Alexander Smail

Glenorchy, a renovated five-bedroom Victorian villa on the edge of Strathpeffer in the Scottish Highlands, is on the market through Galbraith for offers over £375,000. The property retains historic features including timber finishes, cornicing and fireplaces, while its former annexe has been incorporated into the main house and could be converted back for multi-generational living. Set in more than 0.4 acres, the landscaped garden includes terraced lawns, sheltered seating areas and raised beds.

Nomad identified Edinburgh’s Royal Mile as the worst tourist trap in Scotland and ranked it fifth worldwide, based on 539 online reviews using the phrase “tourist trap.” The historic street, which links Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse and attracts more than four million visitors annually, was criticised for its crowds, large number of souvenir shops and perceived lack of authenticity. Its popularity increases during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, although it also contains landmarks including The Real Mary King’s Close and St Giles’ Cathedral.

Tourism writer Alexander Smail visits Troon in South Ayrshire after World Atlas names it among the UK's top retirement towns. He praises its expansive beach, seaside walks, attractive town centre and proximity to Glasgow, while highlighting The Ice Cream Factory and The Wee Hurrie fish and chip shop. The visit leaves him convinced that Troon offers an appealing combination of peaceful coastal living, leisure and good food for retirees.

Troon in South Ayrshire is highlighted as the only Scottish town, alongside Cruden Bay, to feature on WorldAtlas's list of the UK's eight best retirement towns. Located just over 30 miles from Glasgow, it is praised for its sandy beach and coastal walks overlooking Arran, Royal Troon Golf Club, community activities at the Muirhead Activity Centre, access to care services and seafood at The Wee Hurrie.

Cloncaird Castle in Ayrshire, a B-listed 15-bedroom estate dating to the late 16th century, is being marketed by Savills for offers over £3 million. The property includes historic reception rooms, a master suite, event space, stables, nine holiday cottages and 143 acres of grounds featuring ornamental gardens, ponds, a fountain, a glasshouse and outdoor entertaining areas. The cottages reportedly achieve around 90% occupancy in July and August, offering the buyer both heritage appeal and income-generating potential.

A two-bedroom cottage at No 5 Deiraclete near Tarbert on Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides is being marketed by Galbraith for offers over £310,000. Built on a former ruin using original stone, the energy-efficient home has expansive glazing, water views, a decked terrace, shoreline access and approximately 0.46 acres of grounds. The property also includes a shed made from a former blackhouse, which may be convertible subject to planning consent, and benefits from mains utilities, private drainage and internet access. Its proximity to Tarbert, local beaches and walking trails is highlighted as a key attraction.

Reul Na Mara, a modern three-bedroom bungalow near Ardfern in Argyll, is on the market through Savills for offers over £450,000. The approximately 1,200-square-foot home has panoramic views across the Sound of Jura towards Mull, an open-plan living area with picture windows, an elevated timber deck, two acres of gardens and a detached outbuilding with a sunroom. Nearby amenities include a village shop, pubs and restaurants, while Oban and Lochgilphead are within 20 miles.

Darien House in Edinburgh, originally built as the headquarters of the failed Darien scheme, was later converted into an asylum for paupers with severely overcrowded and inhumane conditions. Poet Robert Fergusson died there in 1774 after being admitted against his will, prompting his friend Dr Andrew Duncan to campaign for improved mental-health care. Duncan’s efforts contributed to the construction of the Edinburgh Lunatic Asylum in 1813, whose patients were transferred from Darien House. Although the original buildings were later demolished, the site’s legacy continues through the Royal Edinburgh Hospital and nearby Bedlam Theatre, now a major Edinburgh Fringe venue.

The Western Isles Hotel in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull is recruiting for seasonal and permanent positions, including managers, receptionists, housekeepers, an electrician and several chef roles. Successful applicants will receive a competitive salary along with live-in accommodation, meals, flexible start dates and tips. The hotel promotes Tobermory's scenery, attractions and connection to the television series Balamory as part of the appeal of working on the island.

Ann Widdecombe's private Requiem Mass is being held at Buckfast Abbey in Devon because she was a devout Roman Catholic who regularly attended services there. The funeral includes a homily by Buckfast's abbot, David Charlesworth, and a Bible reading by her great-nephew Jem Widdecombe. Widdecombe was found dead at her Dartmoor home on July 9, and Joshua Kerry was later arrested on suspicion of murdering her in what police described as a targeted attack. The abbey has asked the press to respect the family's privacy. The article also outlines Buckfast Abbey's long history and its association with Buckfast Tonic Wine.

