Fit for the Queen! Review of the 5 Star Balmoral Arms Hotel in the Scottish Highlands Shaun Alex 2023-11-07 | Read our full review of the Balmoral Arms here: dreamingofscotland.net/review-of-the-balmoral-arms-hotelMake sure you sign up to our newsletter for exclusive news and Scotland content: dreamingofscotland.substack.comWatch our luxury Scottish hotel reviews here: youtube.com/watch?v=C3_1XMbM0PQ&list=PLmI40gBOMaEnP7SKtL_-Eiapn-82YXhD7In this video, we review The Balmoral Arms, which is part of the Crerar Group. Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, The Balmoral Arms has a rich and fascinating history that adds a layer of depth to its regal charm. pays homage to the esteemed Balmoral Estate, resonating with the royal connections and historical significance of the region. While the name changed, the essence of The Deeside Inn was carefully preserved, creating a seamless blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury. Check the Balmoral Arms here: crerarhotels.com/balmoral-arms
This made me take up Analog Photography | Kodak Ektar H35 Shaun Alex 2024-10-20 | The Kodak Ektar H35 camera brought me to analog photography.This is the first video in a new series where I share my renewed passion for photography - thanks to the Kodak Ektar H35 35mm half frame film camera.If you’d like to send me any old or expired film, or any old photographic equipment you no longer use, for review, send it to: 1, Duddingston Crescent, Edinburgh. EH15 3AS.
Relearning photography with 35mm film Shaun Alex 2024-10-07 | Relearning photography with 35mm film - more soon!
Walking around the Edinburgh Festival Shaun Alex 2024-08-11 | It's Edinburgh Festival time - join me for my regular live streams as I show you a live view of the happenings during the Edinburgh festival!!
Walk in Edinburgh during The Fringe Festival Shaun Alex 2024-08-04 | A walk through Edinburgh during the Fringe festival - this was from a live recording.Taken on 3 August 2024 walking through the Royal Mile and other central Edinburgh locations during the August festival. #edfringe
Edinburgh in the Rain | 4k Walking Tour with Binaural Audio Shaun Alex 2024-03-07 | Edinburgh in the Rain | 4k Walking Tour with Binaural Audio - welcome to this walking tour with me, Shaun, as I take you through the streets of Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city - on a typically wet and dreary night. A lot of people love cosy city scenes like this, and the rain adds a certain magic to the old gothic streets of Edinburgh I feel - and I recorded this footage with a binaural audio recording device - meaning if you listen with headphones, it will sound like you were there walking with me in the rain.Thanks for watching, and if you'd like to support my work please become a subscriber of this channel and consider becoming a backing of my work on Patreon. All funds go back towards creating new content: patreon.com/shaun
Edinburgh Hogmanay Scottish New Years Celebrations Shaun Alex 2023-12-31 | #edhogmanay 🏴✨ join us for Edinburgh's incredible New Year celebrations and five iconic traditions that define the city's renowned Hogmanay festivities. Torchlight Procession: 🔥Embark on a mesmerising journey through the historic streets of Edinburgh as the Torchlight Procession kicks off the celebrations in spectacular fashion. Witness thousands of flickering torches illuminating the night sky, creating an awe-inspiring river of light that symbolises the city's unity and resilience as it welcomes the new year.Ceilidh Dancing: 💃Dive into the heartwarming tradition of Ceilidh, where the spirit of Scottish folk dance comes alive. Join the spirited revelers as they gather in grand halls, spinning and twirling to the energetic rhythms of traditional music. Experience the joy and camaraderie that make Ceilidh an essential part of Edinburgh's New Year celebrations.Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party: 🎊Celebrate in style at the world-famous Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party, where the city's historic streets transform into a colossal open-air celebration. Immerse yourself in the pulsating energy of live music, dazzling fireworks, and the infectious enthusiasm of fellow revelers as you count down to the stroke of midnight.First Footing Tradition: 🚪Delve into the symbolic act of "First Footing," where the first person to enter a home after the stroke of midnight brings with them traditional gifts of goodwill. Explore the rich cultural significance of this age-old custom, symbolizing luck, prosperity, and friendship as the first foot crosses the threshold into the new year.Loony Dook: 🏊♂️Experience the exhilarating plunge into the frigid waters of the River Forth with the eccentric tradition of the Loony Dook. Join the brave souls donning outrageous costumes as they take a refreshing New Year's Day dip, turning this icy escapade into a spectacle of laughter, courage, and a truly memorable start to the year.Join us as we unravel the magic and meaning behind each of these cherished traditions, capturing the essence of Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations in this unforgettable journey into the heart of Scottish New Year revelry! #Edinburgh #Hogmanay #Scotland #newyear
Edinburgh Christmas Market Tour in December 2023 Shaun Alex 2023-12-06 | The Edinburgh Christmas Market is back again for the 2023 and 2024 Christmas city, including an amazing light trail through Princes Street Gardens and a traditional Christmas fair, complete with German hot dogs, mulled win and very cool funfair rides. There are also amazing Christmas lights up at Georg Street and St Andrew's Square.Christmas and Hogmanay are two important times of year in the city and we are excited to be showing you around. Join us for exclusive news about Scotland on our newsletter: dreamingofscotland.substack.comHip Hop Christmas by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#Edinburgh #Christmas #Hogmanay #scotland
Are there BEARS in Scotland? 🐻 Shaun Alex 2023-11-30 | Learn more about bears in Scotland in our blog post: dreamingofscotland.net/bears-in-scotlandJoin our newsletter for free exclusive content: dreamingofscotland.substack.com
Isle of Arran Standing Stone Circles and Whisky | Scotland Travel Shaun Alex 2023-11-21 | Thanks for watching - get our exclusive content on our free weekly newsletter: dreamingofscotland.substack.comLearn more about the Isle of Arran standing stones in our blog post all about it: dreamingofscotland.net/isle-of-arran-machrie-moor-standing-stonesThe Machrie Moor Standing Stones on the Isle of Arran are a truly captivating relic of ancient times. Pre-dating Stonehenge, their arrangement suggests astronomical significance but their purpose remains a mystery.Archaeological digs have revealed burial chambers and other stone structures around the area. Remarkably, these stones were nearly lost to history - a farmer in the 18th century wanted to use them as building materials! Fortunately, an Earl passing by intervened, saving them for generations to come.
Cockburn Street | Edinburghs Famous Streets Shaun Alex 2023-11-16 | Welcome to Cockburn Street in Edinburgh - part of our Edinburgh's Famous Streets series - watch the whole series here: youtube.com/watch?v=RMIZN4Ma6Wk&list=PLmI40gBOMaEl2TDJv79RJdjsos4jOB6oLJoin our free newsletter for exclusive Scotland content: dreamingofscotland.substack.comRead more about Edinburgh's famous streets on our blog: dreamingofscotland.net/edinburgh-streets
Visiting Balmoral Castle - The Queens Favourite Home 👑 Shaun Alex 2023-11-14 | Find our more about the Balmoral Castle in this post: dreamingofscotland.substack.com/p/a-land-of-queens-and-kingsWatch our review of the Balmoral Arms hotel: youtube.com/watch?v=7aUwLwMJMGARead more about the Balmoral Arms in our blog: dreamingofscotland.net/review-of-the-balmoral-arms-hotel
