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Pixar’s new film Brave due out this year is their first ever fairytale. The film set in the Scottish Highlands promises to be a treat for all the family. Also a first for Pixar is a female heroine as the lead character, Merida played beautifully by Kelly Macdonald. Inspired by Scottish myth and folklore the film adds plenty of Disney sparkle to the myths and culture of the Highlands. The Highland location with its outstanding natural beauty of mountains, lochs and forests offers a great setting for this magical adventure. The historical sites, remote castles, standing stones and distinctive culture are central to the plot of the film. Every corner of the Scottish highlands and islands is steeped in ancient tale and legend so it is not surprising that its traditions have worldwide appeal. Scottish stories of heroes and adventure, of witches and banshees and of many other strange and dangerous creatures feature in tales passed down through the generations. Two such myths include the Kelpie said to live in rivers and streams, the Each Uisge (Water Horse) which makes its home in Lochs and coastlines and let’s not forget the Loch Ness monster. Tartan is central to the history and culture of the Highlands and the many of the film’s male characters wear the belted plaid fastened at the shoulder with a plaid brooch. The film features a number of fictional tartans for the different clans that appear in the story. Standing stones which can be seen in the trailer above are inspired by standing stone circles in Scotland and are integral to the plot. Catherine Sarafian, the film’s producer spoke of their importance in the film as they represent “a very powerful setting for the kind of things we want to have happen in the story.” Such stones serve as monuments to ancient cultures and although their original use is unclear, they are imbued with magic and ritual. Here’s what Pixar have to say about their latest offering: ‘Since ancient times, stories of epic battles and mystical legends have been passed through the generations across the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland. In Brave, a new tale joins the lore when the courageous Merida confronts tradition, destiny and the fiercest of beasts. Merida is a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the uproarious lords of the land: massive Lord MacGuffin , surly Lord MacIntosh and cantankerous Lord Dingwall. Merida’s actions inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom, and when she turns to an eccentric old Wise Woman for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to discover the meaning of true bravery in order to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late.’ The film features some of Scotland’s top acting talent – Billy Connolly, Robbie Coltrane who star with acting royalty Emma Thompson and Julie Walters. This ‘Dark’ fairytale is sure to be a hit with Scots and others alike  

For hundreds of years, Scots have been lured by the bright lights of London. There are around 400,000 first and second generation Scots living in London and a vibrant Scots community. For Scots, those of Scottish descent and fans of Scotland there are plenty of activities that will remind them of the delights of Scotland. The Scotch Malt Whisky Society offers regular tasting session, or. for a taste of the old country you could also pop into one of the Scottish pubs in London for a wee dram, favorite watering holes are the Rob Roy, the William Wallace and the London Scotia. Dotted around London are plaques to numerous celebrated Scottish inventors in London, and well worth checking out is the Science Museum where you can see inventions by Scots including Alexander Graham Bell, James Watt and John Dunlop. For those looking for something more active there are a number of Scottish dancing clubs such as the Ceilidh Club, the London branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance and the Gay Gordon’s London’s lesbian and gay Scottish country dance group. As well as mixing with other Scots, this also priovides an opportunity to dust off your beloved kilt or tartan sash for the ladies.  Of long standing are the London Scottish Golf Club founded in 1864 by members of the London Scottish Rifle Volunteers and London Scottish, the exiles rugby union club, formed in 1878 who play in Richmond Park and have teams of different standards and age groups. Both Rangers and Celtic football clubs have London-based supporter clubs and a casual kilt is suitable attire. On a more serious note ScotsCare, formerly known as The Royal Scottish Corporation - the 403 year old charity for needy Scots living in London - has helped more than a million people. It traces its origins to the Union of the Crowns in 1603 when King James VI of Scotland moved to London to become King James I of England. At the time Scots living in London were not eligible for help, so wealthy Scots came to their aid by putting money in a ‘Scots box’. The charity has the support of Edinburgh-born former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith, Taggart actress Blythe Duff, Lulu, Jenni Falconer, Alan Cumming, Dennis Lawson, Carol Smillie and Ewan McGregor and Lorraine Kelly. Past supporters have included Sir Walter Scott, J.M. Barrie, the late Queen Mother and Queen Victoria, who donated 100 guineas a year. The charity aims to give a helping hand to Scots who live alone, in poverty or who have a chronic illness, by giving advice, financial help and other support to First and second generation Scots in the greater London. Lorraine Kelly, an ambassador for the charity spoke about the on-going need for the organisation: ‘It (London) is a wonderful city full of opportunities and I've been very lucky to have a successful career here and to be able to be based back home in Dundee. Not everyone has the same positive experience and for desperate youngsters, who run away or those who end up in debt or are too frail to help themselves, ScotsCare are there to offer practical help and a safety net. I wish them all the best for the next 400 years." The charity receives no help from government and relies on donations. They also have ‘hundreds of Scottish volunteers, who help run our blether buddy and befriending schemes and help out at our daytrips and annual Christmas party.’