VisitScotland has highlighted seven Scottish destinations whose names are commonly mispronounced: Culross, the Isle of Islay, Findochty, Culzean Castle, Kirkcudbright, Scone Palace and Glamis Castle. The piece provides the correct pronunciations and brief descriptions of each location, encouraging readers to use the guidance when planning trips to Scotland.

Edinburgh’s Wax Museum operated off the Royal Mile from 1976 until 1989, attracting more than 230,000 visitors annually with over 150 figures depicting Scottish historical figures, celebrities and fictional characters. Its Chamber of Horrors frightened many children, while folklore surrounding the building—formerly a children’s shelter and a survivor of the 1824 Great Fire—gave rise to claims of footsteps, children’s laughter and other hauntings. The museum closed after the building was sold and converted into offices, leaving only some figures in local businesses and memories among former visitors.

GlasGLOW will return to Glasgow Botanic Gardens from October 16 to November 1, 2026, with Zombie Zoo, promoted as the world’s first zombie zoo. The family-friendly Halloween event will include immersive light and sound displays, street food vendors, a new Zombie Bar, Marshmallowland and Twilight tickets for daytime visits. Organisers are also introducing relaxed additional-support-needs sessions, quiet spaces, changing-place toilets, GLOW passes and a sensory guide. Tickets go on sale August 5, with early-bird adult, child and family prices ranging from £13 to £86.

Travel blogger Matt Hughes ranked Cumbernauld as Scotland’s worst town after visiting 312 UK settlements in 2025, describing its town centre as dull, dated, depressing and dystopian. Methil, Lochgelly, Alloa and Buckhaven also appeared in his list of the country’s five worst towns, based on his strongly negative impressions of their buildings, atmosphere and upkeep.

Leith in Edinburgh is one of three Scottish finalists for the first UK Town of Culture, and resident tourism writer Alexander Smail believes it deserves the recognition because of its distinctive atmosphere, weekly market, strong food and pub scene, coastal setting and independent shops. However, growing national attention and its reputation as a fashionable neighbourhood have driven up property prices, forcing some residents to move and raising fears that further publicity could accelerate the displacement of longtime locals.

A 13-bedroom Victorian coastal estate named Ronachan is being marketed for offers over £2.1 million on Scotland’s Kintyre Peninsula. The B-listed Ronachan House has eight bedrooms, while the estate also includes the Coach House, the Look Out and North Lodge. Set on about 10.5 acres above Ronachan Bay, the property has direct beach access, extensive grounds and views across the Sound of Jura toward Islay, Jura and Gigha. The main house has undergone two decades of restoration and modernisation while retaining historic features including stained glass, timber panelling, ornate cornicing and sash windows.

Ness-side Estate, a 17-acre residential and fishing estate on the southern edge of Inverness, is being marketed by Galbraith for £4.4 million. The estate includes the main Ness-side House, two renovated holiday-let properties, formal gardens, multiple garages, and double-bank salmon fishing on the River Ness. Galbraith describes it as a rare combination of luxury, tranquillity, accessibility, and income potential; the current owners have renovated and extended all three residences since purchasing the estate in 1996.

Edinburgh’s Dolls’ Hospital, founded on Dundas Street in 1984, repaired and restored children’s dolls, teddy bears and other toys, housing up to 50–60 items at a time. Former visitors recall travelling from across Scotland for repairs, although some locals considered the facility creepy. Rising rents forced the hospital to move to Canongate before it eventually closed. The tradition continues at Leith Toy Hospital, founded in 2017 and now based in Musselburgh, which repairs toys and offers behind-the-scenes restoration experiences to visitors.

Tourism writer Alexander Smail recounts driving the steep, single-track Bealach na Bà, commonly called Scotland's most dangerous road, to reach Applecross. Although the mountain scenery was spectacular and the journey memorable, he found the drive intensely nerve-racking and would not want to repeat it. His lunch at the Applecross Inn was also disappointing: despite charming interiors, the relatively expensive fish and chips and coffee ice cream were merely adequate, while the bread and tartare sauce were the meal's highlights.

