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The White Rose Guild

Experience the authenticity of Scottish culture, traditions and exhilaration in groups of no more th Immerse yourself in Scotland’s treasured craftsmanship.

From each marvellous and mountainous peak to each rapid river, to the rich and vast forestry painted perfectly from a palette of bewildering and beautiful colours, hand-crafted by mother-nature. https://www.thewhiteroseguild.com/subscribe

Explore the ancient and traditional crafts and the artisans who follow a long line of hard-working craftsmen and craftswomen who have shaped Scotland’s past, as

each artisan you meet lovingly shapes Scotland’s present and future. Hear the stories that shaped this marvellous country, told with an undeniable passion for Scotland, and the unmistakeable Scottish wit. Enjoy breath-taking and exhilarating experiences in the refreshing and pristine Scottish air, crafted only in Scotland. The White Rose Guild has gathered seasoned tour leaders among Scotland’s most experienced craftspeople, blue badges, musicians and artists, to offer you an authentic Scottish experience. The White Rose Guild Immersion Scottish Tours begin in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, and last for 7 days. Ah, so much Scotland, so little time. Fear not, our weary travellers. At the White Rose Guild, we have created a 4-day weekend tour option, which also begins in Edinburgh. These snippets of our full tours include hand-crafted experiences rich in mother-natures gifts, Scotland’s thrilling experiences, and meet and greets with Scotland’s incredible makers and creators. Be warned, you might just want to come back. Haste ye back!

04/09/2024

Inveraray Castle and its Ghosts stories.

Inveraray Castle is haunted by several ghosts, some of which date back to the original Castle that was previously on the site.

In 1644, the Duke of Argyll was driven from Inveraray Castle by the Marquis of Montrose. Amongst the staff left at Inveraray was a young Irish boy employed to play the harp; the Marquis's men were so outraged an Irishman would work for their sworn enemy that they slaughtered the boy and left his quartered body on to the Duke's bed.

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Legend states that the boy's ghost became deeply attached to the bed. When the bed was moved from the old castle to the MacArthur Room in the modern-day castle, the boy's spirit came with it. When TV's Most Haunted was at the castle filming in the MacArthur room, the bed moved, and a chair was flung across the floor by unseen hands.

Members of staff and visitors to the MacArthur often complain of headaches. Others report being overcome by a feeling of sadness/grief when entering the room. Cold spots and a sense of dread have also been recorded. When a member of the family is about to die in the castle, harp music can be heard coming from this room. The last report of this ghostly phenomenon was when the 10th Duke died in 1949.

The harpist ghost seems particularly fond of the library; his music is often heard here. He is also blamed for moving books around. When TV's most haunted visited the castle, books were actually thrown from the upper level. Other visitors to the library have burst into fits of hysterical laughter for no apparent reason.

Another local legend is said to be of a ghost that warns of the death of a Campbell Chieftain. It is said that two days before the death of a chief, a ghostly ship is seen sailing up Loch Fyne. When the ship reaches land, it does not stop; instead, it continues to sail overland until it reaches the castle and claims its victim. In the 18th century, one of the chieftains was so convinced that the ghost ship was coming to take him that he drank poison to not disappoint the ship's ghostly crew.

On July 10, 1758, a Physician, William Hart, was walking along the castle grounds with two other men. The trio all witnessed "a battle taking place in the sky, between Highland soldiers and French soldiers." They saw the Highlanders retreating, leaving behind many of their dead soldiers. Two ladies also witnessed the battle in the sky.

Several weeks later, startling news arrived from America, telling of how a Highland regiment lost 300 of its soldiers on July 10, 1758, while attacking a fort held by the French.
The ghost of a young woman who was murdered by the Jacobites has also been seen haunting the castle. This ghost is usually dressed in a grey gown and is known at the castle as the grey lady; the young woman's identity is unknown.
©️📷© The Highland Castle Blog/ C. Tentori/ The Inveraray Castle

03/06/2024

Glen Coe, The Three Sisters and the replica 17th Century turf and creel house.

