Scots artist in the running for Royal Arts Prize 2020

Upcoming Scottish artist Francis Salvesen has been shortlisted for The Royal Arts Prize 2020. The aim of the Royal Arts Prize, running since 2014, is to showcase a selection of the world’s best artistic talent and allow emerging artists to reach diverse audiences and to gain invaluable exposure. The awards which will take place 20-29…

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Secret Scotland revealed by Susan Calman

Some of Scotland’s greatest locations are being brought to national TV screens from tonight. Comedian Susan Calman uncovers the untold tales behind some of the country’s most iconic locations, in a second series of Secret Scotland with Susan Calman on Channel 5, starting tonight. In the first episode of the second series, she heads to…

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This gripping novel will hook you until the end

Psychologist Dr Angie Lawrence, director of the new Hazelnut Assessment Centre for difficult adolescents in Orkney, is known for her odd yet effective methods. As her husband becomes increasingly worried about these methods, Angie’s tragic past starts to come to light. This is a gripping novel that will keep your attention. The Crazy Psychologist, by…

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Special musical events for Coastal Connections

Celtic Connections will celebrate Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters with a full day of special events all anchored to the maritime traditions that have shaped the country’s history. Coastal Connections, a one-off festival within a festival, will take place in the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on January 18, offering single-ticket access to a packed…

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Meeting the maelstrom that is Corryvreckan

The Corryvreckan whirlpool is the world’s third largest and its massive tidal upswellings and boiling waters make for a memorable experience. The dictionary gives the meaning of the word ‘maelstrom’ as a confused, disorientated state of affair; an irresistably overpowering influence for destruction. It is a description that suits the Coire Bhreacain – translated from…

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A First World War tragedy off the coast of Scotland

A First World War naval ‘battle’ off the coast of Scotland on a wintery night in 1918 involved no enemy contact yet resulted in the tragic deaths of 270 British submariners. It was a sea ‘battle’ that claimed 270 British submariners but which until recently remained shrouded in secrecy. As well as a loss of…

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An indispensible guide to historical Orkney

Despite lying only 20 miles north of mainland Scotland, for much of its history Orkney has related more to Scandinavian culture. Its particular ecosystem means there is a wealth of settlements for archaeologists and historians to explore. Caroline Wickham-Jones, a renowned expert on the island, introduces its history and outlines major places of interest for…

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Culture and heritage bodies urged to take climate action

Arts, culture, heritage and climate leaders have gathered in Edinburgh for the launch of a new Climate Heritage Network. Organisations are being called on to take urgent action against climate change as a new international network launched in Edinburgh today (Thursday, 24 October) at an event hosted by Historic Environment Scotland (HES). The Climate Heritage…

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Matching Martin Wishart’s dishes to Lebanon’s wines

Old vines grown at high altitude produce wines with great food pairing potential, writes Peter Ranscombe. ASK most wine fans to think of Lebanon and their minds will race immediately to Chateau Musar, the country’s best-known winery. Yet, as we’ve seen before on The Grape & The Grain drinks blog, Musar isn’t the only game…

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A taste of the season at No.35 at The Bonham

As the season changes and the chill really sets in, one of the easiest ways to lift the mood is by sitting down to a hearty meal in cosy surroundings. My friend and I were excited to do just that when we went along to No.35 at The Bonham to try out their new Autumn…

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