A private family estate in Dumfries and Galloway is seeking a professional housekeeper and chef to work as a couple. The positions offer a combined salary of up to approximately £80,000, performance-related bonuses, a pension, use of a new Land Rover Defender and a furnished two-bedroom cottage with utilities and council tax included. Duties include managing household operations, preparing meals, maintaining estate facilities, caring for chickens and overseeing a collection of classic cars. The estate is seeking staff to start as soon as possible.

Ardmhor, a four-bedroom detached cottage in rural Ayrshire, is being marketed by Galbraith for offers over £295,000, making it cheaper than many smaller Edinburgh properties. The home has recently been redecorated and includes spacious living areas, a ground-floor principal suite, gardens, a double garage and views towards the Isle of Arran. It is close to Ochiltree and Mauchline, with Ayr approximately 10 miles away.

Happy Haddock in Macduff, Aberdeenshire, has attracted customers from across Scotland and the UK with its unusual chicken fillets cooked in Irn-Bru batter. Co-owner Davie Henderson believes it may be the only Scottish chippy offering the speciality, whose sweeter flavour and bright orange colour have helped it gain viral attention. The takeaway also serves homemade crisps, deep-fried pizza, burgers, pies, battered brownies and deep-fried Magnum ice cream, and holds a 4.8-star Google rating based on 193 reviews.

A historic log cabin near Aboyne in Aberdeenshire, originally built for Queen Mary, has been restored into a highly rated Airbnb known as the Queen's Hut. The lodge features modern comforts alongside period charm, including a master bedroom with a copper bathtub, flexible sleeping arrangements, a tranquil living area, and a scenic veranda. Surrounded by woodland and overlooking a loch, it offers wildlife viewing and outdoor activities such as salmon fishing. The property holds a 4.94 rating from guests who praise its peaceful setting, views and overall experience.

A new Amorino gelato shop has opened in Edinburgh, prompting a visit by Alexander Smail, who sampled its signature Macaron al Gelato. Although he enjoyed the flavours, presentation and cone, he found the £9.80 price unjustified compared to similar gelato shops. The self‑serve kiosk ordering system was unusual but offered a helpful 3D preview. Despite the quality, he concluded the experience did not merit the high cost.

Glasgow’s Rottenrow Maternity Hospital, founded in 1834, developed into a leading centre for childbirth innovation, contributing major advances including the world’s first modern Caesarean section performed by Murdoch Cameron in 1888 and early ultrasound development by Ian Donald. Multiple expansions supported its role in midwifery training and maternal care until deterioration led to its relocation to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary in 2001. The original site, later redeveloped into Rottenrow Gardens by the University of Strathclyde, retains its preserved entrance and a commemorative safety pin sculpture.

A modern two‑bedroom holiday lodge in North Connel, Argyll, is listed for offers over £275,000 and marketed by Savills as both a retreat and investment opportunity. The Palms 1 features vaulted ceilings, an open‑plan living space with bi‑fold doors, a terrace, and a hot tub, with both bedrooms offering en‑suite access. Located near Loch Etive and close to Oban, the area provides extensive outdoor activities and local amenities. Savills highlights the lodge’s seamless indoor‑outdoor design and scenic surroundings.

A tourism writer recounts a two‑day trip to Gairloch in the Scottish Highlands, praising the coastal village’s scenery, cafés and shops. Stops included The Mountain Coffee Co, the Vinyl Stop record store, Hai Yang for dinner and Coast Coffee Company for breakfast. Despite the long drive from Edinburgh, the visit is described as worthwhile, with Gairloch recommended as a strong option for a summer staycation.

A private property in the Outer Hebrides is seeking a couple to manage daily operations, offering a £70,000 salary and provided accommodation. Responsibilities include guest services, property preparation, transport, activity assistance, contractor oversight and managing part‑time housekeepers. Applicants should have experience in private households or luxury hospitality, strong organisational skills and a willingness to live in a remote island setting.

A negative online review describing East Kilbride as a “slice of hell” is highlighted alongside contrasting examples of the town’s popular parks, attractions and dining venues, illustrating both criticism from one resident and reasons many others consider it an appealing place to live and visit.

A 19th‑century listed mini‑castle in Perthshire, The Bridge House, is highlighted as a unique Airbnb stay situated over the River Ardle. Featuring a conservatory dining room, riverside views, a four‑poster master bedroom, and a private sauna, the property offers a distinctive and romantic getaway. Rated 4.91 from hundreds of reviews, guests praise its architecture, peaceful setting, cleanliness, and attentive host. Images and additional recent Airbnb recommendations accompany the feature.