The ridges of Beinn Fhada, Gearr Aonach and Aonach Dubh are collectively known as the Three Sisters of Glen Coe.
Glen Coe is one of the Scottish Highlands' most scenic and beautiful places.
The name probably means narrow glen, and there is little to beat it anywhere for the sheer majesty of mountain scenery.
Visiting "The Three Sisters" is a great way to experience the Highlands and learn about Scotland's history.
This beautiful green valley is a magical land straight out of a medieval storybook and is worth the visit.

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The name probably means narrow glen and for the sheer majesty of mountain scenery, there is little to beat it anywhere.

The north side of the glen is closely hemmed in by the jagged edge of the Aonach Eagach ridge, usually thought to be the most challenging ridge scramble in mainland Scotland.

The south side of lower Glen Coe revolves around the complex mountain architecture of Bidean nam Bian, a reclusive giant whose summit is hidden behind three huge protruding buttresses that tower over the glen.

And between two of these buttresses lies the high-level hidden valley of Allt Coire Gabhail.

The recreation of a 17th-century turf house.

Visitors to Glencoe National Nature Reserve can now explore the turf and creel house for themselves at the Glencoe Visitor Centre, where its heather-thatched roof and earth walls blend into the mountain backdrop.

A team of skilled craftspeople erected the turf, wattle, and thatch structure in 2021 using traditional materials, tools, and techniques. It has the same footprint as one of the late 17th-century dwellings excavated by the Trust’s archaeologists and volunteers at the former township of Achtriachtan, near the famous ‘Three Sisters’ of Glencoe.

As they step inside to discover the workmanship that has gone into the building, visitors will also be immersed in the sounds of history, thanks to an installation that conjures up the sounds, speech and songs of life here in the glen 300 years ago.

The National Trust for Scotland said: ‘Turf and creel houses were once scattered across the Highlands and are an important part of Scotland’s architectural heritage. They tell us a lot about the communities in pre-Clearance Highland landscapes like Glencoe'.

‘While tourists who come here have often heard of the tragic events of the Glencoe Massacre, we want them to go away with an understanding of the lives that were lived here, as well as those that were lost here in 1692'.

‘This building now offers a great space in which to immerse visitors from around the world, and the community on our doorstep, in the story of those who made their homes here for centuries'.
©📷📄Courtesy of National Trust of Scotland/BBC/Emily Bryce/

16/04/2024

Kelvingrove Museum, Glasgow.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of Scotland's most popular free attractions. It has been a favourite with Glasgow residents and visitors since it opened in 1901.

The museum has 22 themed galleries displaying an astonishing 8000 objects, brought together from across Glasgow Museums’ rich and varied collection, which is a Recognised Collection of National Significance.

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The displays are extensive and wide-ranging, including:

•Dutch Old Masters and French Impressionists including one of the largest and finest collections of 17th-century Dutch and Flemish art in the UK and one of the most important collections of 19th century French oils in the UK

•Scottish Art including galleries dedicated to the Glasgow Boys and Scottish Colourists

•Salvador Dali’s Christ of St John of the Cross

•Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style – a gallery dedicated to one of Glasgow’s most famous sons and the style movement, which was the UK’s contribution to Art Nouveau

•Natural history, including dinosaurs and other prehistoricamourls

•Arms and amour – this collection is of international significance, including the R L Scott bequest, which had been one of the finest private collections of European arms and armour in the world

•Ancient Egypt – this collection is of national significance, featuring several objects of unique importance linked to historical figures

•Scottish history and archaeology, including a wealth of material relating to the early settlements across Scotland and life on St Kilda

11/03/2024

Abbotsford House, the home of Sir Walter Scott.
A monument to the tastes, talents and achievements of its creator.

Sir Walter Scott, Bart. (August 14, 1771 – September 21, 1832) was a prolific Scottish historical novelist and poet popular throughout Europe.

In some ways, he was the first author to have a truly international career in his lifetime, with many contemporary readers all over Great Britain, Ireland, Europe, Australia, and North America.

He is sometimes known as the "Great Magician." His novels and poetry are still read, but with nothing like the popularity he once enjoyed.

However, many of his works remain in the current list of classical works in English literature. Famous titles include Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, Lady of the Lake and Talisman.