Oidhche Chullaig or Hogmany was traditionally celebrated on the 12th of January according to the Gaelic calander which was divided into seasons rather than months. 12 January is still celebrated in Gaelic speaking parts of Scotland such as South Uist and The Outer Hebrides. Gaelic

It doesn’t get more Scottish than Whisky and porridge and as Burns Night approaches we thought an Ode to each was in order. Porridge is a filing staple of the Scottish breakfast and is also full of nourishment as advocated by the founder of Rude Health, Nick Bernard among others. Both the Dukan and GI Diets also recommend it . The delights of porridge have travelled far and wide with competitors from Norway and the US taking part in the World Porridge Making Competition. This year’s winner of the Golden Spurtle was a Gaelic singer from Strathglass. The specialty section of the competition; in which contestants are allowed to add ingredients of their own choosing was won by Chef Neal Robertson who produced a delicious sounding Winter Spiced Porridge with blueberries, sugar and heather honey. One of our own favorites combines oats, double cream, brown sugar and whisky! The 18th World Porridge Making Championship The 10th of October each year is ‘World Porridge Day’ where porridge fans from around the world can come together to celebrate the joys of porridge and fundraise for Scottish Charity Mary’s Meals which works in 16 of the poorest countries in the world, providing daily school meals for over 500,000 children. Spike Milligan’s verse in honor of porridge is a fitting tribute - Why is there no monument To Porridge in our land? It it's good enough to eat, It's good enough to stand! On a plinth in London A statue we should see Of Porridge made in Scotland Signed, "Oatmeal, O.B.E." (By a young dog of three) Scotland’s spirit is sure to be savoured by Scots and lovers of Scotland alike on BurnsNight. Glenmorangie is the best-selling whisky in Scotland and with a wide range of interesting whiskies on the market you’ll be spoilt for choice as you raise a toast to the Bard. Looking to try a new dram Macallan, Laphroaig , Glenfiddich are superb and if you’re feeling flush or a Dalmore Sirius –a very special bottle of whisky, one of only 12 bottles released the Dalmore is expected to reach a staggering £25,000 at auction – small change when compared to the World’s most expensive whisky the Dalmore 62 which went on sold for £125.000!. In Burn’s comic Tam O'Shanter verse he plays tribute to whisky, which was his own favourite tipple. Inspiring bold John Barleycorn! What dangers thou can make us scorn! Wi' tippeny, we fear nae evil Wi' usquabae, we'll face the Devil." Tippeny refers to ale with a two pennies tax on it, and usquabae means ‘water of Life’.

The Shembe Nazareth Baptist community in South Africa, blends Christian and Zulu traditions. The young male members of the community refer to themselves as the ‘Iscotch’ and wear special garments based on the kilt for religious ceremonies - a legacy of the Scottish regiments who occupied the area in the late 19th century. A photograph of the Iscotch by South African artist Zwelethu Mthethwa is currently on display at the National Portrait Gallery in Scotland as part of the Romantic Camera: Scottish Photography and the Modern World exhibition. South There is also a South African tartan, one of the 'tartans for Africa' collection, the tartan incorporates the colours in the flags of the two nations and reflects the friendship between Scotland and South Africa.

This Valentines Day present you loved one with a special gift. Our ladieswear range includes sashes, shawls, fashion and ulitity kilts.  For him we have a choice of Scotland's finest sporrans, flasks and sgain dhubs as well as accessory gift sets. For sporting fans why not opt for a casual kilt and rugby top . If you’re going all out: a kilt or shawl in your loved-ones family tartan is a great option.