Top 10 FREE Things To Do in Edinburgh Shaun Alex 2023-09-06 | Get my Ultimate Guide to Scotland: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideEdinburgh, Scotland's capital, is increasingly busy - and increasingly expensive. It's an amazing city to visit, but can be bank breaking, so we've put together this video to share how you can enjoy the city completely for free! Read the full guide to visiting Edinburgh for FREE: dreamingofscotland.net/10-free-things-to-do-in-edinburghRoyal Mile: Journey through time on this historic pathway connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.Arthur's Seat: Scale an ancient volcano and uncover myths amidst panoramic city views.Greyfriars Kirkyard: Dive deep into haunting tales, ghost tours, and the chilling legend of the Mackenzie Poltergeist.Free Walking Tour: Navigate Edinburgh’s secrets and stories with experienced local guides.Princes Street Gardens: Find serenity amidst gothic monuments, the Ross Fountain, and vibrant flowerbeds.National Galleries of Scotland: Witness masterpieces and Scotland's rich art history.Dean Village: Escape to a tranquil, picturesque enclave that feels worlds away from city hustle.Portobello Beach: Breathe in the sea air and enjoy Edinburgh's coastal charm.Calton Hill: Climb for iconic monuments and another captivating skyline view.Free Museums: Delve into Scottish heritage at the National Museum and the Writers' Museum.#edinburgh #scotland
Meeting Scotland History Tours Bruce Fummey Shaun Alex 2023-07-25 | This is a collaboration video with Bruce Fummey of Scotland History Tours YouTube fame. Read my blog post all about Bruce and his channel here: dreamingofscotland.net/bruce-fummey-from-scotland-history-toursWatch my previous video about Craigmillar Castle in Edinburgh: youtube.com/watch?v=rSn2sn9ar_wJoin our growing clan of newsletter readers here: dreamingofscotland.substack.comIf you’re in the USA, check out my Scottish recommendations* on my Amazon store:🏴 Inspired by Scotland: amzn.to/3OgkcNm📷 The cameras and tech I use to make my videos: amzn.to/3PZb4xX*I am an Amazon Affiliate Partner - If you click my links above before doing some Amazon shopping, I will earn a small commission as an affiliate partner - a great way to support my work!We head to Edinburgh's Craigmillar Castle - one of the most beautiful castles close to Edinburgh. Check Bruce's channel @ScotlandHistoryTours #scotland #edinburgh #scotlandhistorytours
Mary’s Milk Bar, Edinburgh Ice Cream Shop 🍦 Shaun Alex 2023-07-25 | Mary’s Milk Bar is fast becoming the most popular ice cream shop in the city - read our full review: dreamingofscotland.net/marys-milk-bar-edinburghs-best-ice-cream
Edinburghs Prettiest Streets - Victoria Street and the Grassmarket Shaun Alex 2023-07-17 | Watch our Edinburgh videos: youtube.com/watch?v=874ww2vwQ0o&list=PLmI40gBOMaEmaEz7Mj5kaf5UgfVQFnqnxRead our guide on visiting Victoria Street in Edinburgh: dreamingofscotland.net/victoria-street-in-edinburghRead our guide on visiting the Grassmarket: dreamingofscotland.net/grassmarket-in-edinburgh-a-guide-to-this-famous-streetGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletterWatch our Edinburgh videos here: youtube.com/watch?v=Z7ddxcw9YFY&list=PLmI40gBOMaEmaEz7Mj5kaf5UgfVQFnqnxIn this video, we visit Victoria Street - one of Edinburgh's most Instagrammed spots and best views in the Scottish capital, as well as the Grassmarket.
10 Things You Need to Know About SCOTTISH PEOPLE 🏴 Shaun Alex 2023-07-13 | 🏴 What you need to know about Scottish People. Watch my Scottish Accent video here: youtube.com/watch?v=unPN9gMmnMwRead our guides on Scottish Culture and language here: dreamingofscotland.net/category/scottish-cultureGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletter--In today's vlog, talk about Scottish people and how we are, different shall we say!My name is Shaun and I'm a vlogger from Edinburgh in Scotland - on this channel, Dreaming of Scotland, I share all the good stuff about Scotland. My other channel, @ShaunTakesAmerica , is more focussed on travel! Thanks for joinging me here - please do hit the subscribe button!
The Vennel - Edinburghs Most Photographed spot? Shaun Alex 2023-07-09 | Read our guide on visiting the Vennel in Edinburgh: dreamingofscotland.net/the-vennel-edinburghGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletterWatch our Edinburgh videos here: youtube.com/watch?v=Z7ddxcw9YFY&list=PLmI40gBOMaEmaEz7Mj5kaf5UgfVQFnqnxIn this video, we visit the Vennel - one of Edinburgh's most Instagrammed spots and best views in the Scottish capital. My friend Angie from @Apureguria joined me to take some Instagram shots.