A new documentary explores claims that the Stone of Destiny used during King Charles III’s coronation may have been a replica, with a Glasgow pub asserting it possesses the true artefact allegedly taken during the 1950 student heist. The pub’s staff and previous owners maintain that the original stone remained in Glasgow while a copy was returned to authorities. The programme examines theories surrounding replicas made by stonemason Bertie Gray and questions whether a substituted stone could affect the symbolic legitimacy of the coronation. The mystery remains unresolved as the documentary airs on Blaze TV.

Dalhousie Castle near Bonnyrigg in Midlothian hosts the AA Rosette–winning Dungeon Restaurant, an adults-only venue offering an eight‑course tasting menu in a historic vaulted setting. Led by chef Iain Gourlay, the restaurant serves seasonal dishes blending Scottish and French influences and holds strong reviews for its distinctive ambience and cuisine. Guests can stay in the castle’s hotel rooms and suites, with the restaurant praised for its service and immersive atmosphere.

A 240‑acre Fife estate centred on the 18th‑century Georgian Cullaloe House has been listed for sale for offers over £1.75 million. The six‑bedroom property features extensive period details, multiple reception rooms, landscaped gardens, grazing land, woodland and additional cottages. Positioned with views over the Firth of Forth toward Edinburgh, the estate includes a renovated annex, traditional steading with development potential and productive land, all within commuting distance of Edinburgh.

T in the Park is revisited a decade after its final edition, tracing its growth from its 1994 debut at Strathclyde Country Park to its long tenure at Balado and eventual move to Strathallan Castle. The festival expanded into one of the world’s largest greenfield music events but faced increasing logistical, safety and location challenges, culminating in reduced attendance and serious incidents in 2016. Organisers cancelled the event in 2017, and by 2019 confirmed it would not return, leaving TRNSMT as Scotland’s largest summer festival.

A rustic off‑grid glamping cabin on the Isle of Skye, available via Airbnb, is presented as an ideal digital‑detox retreat with no electricity or Wi‑Fi. The furnished cabin features a wood‑burning stove, compost toilet, greenhouse shower and access to a shared camp kitchen. Guest reviews praise the eco‑friendly ethos, comfort and peaceful setting, noting the location’s beauty and convenient access to nearby attractions.

A 4,900‑acre Highland property, Morvich Estate near Rogart in Sutherland, has been listed for sale at £7.5 million. Centred on a Grade B listed seven‑bedroom lodge, the estate includes multiple residential buildings, productive farmland, native woodland and diverse sporting opportunities such as deer stalking and fishing. It offers significant environmental potential, including wetlands of international importance. Galbraith describes the property as highly versatile, with extensive possibilities for residential, agricultural, sporting and conservation use.

A photo-led feature highlights Dunbar as one of Scotland’s sunniest and driest towns, showcasing its beaches, historic harbour, John Muir Country Park and leisure pool as ideal destinations during warm weather.

Travel experts named Linlithgow among Scotland's best places to live in 2026, noting its historic attractions, proximity to Edinburgh and Glasgow, strong community life, and thriving independent businesses. The town’s landmarks, including Linlithgow Palace and Linlithgow Loch, contribute to its appeal, while good schools and higher-than-average property prices reflect strong demand. Food and drink venues and active civic groups further enhance its reputation as a desirable place to live.

A private estate in the Scottish Highlands is recruiting a part‑time chef to prepare family‑style dishes using seasonal estate produce and to travel regularly to Denmark to assist the lead chef. The position includes provided accommodation in both locations, covered travel expenses, and potential retainer pay. Applicants must have proven cooking experience, be capable of catering to vegan and gluten‑free diets, work independently, and maintain discretion. The role also involves extended support during busy summer periods and occasional additional hospitality events.

Lennox Castle in East Dunbartonshire, originally built in the 19th century, later became Scotland's largest psychiatric institution, where overcrowding, understaffing and poor conditions drew serious criticism, including findings of malnutrition in the 1980s. The hospital saw various uses during both world wars, served as a maternity facility, and declined through the late 20th century as community-based care replaced institutionalisation. After closing in 2002, most buildings were demolished, a fire destroyed much of the remaining structure in 2008, and part of the grounds now hosts Celtic Football Club’s training centre, with further redevelopment plans still unrealised.

