Scottish Blethers

As the nation's thoughts turn to the Coronation, in this episode we take a look at a symbol of our nation's identity. As the Stone heads down to Westminster Abbey to play it's part in the big day we look at some of the stories and traditions that make it such an enigma.

In this episode we look at the influence Scots have had on the development of Canada as it is today - from politics to education, business to culture. We look at the reasons why they went in such large numbers and why they retained as much of the old country as they could. We reflect on what it is like for a Scot to travel in Canada today.

The wonder of its generation according to Gustaf Eiffel. The one immediately and internationally recognised Scottish landmark according to Collins Encyclopaedia of Scotland. The Forth Bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site enjoying the same status as the Taj Mahal and Great Wall of China. In this episode we look at the challenges of construction and the place it enjoys in Scottish culture

The idea of a sacred journey is a feature of many of the world’s religions. In this episode we explore the revival of ancient paths across Scotland which allow you to walk in the footsteps of Medieval pilgrims and seek peace and tranquility to the rhythm of your footfall. We discuss some of the Scottish saints and why they became intercessors for mere mortals on earth.

Scottish Blethers have made it to 100 episodes and to mark the occasion we look back at other double acts to have come out of Scotland. From Fran and Anna to The Krankies, the Alexander Brothers to Jack and Victor. A walk back in time!

It’s Valentine’s Day and love is in the air. We gauge the temperature of romance in Scotland by taking a look at some statistics and surveys and come to the conclusion that a lot has changed since our “winchin” days!

Following up on our episode on Celtic Connections we give some thought to this question and explore how their influence extends well beyond music. Where did they come from? Why is their influence still so strong today on the western extremities of Europe? Described by the Romans as unwashed barbarians, these enigmatic and creative people left a legacy of art and culture that influences so much of...

This year marks a special anniversary for the biggest folk, roots and world music festival - it’s 30th edition. We take a look at this special event and why it can justifiably be said that music is the beating heart of Glasgow

In this first episode we discuss our plans for the new year and give our listeners some reasons why Scotland is the place to be in 23!

The week between Christmas Day and New Year's Day is known as Twixmas.  In this episode, Liz and Helen blether about their Christmas festivities with their families and fun times they have had.  However, at this time of year, the unpredictable weather can lead to tragedy for some families. Twixmas is also the time to look forward to the New Year and new year's resolutions.

Lighthouses and the lives of the men who tended the lamp to keep others safe have captured the imagination of successive generations. Stories  are told of the hardships, particularly in war time, and of the lost cargoes and wreckage they would encounter. The most mysterious story of all is set in December 1900 when three keepers disappeared from the isolated Eilean Mor Lighthouse on the Flann...

The theme of light in the darkness continues as we discuss the history of these remarkable structures. Dotted around the long and perilous coastline of Scotland, these architectural gems cast a beam of light to warn ships and guide sailors and fishermen safely back to shore. By nature of this role they had to be constructed in some of our wildest and most beautiful areas and they continue to enthr...

Seasonal celebrations 

After a summer where we returned to the day job we set the scene for a new series of informative chat. We reflect on guiding in a post-pandemic world and on some of the places our travels have taken us. What better day to launch a podcast that explores all things Scottish than St Andrews Day? 

This week our blethers take us to the beautiful Angus glens and a little town - or burgh - with a lot of claims to fame. From corsets to gingerbread, witches to ticking crocodiles, we chat about why a visit there is always a pleasure.

While out and about in Scotland in the days and weeks leading up to the 12th of July it’s not unusual to see - and hear - a spectacle that divides communities and opinion. The flutes and drums, marchers in dark suits or white shirts and in particular, the prevalence of the colour orange tell you that this is an Orange Walk commemorating the Battle of the Boyne. Anachronism or celebration of cultur...

As two guiding worlds collide we get the rare opportunity to blether together about places and events we’ve encountered on our travels. In this episode Helen reflects on a recent visit to Blair Castle in Perthshire, home to the Dukes of Atholl. Liz on the other hand has been in Edinburgh admiring the world’s first floral clock which the public have been admiring  in West Prince’s Street Garde...

Liz takes timeout from her Scottish season to travel with friend and fellow guide Francisco Glaria through areas less-travelled across Spain. From Madrid to Pamplona, across Castile and through the Basque Country, we reflect on the similarities between our two countries and discuss some of the cultural differences that this particular Scot experienced.

In this week’s episode Liz flies solo as she blethers about her recent tour of the Western Isles. From translucent waters over white shell beaches to going to church on Sunday, the islands each have their own distinctive characteristics and offer the opportunity to experience a way of life that has changed little over generations.

Scottish Blethers are back guiding, Liz has journeyed to the Western Isles while Helen has stayed closer to home.  In this episode Helen blethers to you about her travels to Mull and Iona, her thoughts on the magical Isle of Iona and how to dress for the unpredictable weather.

After two years of practically no guiding work Liz and Helen have both completed their first extended tours.  This week we chat about where we have been, the changes that we have to make to keep our tour members safe while covid is still about. Although it is so good to be back doing the job we love we have 'synchronised' our diaries and have planned ahead for our podcasts every two weeks ove...

This week we reflect on the past 2 years and look forward to the changes we need to embrace as the world opens up to travel once again.  We are aware that as we return to guiding our time will be more limited however we will  continue  ,hopefully, to entertain you through our blethers every two weeks.

This week we tackle the emotive and controversial subject of Scotland’s involvement in slave trade and the profits made from the labours of enslaved people. From plantation owners, merchants, lawyers and ministers to the weavers producing slave cloth, the economy of Scotland benefited disproportionately. The wealth generated  is visible today in our architecture and statues. As academic resea...

In last week’s episode we looked at the role of the National Trust for Scotland as custodians of Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage. This week it’s the turn of Historic Environment Scotland to come under the spotlight. Next time you visit one of your favourite historic attractions you will be so much better informed about the care and effort that goes into these national assets that are so m...

The spring weather may have been anything but predictable over the past week but one thing you can rely on with some certainty is the opening of many of Scotland’s visitor sites on the 1st of April. In this episode, we explore the role of the Trust and some of our favorite properties and wild places within its care