General Introduction and Background

Hi everyone, 
 
I just wanted to write this introduction to my blog to give folks a general idea what it is about.
 
Basically I am hoping to cover all aspects of Scottish travel, outdoors and culture, from the perspective of someone who has lived here almost 30 years, and is only recently beginning to rediscover some of Scotland’s delights. As a nation I think we are all guilty of sometimes neglecting our own countryside; we have so many beautiful spots to visit which are literally on our own doorsteps. Even the most remote areas in Scotland are only a few hours’ drive away so there really is no excuse not to get out and explore!

River Carron, Abbotshaugh Woodland, Falkirk - literally a five minute walk from my house

I decided to start the blog after failing to complete the West Highland Way last year - I've read countless blogs of people's amazing experiences, but never any bad experiences. It took me a few months to get over the whole thing, but now that I've started training again for next year I've truly been bitten by the bug once more. 

I grew up in the Central Belt of Scotland with the Ochil Hills right on my doorstep, so this was a favourite place for me as a teenager to escape from it all. I've climbed many of the hills, and hope to cover them again once more as part of my blog. About a year ago, I moved to the Falkirk area which had literally dozens of walks along the Forth and Clyde, and Union canals, and of course the world famous Falkirk Wheel.

The Ochil Hills, near Sherrifmuir

My blog is not all about walking though. Scotland also has a rich and fascinating past, which is a very important part of our culture and identity. This area is of particular interest to me as I studied history at university, so I love to learn more about our past whenever I can. Scotland still has many important historical sites still intact which are well worth a visit - so it's great that I can combine this interest with my love of the great outdoors.

The Falkirk Wheel and canal boats

This all sounds very serious indeed, but I don’t intend it to be. If you have already read my West Highland Way blog you will have found that I have tried to incorporate as many humorous aspects of the experience as I can. Please don’t forget that another important aspect of our culture is that we all love to have a laugh, have a good drink, and party into the night. With this in mind I will also be hoping to cover pubs, events, festivals, and any other bits and bobs that might fall into this category.

Andy taking part in a Jacobite commemoration at Sherrifmuir

You will also meet my partner Andy along the way, who will also be joining me on many of my adventures, although sometimes rather reluctantly, as I'm sure he would rather just sit in the pub! 

Out of breath at the top of Henry's Hill, Falkirk

I hope you all enjoy reading about my adventures in Scotland, and thanks in advance for visiting my page.

Ailie