In Victorian times, people were enthralled by the novels of Sir Walter Scott, who portrayed a man called Rob Roy in his work… a dashing and chivalrous outlaw.

Of course, the truth was a little less glamorous.
For centuries, the ‘Wild MacGregors’, cattle rustlers and brigands, plagued the Trossachs in Scotland.

The most famous or infamous member of the clan was Robert MacGregor, who acquired the name ‘Roy’ early in life due to his mop of red curly hair.

The Wild MacGregors earned their name and lived through ‘cattle lifting’ and extracting money from people in exchange for offering them protection from thieves.

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Abbotsford is the extraordinary home of the 19th-century novelist and ‘Great Scott’ who popularized tartan, saved the Scottish banknote and rediscovered his country’s Crown Jewels.

Discover a treasure trove of intriguing objects which inspired his greatest poems and novels. Learn about Scott's life, browse the gift shop, enjoy seasonal food in our café or relax in the beautiful formal gardens and tranquil woodlands.

Abbotsford, created almost 200 years ago by the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders, is now just a short train ride from Edinburgh.

📷 Follower's courtesy; courtesy of Heatherlie House, Abbotsford House, Caroline Ferry, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer/United Artists

22/02/2024

Luskentyre Beach, Harris.

Harris is famed for its beaches. In truth, a fair part of its highly indented coastline is very rocky.

But where the coast of Harris is sandy, it does offer some of the very best beaches you will find anywhere.

And perhaps the best of them all, certainly the largest and the most spectacular of them all, is Luskentyre Beach.
In the right weather, it is difficult to imagine there is a better beach anywhere. The beach curves around to the west, punctuated by the vast dunes on the north side. The background interest is provided, once more, by the North Harris mountains.
If that was all that Luskentyre had to offer, it would be far more than enough. But over the next couple of miles of the coast road, you pass a series of much smaller beaches, especially those on either side of the headland at Àird Niosaboist.

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Each of these is a gem in its own right, each offering different variations on the same theme. And what a theme it is: with the stunning blues and turquoises of the sea set against the near whites of the beaches, the different blues (ideally) of the skies, the greens of the grass and the greys of the rocks. Coastal scenery really doesn't come any better than this.

08/02/2024

Kinloch Castle.

The ornate and extravagant Kinloch Castle stands framed by mountains at the head of Loch Scresort, which bites deeply into the east side of the Isle of Rum. It is a no-expense-spared confection of pink sandstone intended to create an impression: and create an impression it certainly does.

You will have seen the castle from a distance, both from the loch and the slipway, but your sudden emergence from the trees brings home just how ambitious a project Kinloch Castle really was.

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Kinloch Castle is at once both magnificent and a little sad. It offers a truly unique insight into a very different world that disappeared almost without trace in 1914.
Decades of inadequate funding have combined with architects who didn't appreciate that flat roofs were not a great idea in Rum's wet climate to produce serious problems of water ingress in places. Kinloch Castle deserves every possible support to ensure it survives the next century in slightly better shape than it has survived the last century.

25/01/2024

Robert Burn Night.

The significant celebration of Robert Burns Night, held annually in Scotland on January 25th, commemorates the life and literary contributions of the national poet, Robert Burns.

This cultural event, also known as the Burns Supper, is observed with fervor and enthusiasm across the country.

The evening typically begins with a traditional supper, featuring the centrepiece dish of haggis, a savoury pudding made from sheep's offal, oatmeal, and spices, often accompanied by neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).

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The arrival of the haggis is a ceremonious affair, with a bagpiper leading the procession, and a recitation of Burns's poem "Address to a Haggis" performed with theatrical flair. This element of the celebration pays homage to Burns's love for the simple pleasures of life and his ability to find beauty in the everyday.

A key component of any Burns Night is the reading of Burns's poems and songs, showcasing the breadth of his literary prowess. The famous "Auld Lang Syne" is often sung, bringing people together in a nostalgic reflection on times gone by. The speeches, toasts, and recitations during the evening create a lively and convivial atmosphere.

