Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt By Gilnockie Tower On History Visit To Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and Gilnockie Tower on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to Dumfries and Galloway, Britain, United Kingdom. Originally built around 1518, the tower was the stronghold of the notorious Border Reiver chieftain Johnnie Armstrong of Gilnockie. The region was known as the Debatable Lands because neither England nor Scotland could definitively claim ownership, leading to centuries of lawlessness and raiding. In 1530, King James V of Scotland lured Johnnie Armstrong and 36 of his men to a meeting under a slice of peace, only to hang them all without trial at Carlenrig Chapel, an execution later immortalised in traditional border ballads and by writer Sir Walter Scott. The tower itself faced numerous English raids, being burned down by Lord Dacre in 1528 and damaged again in the 1540s before being rebuilt. Clan Armstrong was one of the most powerful and feared families of the Scottish Borders, renowned as formidable Border Reivers who dominated Liddesdale and the lawless Debatable Land between Scotland and England. Tradition holds that the surname comes from Fairbairn, an armour bearer to a Scottish king. When the king's horse was killed in battle, Fairbairn hoisted the king up behind him with a single arm, earning him lands in the Borders and the name Armstrong. The family's recorded presence in the Border region dates back to the 13th century, with Adam Armstrong mentioned around 1235. Early on, figures like Gilbert Armstrong served loyally as steward and ambassador for King David II. By the 16th century, the Armstrongs had grown into a massive riding clan capable of fielding up to 3,000 mounted horsemen. They lived by cattle-rustling, raiding, and extortion known as rieving across both sides of the Anglo-Scottish border. They answered more to family loyalty than to either the Scottish or English crown. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Nisbet Castle On History Visit To Borders Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and Nisbet Castle on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to Borders, Britain, United Kingdom. The Nisbet family originally built two defensive pele towers in the area: East Nisbet and West Nisbet. The current building sits on the footprint of the West Nisbet tower, which was defended by a moat and burned by an English army during the Rough Wooing in 1545. Around 1630, Sir Alexander Nisbet dismantled much of the older fortress to build a grander, fortified three storey tower house. The lands of Nisbet were officially granted to Aldan de Nisbet by King David I of Scotland in 1139. For nearly five centuries, the clan expanded its regional presence and wealth, cementing West Nisbet as its primary power base. The family’s fortunes completely collapsed during the English Civil War. Sir Alexander Nisbet was a fierce and loyal royalist who overextended his finances to fund King Charles I. The conflict proved devastating: his eldest son, Sir Philip Nisbet, was executed in 1645 after the Battle of Philiphaugh, and two other sons were killed in action. Deeply in debt and politically ruined, Sir Alexander was forced to sell the property to John Ker in 1652, effectively stripping the senior line of their ancestral seat. Clan Nesbitt also spelled Nisbet, Nesbit, Nisbett is a prominent historic Lowland Scottish Border family originating from the fertile agricultural region of the Merse in Berwickshire. The surname derives from the barony and lands of Nisbet near Edrom in Berwickshire, likely named after a nose shaped hill or a nose shaped river bend. The lands appear in records as early as 1139, confirmed by King David I, and the earliest individual record of the name is William de Nesbite, who witnessed a charter to Coldingham Priory around 1160. Family members such as Philip de Nesbit signed the Ragman Roll in 1296, and Adam Nisbet later received land grants from Robert the Bruce. During the 17th century British Civil Wars, Sir Alexander Nisbet and his sons fiercely supported King Charles I, mortgaging their lands and raising royalist cavalry. The family paid a devastating price: Sir Philip Nisbet was executed in 1645 after the Battle of Philiphaugh, alongside other family members. Overwhelmed by debt, the family lost their ancestral home and lands in 1652, leading descendants to transition from rural Border gentry into Edinburgh’s legal, clerical, and professional circles. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Drumin Castle On History Visit To Moray Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and Drumin Castle on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to Moray, Britain, United Kingdom. The history of the site begins in the 1370s. In July 1372, King Robert II granted the lands of Strathavon and Badenoch to his fourth illegitimate son, Alexander Stewart, 1st Earl of Buchan. Stewart is famously known to history by his terrifying moniker, the Wolf of Badenoch. Renowned for his cruelty, volatile temper, and fierce enforcement of personal justice, the Wolf is most infamous for his 1390 raid on Elgin, where he burned down the majestic Elgin Cathedral following a bitter feud with the Bishop of Moray. While the Wolf originally commissioned a stronghold at Drumin, it was rarely his permanent residence. He preferred more secure fortifications like Lochindorb and Loch-an-Eilean, leaving Drumin to be managed by his sons or a regional bailie. The tower house seen in ruin today was likely rebuilt or heavily updated in the late 1400s by his grandson, Sir Walter Stewart. In 1490, Sir Walter Stewart sold the castle and its surrounding lands to Alexander Gordon, 3rd Earl of Huntly. Under the Gordons, the castle became the administrative core of the Lordship of Inveravon. Following the defeat of the Earl of Huntly at the Battle of Corrichie, Queen Mary ordered John Grant of Freuchie to seize the castle. The Clan Grant took possession in December 1562, holding it as royal caretakers.In the run-up to the Battle of Glenlivet, the Archibald Campbell, 7th Marquis of Argyll, used Drumin Castle as a temporary military base to camp his army before marching into conflict. The Gordon family eventually built Blairfindy Castle nearby, shifting their primary seat of power and leaving Drumin to be occupied by tenants and bailies. Members of the Stewart family ironically returned to live in the tower during its later years, but only as rent paying tenants. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Grey Squirrels On Autumn Sunday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Autumn Sunday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of bushy tailed Grey Squirrels 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Magpie Bird On Autumn Sunday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn Sunday 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Rainy Autumn Road Trip Through Pends On History Visit To St Andrews Fife Scotland

Tour Scotland travel video of a rainy Autumn road trip drive through the Pends on ancestry, genealogy, history visit to St Andrews, Fife. The arched Pends was the former entrance to the St Andrews Priory. The Pends is also known locally as one of the sites of a ghostly vision of a coach and horses. This is often thought to be the coach of Archbishop Sharp who was murdered in 1679 during the Covenanter period of Scottish history. All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Halloween Cookies On Visit To A Bakers Shop In Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Autumn travel video of Halloween cookies on history visit and trip to a Bakers shop in Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. The word Halloween means hallowed evening or holy evening. It comes from a Scottish term for All Hallows' Eve, the evening before All Hallows' Day. The earliest ancestors of Halloween cookies date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest and the onset of winter. The Celts believed the boundary between the living and the dead blurred during this time. To appease wandering spirits and honour ancestors, they baked simple biscuit like food offerings made from grains and honey. These were left on doorsteps or used as ritual offerings. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 A Maitland Castle On History Visit To Borders Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and a Maitland Castle on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to the Scottish Borders, Britain, United Kingdom. The Maitland family originally arrived in Britain from Normandy with William the Conqueror in 1066. Around 1250, Sir Richard Maitland married Avicia, the daughter and heiress of Thomas du Thirlestane, which brought the local lands into the family’s ownership. For centuries, they lived in a traditional stone peel tower. In 1590 Sir John Maitland, Lord Chancellor of Scotland under King James VI, acquired the current site. He constructed a massive, four-and-a-half-story rectangular keep built directly upon the foundations of the ancient 13th century fort. The new castle quickly became a focal point of Scottish high society, hosting King James VI on multiple occasions in the 1590s. In the late 1670s, the castle underwent a dramatic transformation under John Maitland, the 2nd Earl and only Duke of Lauderdale. The Duke was one of the most powerful and controversial political figures in 17th-century Britain. Following the Restoration of the monarchy, King Charles II appointed him Secretary of State for Scotland, effectively making him the uncrowned king of Scotland. The castle took on its final grand shape in the 1840s. The 9th Earl of Lauderdale hired celebrated Victorian architects David Bryce and William Burn to expand the property to accommodate large scale social entertaining. Clan Maitland is a traditional Lowland Scottish clan with roots tracking back to the Anglo-Norman settlement of Scotland in the 12th century. Known historically for their sharp political minds, legal dominance, and influential roles as royal advisors, the clan has left a significant mark on Scottish and British history. The hereditary chief of the clan is the Earl of Lauderdale. The name Maitland derives from the Old French nickname Mautalent or Maltalant, which translates roughly to foul tempered, vexation, spite, or even evil genius". In a medieval feudal context, such a pejorative name was likely adopted as a nickname to project fearsome strength or ruthless intelligence. The family's ancestors originated from the villages of Les Moitiers d'Allonne and Carteret on the Cotentin Peninsula in Normandy. A Mautalent officer fought alongside William the Conqueror during the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Around 1130, King David I of Scotland invited younger sons of Norman continental nobility to settle in Scotland to help establish administrative and feudal law. The family settled in Northumberland and the Scottish Borders. Because the surname is so rare, genealogists believe that all Maitlands share a single common early medieval ancestor. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Lochwood Castle On History Visit To Dumfries And Galloway Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and ruined Lochwood Castle on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to the Dumfries and Galloway, Britain, United Kingdom. For centuries, it served as the ancestral seat and principal stronghold of the formidable Clan Johnstone, one of the most powerful and feared of the Scottish Border clans. The earliest version of the castle was likely a timber motte and bailey design built on a strategic ridge by the Bruces, who were the Lords of Annandale. The Johnstones may have initially occupied the site as knights serving the Bruce family. After the early fortifications were destroyed or abandoned, the Johnstones constructed a massive stone tower house towards the end of the 15th century. The castle's name is derived from a forest or wood near an ancient lake or loch, which later deteriorated into a bog known as Lochwood Moss. The castle was purposefully built in this swampy, treacherous woodland to make it incredibly difficult for an invading army to approach with heavy equipment. During the military conflict known as the Rough Wooing, English forces led by Sir Thomas Carleton successfully captured Lochwood in 1547 through sheer stealth. A dozen English soldiers sneaked past the outer wall before dawn and intercepted the housemaids. As a maid opened the tower's heavy wooden door, the soldiers rushed it. In her panic to secure the wooden door, she failed to lock the massive inner iron gate or yett, allowing the English to flood the castle and seize it without a heavy siege. The English occupiers recorded being highly impressed by how well-stocked the castle was, noting vast stores of salted beef, malt, barley, oatmeal, butter, and cheese. The Johnstones managed to reclaim it in 1550. The Johnstones were locked in a generational, incredibly bloody feud with their great regional rivals, the Clan Maxwell. In 1585, Robert Maxwell and his men retaliated against the Johnstones by attacking and burning Lochwood Castle to the ground. This bitter rivalry eventually culminated in the famous Battle of Dryfe Sands in 1593, where the Johnstones won a decisive victory and Lord Maxwell was slain. The castle was rebuilt after the Maxwell raid and hosted King James VI in 1592. However, by the late 17th and early 18th centuries, the fortress became outmoded and uncomfortable compared to modern residences. The Earls of Annandale relocated their primary lives to Edinburgh, completely abandoning Lochwood around 1724. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Mellingshaw Tower On History Visit To Galloway Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and ruined 16th Century Mellingshaw Tower on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to the Dumfries and Galloway, Britain, United Kingdom. The prominent Johnstone clan, a powerful Border family famously known as the gentle Johnstones, who were anything but gentle to their enemies, held the heritable rights to the land. Records from 1527 to1528 document that Archibald Johnstone, son of Gavin Johnstone of Elshieshiels, formally resigned his rights to the five mark land of Greskine and Mellingshaw to his clan chief, John Johnstone of that Ilk. It is highly likely that a branch of the Johnstone family constructed the tower shortly after this period to secure and manage their localized estate. Mellingshaw Tower was built as a typical Scottish tower house, designed primarily to protect its inhabitants and cattle from Border Reivers, the notorious raiders who plundered the Anglo Scottish frontier. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall On History Visit To Galloway Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video clip of a Scotsman wearing a Kilt and Sporran and walking by Grey Mare's Tail, a 200 foot high hanging valley waterfall, the 5th highest in the United Kingdom, near to Moffat on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit to Dumfries and Galloway. The fall is produced by the Tail Burn flowing from Loch Skeen cascading into the Moffat Water in the lower valley below. The footpath from the valley floor up to Loch Skeen is one of the more popular walks in the area. There is also historical evidence in this area of Iron Age settlers and the Covenanters who sought sanctuary here in the 17th century. Covenanters, Scottish Gaelic: Cùmhnantaich, were members of a 17th century Scottish religious and political movement, who supported a Presbyterian Church of Scotland, and the