A historic fish and chip shop in Eyemouth, Giacopazzi's draws visitors for its freshly made gelato, sorbet, and highly rated fish and chips. Known for a wide range of flavours and an extensive menu, the venue maintains a strong reputation supported by a 4.3 Google rating from 910 reviews. Customer feedback highlights its quality ingredients, well‑prepared dishes, and longstanding heritage, reinforcing its status as a notable Scottish Borders food destination.

A historic 15‑bedroom estate in South Ayrshire, Cloncaird Castle, has been listed for offers over £3 million. Set on 143 acres with extensive gardens, woodlands and holiday cottages, the property includes multiple reception rooms, an events-ready atrium, and income-generating accommodation. Savills highlights the estate as a rare opportunity combining historic character with commercial potential, with scope for further development as a hospitality or events venue.

A historic inn in Drymen, regarded as Scotland’s oldest licensed pub, is highlighted for its heritage, links to Billy Connolly, and its appeal to locals and visitors. The Clachan Inn offers traditional Scottish dishes, an extensive whisky and gin selection, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere, earning strong customer reviews praising its food, service, and character.

Twin snow leopard cubs at Highland Wildlife Park in Scotland were captured on video taking their first steps outside their den with their mother, Pari. Born on May 25 as the park’s first litter in four years, the cubs will remain separate from their father, Koshi, until mature. Staff will determine their sex during an upcoming health check. Animal care manager Lucy Petrie noted the successful breeding efforts and highlighted the importance of the cubs for raising awareness about snow leopard conservation as the species faces declining wild populations.

Snow leopard cubs born at Highland Wildlife Park were filmed taking their first steps at Edinburgh Zoo, marking the park’s first litter in four years. Staff are monitoring the unnamed cubs and their first-time mother Pari, who is reported to be caring for them well. The zoo notes the births are valuable for conservation, as wild snow leopard populations continue to decline.

Easdale, the smallest permanently inhabited island in the Inner Hebrides, is highlighted as a peaceful, car‑free destination ideal for short breaks. Visitors can explore the island on foot in about an hour, enjoy views from its 38‑metre hill, and visit attractions such as the Easdale Folk Museum and former slate quarries. The Puffer Bar provides seasonal food, drinks, and cultural events, while a small local shop offers handcrafted goods. Easdale is accessible by ferry from Ellenabeich on the isle of Seil, which connects to the mainland via Clachan Bridge.

Herbert Lawford, a pioneering Scottish tennis figure, won Wimbledon in 1887 and helped revolutionize the sport through his powerful topspin forehand known as the Lawford stroke. Despite being born in England, he identified strongly with Scotland, developed his skills at Edinburgh institutions, and later retired in Aberdeenshire. Remembered as an influential early champion and inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2006, he remains a key but often overlooked figure in Scotland’s tennis heritage.

A secluded garden off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile offers a quiet retreat designed in the style of 17th‑century gardens. Created in the 1970s by the Mushroom Trust and landscape architect Seamus Filor, the space features eight sections with period‑appropriate plants and seasonal highlights such as honeysuckle, snapdragons, and a central tulip tree. Originally linked to 18th‑century owner David Dunbar, the garden is free to enter and praised by visitors, holding a 4.6 rating on Google. It is open daily during summer at 137 Canongate.

Ballater in Aberdeenshire is highlighted as one of Scotland’s prettiest villages, praised for its Victorian architecture, summer festivals, and strong ties to the British Royal Family. Its proximity to Balmoral Castle, scenic hiking routes, and traditions such as the Ballater Highland Games and the Ballater Duck Festival contribute to its appeal. The village’s shops, cultural heritage, and food and drink venues further enhance its status as a standout travel destination.

Barga, a medieval town in Tuscany, is known for its strong Scottish heritage, stemming from historic migration between the two regions and reflected today in cultural events, tartan displays and Scottish-themed traditions. Its annual Fish and Chips Festival, Burns Night celebrations and widespread Scottish influence attract visitors and highlight the town’s unique identity. Notable figures with ties to Barga include singer Paolo Nutini, who frequently visits and was honoured locally for his contributions.

Travel experts at WorldAtlas list ten Scottish towns considered the most hospitable, highlighting Pitlochry, Melrose, Oban, Dunkeld and Peebles for welcoming atmospheres, historic attractions and strong food and drink offerings. Additional towns recognised include Inveraray, Aberfeldy, Portree, Kirkcudbright and North Berwick, each praised for scenery, culture or community value.