Scotland is home to nearly 800 islands scattered along its rugged coastlines, offering some of the most biodiverse habitats in the country. These islands, blessed with a blend of low-intensity agriculture, untouched wilderness, and a thriving ocean, create a sanctuary for countless species.
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Countryfile – Ramble for Children in Need 2023 – Matt Baker, Charlotte Smith, Margherita Taylor, Joe Crowley, and John Craven are not just setting out for another adventure—they are embarking on a mission.
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Chris and Meg’s Wild Summer Episode 5 – Embarking on a thrilling continuation of their wildlife-watching journey across the British Isles, Chris Packham and his stepdaughter Megan McCubbin set their sights on the stunning and formidable landscapes of the Cairngorms in Scotland. Their adventurous spirits are alive as they delve into the exploration of these rugged highlands, rich in both breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. In the ancient and lush Caledonian woodlands of the Abernethy National Nature Reserve, the duo embarks on an exciting quest. Chris, filled with anticipation and hope, is eager to introduce Meg to a rare and
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Grand Tours of Scotland’s Rivers episode 6 – River Ythan – Embarking on an unexpected and remarkable tour, we find ourselves tracing the path of the serene River Ythan, nestled within the picturesque contours of rural Aberdeenshire. The river carves its path through a tapestry of expansive golden wheat fields, punctuated by imposing, time-worn castles that carry within them whispers of ghostly tales. Our journey extends to a coastline teeming with an impressive diversity of wildlife, revealing the fascinating symbiosis between Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage. Along the way, our guide, the ever-curious Paul Murton, immerses himself in the region’s
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Grand Tours of Scotland’s Rivers episode 5 – River Teviot – Embarking on a grand journey, we trace the path of the majestic River Teviot, cutting through the verdant expanse of Teviotdale. This serene landscape was once the territory of the infamous border reivers, making it an area rich with untamed history and folklore. With every ripple of the river, one can almost hear the echoes of their raucous tales, lending a touch of mystery to this otherwise peaceful environment. We then make a stop at the bustling town of Hawick, where tradition runs deep. It is here
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Grand Tours of Scotland’s Rivers episode 4 – North Esk – Nestled in the enchanting landscapes south of Edinburgh, the North Esk River emerges as a hidden jewel, its waters reflecting the captivating tales and history that define the region. Our adventurous traveler, Paul, sets out to trace its winding course, starting from the commanding Pentland Hills and navigating through a terrain that is richly imbued with myth and legend. The journey unfolds at Habbie’s Howe, a spot where picturesque beauty marries delight in its purest form. Enveloped in tranquility and natural charm, this enchanting location serves as a serene
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Grand Tours of Scotland’s Rivers episode 3 – River Annan: Paul explores the River Annan in Dumfries and Galloway, following it from where it rises above the Devil’s Beef Tub all the way to the Solway Firth. Embarking on a captivating journey, our intrepid explorer, Paul, immerses himself in the mystic allure of Dumfries and Galloway, with its vast landscapes and rich history. His expedition takes him along the tranquil course of the River Annan, tracing its route from its humble beginnings to its resolute ending. His adventure begins where the river first springs to life, high above
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Landward episode 5 2023: With spring in the air, Dougie visits Aikengall Farm near Dunbar during their busiest time of the year. He lends a hand with the new arrivals as calving and lambing get fully under way. Arlene is also in East Lothian, climbing Traprain Law and meeting the Exmoor ponies that graze the hillside to keep the vegetation at bay. As the refreshing scent of spring fills the air, Dougie embarks on an exciting journey to Aikengall Farm near Dunbar during the most bustling season of the year. With the farm teeming with new life,
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A History of Scotland episode 10 – Project Scotland: As a partner in the British Empire, Scotland began the 20th century with an advanced economy and a world-beating heavy industry. But in the closing decades its sense of Britishness was in doubt and a Scottish Parliament sat in Edinburgh for the first time since 1707. Charting Scotland’s darkest century, Neil Oliver discovers a country driven to self-determination through a series of economic crises so deep that her most striking export became her own disillusioned population. Documentary charting the birth and growth of the Scottish nation. Scotland’s history
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A History of Scotland episode 9 – This Land Is Our Land: At the start of the 19th century, everything familiar was swept away. People fled from the countryside into the industrial towns of Scotland’s central belt. Rural workers became factory workers – in some of the worst conditions in Europe. This new Scotland became a seedbed of revolution. But it wasn’t just force that kept the Scottish people in their place, it was fantasy. Neil Oliver reveals how Sir Walter Scott created so powerful a myth, it haunts the Scots collective imagination to this day. Documentary
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A History of Scotland episode 8 – The Price of Progress: Through the winning and losing of an American empire and the impact of the Scottish Enlightenment, Neil Oliver reveals how in the second half of the 18th century Scotland was transformed from a poor northern backwater with a serious image problem into one of the richest nations on Earth. This was the dawn of the modern age when Scotland made its mark on the world by exporting its most valuable commodities – people and ideas. Documentary charting the birth and growth of the Scottish nation. Scotland’s
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A History of Scotland episode 7 – Let’s Pretend: Bitterly divided by politics and religion for centuries, this is the infamous story of how Scotland and England came together in 1707 to form Great Britain. Over time the Union matured into one of the longest in European history, but it very nearly ended in divorce. Exploiting the Union’s unpopularity, the exiled Stuarts staged several comebacks, selling themselves as a credible and liberal alternative to the Hanoverian regime. Neil Oliver reveals just how close they came to succeeding. Documentary charting the birth and growth of the Scottish nation.
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