Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Lochranza Castle On Spring History Visit To Arran Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking by the coast on ancestry, genealogy, history visit and trip to Lochranza Castle, Island of Arran, Britain, United Kingdom. This Scottish castle situated on a promontory in the middle of Lochranza, on the North of the Isle of Arran. Most of the present castle today was built in the sixteenth century. The original building dates to the thirteenth century when it was owned by the MacSweens. In 1262, King Alexander III granted the castle and its lands to Walter Stewart, the Earl of Menteith. It is believed that Robert the Bruce landed at Lochranza in 1306 on his return form Ireland to claim the Scottish throne. By 1371, the castle has become the property of King Robert II. It is thought that at this time it was used as a royal hunting lodge. The castle has seen many varied uses over time. During the 1490s, James IV used the castle in his campaign against the Lord of the Isles and his Clan MacDonald. In 1614 it was occupied by James VI and in the 1650s it was used by Cromwell. By 1705, Lochranza Castle had become the property of the Hamilton family, when it was purchased by the Duchess of Hamilton. The Hamilton family had owned other estates on the Isle of Arran. During the eighteenth century, the castle fell into disuse and disrepair and was abandoned. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Inveraray Castle On Spring History Visit To Argyll Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a red haired Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking by daffodils and flowers in a garden on ancestry, genealogy, history visit and trip to Inveraray Castle, Argyll, Britain, United Kingdom. The present castle was built in the Gothic Revival style. Work on it began in 1743. This castle replaced an earlier 15th century castle. The foundation stone was laid in October 1746. It has been the seat of the Dukes of Argyll, chiefs of Clan Campbell, since the 18th century. The 2012 Christmas episode of Downton Abbey was partly filmed here; the castle portraying the fictional Duneagle Castle. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Spring Road Trip Drive With Bagpipes Music On History Visit To Harbour Tayport Fife Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Spring travel video, with Scottish bagpipes music, of a road trip drive, on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit to the harbour in Tayport, North East Fife, Britain, United Kingdom. The settlement was originally called Partan Craig, Gaelic for Crab Rock. Over the following two hundred years English usage eroded many Gaelic place names in eastern Scotland and Partan Craig had become known as Portincragge by 1415 and as Port-in-Craige by the end of the 15th century. In 1598 the settlement received its burgh charter in the name of Ferry Port on Craig. Ferry-Port on Craig saw a dramatic increase in population at the end of the 18th century when tenants displaced by agricultural improvement and clearances, came to take advantage of jobs in the town's textile and shipbuilding industries. In the 1850s, the Edinburgh, Perth and Dundee Railway Company established a railway service running from Edinburgh to Aberdeen that passed through Ferry-Port on Craig. They used the simpler name of Tayport for the town. This less cumbersome name soon caught on and over time, Tayport replaced Ferry-Port on Craig as the more common name. Douglas Cuthbert Colquhoun Young was born in Tayport on 5 June 1913. He was a Scottish poet, scholar, translator and politician. He was the leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) from 1942 to 1945, and was a classics professor at McMaster University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in America from 1970 until his death on 23 October 1973. The Fife coastal walking path from Tayport to Balmerino offers the walker some superb views across the Tay Estuary towards Broughty Ferry and Dundee. Much of the path follows the old railway line between Tayport and Dundee which closed in 1966 shortly before the opening of the Tay Road Bridge. Located on the south shore of the Firth of Tay, opposite Dundee, and north west of Tayport, the the white tower which comprises the West Lighthouse, also known as the High Light, was built in 1823 by noted lighthouse engineer Robert Stevenson. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. When driving on Scottish roads in Scotland slow down and enjoy the trip. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Grey Squirrel On Spring Tuesday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Spring Tuesday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of a bushy tailed Grey Squirrel spotted opening feeder box and eating peanuts on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. While Squirrels are known for their agility and resourcefulness in finding food, providing them with supplementary nourishment can offer an exciting opportunity for observation and interaction. As its name suggests, this squirrel typically has a grey coat with white undersides, though the coat colour can also be quite brown at times. Grey squirrels are mainly herbivorous, eating acorns, hazel nuts, berries, fungi, buds and shoots, and even bark. The grey squirrel was introduced to Great Britain in the middle of the 19th century. There is now an estimated population of 2 million making them much more common than the native red squirrel. They arrived in England from North America and are now one of Britain's most well known and frequently seen mammals, with an estimated population of 2 million. It is a myth that grey squirrels chase red squirrels away. Greys are just more adaptable to new surroundings. