Little Scottish Treasures, Magical Tours.

20/03/2025

Dunimarle Castle - Culross

When we created ‘Little Scottish Treasures’ it was all about opening up and offering access to less well-known locations around Scotland, avoiding the crowds and experiencing something unique. Today we were in one of these very places, a location not many Scots even know about.

Here looking over the charming little town of Culross on the River Forth is the imposing Dunimarle Castle. This was originally the site of an 11th century medieval castle belonging to the MacDuff's, who took advantage of the fine raised defensive position historically called Castlehill.

In the 18th century what was once a great defensive position now became admired for its fine views over the Forth, so a small mansion was built by the Blaw family. We believe much of the stone that makes up the castellated screen walls may have been that of the original medieval building.

It was Lady Magdalene Sharpe Erskine who turned it into the fine building we now see from the coastal path. Lady Erskine married Admiral Kilpatrick Sharpe, when in her 50s, the marriage lasted only three days before a permanent separation was arranged and Magdalene turned her attentions to her estate. She changed its name to Dunimarle, meaning ‘Castle by the Sea’ and transformed the property into what we now see.

Like many fine homes Dunimarle was unoccupied during much of the 1900’s, but fortunately did not get into a hopeless state like many other mansions around Scotland. It was purchased by the present owners in 1999 and with an ongoing 7 figure restoration this ‘Little Scottish Treasure’ with its marvellous chapel and gardens will continue to provide a magical backdrop to the west end of Culross.

17/03/2025

Putting the Port in Airport.

If we said picture a port you would have images of a location where the land meets the sea, if I said airport you would conjure up a very different image. Well on Barra, its both.

Barra Airport first came into use in 1936 and planes have been using the beach as a runway ever since, this is the only airport in the world where the runway is a sandy beach and flights are delayed due to the tide.

The Beach is called Traigh Mor (The Big Beach) and is also a haven for cockle pickers (cocklers). When we were here there were at least 5 cars parked far out on the beach as the cocklers combed the sand. Today this is more a hobby, but during the clearances you would have seen hundreds of people out on the sand, full families combing the beach starving and desperate for something to eat.

There was a threat in 1996 to upgrade the runway to tarmac which resulted in a great deal of backlash from the Barra folk, stating that the cockles and crustations would leave, the plane would not be able to approach from any direction causing delays due to wind and spoiling the most romantic airport landing in the world.

The protest worked, and just to back up Barra’s love of their airstrip it was voted No.1 in the world’s top airport approaches and landing in the world (PrivateFly 2011).

If you are on Barra, even if you took the ferry, a visit to the airport is worthwhile for the fine food they serve, good coffee and a chance to watch a rather unique arrival.

15/03/2025

The Whipping boy’s revenge.

The Church of the Holy Rude, in Stirling is a fantastic building with magnificent pillars, awe inspiring stained glass windows and a historical significance that eclipses most structures in Scotland, but we want to share a tiny little, fun part of it and let you explore the rest yourself.

After the great fire of Stirling in 1405, the Holy Rude had to be rebuilt, mostly under the inspired direction of ‘Master Mason’ John Coutts.

At the east end of the church above the Apse there are two carved faces. On the North side a head that is clearly the King, however on the South side of the arch, looking straight at the king is a figure sticking its tongue out. To add further insult this figure is in fact purposely placed higher than the king.

We believe the figure represents the King’s ‘Whipping Boy’ and the fun that masons can inject into an otherwise serious building.

“What is a whipping boy?” You may ask. A whipping boy for the royals was someone who was educated alongside the King (or Prince), if however, the Royal did any wrongdoing the punishment would fall upon his whipping boy.

This particular whipping boy may have taken beatings on behalf of the King, but has made up for it by insulting him for almost 500 years.

The Church of the Holy Rude is one of many Treasures to be found in Stirling, and with a Little Scottish Treasures ‘Magical Tour’ we will ensure you don’t miss the best bits, no matter how small.



www.churchoftheholyrude.co.uk

14/03/2025

Balmoral.

Balmoral Castle is known worldwide as belonging to the British monarch, a place loved by most royals as they spend their summer here in relative peace.

It was while on holiday at Balmoral that our late Queen Elizabeth passed away, and on more than one occasion, a tour has passed members of the family out for a walk while exploring the estate.

The Balmoral Estate was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1853, who then went on to demolish the original castle and have a replacement built nearby.

The Estate is not just about the castle, though. Let our pictures take you on a short tour of Balmoral and some of its Little Treasures.

14/03/2025

Eriskay – An Island of Beaches, Whisky, Horses and a certain Prince’s Arrival.

