Reviews
Discovering the megalithic sites of the nation
This comprehensive guide to prehistoric sites in Britain and Ireland is unparalleled. Divided into the different regions of the area, every standing stone or chambered tomb is paired with its location, a description, and extensive information on it, its history at times mingled with folk stories. It is also highly original in its addition of…
Read MoreAlong The Divide: Walking The Wild Spine of Scotland
Described as possibly the world’s most experienced long-distance walker, Chris Townsend returns with a new memoir . This details his journey across Scotland’s Watershed, which runs between the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, a distance of 1,200km or 745 miles. Townsend, author of 22 books on the outdoors including the award-winning The Backpacker’s Handbook,…
Read MoreDebut solo album has been well worth the wait
Releasing on 5th November, Mutual Imagination Society Vol 1 is Brian McAlpine’s debut solo album, which is something of a surprise. Rubbing shoulders with the likes of the Pearlfishers, Deacon Blue, The Chieftains, Ry Cooder, Karine Polwart, Duncan Chisholm, Iron Horse, Mark Knopfler and, of course, the wonderful Session A9 to name but a few,…
Read MoreSmall plate dining is the future at Merienda
There is certainly no shortage of restaurants and cafes to enjoy in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge. This historic area is always a hive of activity, teeming with people ready to enjoy a taste of Scotland’s best produce or relax after work over a craft beer or two. From dog-friendly pub The Raeburn to the Kilted Lobster, The…
Read MoreFamily history and the story of a beautiful home
In this gorgeous book written by the current Duke of Buccleuch, the true beauty of the Bowhill House and the intriguing history of the family that lives there is described not just through words, but in stunning photography and artwork. The book explores the part Bowhill house played in history, from the people who lived…
Read MoreA gripping read for those who love a mystery
William A Graham’s debut crime novel Vermin introduces a detective who takes on a missing person case that escalates into so much more. The story takes place in Dundee, in homage to the author’s birthplace. Allan Linton is a self-employed private detective, helped by his associate Niddrie, who specialises in minor and insignificant cases. However…
Read MoreMumbai Diners’ Club is definitely currying favour
Few meals are as satisfying or comforting than a hearty curry. As the colder nights draw in, the temptation to order in from your local Indian takeaway and set up camp on the couch becomes even greater. However if you’re looking for an evening with a touch more refinement to your Rogan Josh, then the…
Read MoreNovel with lost souls on the Portobello coast
Set on Portobello’s coast, It Takes One to Know One is a heart-warming yet harrowing story, embellished with Isla Dewar’s needle-sharp humour and effortless narrative gift for storytelling. The tale is based around Charlie Gavin, the lost and hopeless founder of the Be Kindly Missing Person’s Bureau whose mission is to find other lost souls…
Read MorePlenty at steak when you dine at Hawksmoor
Despite its vast scale, Hawksmoor feels friendly and relaxed. We started with the comforting potted beef and bacon and hand-dived scallops, but the menu centres around steak, so when in Rome… The fillet was tender and cooked to perfection even if it did look lonely on the plate at £34. The rib-eye came in at an only slightly less…
Read MoreConvenient spot and great food at 83 Hanover Street
Convenient for a quick bite while shopping and with service efficient enough to allow for a working lunch, 83 is a funky wee addition to Edinburgh’s dining scene. Some of the highlights amongst our Chilean-inspired bites and plates were sopaipillas pebre (gorgeous pillowy pumpkin breads), charred octopus and beef short rib in a rich tomato sauce. The chef loves his…
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