crown. We will see the site of the battle of Prestonpans and hear the true story of how the battle unfolded from Dr Arran Johnston, the Director of Scottish Battlefields. We will pass through Longniddry and hear about Gosford House, a fabulous mansion in the centre of a 5000 acre estate. Then, onto my own village of Aberlady, where Robert Clark, the General Manager of the newly refurbished boutique hotel, the Leddie, will give us his take on the area. From there to the wonderful village of Gullane, voted one of the best places to live in the United Kingdom. With lovely restaurants, cafes, art galleries, ice cream parlours, three golf courses and a wonderful mile-long golden sandy beach, what is there not to love. Then onto our final destination of Dirleton with it's own golden sands and a medieval castle right in the middle of the village. At the end of the Podcasts, you will hear from a young lady, Lisa Gillen, who surprised John at Culloden Battlefield and also two of John's guests, who were just coming to the end of their tour, to get their take on Scotland.
S1 · E4
Jul 10, 2024 · 53 min
Edinburgh City (E4) The Royal Mile - An incredible street one mile long from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace with incrdible buildings with more incredible histories.
Let me take you on a tour down one of the most famous streets in Edinburgh, the Royal Mile, popping into all the Places that tourists tend not to go, the alleyways or Closes as we call them in Scotland. It gives a fascinating insight into medieval Edinburgh with murder, ghosts, crime and disease emanating from every crevice of the ancient stone walls that remain today. I'll touch upon the reason for Old Edinburgh being so tightly packed together and why it was so easy for disease to spread. Fortunately we still have one of the 16th Century buildings standing on the Royal Mile, Gledstanes land, beautifully restored by the National Trust for Scotland and wedged between two famous closes, James Court and Lady Stair's Close. We will hear from Will Evans, one of the managers at the property. You will hear about the more famous characters of Edinburgh such as Adam Smith, David Hume and Patrick Gedes as well as the infamous characters such as Deacon Brodie. With over 80 Closes to choose from, I will give you a flavour of life in a few of them from both a rich and a poor person's perspective. Old Edinburgh is a place where hundreds of witches were burned to death, only a stone's throw from one of the most prestigious restaurants in the city. We will be heading back, in some cases, to the 16th century, venturing into the darker recesses of Old Edinburgh where, I think, even angels might fear to tread. Come and join me on this journey into Edinburgh city's past and meet some of the characters that lived there in the 16th and 17th centuries.
May 29, 2024 · 46 min
LETTER FROM SCOTLAND - May 24 - News, views and gossip from all over Scotland. Donald Trump's office replies to my call for lifting ban on Haggis importation to America
Political Scandals in the Scottish Government, attempted fraud and an escaped Macaque monkey in the Highlands makes up todays letter from Scotland in this May edition. But it is not all monkey business, there are serious issues and you will hear of Donald Trump's office replying to Exclusive Scottish Visits' suggestion to ease the importation of Haggis to America. Unique Scotland still awaits a response from President Biden. You will hear about the tiny Scottish island that ordered more easter eggs than the whole population and is it possible that Dunvegan castle that has stood on it's rocky precipice on the Isle of Skye for over 800 years is starting to fall into the sea? And from Monsters to Water Beasts, why is Scotland producing so many. And, you will hear how NASA is being approached to help in the search for Nessie. All this and much more.

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