Is there any island in Scotland of this size that has so much to talk about, I think not.

The island of Eriskay can be reached via a causeway from South Uist or by Ferry from Barra and the first thing you will notice are the magnificent golden beaches and (if the sun is out) turquoise waters.

If coming by boat then you will step ashore in the same bay as Bonnie Prince Charlie did in 1745, the first time he stepped on UK soil before starting his ill-fated uprising.

The island is home to a population of almost 140, although as you enter the town you may see more Eriskay Ponies wandering the streets than people. These native ponies are tough, intelligent, very friendly, and unchanged throughout history. It was a similar horse that the Pict’s of Scotland would have used and King Robert the Bruce may have rode at Bannockburn.

The one thing that truly made Eriskay famous though was the running aground of the S.S Politician in 1941 which among other supplies, was carrying 22,000 cases of whisky to the United States. This later became the inspiration for Compton MacKenzie’s famous novel (and film) Whisky Galore.

If you choose to visit Eriskay with Little Scottish Treasures, we can guarantee Stories, Ponies, Whisky and Sand, but bikini weather we will leave up to Mother Nature.

More information can be found under the attached pictures.

03/03/2025

Monkstadt House.

A 'Little Treasure' on Skye recently restored from a ruinous state to become a gem of the Trotternish Peninsula.

This was the home of Alexander MacDonald, 15th Chief of the MacDonalds of Sleat in 1746, when Flora MacDonald came knocking on his door.

She had just sailed to Skye with Bonnie Prince Charlie in a daring attempt to evade government forces who were closing in on the fugitive prince.

Even though government militia were stationed at the house, Alexander's wife 'Lady Margaret' gave what support she could, risking her own freedom in the process.

Charlie lay in hiding nearby, disguised as Flora's maid, 'Betty Burke', this assistance they received from the Lady of Monkstadt allowed the prince to continue his journey to Kingsburgh and eventually to safety back in France.

Little Scottish Treasures, highly recommend, Monkstadt 1745 as accomodation and a place to dine while visiting the Isle of Skye.

www.monkstadt1745.com

25/02/2025

A 'grotesque' with a backstory.

One of the finest buildings in Dunfermline City centre is the City Chambers.

The French Gothic style building was erected between 1876 and 1879, and no expense seems to have been spared on its exterior decoration.

The building is adorned with multiple coats of arms, royal figures, mythological beasts, and one figure who looks a little worse for wear.

This figure is thought to represent a local councillor who liked a drink or maybe several. He would turn up in the morning rather ill and dishevelled to give grief to the masons working on the building.

If the story is true, then it looks like this man is destined to nurse his sore head and poorly stomach for as long as the building stands. It also gives us a glimpse of 19th century stonemason humour.

This building has other Treasures to spot, including the controversially edited coat of arms, the sleeping knight, and the movement of time.



A building can be beautiful to behold, but with the right guides, it can tell personal stories of the people of Scotland.

23/02/2025

We have partnered with 'Claudia Ropero Photography' who provides professional photography workshops, and what better location than Scotland's Western Isles to perfect these skills.

Te gusta la fotografía y has estado pensando en la idea de venir a Escocia a sacarte unas super fotos, pero te da cosa de que a lo mejor no le podrás sacar el mejor provecho??

No lo pienses más!!
Claudia Ropero - Fotografía nos ha seleccionado para que le llevemos un tour donde ella se encargará de llevar el taller fotógrafico donde podrás aprender a sacarle el mejor provecho a tu cámara, mientras recorremos este precioso país, ella te enseña trucos fotográficos mientras yo te cuento historias y leyendas de este hermoso y muy muy fotogenico país.

Para quien está enfocado este taller??
Para cualquier persona que sea fanátic@ de la fotografía y quiera aprender más, así de sencillo!!
No hace falta que sepas mucho, pero si sabes.. Estoy segura que aprenderás más, lo único necesario es que traigas tu cámara reflex y tu equipo...
Ah y muchas ganas de pasar una semana maravillosa.

En el enlace que dejo abajo encontrarán toda la información necesaria, precio, que incluye, qué no, fechas, como reservar, etc..
así que por favor leanlo detenidamente y si tienen cualquier duda nos pueden contactar vía correo electrónico a:
[email protected] o
Directamente con Claudia a: [email protected]

Adding this link please 🙏

https://tri.ps/vgQgn

https://www.wetravel.com/trips/taller-fotografico-en-escocia-little-scottish-treasures-13971930

22/02/2025

Hidden caves, with historical artefacts, littered all around.

This wee hidden gem was once a place of industry, then a blot on the landscape, but with over 100 years of nature reclaiming what is rightfully hers, she has turned mankind's scars into a place of beauty.

