10 fascinating facts about Perth

Perth is a city steeped in history – with proud royal connections and played an important role in the life of the nation for many years. Perth is known as the ‘Fair City’ because of Sir Walter Scott’s 1828 novel The Fair Maid of Perth. In medieval times, Perth was known as ‘St John’s Toun’,…

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Make it a hole in one with a trip to Perthshire

One of the world’s biggest events in woman’s golf will tee off in Perthshire this September, as Scotland welcomes back the Solheim Cup to its sporting calendar. As the excitement for the Solheim Cup continues to build, there is no better time to come and explore why Perthshire should be on everyone’s must visit list.…

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The inspiration for Peter Pan to opens its doors

This Saturday sees the opening of Scotland’s latest international visitor attraction – Moat Brae house and garden, the new National Centre for Children’s Literature and Storytelling. The beautiful Georgian property in Dumfries, where the young J.M. Barrie and his friends played the games that inspired Peter Pan, was saved from demolition 10 years ago and…

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Political intrigue led to Scotland’s most notorious duel

When the euphoria that followed the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo in 1815 had subsided, Britain experienced a period of financial depression and crop failure that led to intense political unrest. The Whig party agitated for parliamentary reform, which was resisted by the Tories, who had held power for many years and were terrified of…

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Stay at Buccleuch Arms for 3 nights – and pay for 2

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders, the Buccleuch Arms Inn, is perfectly placed for you to explore Scotland’s best kept secret region. There is such a variety of things to see and do that you will need to take advantage of this fantastic three for two offer. Book a three night stay including…

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Ready to set sail for another summer on the loch

Steamship Sir Walter Scott is back in Loch Katrine for another year of daily sailings – just in time for Easter. The steamship Sir Walter Scott is operated by a charity, The Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust, which was established in April 2005 to take responsibility for control of the visitor facilities at Loch Katrine…

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Scotland’s young writing talent – who died aged 8

In 1811, eight-year-old Marjory Fleming contracted meningitis and died. She was quietly buried without ceremony in a simple grave in Fife. However, she left behind her three journals, a book of poems and some letters which, fifty years later, had the Victorian literati hailing her as a child prodigy, sold in their thousands and ensured…

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10 men who highlighted Scotland’s pioneer spirit

Scotland has always been a trailblazing nation, with our people at the forefront of science, technology and art. Here, we highlight 10 Scots who established disciplines from geology and economics to the historical novel, and most points in between. 1 Adam Smith (1723-1790) Kirkcaldy-born Smith entered Glasgow University at 14, studying moral philosophy under Francis…

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New exhibits come to Abbotsford for March opening

A wooden Jacobite quaich, a rare pack of 17th century playing cards, a slop bowl and a Persian charm are among a range of items added to the Sir Walter Scott exhibition. Being held at his famous home Abbotsford, in the Scottish Borders, the new attractions are all ready for the opening of the new…

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Scotland launches A Year of Conversation

The national launch of ‘A Year of Conversation’ will take place with a day-long event hosted by the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Scotland’s National Academy, to celebrate and explore the way we speak to one another. The Scottish and international initiative, led by its creative director the poet Tom Pow, brings together high-profile partners in…

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