Welcome to the seventh episode of Season two.

In this episode, Kerry, owner of Spellbound Caithness, shares her journey as a Celtic pagan witch in the remote Scottish county of Caithness. She discusses the unique challenges and joys of running a spiritual business in a small community, from organizing the Midsummer Carnival to creating handcrafted spell boxes. Kerry offers insights into Caithness's breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and rich history, painting a vivid picture of life in the UK's northernmost mainland town. She reveals how the area's natural beauty and close-knit community have shaped her business and personal growth, challenging conventional notions of success and lifestyle in the process.

FEATURED:

Kerry from Spellbound Caithness

You can listen wherever you get your podcasts.

TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 Intro

1:11 Introduction to Carrie and Spellbound Caithness

6:09 Winter Activities in Caithness

10:36 Summer Activities and Wildlife

15:36 Community and Lifestyle in Thurso

20:52 Historical Sites and Legends

25:01 Moving to Caithness

30:43 Weather and Nature in Caithness

35:51 Family Life and Local Activities

45:39 Challenges of Running a Business

51:07 Future Plans and Community Events

56:09 Summer Solstice Carnival

1:01:22 Overcoming Nervousness and Community Support

1:06:25 Favourite Products and Personal Achievements

1:11:08 Positive Impact of Spellbound Caithness

MUSIC:

Epidemic by ES_The Celtic Flavour - Alysha Sheldon & ES_A Sound Foundation - Airae

In this episode of Scottish Digest, Theshira from the podcast Legendary Africa shares her experiences living in South Queensferry, a town near Edinburgh. She discusses the town's iconic bridges spanning three centuries, the annual Burryman Festival with its quirky traditions, and the charming local pubs and restaurants. Theshira also highlights the area's natural beauty, including scenic walks along the Firth of Forth and visits to nearby stately homes like Hopetoun House and Dalmeny House. The conversation covers hidden gems like the world's smallest lighthouse in North Queensferry and the best spots for ice cream on the high street. Theshira's insights offer a blend of historical tidbits, local recommendations, and personal anecdotes that paint a vivid picture of life in this picturesque Scottish town.

FEATURED:

Legendary Africa

Asian Tapestry

For more information visit

Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 Intro to Theshira and her podcasts; Legendary Africa and Asian Tapestry

4.56 South Queensferry and the Bridges

24:00 Exploring North Queensferry

30:00 Boat Tours and Dalmeny House and Hopetoun House

36:00 Local Recommendations

In this episode Dawn welcomes Francesca, founder of Tremula Network and host of the podcasts Seize Your Adventure and On The Outside. Francesca shares her love for Scotland's Kilmartin Glen and the Great Glen Way, detailing her experiences and the historical significance of these areas. She discusses her journey through Kilmartin Glen, inspired by a fantasy book, and her hike along the Great Glen Way, highlighting the beauty and tranquillity of these routes. Francesca also talks about her work in podcasting, the Outdoor Podcast Club, and being guest editor for Pod Bible.

FEATURED:

Francesca - Tremula Network

For more information visit

Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 Introduction to Francesca and her work podcasting work.

9:09 Francesca's Fascination with Kilmartin Glen

16:09 Exploring Kilmartin Glen and Dunadd Hill Fort

25:30 Francesca's Long-Distance Hike Experience and Loch Ness Boat Tour

34:20 Tremula Network Festival Announcement

In this episode, Dawn chats with Kevin and Cathy from the YouTube channel Just Thought Lounge. The Canadian duo, who moved to the UK a decade ago, share their recent adventures in the Scottish Highlands, particularly their visit to Beauly. They discuss their exploration of the Beauly Priory, the charming local train station, and their visit to the village’s award-winning gift shop. The conversation also touches on their dining experiences and their brief trip to Dingwall. Kevin and Cathy reflect on their potential move to Scotland and the allure of the Highlands. Listen now to hear more about their delightful recounting of their travels.