Exploring new places in Scotland and sharing knowledge between tour operators is essential to creating the very best content for our guests.

16/02/2025

'Soor Plooms'

In the Borders area of Scotland, just under 30 miles from England is the town of Galashiels, a town with a very interesting moto and associated coat of arms.

This area of Scotland throughout history has been a frontier in the constant feuds between Scotland and its darling neighbour England, giving rise to some of the most terrifying clans who were seen as the first line of defence for both countries. Throughout history these powerful families were happy to plunder either side of the border and their loyalty went only as high as their own chief.

The lands of the border region is attractive as it is very fertile and mostly low lying, which also means that over the centuries this area has seen its fair share of orchards producing pears, apples and plums.

Now, it was during an English skirmish over the border in 1337 that a party of English soldiers were surprised by the local townsfolk of Galashiels. The soldiers had been collecting unripe plums when the Galashiels folk pounced and killed them all. Laughing that the soldiers had resorted to eating ‘Soor Plooms’ (sour plums).

The English soldiers are shown as foxes on the Galashiels coat of arms and the term ‘Soor Plooms’ is still used in Scotland, most commonly as a green hard boiled sweet that comes from Galashiels with a slightly acidic flavour, and also (from my childhood memory) a term used when a child in the huff (angry) because their face looks like they have been sucking on a sour plumb.

Every coat of arms & motto has a reason and a story, when visiting Scotland you may find that most involve a battle, but sometimes there is an occasional one that may lead you to trying something sweet😜.

16/02/2025

'Soor Plooms'

In the Borders area of Scotland, just under 30 miles from England is the town of Galashiels, a town with a very interesting moto and associated coat of arms.

This area of Scotland throughout history has been a frontier in the constant feuds between Scotland and its darling neighbour England, giving rise to some of the most terrifying clans who were seen as the first line of defence for both countries. Throughout history these powerful families were happy to plunder either side of the border and their loyalty went only as high as their own chief.

The lands of the border region is attractive as it is very fertile and mostly low lying, which also means that over the centuries this area has seen its fair share of orchards producing pears, apples and plums.

Now, it was during an English skirmish over the border in 1337 that a party of English soldiers were surprised by the local townsfolk of Galashiels. The soldiers had been collecting unripe plums when the Galashiels folk pounced and killed them all. Laughing that the soldiers had resorted to eating ‘Soor Plooms’ (sour plums).

The English soldiers are shown as foxes on the Galashiels coat of arms and the term ‘Soor Plooms’ is still used in Scotland, most commonly as a green hard boiled sweet that comes from Galashiels with a slightly acidic flavour, and also (from my childhood memory) a term used when a child in the huff (angry) because their face looks like they have been sucking on a sour plumb.

Every coat of arms & motto has a reason and a story, when visiting Scotland you may find that most involve a battle, but sometimes there is an occasional one that may lead you to trying something sweet😜.

12/02/2025

*Important ETA Information*

Please be aware about what site to purchase an ETA from.

If you are visiting the UK on holiday you will now require an ETA (electronic travel authorisation). This is new and applies to all except those listed at the base of this post.

We were chatting with some guests who are touring with us this year and found out that there are a bunch of very convincing sites offering ETA's. If you go to any of these sites you will end up paying over what you should.

Please only use the Government recognised sites and never pay more than £10 per person for your ETA.

Here is a link to the official government site. On it you will find a green box that you should click to carry out the required process.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta

You do not need an ETA if...

You have a visa
You have permission to live, work or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status or right of abode)
You are a British or Irish citizen
You are travelling with a British overseas territories citizen passport
You live in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

If you require any further travel advice (or an amazing private, bespoke tour ☺️) , please ask below and we will be happy to assist.

Information on who can get an ETA and how to apply before coming to the UK.

12/02/2025

Timespan.

If you find yourself in the very north of Scotland enjoying either the first or last leg of the NC500 and want to plan in a lunch stop, this is the place to go.

I assume that you are visiting Scotland not just for the dramatic scenery, but also to meet the real people of Alba, while learning about our history and culture… well, you are in luck.

In the small coastal village of Helmsdale there is a place where you can stop for a bite to eat or a coffee, enjoy a well laid out local museum, peruse the shop or pop upstairs to admire the works of local contemporary artists.

The history of the people of this area can be read as one of both resilience and tragedy, but there are individual stories that sparkle through the dark and difficult past.

Our fascinating country is full of 'Little Treasures' like this. Of course the best way to get to know Scotland is with a private tour tailored to your interests and conducted at your pace, but for those exploring alone keep an eye out for more tips and treasures.