primacy of its leaders in religious affairs. The name is derived from Covenant, a biblical term for a bond or agreement with God. The origins of the movement lay in disputes with King James VI, and his son King Charles I over church structure and doctrine. In 1638, thousands of Scots signed the National Covenant, pledging to resist changes imposed by Charles on the kirk; following victory in the 1639 and 1640 Bishops' Wars, the Covenanters took control of Scotland and the 1643 Solemn League and Covenant brought them into the First English Civil War on the side of Parliament. Following his defeat in May 1646 King Charles I surrendered to the Scots Covenanters, rather than Parliament. By doing so, he hoped to exploit divisions between Presbyterians, and English Independents. As a result, the Scots supported Charles in the 1648 Second English Civil War. After his execution in 1649, the Covenanter government, in order to protect the Presbyterian polity and Calvinist doctrine of the Church of Scotland, signed the Treaty of Breda in 1650 restoring his son to the Scottish throne and supporting him against the English Parliamentary forces as Charles II . King Charles II was crowned King of Scots in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, in January 1651, but by then the terms agreed at Breda were already a dead letter. The army associated with the Kirk Party under David Leslie, 1st Lord Newark was destroyed by Oliver Cromwell at the Battle of Dunbar in September 1650 and the English Parliamentarian New Model Army had taken Edinburgh and much of Lowland Scotland. The resulting annexation of Scotland by the Commonwealth of England abolished Scotland's legislative institutions. At his Restoration in 1660, the King reneged renouncing the terms of the Treaty and his Oath of Covenant, which the Scottish Covenanters saw as a betrayal. The resulting disappointment with Charles II's religious policy became civil unrest and erupted in violence during the early summer of 1679 with the assassination of Archbishop Sharp and the Battles of Drumclog and Bothwell Bridge. The Sanquhar Declaration of 1680 effectively declared the people could not accept the authority of a king who would not commit to his previous oaths, nor recognise their religion. In February 1685 the king died and was succeeded by his Roman Catholic brother, the Duke of York, as King James VII. After the 1660 Restoration, the Covenanters lost control of the kirk and became a persecuted minority, leading to several armed rebellions and a period from 1679 to 1688 known as "The Killing Time". Following the 1688 Glorious Revolution in Scotland, the Church of Scotland was re-established as a wholly Presbyterian structure and most Covenanters readmitted. This marked the end of their existence as a significant movement, although dissident minorities persisted in Scotland, Ireland, and North America, and exist today as the Reformed Presbyterian communion of churches. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Grey Squirrels On Autumn Saturday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Autumn Saturday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of bushy tailed Grey Squirrels 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Coal Tit Bird On Autumn Saturday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn Saturday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of an active Coal Tit Bird spotted eating on a morning visit and trip to my Scottish cottage garden in Scone by Perth, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. The coal tit bird is mainly found in coniferous woodland, but can also be spotted in gardens and parks. Coal tits are active feeders, hunting out insects and spiders among the smaller branches and leaves of trees in woodlands. But they are also well adapted to gardens and towns and will visit bird tables and feeders. In winter, they form flocks with other tits, roaming woodlands and gardens. The coal tit is grey above and buff below, with white cheeks, a black cap and a white neck patch. Whether you live in town or country, you can help to look after garden birds by providing food and water for them. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Autumn Saturday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn Saturday 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs

Autumn Sunset Behind Friarton Bridge On History To River Tay Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Autumn travel video, with beautiful Scottish music, of sunset behind the Friarton Bridge on history visit and trip to the River Tay, Perthshire, Britain, United Kingdom. This Scottish bridge is a light weight concrete road bridge located on outskirts of Perth, Scotland, approximately 20 miles upstream of the Tay Road Bridge. The bridge was constructed by the Miller Group and engineered by Andrew Stevenson, and is the first light weight concrete bridge built in Europe. It is part of the important east coast road corridor from Edinburgh through to Dundee and Aberdeen. Scottish Gaelic: Tatha, it is the longest river in Scotland and the seventh longest in the United Kingdom. The Tay originates in western Scotland on the slopes of Ben Lui mountain, Scottish Gaelic: Beinn Laoigh, then flows easterly across the Highlands, through Loch Dochart, Loch Iubhair and Loch Tay, then continues east through Strathtay, in the centre of Scotland, then south east through Perth, where it becomes tidal, to its mouth at the Firth of Tay, south of Dundee in Tayside. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Scotsman Walking Wearing Kilt On Bridge On History Visit To Glen Beg Aberdeenshire Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and on the iron bridge in Glen Beg on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to Ballochbuie Forest, Aberdeenshire, Highlands, Britain, United Kingdom. The spans the spectacular waterfall of Garbh Allt, historically spelled Garravalt. Queen Victoria was exceptionally fond of the pristine pine forest and the dramatic waterfalls. She regularly visited the area to sketch, record thoughts in her journal, and enjoy the scenery. To facilitate easier access and capture the best panoramic perspectives of the rushing cascades, Queen Victoria commissioned a permanent, elegant footbridge in 1878. The bridge is a decorative, cast iron segmental arch structure featuring intricate railings. It was manufactured and cast by the renowned Blaikie Brothers of Aberdeen, and it still bears its original 1878 maker’s nameplate today. Locally, the iron bridge earned the whimsical nickname Queen Victoria's Bridge to Nowhere. While an established, clear walking path leads visitors through the woods directly up to the bridge, there is no formal path continuing on the opposite side of the water. It was designed purely as a scenic viewing platform to overlook the roaring falls. Glen Beg often anglicised or referred to in documents as Glen Beag, meaning small glen in Scottish Gaelic is a scenic valley tucked within the the Balmoral Estate in Aberdeenshire. It forms an integral part of the royal estate’s landscape, steeped in rich Highland heritage, clan conflicts, and royal patronage. Before becoming a royal sanctuary, the area surrounding Glen Beg and the broader Deeside region was home to early Pictish tribes. By the medieval period, it fell under the control of powerful local Scottish clans, most notably Clan Farquharson and Clan Gordon. The land encompassing Glen Beg was part of the Ballochbuie Forest, historically owned by the Farquharsons of Invercauld. Local legend holds that in the 17th century, the Farquharson laird sold the entirety of Ballochbuie Forest to the Earl of Mar in exchange for a plaid, a traditional tartan garment or kilt or to clear a minor debt. This led to the famous local saying that Ballochbuie was the bonniest plaid in Scotland because of the vast, invaluable pine forest given away for so little. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Torwoodlee Tower On History Visit To Borders Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and Torwoodlee Tower on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to the Scottish Borders, Britain, United Kingdom. The Pringle family first established a stronghold at Torwoodlee in the early 1500s. However, life in the lawless Scottish Borders was incredibly volatile. In 1568, a devastating force of roughly 300 Border Reivers, composed of the Elliot and Armstrong clans viciously attacked the estate. They plundered over £1,000 in silver, money, and horses, brutally murdered the Laird, George Pringle, and burned the original tower to the ground. In 1601, George Pringle, the 4th Laird, built the Torwoodlee Tower whose ruins still stand today. Crucially, its design reflected changing political times. Anticipating that King James VI of Scotland would soon inherit the English throne, which occurred in 1603, and bring peace to the border country, Pringle designed a building focused more on luxury and prestige than heavy warfare. George Pringle, the 6th Laird, was a staunch Protestant. When in 1663 the Earl of Argyll escaped imprisonment from Edinburgh Castle following the Test Act, George sheltered him at Torwoodlee, providing food, money, and a guide to flee south. This act made Pringle a wanted man. In 1684 implicated in further anti popery plotting against the Stuart monarchy, George Pringle was forced to flee to Holland, and the Crown temporarily confiscated the Torwoodlee lands. He returned after the Revolution of 1688 to reclaim his estate. As the need for defensive fortresses entirely faded, the family abandoned the tower in 1783 to move into the newly constructed, grand Georgian property nearby, known as Torwoodlee House. Left to the elements, the tower gradually fell into a romantic ruin. Clan Pringle is an ancient and historic Lowland Scottish family deeply rooted in the Scottish Borders, particularly within the Tweed Valley and Gala Water areas. Unlike the typical Highland clans structured around remote mountain territories and fierce clan chiefs, the Pringles were a prominent Border kindred, a family of landed gentry, royal servants, and defenders of the volatile Anglo Scottish frontier. The surname Pringle did not originate from the word pilgrim, despite a popular historical theory linked to their heraldry. Instead, it is a habitational name derived from Hoppringle or Hoppringill, an old landholding in the parish of Stow, located north of Galashiels. The name comes from the Middle English hop, meaning a small, enclosed valley, paired with an Old Norse personal name. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Whytbank Tower On History Visit To Borders Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and Whytbank Tower on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to the Scottish Borders, Britain, United Kingdom. A classic 16th century Scottish Borders peel tower located near the village of Clovenfords in Selkirkshire, Scotland. Historically serving as a fortified residence for the powerful Pringle family, the tower sits on the remote eastern slopes of Knowes Hill, an elevated position that naturally enhanced its defensive capabilities. The land surrounding Whytbank originally formed part of the Forest of Ettrick, a vast royal hunting ground managed under early medieval forest laws. Settlements in this area began as forest steads, parcels of land leased out annually by the Crown. In 1510, the prominent Pringle family acquired heritable heritable rights feud to the Whytbank estate. This permanent possession allowed James Pringle, son of David Pringle of Smailholm and Galashiels, to build the stone tower house later in the 16th century to fortify and secure his family's new estate. The Pringle family held the estate for generations, moving their primary seat to the nearby classical Georgian classical mansion, Yair House, in 1788. Following their move, Whytbank Tower was abandoned to the elements and fell into a highly dilapidated, ruined state. Clan Pringle is an ancient and historic Lowland Scottish family deeply rooted in the Scottish Borders, particularly within the Tweed Valley and Gala Water areas. Unlike the typical Highland clans structured around remote mountain territories and fierce clan chiefs, the Pringles were a prominent Border kindred, a family of landed gentry, royal servants, and defenders of the volatile Anglo Scottish frontier. The surname Pringle did not originate from the word pilgrim, despite a popular historical theory linked to their heraldry. Instead, it is a habitational name derived from Hoppringle or Hoppringill, an old landholding in the parish of Stow, located north of Galashiels. The name comes from the Middle English hop, meaning a small, enclosed valley, paired with an Old Norse personal name. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 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 Elibank Castle On History Visit To Borders Scotland

Tour Scotland short 4K Autumn travel video of a Scotsman wearing a kilt and Sporran and walking by trees and a Elibank Castle on ancestry, genealogy, family history visit and trip to the Scottish Borders, Britain, United Kingdom. The ruins overlooking the River Tweed Valley in Selkirkshire was originally known as Eliburn and in 1511 King James IV granted a charter of the lands and forests of Aleburne to Catherine Douglas, the widow of John Liddale, and their son, also John. The charter obliged them to build upon their property an adequate house of stone and lime, with a hall, chamber, barn, cattle-shed, stable, dovecot, garden, orchards and beehive. In 1514 the property passed to Sir Gideon Murray of Glenpoit. He drastically remodeled and expanded the original structures, completing a substantial four-storey L-plan tower house by 1595 and renaming the estate Elibank. Built during the waning years of the violent Border Reivers era, Elibank's thick walls, vaulted basements, and commanding valley views were designed to protect against local cattle raiding and territorial feuds. In the early 1600s, following the Union of the Crowns, Elibank Castle served as a vital link in a defensive signaling chain along the Tweed Valley. If English raiders were spotted, the tower would light a warning beacon to alert neighbouring fortresses. Sir Gideon Murray's daughter, Agnes, nicknamed Muckle Mouthed Meg due to her large mouth, was considered difficult to marry off. When a handsome young rival neighbor, William Scott of Harden, was caught red handed stealing Murray's cattle, Sir Gideon threw him into the castle dungeon and threatened to hang him. Sir Gideon's wife intervened, suggesting that instead of hanging the young reiver, they should force him to marry Meg. Given the choice between the gallows or marriage, Scott chose Meg, and the couple reportedly went on to have a long, very happy marriage. Sir Gideon’s son, Patrick Murray, was elevated to become the first Lord Elibank in 1643. However, the family later shifted their primary residency elsewhere. Deprived of upkeep, the castle was abandoned and recorded as completely derelict and ruinous by 1722. 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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Grey Squirrel On Autumn Friday Visit To My Cottage Garden Scone Perth Perthshire Scotland

Tour Scotland 4K Autumn Friday wildlife nature camera travel video clip of the sight and sounds of a bushy tailed Grey Squirrel eating 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. Meteorological Autumn or Fall is different from standard and astronomical Autumn and begins September 1 and ends November 30 All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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