The Burns Supper is not confined to Scotland; it is celebrated globally, emphasizing the enduring international appeal of Burns's work. Beyond the traditional elements, each Burns Night may include unique variations, with individuals and organizations adding their personal touches to the festivities.

The significance of Robert Burns Night lies in its ability to unite people in a celebration of Scottish culture, literature, and camaraderie. It serves as a poignant reminder of Burns's impact on the literary world and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience. The enduring popularity of this event underscores the universal themes found in Burns's poetry and songs, transcending time and borders. Ultimately, Robert Burns Night stands as a cherished tradition that honours a national icon while fostering a sense of community and shared heritage.

07/01/2024

Old Man of Storr ( Bodach an Stoir), Isle of Skye.

Things you need to know before visiting:

The Old Man of Storr is a rocky basalt pinnacle. It stands at an elevation of 2,359 feet and at a height of about 160 feet.
This deservedly very popular walk climbs up for a close look at the massive pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr - one of Scotland's most iconic places.

Distance 4.5km / 2.75 miles
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Ascent 288m (Profile)
Difficulty easy

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Starting from The Storr car park on the A855; your walk begins with a steep climb on good gravel paths then rocky steps, and changes to a faint path beneath the Old Man of Storr and continues on past the needle rock. Ascend to follow a level path beneath craggy cliffs.

There is a promontory after the Old Man where you will get excellent views back over the area (which is very popular with photographers). This is a linear walk, with the possibility of extending to a trig-point and summit on the Trotternish Ridge in good weather, where you'll get rewarding views over to the Isles of Raasay and Rona.

This unusual and immensely picturesque landscape has left an impression on a number of cultural works, including The Wicker Man (1973), the film Prometheus (2012) which filmed some of the opening scenes here, and Snow White and the Huntsman in the same year.

One story tells of a giant who died and was buried in the earth, with only his thumb emerging above ground. Another story is that two giants, an old man and his wife, were fleeing from attackers and looked back. As they did so, they were turned to stone.
There are other stories, too. The Norse used the pillar of stone as a way of navigating, while the ancient Gaels believed it was a symbol of fertility as it resembled a p***s. Whatever story, legend, or explanation you choose, it’s a dramatic sight to see as you drive along that long road.

02/01/2024

Culzean Castle, Ayrshire.

Culzean Castle is a celebrated design by Robert Adam, built between 1772 and 1790 for David Kennedy, 10th Earl of Cassillis.
The Kennedy family donated the castle to the National Trust for Scotland in 1945 and asked that the top floor would be gifted to General Eisenhower as a thank you from the people of Scotland for his role in WW2.
The interior of the castle is very grand in terms of scale and furnishings.
A large number of rooms are open to the public and you seem to see most of the castle with a tour that takes you through 10 major rooms and then out through the servants' quarters/kitchen.
Particular items to look out for are the beautifully detailed ceilings in the Blue Drawing Room and the Long Drawing Room. Other notable features are the elegant red-carpeted stairs of the central "Courtyard" and the clifftop views from the Round Drawing Room.

The ghost of Culzean Castle.

One of the most famous ghost stories connected to Culzean is that of the piper who, together with his dog, was sent into the caves below the castle.
He was to work his way from the entrance below the castle to an exit on a hill some distance away to prove to local residents that the caves weren’t haunted.
The story goes that the piper started skirling at the foot of the cliffs and entered the caves, followed by his loyal companion.

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The howling of the pipes could be heard from inside the castle, high above on top of the cliffs. As the howl started to fade, people assumed the piper was making his path through the caves, but then the piping stopped, the occasional barks from the piper’s dog stopped, and no one emerged from the cave’s exit.
Assuming he might have got stuck, a party went to search for the piper, but to no avail.

The piper and his dog were never seen or heard from again. Or were they?
Local legend says that on the eve of a Kennedy family wedding, the sound of pipes can be heard emanating from the caves below the castle and a lone figure can be seen standing on Piper’s Brae.

25/12/2023

On the occasion of Yuletide, I wish for positivity and goodness, happiness and success, smiles and laughter to make it a wonderful time for you.
Let there be new light, let there be new hopes, let there be a season of love and warmth…. Best wishes to you All.