27/01/2025

Rosebank Distillery– Breathing Life Back Into An Old Favourite.

In 1993 the doors of Falkirk’s ‘Rosebank Distillery’ closed and production ceased, after 153 years of making a whisky that was considered “one of the greats”. As years passed by the building fell into disrepair, and when copper thieves broke in and destroyed the stills, all hope of the distillery being resurrected were lost.

The fate of the last of the tall chimney stacks which stood as a reminder of Falkirk’s industrial past also seemed sealed, until Ian Macleod Distillers decided to step in and save not just the building, but the whisky too as they try to recreate the flavours Rosebank Whisky was known for.

Using the same foundations as the original distillery, preserving as much of what was left, and of course ensuring the chimney stayed as a feature, this magnificent building started to take shape. The three stills being remade exactly to the size and shape of the old ones (they even included the obscure chopped off section of the first still).

Rosebank started production again in 2023 and is now open to the public for tours and tastings, its location is perfect during a day out from either Edinburgh, Glasgow or Stirling and our association of Scottish tour guides 'SITOA' were delighted accept a special invitation recently.

It will be at least another five years before the investment Ian MacLeod Distillers have put in can be appreciated, as they want the whisky now being produced to mature in barrels for at least eight years, but for those visiting, a dram of ‘the old stuff’ can still be enjoyed during a tasting.

26/01/2025

The Mighty Corryvreckan

This is a location visited by few, but spoke about by many over the centuries.

The Corryvreckan is a great whirlpool which sits between the Isles of Jura and Scarba off the west coast of Scotland in what is considered the most dangerous stretch of water in the British Isles.

This natural wonder’s existence was suppressed in Christian Scotland due to its association with the ancient Cailleach Goddess, but is sometimes still referred to by local fishermen as ‘The breath of the Goddess under the waves’.

Corryvreckan comes from the Gaelic ‘Coire Bhreacain’, meaning Cauldron of the Plaid. It is in this Whirlpool (or Cauldron) that the great Cailleach would wash her perfectly white plaid (one piece garment of the Highlands) during the Autumn months, a time when the Corryvvreckan is at its wildest and can be heard from miles around. Once washed the Cailleach would spread this garment over the mountains and hills of the Highlands to dry, an ancient explanation for the first snows of winter.

Today, boat tours can be taken to witness the Corryvreckan, but a warning, do not do what the author George Orwell did and get too close, resulting in a rescue mission by a passing fisherman.

On a tour with ‘Little Scottish Treasures’ there is no need to stick to the roads like everyone else, when we offer attractions by water, rail and bicycle too.

25/01/2025

I can't enjoy Scotland because...

Many people would love to visit and tour Scotland, but feel that they are prevented due to one condition or another they or a family member have.

Here at Little Scottish Treasures we want to talk to you about your concerns and plan a tour that is tailored to you, ensuring any condition does not effect the enjoyment of your vacation.

We have experience conducting tours for the Blind, groups with Autism severe dietary requirements, those with mobility issues, and many more who felt that their individual circumstances would be a burden or would make enjoying a vacation impossible.

If you are able to fly to Scotland, Little Scottish Treasures will take care of the rest.

Some of our best tours have been when we have provided vacations our guests thought were not possible.

09/01/2025

Touring in winter?

Sometime you get real lucky and experience a day like today.

Crisp, cold, yet clear, with ice on the Lochs, a dusting of snow in sheltered places and pure white peaks all around.

Welcome to Scotland in January ❤️.

To ask about a private tour designed around your interests, at your pace - email...
[email protected]

08/01/2025

What is your favorite Castle in Scotland & Would you like to stay in one?

2025's business year officially started with Castles 'of course'.
We often get asked "What is your favorite castle in Scotland?", which is a very difficult question as an ancient ruin on a cliff is a very different experience than a grand furnished baronial palace.

There is one however that is always in our top 3, and that is Stirling Castle. It beats Edinburgh due to being less crowded, and feels more like a castle than a group of buildings. It has real history, heating and a roof (which is important for winter tours), great actors showing guests some of the details they may miss, a carpark right at the door, beautifully preserved features as well as the scars of war.

Most importantly though, there are hundreds of stories to be told of events which took place here and the characters involved.

If you visit Scotland, try to get to Stirling Castle, but our tip for 2025 is to choose Stirling as a place to stay, there are 101 reasons why Stirling is the smart choice.

Of course if you do choose to tour with us we can also offer Castle Accommodation nearby, in a castle with its own amazing story.

www.littlescottishtreasures.com

To chat to us about a bespoke private tour simply contact us through messenger or at [email protected]