Join your host, Scottish actor and storyteller Sarah MacGillivray, on a captivating journey through Scotland's most iconic historic sites. This podcast offers a unique, behind-the-scenes glimpse of the rich tapestry of stories and rituals woven into these ancient places.
Sarah's adventures take her from the poignant tale of Bruce's heart at Melrose Abbey to the resounding boom of the One O'Clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle. She delves into Scotland's industrial heritage and its global connections at Stanley Mills, uncovering fascinating narratives and shedding light on the people who shaped our past. As a Member, you're invited to explore these engaging and entertaining stories with with us. Listen now and unlock the secrets of Scotland's history!
Your episode guide
We are releasing one of eight episodes each fortnight, so keep an eye out for your email announcing the latest release.
Copy and paste this link to the podcast player of your choice to subscribe:
https://feed.pod.co/historic-scotland-podcast (please note does not work on Spotify)
Episode 8: Bonus episode: The Bruce Family and the Defence of Kildrummy Castle
With Former Head of Cultural Resources Chris Tabraham and Properties Historian Dr Morvern French.
In our final episode of season one, we speak to Chris, who delves into Kildrummy Castle’s impressive architecture and strategic design. Discover what made it such a powerful stronghold. Then, Morvern recounts the legendary defence of Kildrummy by Christina Bruce in 1335, revealing how she ingeniously outmanoeuvred a vastly superior besieging army. Hear the tale of courage that ensured Kildrummy's place in Scottish history.
Episode 7: Empire and Industry: The Untold Story of Stanley Mills
With Francis (Frankie) Stephen Aird (University of Stirling), Interpretation Officer Hannah Brown and Learning Officer Fiona Davidson. This week’s episode takes us to the banks of the River Tay. We speak with Hannah Brown from our Interpretation Team and Learning Officer Fiona Davidson about the lives of mill workers, sharing oral histories of more recent workforces that bring their experiences to life. PhD researcher Frankie then reveals the complex ties between Perthshire's cotton industry and the transatlantic slave trade, uncovering a hidden history woven into the fabric of the mill.
Episode 6: The Heart of Scotland, Melrose Abbey and the Mystery of Bruce's Heart
With former Head of Collections Richard Welander and writer and historian Fiona Watson. Our next stop is Melrose Abbey, the presumed final resting place of Robert the Bruce's heart. This episode explores the mysteries surrounding the heart’s journey and rediscovery. Sarah interviews our former Head of Collections Richard, who recounts the re-excavation of the lead casket believed to contain Bruce’s heart. Historian Fiona then illuminates Bruce's life, his pivotal role in Scottish independence, and the symbolic importance of his heart. We delve into the legends, facts and enduring fascination with this national treasure. Was the heart truly found? What secrets does it still hold?
Episode 5: The Tudor Rose: Margaret Tudor’s bower at Linlithgow Palace
With Properties Historian Dr Morvern French and Dr Rachel Delman (University of Oxford). Meeting in Margaret Tudor’s bower at the top of Linlithgow Palace, Sarah talks to Morvern and Rachel who explore Margaret's life in Scotland, debunking the myth of Margaret being a somewhat romantic and passive figure. Join us as we examine her relationships, including her marriage to James IV, the political turmoil she navigated, and her own ambitions.
Detailed RSS feed link instructions
HS podcast episode 5 transcript
Episode 4: Power Play, Treason and the ‘Undead’ at Huntly Castle
With historian and volunteer Patrick W. Scott and Content Officer Jennifer Farquharson. We’re heading north to Huntly Castle this week to explore the rise and fall of the powerful Gordon family. Sarah meets volunteer Patrick to discuss the family's ambitions and the eerie tales surrounding George Gordon's death. Later, Sarah talks with Jen from our Cultural Assets Team about conservation efforts at Huntly Castle and the importance of biodiversity her and at other Historic Scotland sites, highlighting the balance between preserving history and nurturing nature.
Episode 3: The Stirling Heads: A Renaissance Puzzle Saved for Future Gazes
With Woodcarver John Donaldson, Senior Paintings Conservator Aisla Murray, Regional Collections Manager Michelle Atherton and Interpretative Events and Guiding Manager Ross Blevins. We take a closer look at the enigmatic Stirling Heads at Stirling Castle next. This episode delves into their history, the rediscovery of some of the carved medallions by Jane Ferrier, and their ongoing conservation. We speak with John who carved the replicas that adorn the ceiling of the King's Inner Chamber and to our Collections Team about their meticulous care of the Heads. Guiding Manager Ross then reveals the stories behind these fascinating carvings. Discover the artistry, symbolism, and royal intrigue embodied in these iconic Renaissance masterpieces.
Episode 2: From Sailors to Scholars: The Hidden Lives of Trinity House
With Emilia Chambers, Interpretation Assistant, Captain Stewart Lee and Storyteller Nicola Wright Episode two takes us down to Leith in Edinburgh as we explore Trinity House and its rich maritime history. Sarah meets Captain Lee, Emilia and Nicola to uncover the unique lives of seafarers connected to this historic institution. Their stories illuminate Scottish and global maritime history, including the role of women and Scotland's involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. Discover the narratives that shaped maritime Scotland and its connections to the world.
Episode 1: The One O'Clock Gun Boom
In our first episode, we delve into the story of the iconic Edinburgh Castle One O'Clock Gun. District Gunner Dave Beveridge shares insights into his daily routine and the significance of the gun’s historic tradition, while Senior Metal Conservator Reed Hudson shares the challenges of conserving and protecting these artefacts for future generations while providing access to them.
Detailed RSS feed link instructions
HS podcast episode 1 transcript
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