FEATURED:

Kevin and Cathy - Just Thought Lounge

SHOW NOTES:

cluarantonn.com/scottish-digest/beauly

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00: Introduction and Welcome
00:00:36: Kevin and Cathy Introduce Themselves
00:02:05: Favourite Place in Scotland: Beauly
00:03:39: Clip from Just Thought Lounge Podcast
00:05:17: Connection to Beauly and the MacRae Family
00:06:59: Exploring Beauly and the Priory
00:20:16: Trip to Dingwall
00:22:27: Future Plans and Exploring More of the Highlands
00:23:08: Where to Find Just Thought Lounge Online
00:23:45: History and Facts About Beauly
00:25:17: Annual Events in Beauly
00:26:49: Conclusion and Where to Find More Information

CREDITS:

Scottish Digest Podcast is a production of ⁠⁠⁠Cluarantonn⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Researched and Hosted by Dawn Young

Edited and Produced by Erin ⁠⁠⁠@erinfergus0n⁠⁠⁠

Maps courtesy of ⁠⁠openstreetmap.org⁠⁠

Photos courtesy of ⁠⁠commons.wikimedia.org⁠⁠

MUSIC:

⁠⁠⁠Epidemic⁠⁠⁠ - ES_The Celtic Flavour - Alysha Sheldon, ES_A Sound Foundation - Airae

In this episode Dawn is joined by Alistair from the Scots Whay Hae podcast to discuss his favourite place in Scotland: Annan and the Solway Firth, located in south-west Scotland in Dumfries and Galloway. 

Alistair shares nostalgic memories of his childhood holidays in Annan, highlighting its charming countryside,

FEATURED:

Alistair- ⁠Scots Whay Hae⁠

SHOW NOTES:

cluarantonn.com/scottishdigest/alistair

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00: Introduction by Dawn

00:01:00: Clip from Scots Whay Hae Podcast

00:01:54: Dawn Welcomes Alistair

00:06:01: Alistair's Favourite Place in Scotland: Annan

00:08:09: Childhood Memories in Annan

00:09:16: Recent Visit to Annan

00:10:36: Beaches in Annan

00:11:48: Historical Railway Viaduct

00:13:08: Annan's Red Sandstone Buildings

00:14:00: Robert Burns' Connection to Annan

00:15:13: Pagani's Fish and Chip Shop

00:16:02: Staying with Family in Annan

00:16:42: Travel Time to Annan

00:17:20: Scenic Routes to Annan

00:18:04: Childhood Activities in Annan

00:19:26: Walking Routes in Annan

00:20:47: River Annan

00:21:34: Annandale Way Walking Route

00:21:44: Stone Bridge Designed by Robert Stevenson

00:22:36: TV Programme Featuring Annan

00:22:45: Scandinavian Origin of Solway

00:23:19: The Wicker Man Filming Locations

00:24:47: Overlooked Beauty of Dumfries and Galloway

00:25:08: Scenic Drives in the Area

00:27:48: Riding of the Marches Festival

00:29:37: Community Spirit in Annan

00:31:13: Annan Harbour Festival

00:33:10: Potential for Tourism in Annan

00:34:07: Future Visits to Annan

00:37:32: Where to Find Scots Whay Hae podcast.

00:38:36: Facts About Annan and Solway Firth

00:40:33: Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

CREDITS:

Scottish Digest Podcast is a production of ⁠⁠Cluarantonn⁠

⁠⁠⁠Researched and Hosted by Dawn Young

Edited and Produced by Erin ⁠⁠@erinfergus0n⁠⁠

Maps courtesy of ⁠openstreetmap.org⁠

Photos courtesy of ⁠commons.wikimedia.org⁠

MUSIC:

⁠⁠Epidemic⁠⁠ - ES_The Celtic Flavour - Alysha Sheldon, ES_A Sound Foundation - Airae

In this episode, Dawn chats with Stefanie, host of the podcast Scottish & Scared, about her favourite places in Scotland: Cromarty and Millport. Stefanie shares her experiences exploring the picturesque village of Cromarty, known for its historic charm and the eerie Pirate's Graveyard, which is adorned with Memento mori symbols. She also reminisces about childhood trips to Millport, an island famed for its scenic bike rides, unique rock formations like Crocodile Rock, and its family-friendly atmosphere. Stefanie's vivid descriptions offer listeners a delightful glimpse into these lesser-known Scottish gems. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for travel inspiration, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in to discover the beauty and mystery of Cromarty and Millport.