The curious past and lasting importance of Yule

Yule derives from the Old English word "gēol," which itself likely comes from older Germanic languages like Old Norse, which predate Christianity. In Old Norse, the word "jól" was used in poetry to refer to a large celebratory feast. These words eventually evolved into Yule (also known as "Juul" or "Jul" in Scandinavian languages) in reference to midwinter pagan festivals near the winter solstice.
The phrase "yuletide" to describe the festive season first became documented around 1475. In this context, the word "tide" means a season or period that includes and follows an anniversary or festival.

So, Yuletide is the season in which people celebrate Yule festivals and traditions.
Yule is the celebration of the winter solstice (midwinter), a.k.a. the longest night of the year. It signifies joy about literal longer and brighter days ahead. Men would bring large logs home (Yule logs) and set them on fire. Women would decorate their homes with evergreens and candles to welcome in more light.

Then, people came together to feast, drink, and make sacrifices until the log burned out, which could take around 12 days.
This often led to some incredibly happy (and drunk) people galloping around and singing joyful songs. In the framework of our current calendar, Yule ran from around December 21 or 22 until January 1. Pagan Scandinavian and Germanic people would call the celebration the Feast of Juul, and it was their way of having faith that the next season would be fruitful.

There's undoubtedly a correlation between Yule and Christmas. Many Christmas traditions like trees, Yule logs, caroling (which stems from wassailing), and mistletoe were from earlier pagan practices. This isn't surprising considering how people began to spread out, explore, and colonize different areas. Locations that were not predominately Christian adapted the religion by either choice or force.

08/12/2023

Sligachan, Isle of Skye.

A spot we love, located where the Black Cuillin meets the western seaboard, is Sligachan.

This is where we see the view that so often graces postcards and canvas alike of the Red and Black Cuillin with Glen Sligachan between them.

There is an enchantingly picturesque stone-built bridge in the foreground under which River Sligachan flows wide and excitable.

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Sgurr-Nan-Gillean looms large to the right, all black and menacing, crags and pinnacles, wreathed in unnatural wisps of cloud or with every crevice etched in the snow, she looks a merciless climb.

Walking or climbing in the Cuillins should be undertaken with a grain of salt.

The weather can be unpredictable; many routes marked on maps or guidebooks are for experienced mountaineers, and even they can come unstuck. That said, there is plenty for the novice to do here, and any unsure visitor would do very well to hire a local guide.

24/11/2023

Loup of Fintry, Stirlingshire

The Loup of Fintry is a picturesque waterfall situated in the Campsie Fells, near the village of Fintry in Stirling, Scotland. Cascading down a series of rock formations, the waterfall is a popular natural attraction, drawing visitors and hikers to its scenic surroundings. The name "Loup" is a Scots word for leap or fall, indicating the energetic descent of the water.

Surrounded by lush greenery and rugged landscapes, the Loup of Fintry provides a serene escape into nature. Visitors often embark on hiking trails to reach the waterfall, enjoying the journey through the Scottish countryside.

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The area around the Loup of Fintry is known for its diverse flora and fauna, adding to the appeal of the natural setting.

Exploring the Loup of Fintry offers not only the visual spectacle of the waterfall itself but also the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the Scottish outdoors. Whether one is an avid hiker seeking a challenging trek or a nature enthusiast looking for a peaceful retreat, the Loup of Fintry provides a refreshing experience in the heart of Scotland's scenic landscapes.

16/11/2023

The Siege of Stirling Castle.

The Siege of Stirling Castle is quite possibly one of the most famous sieges, and it is often referred to as "The Great Siege".

The Great Siege took place in 1304; Edward I, the Hammer of the Scots, besieged Stirling Castle.

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Castles and Fortresses have been sieged in many different ways. The most popular of which was simply starving the occupants out by not allowing them to move in and out of the castle.

Eventually, they ran out of food, water, and strength which caused them to surrender.
But when we think of sieges, we often think of massive war machines and siege engines bombarding the walls of the castle and lots of soldiers scaling the walls with hooks and ladders.