Here we showcase the best in Scottish crafts that use beautiful fabrics which capture the spirit of the Highlands. Tartan and Tweed are synonymous with Scottish artisanship, heritage and style as well as keeping the cold at bay! Scotland’s love of fashion has strong links to its iconic fabrics and the range of styles and colours available make them very versatile. So what are the best available? Quality tweed is opulent and warm, a luxurious fabric that works for day and evening, casual and smart whether you’re in the town or country. Brooke Taverner have developed a wonderful range. Tailors’ of distinction since 1912 their formal and casual attire is of exceptional quality, jackets are expertly tailored and hardwearing with a fashionable cut that looks great dressed up or down. Choose from 100% Wool Checked Jacket in Oatmeal, Navy and Charcoal Designs.  When it comes to tweed, Harris Tweed is one of Scotland’s best loved fabrics. Protected by its own Act of Parliament Harris Tweed is protected by the Orb trademark which guarantees that it is produced on the islands of the Outer Hebrides. Known for its vibrant colours, hard-wearing properties and rich history it’s not surprising that it has international client appeal. Find out more about Harris Tweeds role in fashion, history, production methods and where it is produced -Guide to Harris Tweed. You can find some lovely Harris Tweed items including jackets, bags and coats which bring to life one of Scotland’s best loved fabrics. Beautifully tailored garments in quality Scottish materials include jackets, kilts What is lovely about these fabrics is their development overtime, steeped in tradition they have been refined updated to suit modern styles without losing attention to detail and quality. Traditionally, colours in both tartan and tweed were achieved by using vegetable dyes which reflected the colours in the surrounding landscape, while vegetable dyes are no longer used the colours achieved remain true. Scottish mills are renowned the world over for their tartans, choose items made 100% worsted wool for the perfect fit and guaranteed to last. Loccharon of Scotland is one of Scotland’s most prestigious companies and the world’s leading tartan manufacturer, their tartans are made in the Border towns of Selkirk, Hawick & Langholm and Loccharon boast the world’s largest range of tartans. Once the tartan is produced standout items are traditionally stitched by kiltmakers for a luxurious finish that is made to your exact measurements and a delight to wear. Choose a Scottish company with a passion for quality and expertise in tartans. Wearing a jacket, kilt or dress in tweed or tartan you want to ensure your accessories display beautiful workmanship. One company is guaranteed to meet high expectations, the Sgain Dhub Company established for over thirty years as one of Scotland’s leading suppliers of ornate Celtic items including sgain dhubs, quaichs – traditional Scottish drinking vessels crafted from a range of materials including pewter, palladium, silver and copper in a range of finishes.

Take a look at the new and improved Scottish Register of tartans - In addition to containing tartan designs registered with the Scottish Register of Tartans it incorporates pre-existing tartan designs held by the Scottish Tartans Authority and the Scottish Tartans World Register. There is a very well put together search facility where you can select multiple fields including –colour, designer and restricted tartans. It also allows you to on colours and the percentage of each colour used. Once you have established the tartan you are after take a look at our 8-yard kilts which can be woven in all but the restricted tartans. For more information our team of advisers will be happy to help!

Make history come alive with a visit to a Scottish castle and soak up the heraldic atmosphere of Scotland’s turbulent history. Scotland’s historic castles are the seats of ancient clans and symbolise the importance of Scottish clans to this day. Whether you are paying a visit to a world famous castle such as Edinburgh or Stirling castle or planning a trip to one of the smaller castles each will capture the imagination and give you a fantastic insight into Scotland’s history. Here are a few of our favourites. Located on Loch Duich, Eilean Donan castle is an archetypal Scottish castle its beauty, and spectacular setting, has made it the most photographed castle in Great Britain. Athough it was destroyed during one of the Jacobite risings in the 18th century, it was then restored to its former glory some two centuries later and is the headquarters of the Clan McRae. Eilean Donan has long been associated with the Macraes and was a stronghold of the chiefs of Clan Mackenzie.  There are over twelve tartans associated with Clan MacRae including the MacRae, Hunting MacRae, MacRae of Conchra or Sheriffmuir, and the Dress MacRae. Blair Castle is the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl and home to the Atholl Highlanders, the last remaining private army in Europe. The Atholl tartans are the Murray of Atholl and the Murray of Tullibardin ancient.  Dunvegan is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years.  Dunvegan Castle continues to hold a Clan MacLeod Parliament every four years to which MacLeod’s from all over the world return to their ancestral home for this special family gathering. Members of the clan Macleod wear the MacLeod of Lewis or the MacLeod of Harris tartan. Inveraray Castle dates from the 18th century and is home to the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell, whose family have lived in Inveraray for over five centuries.  Clan members can wear the Maclean of Duart tartan As well as such strongholds owned by the largest clans such as the Stewart, Douglas, Keith, MacDonald, MacLean, MacLeod, Campbell, Gordon, Forbes and Sinclairs there are many Scottish castles, tower houses and fortified houses that belonged to smaller lairds and landowners such as the homes of the Blackadder, Carruthers, Garden, Heron, Livingstone, MacAulay, MacFarlane, Oliphant, Porterfield, Riddell and Weir clans. Visiting the ancestral home your clan or family name bring to life the traditions, origins and stories associated with your clan. To find out more about the tartan associated with you clan contact us and we will be happy to advise you. We also offer an extensive range of clan crested items.

A new collection - Old Town Stories -which illustrates Edinburgh's past has been launched. The fascinating collection allows you to explore the heritage and history of auld reekie through an extensive collection of stories, pictures and maps.  To see how Edinburgh has changed over time, find out more about Women of Achievement and key figures in Scottish history such as Robert Louis Stevenson visit The resource has been put together by Edinburgh's Library and Information Services and focuses on materials from 1850–1900. Those interested in this period can also research clans and tartans which played a significant role at this time. Many clan tartans date from the 19th century. Until the early 19th century, most of the Lowland and Border clans did not identify themselves by specific family tartans other than that of their local district, however after this time they adopted characteristics of Highland culture which they continue to use to the present day.