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. Feeding grey squirrels provides a wonderful opportunity for observing their behaviours up close. You might witness their playful antics, social interactions, and even their impressive agility while navigating your garden. While squirrels may become accustomed to your presence, it's essential to remember that they are wild animals. Maintain a respectful distance, and never attempt to handle or approach them closely . Feeding grey squirrels in your garden can offer a unique connection to nature, fostering a sense of appreciation for the wildlife that coexists alongside us. By providing suitable and healthy food options, you can contribute to their well-being while enjoying the delightful charm these creatures bring to your outdoor space. The date for astronomical spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Starling Birds On Spring Tuesday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring Tuesday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of glossy, purple and green Starling birds spotted eating on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. The Starling is a familiar bird that breeds in farmland, suburban areas and open woodlands. Seen from a distance, starlings look black with a short tail and pointed yellow bill, but when seen close-to, they are very glossy with a metallic sheen of purples and greens. Starlings forage in lawns, fields, and other open areas with short vegetation. They are primarily insectivores in their natural habitat, but will feed on a wide variety of items outside of their natural diet, including fruits and seeds. The starling can be found throughout lowland Scotland where there is cultivation and pasture. It is generally absent in highlands and in areas dominated by grass or heather moorland. Highest densities are found along the East coast, Central lowlands and Dumfries and Galloway. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. The date for astronomical spring is Sunday 20th March, ending on Tuesday 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Magpie Bird On Spring Tuesday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring Tuesday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of a beautiful, sociable, black and white Magpie Bird spotted eating on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. The magpie bird is one of our most familiar birds and the source of much myth and legend: '" ne for sorrow, two for a joy "is a rhyme that many children learn. Magpies are, in fact, small crows, and are omnivorous, feeding on carrion, invertebrates, and chicks and eggs. They are sociable birds and are often seen in small groups across many habitats, from gardens to parks, and heaths to hedges. The magpie is an unmistakeable long tailed bird. It is mainly black, with a white belly and white patches on the shoulders and wings. Folklore surrounds the magpie: from providing good luck when greeted, to being in league with the Devil, its ubiquitous presence has provided plenty of opportunities for stories. Many surround religion, including the belief that it didn't mourn with all the other birds at Christ's crucifixion, and that it refused to enter Noah's Ark, preferring to stay on the roof and swear for the whole journey. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. The date for astronomical spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Freswick House On Spring History Visit To Highlands Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking by Freswick House on ancestry, genealogy, history visit and trip to the East Coast of Caithness in the North Highlands, Britain, United Kingdom. A building, probably of the early 17th century with 18th century additions, standing on a knoll overlooking the sea. The house was built by the Mowats in 1653. In 1661 it passed to the Sinclairs, and by about 1725 it was known as the House of Freswick, as opposed to the Castle of Freswick. The surname Mowat was first found in Angus, Gaelic: Aonghas, part of the Tayside region of northeastern Scotland, and present day Council Area of Angus, formerly known as Forfar or Forfarshire, where they were granted lands by King David I of Scotland. Spelling variations of this family name include: Mowatt, Mouat, Mowat, Mouatt and others. Alexander Mowat, aged 29, a sawyer, arrived in South Australia in 1852 aboard the ship Epaminondas; Mary Mowat, aged 26, a dairymaid, arrived in South Australia in 1852 aboard the ship Epaminondas; James Mowat, a British settler travelled from Liverpool, England, aboard the ship Mermaid arriving in Auckland, New Zealand on 19th October 1859; Margaret Mowat, born 1841, aged 22, a British settler travelled from London aboard the ship Huntress arriving in Lyttelton, Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand on 21st April 1863; John F. Mowat, aged 25, a carpenter, arrived in Nelson, New Zealand aboard the ship Caroline in 1876; Oliver Mowat arrived in Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1749; Edward Mowat settled in Canada in 1801; George Mowat settled in Boston, America, in 1744; John Mowat, settled in Boston in 1770; Alexander Mowat arrived in America in 1773; Elisabeth Mowat arrived in Savannah, Georgia in 1774; Elizabeth Mowat settled in Savanna, Georgia, America, in 1774 with her brothers James and John; John Mowat arrived in New York in 1842. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Urquhart Castle On Spring History Visit To Loch Ness Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking by Loch Ness on ancestry, genealogy, history visit and trip to Urquhart Castle, Highlands, Britain, United Kingdom. The present ruins date from the 13th to the 16th centuries, though built on the site of an early medieval fortification. Founded in the 13th century, Urquhart played a role in the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century. It was subsequently held as a royal castle, and was raided on several occasions by the MacDonald Earls of Ross. The castle was granted to the Clan Grant in 1509, though conflict with the MacDonalds continued. Despite a series of further raids the castle was strengthened, only to be largely abandoned by the middle of the 17th century. Urquhart was partially destroyed in 1692 to prevent its use by Jacobite forces, and subsequently decayed. The surname Urquhart was first found in Elginshire a former county in north eastern Scotland, in the present day Scottish Council Area of Moray, where Galleroch de Urchart was granted lands in Cromarty, and Inverness. He held a family seat at the Castle of Urquhart in 1214. His descendants were hereditary sheriffs of Cromarty. Spelling variations of the name Urquhart include Urquhart, Urquhard, Urchard, Orchard and many more. Agnes Urquhart, aged 19, a domestic servant, arrived in South Australia in 1853 aboard the ship Marshall Bennett; Edward Urquhart, aged 22, a labourer, arrived in South Australia in 1859 aboard the ship Clara; John Urquhart arrived in Auckland, New Zealand on 25th June 1857; Christian Urquhart landed in Pictou, Nova Scotia in 1773; David Urquhart arrived in Pictou, Nova Scotia in 1773; Donald Urquhart settled in Carleton, New Brunswick, Canada in 1784; William Urquhart arrived in New York, America, in 1703; James Urquhart landed in Virginia, America, in 1716; John Urquhart, aged 30, arrived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, America, in 1775; Andrew Urquhart, aged 20, landed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, America, in 1775; Ann Urquhart, aged 17, arrived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, America, in 1775; Robert Urquhart, aged 22, landed in New York, America, in 1812. Clan Urquhart is of ancient Celtic origin. Associated during most of its history with the northeast of Scotland, the Clan derives its name from Glen Urquhart and Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Spring Road Trip Drive With Bagpipes Music On History Visit To North East Fife Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Spring travel video, with Scottish bagpipes music, of part of a road trip drive East on the A914 route on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit to North East Fife, Britain, United Kingdom. The road here ceases to be straight, as it winds round the fields towards St Michaels, dipping under the railway just before the junction. The area, featuring the former St Michaels Wood, was ironically named after a publican, Michael Irvine, rather than a saint. The A914 is a route that forms a detour of the A92 between Muirhead, north of Glenrothes and Newport, south of the Tay Road Bridge. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. When driving on Scottish roads in Scotland slow down and enjoy the trip. The date for astronomical spring is Sunday 20th March, ending on Tuesday 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Squirrel And Starling On Spring Monday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Spring Monday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of a bushy tailed Grey Squirrel and a Starling bird spotted eating on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. While they are known for their agility and resourcefulness in finding food, providing them with supplementary nourishment can offer an exciting opportunity for observation and interaction. As its name suggests, this squirrel typically has a grey coat with white undersides, though the coat colour can also be quite brown at times. Grey squirrels are mainly herbivorous, eating acorns, hazel nuts, berries, fungi, buds and shoots, and even bark. The grey squirrel was introduced to Great Britain in the middle of the 19th century. There is now an estimated population of 2 million making them much more common than the native red squirrel. They arrived in England from North America and are now one of Britain's most well known and frequently seen mammals, with an estimated population of 2 million. It is a myth that grey squirrels chase red squirrels away. Greys are just more adaptable to new surroundings. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. Feeding grey squirrels provides a wonderful opportunity for observing their behaviours up close. You might witness their playful antics, social interactions, and even their impressive agility while navigating your garden. While squirrels may become accustomed to your presence, it's essential to remember that they are wild animals. Maintain a respectful distance, and never attempt to handle or approach them closely . Feeding grey squirrels in your garden can offer a unique connection to nature, fostering a sense of appreciation for the wildlife that coexists alongside us. By providing suitable and healthy food options, you can contribute to their well-being while enjoying the delightful charm these creatures bring to your outdoor space Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. The date for astronomical spring is Sunday 20th March, ending on Tuesday 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Starling Birds On Spring Monday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring Monday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of glossy, purple and green Starling birds spotted eating on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. The Starling is a familiar bird that breeds in farmland, suburban areas and open woodlands. Seen from a distance, starlings look black with a short tail and pointed yellow bill, but when seen close-to, they are very glossy with a metallic sheen of purples and greens. Starlings forage in lawns, fields, and other open areas with short vegetation. They are primarily insectivores in their natural habitat, but will feed on a wide variety of items outside of their natural diet, including fruits and seeds. The starling can be found throughout lowland Scotland where there is cultivation and pasture. It is generally absent in highlands and in areas dominated by grass or heather moorland. Highest densities are found along the East coast, Central lowlands and Dumfries and Galloway. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. The date for astronomical spring is Sunday 20th March, ending on Tuesday 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Magpie Bird On Spring Monday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring Monday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of a beautiful, sociable, black and white Magpie Bird spotted eating on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. The magpie bird is one of our most familiar birds and the source of much myth and legend: '" ne for sorrow, two for a joy "is a rhyme that many children learn. Magpies are, in fact, small crows, and are omnivorous, feeding on carrion, invertebrates, and chicks and eggs. They are sociable birds and are often seen in small groups across many habitats, from gardens to parks, and heaths to hedges. The magpie is an unmistakeable long tailed bird. It is mainly black, with a white belly and white patches on the shoulders and wings. Folklore surrounds the magpie: from providing good luck when greeted, to being in league with the Devil, its ubiquitous presence has provided plenty of opportunities for stories. Many surround religion, including the belief that it didn't mourn with all the other birds at Christ's crucifixion, and that it refused to enter Noah's Ark, preferring to stay on the roof and swear for the whole journey. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. The date for astronomical spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Traquair House On Spring History Visit To Borders Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking by daffodils in a garden on ancestry, genealogy, history visit and trip to Traquair House near Peebles, Borders, Britain, United Kingdom. Traquairs ownership changed often, at times coming under the control of the English, and at others, the Scottish throne. In the 1460s, King James III conferred the estate on Dr. William Rogers, an eminent musician, and one of his favourites. After holding the lands for upwards of nine years, Dr. Rogers sold them for an insignificant sum, in 1478, to the Earl of Buchan. The Earl gifted the estate to his illegitimate son, James Stuart, born 1480, died 1513,, 1st Laird of Traquair, in 1491. James Stuart obtained letters of legitimation, and married the heiress of the Rutherfords, with whom he received the estates of Rutherford and Wells in Roxburghshire. He was killed at the Battle of Flodden. His daughter, Lady Jane Stuart, became involved with the married Earl of Angus, by whom she had a daughter out of wedlock, Lady Janet Douglas who married Patrick Ruthven, 3rd Lord Ruthven and produced several children and the main Ruthven line. Traquair remained the family seat of the Earls of Traquair for the next four centuries. In 1875 Traquair passed to a cousin of the Stuarts, Henry Constable Maxwell. He was a direct descendant, but via the female line. The 1970 horror film Tam-Lin was filmed at Traquair. It starred Ava Gardner; other cast members included Joanna Lumley, Stephanie Beecham and Ian McShane. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Floors Castle On Spring History Visit To Borders Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a red haired Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking by daffodils and flowers in a garden on ancestry, genealogy, history visit and trip to Floors Castle, Borders, Britain, United Kingdom. This is the seat of the Duke of Roxburghe. It was built in the 1720s by the architect William Adam for the 1st Duke. In the 19th century it was embellished with turrets and battlements by William Playfair for the 6th Duke. Floors Castle lies on the River Tweed and overlooks the Cheviot Hills. John, Earl of Roxburghe, born 1680, died 1741, played a role in securing the Union of England and Scotland in 1707, and was rewarded by being created Duke of Roxburghe. Around 1837, the 6th Duke, born 1816, died 1879, commissioned the fashionable architect William Playfair to remodel and rebuild the plain Georgian mansion house he had inherited. The present form of the building is the result of Playfair's work, and is in a similar style to his buildings at Donaldson's College, Edinburgh. In 1903, Duke Henry married the American heiress Mary Goelet. She brought with her from her Long Island home a set of Gobelins Manufactory tapestries, that were incorporated into the ballroom in the 1930s, and added to the collection several modern pictures by Walter Sickert and Henri Matisse, among others. The castle featured in the 1984 movie Greystoke. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Spring Road Trip Drive With Bagpipes Over Tay Bridge On History Visit To Fife Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a road trip drive, with Scottish bagpipes music, from Newport on Tay across the Tay Road Bridge which spans the Firth of Tay on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit to North East Fife, Britain, United Kingdom. The Tay Road Bridge carries the A92 road across the Firth of Tay from Newport-on-Tay in Fife to Dundee in Scotland, just downstream of the Tay Rail Bridge. At around 1.4 miles long it is one of the longest road bridges in Europe, and was opened in 1966, replacing the old Tay ferry. The bridge was designed by consulting engineers WA Fairhurst & Partners of Glasgow and Dundee, under the direct supervision of the firm's founding partner, civil engineer William Fairhurst. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. When driving on Scottish roads in Scotland slow down and enjoy the trip. The date for astronomical spring is Sunday 20th March, ending on Tuesday 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Grey Squirrel On Spring Sunday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Spring Sunday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of a bushy tailed Grey Squirrel spotted eating on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. While they are known for their agility and resourcefulness in finding food, providing them with supplementary nourishment can offer an exciting opportunity for observation and interaction. As its name suggests, this squirrel typically has a grey coat with white undersides, though the coat colour can also be quite brown at times. Grey squirrels are mainly herbivorous, eating acorns, hazel nuts, berries, fungi, buds and shoots, and even bark. The grey squirrel was introduced to Great Britain in the middle of the 19th century. There is now an estimated population of 2 million making them much more common than the native red squirrel. They arrived in England from North America and are now one of Britain's most well known and frequently seen mammals, with an estimated population of 2 million. It is a myth that grey squirrels chase red squirrels away. Greys are just more adaptable to new surroundings. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. Feeding grey squirrels provides a wonderful opportunity for observing their behaviours up close. You might witness their playful antics, social interactions, and even their impressive agility while navigating your garden. While squirrels may become accustomed to your presence, it's essential to remember that they are wild animals. Maintain a respectful distance, and never attempt to handle or approach them closely . Feeding grey squirrels in your garden can offer a unique connection to nature, fostering a sense of appreciation for the wildlife that coexists alongside us. By providing suitable and healthy food options, you can contribute to their well-being while enjoying the delightful charm these creatures bring to your outdoor space Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. The date for astronomical spring is Sunday 20th March, ending on Tuesday 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Starling Birds On Spring Sunday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring Sunday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of glossy, purple and green Starling birds spotted eating on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. The Starling is a familiar bird that breeds in farmland, suburban areas and open woodlands. Seen from a distance, starlings look black with a short tail and pointed yellow bill, but when seen close-to, they are very glossy with a metallic sheen of purples and greens. Starlings forage in lawns, fields, and other open areas with short vegetation. They are primarily insectivores in their natural habitat, but will feed on a wide variety of items outside of their natural diet, including fruits and seeds. The starling can be found throughout lowland Scotland where there is cultivation and pasture. It is generally absent in highlands and in areas dominated by grass or heather moorland. Highest densities are found along the East coast, Central lowlands and Dumfries and Galloway. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. The date for astronomical spring is Sunday 20th March, ending on Tuesday 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Magpie Birds On Spring Sunday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring Sunday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of beautiful, sociable, black and white Magpie Birds spotted eating on morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. The magpie bird is one of our most familiar birds and the source of much myth and legend: '" ne for sorrow, two for a joy "is a rhyme that many children learn. Magpies are, in fact, small crows, and are omnivorous, feeding on carrion, invertebrates, and chicks and eggs. They are sociable birds and are often seen in small groups across many habitats, from gardens to parks, and heaths to hedges. The magpie is an unmistakeable long tailed bird. It is mainly black, with a white belly and white patches on the shoulders and wings. Folklore surrounds the magpie: from providing good luck when greeted, to being in league with the Devil, its ubiquitous presence has provided plenty of opportunities for stories. Many surround religion, including the belief that it didn't mourn with all the other birds at Christ's crucifixion, and that it refused to enter Noah's Ark, preferring to stay on the roof and swear for the whole journey. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing. The date for astronomical spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Duart Castle On Spring History Visit To Island of Mull Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking by Duart Castle on ancestry, genealogy, history visit and trip to Island of Mull, Britain, United Kingdom. Perched strategically on a high crag, the castle was constructed to guard the Sound of Mull and control vital maritime trade routes between the Scottish mainland and the Western Isles. The castle was originally constructed as a simple rectangular stone curtain wall enclosing a courtyard and it was probably built by Clan MacDougall. Clan Maclean gained control of the fortress in 1350 when Lachlan Lubanach Maclean, the 5th Clan Chief, married Mary Macdonald. She was the daughter of the Lord of the Isles, and the castle was handed over as part of her wedding dowry. During the 17th century Wars of the Three Kingdoms, the Macleans fiercely backed the Royalist House of Stewart. This loyalty made them a target for anti Royalist forces, resulting in a siege by Oliver Cromwell's task force in 1653, which was only thwarted when a sudden storm wrecked the invasion ships. The financial strains of warfare left the Macleans heavily indebted. Their bitter rivals, Clan Campbell, bought up these debts and legally seized the Maclean lands. The castle was ultimately surrendered to the Earl of Argyll in 1674. Following the Macleans' participation in the 1689 Jacobite uprising, their remaining estates were completely forfeited. The castle housed government troops as a garrison until 1751, after which it was abandoned and left to fall into a state of complete ruin for over 160 years. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Brodick Castle On Spring History Visit To Island of Arran Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Spring travel video clip of a Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking past flowers in a garden by Brodick Castle on ancestry, genealogy, history visit and trip to Island of Arran, Britain, United Kingdom. The site was used as a fort as early as the 5th century and a Viking stronghold, Norse Breiðvík or Broad Bay, until the 13th century. The first castle was built between 1250 and 1270. The castle held a strategic location, changing hands several times between the Stewarts and the MacDonalds. Although associated with Robert the Bruce, the castle was heavily destroyed by English forces in 1455 and 1544. Since the 15th century, the island has been strongly associated with the Hamilton family. The castle was rebuilt in 1588 by the 2nd Earl of Arran, who was regent to Mary, Queen of Scots. The castle was occupied by Cromwellian troops in the 1650s after the execution of the 1st Duke of Hamilton, and an artillery battery was added. In 1844, the castle was redesigned in a grand Scots Baronial style, turning it into an opulent island retreat and shooting lodge for the Dukes of Hamilton. Of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to visit one day. Find things to see and do in Scotland where you are always welcome. The date for astronomical Spring is 20th March, ending on 21st June All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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