And this is what happened at the siege of Stirling Castle. It was the epitome of a traditional medieval siege.

Some of the sieges are well recorded, and some of it is speculation. What we do know is that the sieging force (Edward I) had twelve siege engines, and they built an unusually large siege engine called "The War Wolf." It is believed that this large siege engine was a trebuchet.

These siege engines bombarded the castle and its walls with stone balls, lead balls and Greek Fire.

The siege lasted four months, from April to July of 1304, and there were only 30 soldiers garrisoned inside, which is quite a testament to how effective a castle was at protecting its occupants.

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Videos

The story of Donald John MacKay, weaver on Harris:

Today we feature the story of Donald John MacKay as told to Jeremy Taylor, Financial Times journalist: ..." I work in a small tin shed behind my house in the tiny village of Luskentyre on Harris, in the Outer Hebrides. There are mountains and sea all around with beautiful views of the western shore but I don’t get a lot of time to stop and look out of the window when I’m working at the loom. Weaving goes back a long way in my family. Both my father and grandmother made cloth and one of my earliest memories is of watching Dad in his loom shed. I was small and the machine seemed big and noisy but, as I grew older, I was allowed to help more with the wooden bobbins and operate the loom pedals. I’m 61 now and have been making Harris tweed in my own shed for 43 years. One day in 2004, my wife, Maureen, came out to the shed and said there was a company called Nike on the phone, calling from America. I didn’t know who they were but they said they wanted some samples of my tweed that they might use in the design of a new shoe. We sent off a package of my traditional tweed designs to their offices in the US but, to be honest, I didn’t expect to hear anything back. As the weeks passed, I forgot all about the phone call and the samples we’d sent. But then in March the same year the company contacted me out of the blue and this time they asked if I could provide 10,000 yards of cloth for a trainer called the Terminator. It was a very big order but I wasn’t going to say no. I normally make 27 yards of tweed a day, so somehow I had to find a way to make it work. We mobilised weavers throughout the Outer Hebrides. It took us three months to complete the order. Nike was delighted – even Madonna wore the trainer – and almost immediately they asked for another 10,000 yards. That was sent out in a separate consignment the same year. Since then, Nike has been back to us several times; the last occasion was in 2010 when they ordered 6,000 yards of cloth for a new

The legend of Big Duncan Mackenzie, Battle of Prestonpans

Today I am pleased to share a video, courtesy of Paul Macdonald, who inspired us to set up The White Rose Guild. The sword and knife-maker and Master-at-Arms Paul Macdonald recount in traditional form one of the greatest epic stories from Highland martial culture: The Legend of Big Duncan Mackenzie. Subscribe to our newsletter now: You will receive regular updates on Scotland hidden gems, master craftsmen and out of the ordinary experiences. 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 https://www.thewhiteroseguild.com/subscribe/ #thewhiteroseguild #notonlypostcards #thewhiteroseguildtours #visitscotland #DestinationScotland #scotland #roadtrip #thisisscotland #lovescotland #adventure #explorescotland #travel #hiddenscotland #staycation #scotlandisnow #travelscotland #nature #beautifulscotland #greatshots #highlands #travelphotography #yourscotland #Outlander #braveheart #warrior #jacobites #clansystem #Bonnieprincecharlie Being Scottish VisitScotland Scotland's Scenery Scotland Time Scottish Travel SocietyScotland the Beautiful

The White Rose Guild Friend: David McCullough Quaich Maker

The Legend of "Big" Duncan MacKenzie" at Prestonpans, by Paul Macdonald Master-at-Arms

Paul Macdonald, The White Rose Guild founder and Master-at-Arms, tells us one of our favourites stories: This is the legend about Big Duncan MacKenzie was a Lochaber man who fought with Lochiel’s men through the 1745 campaigns. He fought at the Battle of Prestonpans where he happened upon a redcoat officer whose horse had been killed and his foot trapped in a stirrup. This was a brave redcoat who was fending off eight Highlanders with his sword. Subscribe to our newsletter now. You will receive regular updates on Scotland hidden gems, mastercraftsmen and out of the ordinary experiences. 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 https://www.thewhiteroseguild.com/subscribe/ . . . . . . . . #thewhiteroseguild #notonlypostcards #thewhiteroseguildtours #visitscotland #DestinationScotland Being Scottish VisitScotland #scotland Scotland's Scenery Scottish Travel Society Scotland from the Roadside Scotland the Beautiful Destination Scotland Macdonald Armouries