FEATURED:

Stefanie - Scottish & Scared podcast

SHOW NOTES:

cluarantonn.com/scottishdigest/stefanie

00:00:00: Introduction to Episode Two of Scottish Digest

00:01:17: Welcoming Stephanie to the Podcast

00:02:25: Discussion on Favourite Places in Scotland

00:02:39: Stephanie's First Favourite Place: Cromarty

00:03:34: Description of Cromarty and the Drive from Glasgow

00:04:23: Exploring Cromarty Village

00:06:31: Searching for the Pirate's Graveyard

00:08:16: Discovering the Pirate's Graveyard

00:10:04: Explanation of the Pirate's Graveyard Name

00:11:27: Cromarty's Waterfront and Additional Attractions

00:12:13: Visiting the Fishertown Inn

00:13:12: Proximity to Inverness and Scenic Drive

00:14:38: Stephanie's Second Favourite Place: Millport

00:15:25: Location and Travel to Millport

00:16:20: The Crocodile Rock

00:17:02: Childhood Memories and Activities in Millport

00:18:16: Family Visits and Cycling Around Millport

00:19:26: Wildlife and Puffin Incident

00:19:56: Other Attractions in Millport

00:20:33: Future Plans to Revisit Millport

00:21:42: Contrast Between Glasgow and the Countryside

00:23:08: Millport Raft Race

00:24:01: Conclusion and Where to Find Scottish and Scared

00:25:06: Additional Information on Cromarty

00:26:07: Additional Information on Millport

00:28:09: Millport Events and Conclusion

Maps courtesy of https://www.openstreetmap.org/

Photos courtesy of https://commons.wikimedia.org/

Epidemic - ES_The Celtic Flavour - Alysha Sheldon, ES_A Sound Foundation - Airae

Welcome to the first episode of Season two, and what a great first episode it is!

In the first episode of season two, Dawn is joined by the fantastic and funny Marti from the podcast Mums, Mysteries and Murder. Originally from Australia, Marti shares her love of Scotland, and specifically the picturesque areas of Elie and Earlsferry in the East Neuk of Fife. Marti discusses the charming fishing villages, scenic beaches, and unique local attractions like the lobster shack in Crail and the mysterious Dunino Den. The conversation also touches on Marti's podcast, which covers true crime stories from Scotland and Australia. This episode is a delightful blend of travel recommendations, personal anecdotes, and intriguing mysteries, perfect for anyone looking to explore the beauty and quirks of Scotland.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00: Introduction to Season Two

00:01:14: Introduction to Mums Mysteries and Murder Podcast

00:02:03: Welcome and Introduction of MartI

00:02:16: MartI's Move to Scotland

00:04:07: The Cow Parade in Glasgow and Edinburgh

00:05:17: MartI's Hometown in Australia

00:05:31: Origin of Mums Mysteries and Murder Podcast

00:08:22: Marti's Favourite Place in Scotland: East Neuk of Fife

00:09:50: Description of Earlsferry Beach

00:10:34: Crail and its Attractions

00:14:27: Marti's Photos and Experiences in Boar Hills

00:18:36: The Chain Walk and Elie Lighthouse

00:21:02: Dunino Den and its Mysteries

00:25:22:St. Fillan's Cave in Pittenweem

00:27:47: Other Villages in East Neuk

00:28:59: Ardross Farm Shop

00:29:06: East Neuk Festival

00:30:43: Bowhouse Market

00:31:05: Future Visits to East Neuk

00:33:02: Marti's Social Media and Podcast Information

00:35:36: Additional Information about Elie and Earlsferry

00:36:37: East Neuk Outdoors Activities

00:37:07: East Neuk Festival Details

00:38:08: Upcoming Episode on Mums Mysteries and Murder Podcast

In this episode, we explore the charming town of Pitlochry. Graeme from Scotland’s Stories shares his adventures, highlighting Pitlochry's Victorian charm, quirky shops, and historical sites, like the Black Castle of Moulin. Helen, a disability travel blogger, offers insights into accessible attractions, including mountains Ben Lawers and Schiehallion, and delightful spots like Kenmore. Monique, the event producer of the Enchanted Forest, details this annual sound and light show, transforming Faskally Wood into a magical experience. Join us for a captivating journey through Pitlochry and its surroundings, celebrating Scotland's beauty and accessibility.