Highland games traditions

Highland Games are as iconically Scottish as bagpipes, kilts and whisky – all of which feature heavily at any gathering. The Games are also noted for their unique sporting and athletic events many of which involve throwing and lifting. These include the shot put, tug-o-war, caber toss and hammer throw - collectively known as heavy events. We take a look at some of the traditions and typical features of any Highland games: TOSSING THE CABER The caber toss has come to almost symbolise the Highland games and no gathering anywhere in the world would be complete without it. In the caber toss, a full length log, usually made of Scots pine, is stood upright and lifted by the competitor using both hands under the bottom of the caber to rest against their body. The competitor then runs forward, building momentum, before tossing the caber into the air so that it turns end over end with the upper end landing before the end originally held by the competitor follows through and hits the ground. The aim is for the caber to land in line with the original run. If it is straight the toss is said to be in the 12 o'clock position. Competitors are judged on how closely their toss lands to 12 o'clock. HAMMER THROW The hammer throwing event features a hammer made from a metal ball weighing around 22 lb for men or 16 lb for women, attached to a wooden pole or handle. Participants use the handle to whirl the hammer around their head and then throw it as far as they can. SHOT PUT The shot put is a favourite at all good Highland Games. Competitors throw a large stone of around 20 - 26lbs in weight as far as they can. The stone is thrown either after a short run-up to the toeboard or from a fixed standing position, depending on the rules of the competition. The contestant who throws the furthest wins. WEIGHT FOR HEIGHT Sometimes referred to as 'weight over the bar', this game requires competitors to throw a weight over a raised bar. The object thrown is a 25.4kg (56lb) weight with a h

Veteran Chris Lewis, 39, from Swansea in South Wales, left to walk the entire UK coastline to raise money for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity

The Story of Chris, told by himself. Please donate to SSAFA and help Army Veterans: I served with the 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment and have had some challenging times since returning to civilian life. As a single parent, I've been bringing up my daughter for the last ten years and SSAFA has really helped me keep my head above water throughout that time. I have experienced first-hand what they do and I honestly don't know where I would be without their help and support. Having recently finished school, my daughter is now moving to attend college in Bournemouth, where she will stay with family. This recent development has left me to re-evaluate a few things and has offered the opportunity for me to give back to those who have helped us so much. I am in my element when outdoors, from surfing and coasteering to intense physical training, which has hopefully prepared me for the task ahead - a walk of approximately 14,000km. This will obviously not be a walk in the park - I am starting with no money and will be solely relying on the goodwill of the British public and companies donating what food, water, accommodation and equipment they can to help me on each leg of the journey.

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The White Rose Guild

The White Rose Guild aims to provide something different, we want to provide an unforgettable experience to live and see the authentic Scotland. We offer more than a standard tour with the typical attractions. We offer a personal experience and the chance to meet with genuine craftsmen and women. Our tours are unique and will open your eyes to the real Scotland.

When we decided to revolutionise tourism in Scotland by creating The White Rose Guild, we knew this would be a challenge, Scotland is rich in history, traditions, products and unspeakable landscapes. We travelled the country looking for the very creators who we wanted to support and celebrate.

Our aim is to support the real people of Scotland, the hardworking people, we will contribute to Scotland’s future not only by tourism but by bringing people together.

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The story of Donald John MacKay, weaver on Harris:

The legend of Big Duncan Mackenzie, Battle of Prestonpans

The White Rose Guild Friend: David McCullough Quaich Maker

The Legend of "Big" Duncan MacKenzie" at Prestonpans, by Paul Macdonald Master-at-Arms

Highland games traditions

Veteran Chris Lewis, 39, from Swansea in South Wales, left to walk the entire UK coastline to raise money for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity

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