FEATURED:

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00: Introduction to Episode Eight

00:01:31: Overview of Pitlochry

00:02:01: Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder

00:03:06: Graeme's Stories from Pitlochry

00:05:39: Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder Explained

00:06:10: Blair Castle and Surrounding Attractions

00:07:12: Killiecrankie and Historical Significance

00:08:28: Helen's Accessible Travel Tips

00:13:46: Introduction to Monique and the Enchanted Forest

00:14:17: Overview of the Enchanted Forest Event

00:17:49: Conclusion and Season One Wrap-Up

CREDITS:

For more information and links visit:

Episode 8 – Pitlochry – Cluarantonn

In this episode, we explore the charming village of Aberfoyle. Paul from seelochlomond.com shares insights on local attractions and his favourite eateries. Beth from Bike Trossachs introduces us to Gravelfoil, a premier gravel and road cycling route, and the Duke's Weekender, a family-friendly cycling festival. Discover Aberfoyle's picturesque setting, nestled in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, offering activities from zip-lining at Go Ape to exploring the Scottish Wool Centre. Learn about

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00: Introduction to Episode Seven of Scottish Digest

00:00:30: Overview of Aberfoyle and Guest Introductions

00:01:00: Location and Description of Aberfoyle

00:02:01: Activities and Attractions in Aberfoyle

00:02:33: Go Ape Adventure in Aberfoyle

00:03:34: The Scottish Wool Centre

00:04:05: Fairy Lore and Doon Hill Mystery

00:04:38: Paul from Sea Loch Lomond on Aberfoyle

00:07:42: Discussion on Doon Hill Mystery and Robert Kirk

00:08:51: Introduction to Beth from Bike Trossachs

00:09:21: Overview of the Duke's Weekender Event

00:10:23: Gravel Hill Climb Details

00:11:24: Sunday Gravel Enduro Event

00:11:54: Inclusivity and Community Impact of the Event

00:12:25: Gravel Riding Opportunities in Aberfoyle

00:13:25: Conclusion and Links for More Information

00:14:54: End of Episode and Next Episode Teaser

CREDITS:

For more information and links please visit

In episode six of Scottish Digest, we explore the charming town of Dunoon, with local resident, Kirsten, sharing her insights into what visitors can expect and providing a comprehensive overview of Dunoon's attractions, from the Victorian pier and Castle House Museum to the Benmore Botanic Garden and local wildlife. Colin from Dunoon Presents discusses the town's revitalisation efforts, highlighting events like the Scottish Rally Championship and the UK Powerboat Championships. Malcolm talks about the rich history of the Cowal Highland Gathering, a festival celebrating Scottish culture with Highland dancing, piping, and family entertainment. This episode offers a delightful glimpse into Dunoon's vibrant community and scenic beauty.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00: Introduction to Episode Six

00:00:30: Overview of Dunoon

00:01:32: How to Get to Dunoon

00:02:34: Benmore Botanic Garden

00:03:05: Castle House Museum

00:03:35: Highland Mary Statue and Dunoon Pier

00:04:06: Introduction to Colin from Dunoon Presents

00:04:18: Colin Discusses Dunoon's Attractions and Events

00:06:28: Dunoon Presents Website Information

00:07:28: Introduction to Malcolm and the Cowal Gathering

00:07:28: History and Highlights of the Cowal Gathering

00:10:13: Cowal Gathering Website Information

00:10:36: Introduction to Kirsten Fagan

00:10:36: Kirsten on Dunoon's Attractions and Amenities

00:13:06: Episode Conclusion and Website Links

Dunoon – Cluarantonn