Visit the REAL LALLYBROCH from Outlander! Shaun Alex 2023-07-06 | Read our guide to visiting Lallybroch in our blog post here: dreamingofscotland.net/visit-lallybroch-from-outlander-midhope-castleGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletterWatch my Outlander videos here: youtube.com/watch?v=rIR3YDvaC_I&list=PLmI40gBOMaEkC-rLx16YhDu25MXQo3NikMidhope Castle, nestled in the Scottish Lowlands, is a must-visit destination for fans of the globally acclaimed TV series "Outlander". This picturesque 16th-century tower house, situated on the Hopetoun estate, becomes none other than Lallybroch - the family home of the series' beloved protagonist, Jamie Fraser.The charming stone exterior of the castle, with its arched doorway and traditional Scottish architecture, plays an important part in "Outlander", becoming instantly recognizable to its worldwide fan base. It is here, within these ancient stone walls, where many pivotal moments of the series unfold, adding a tangible sense of history and authenticity to the narrative.Walking through the castle grounds, fans can easily imagine Jamie and his sister Jenny managing their ancestral home, as they did in the series. The evocative landscape surrounding the castle, from the lush greenery to the ancient woods, further helps recreate the vivid settings of 18th-century Scotland depicted in the show.While the interior of Midhope Castle is not accessible, its stunning exterior and grounds provide a wealth of photo opportunities and a chance to immerse oneself in the world of "Outlander". A visit to Midhope Castle, or 'Lallybroch', isn't just a trip to a historic site - it's a journey into the heart of a beloved narrative, a place where fiction and history intertwine in the most enchanting way.#Outlander #outlanderseason7 #Lallybroch
Craigmillar Castle in Edinburgh - an Outlander Fan Favourite! Shaun Alex 2023-07-03 | Find out why Craigmillar Castle in Edinburgh is an Outlander fan favourite! Read our guide on visiting Craigmillar Castle: dreamingofscotland.net/craigmillar-castle-edinburghs-hidden-gemGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletterWatch my other Outlander videos here: youtube.com/watch?v=rIR3YDvaC_I&list=PLmI40gBOMaEkC-rLx16YhDu25MXQo3NikCraigmillar Castle, nestled in the outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland, presents a strikingly intimate connection to the nation's past. A well-preserved medieval fortress, it is one of the most historically significant sites in the country, built in the 14th century and expanded over the centuries by influential families.Its labyrinthine design, with secret staircases, arched doorways, and unexpected chambers, offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Scotland's rich and complex history. Once the refuge of Mary, Queen of Scots, the castle has witnessed pivotal events that shaped Scottish history, from political plots to royal intrigues.For fans of the popular TV series "Outlander," a visit to Craigmillar Castle is a must. It was transformed into Ardsmuir Prison for the show, housing the series' protagonist, Jamie Fraser, in the third season. It's fascinating to wander through the same stone corridors and spaces that featured in the TV series, and it's easy to imagine the echoes of the fictional characters and their stories resonating through the castle walls.The surrounding parkland adds to the enchantment of the castle visit, with beautiful walking trails that provide breathtaking views of Edinburgh. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an Outlander fan, or simply someone seeking a day of exploration, Craigmillar Castle, with its intriguing architecture and evocative narrative, is an unforgettable journey back in time.#Outlander #OutlanderSeason7 #Scotland
SCOTTISH ACCENT - EDINBURGH Vs GLASGOW (2023 Update) Shaun Alex 2023-06-30 | The Scottish Accent Tag - Edinburgh Vs Glasgow. Watch my Edinburgh vlogs: youtube.com/watch?v=Z7ddxcw9YFY&list=PLmI40gBOMaEmaEz7Mj5kaf5UgfVQFnqnxRead our guides on Scottish Culture and language here: dreamingofscotland.net/category/scottish-cultureGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletter--In today's vlog, I do the Scottish Accent Tag, and also mark a few wee differences between the Edinburgh and Glasgow accents, featuring Billy Connolly, Spud from Trainspotting, and some random Scottish folk from an old BBC documentary.My name is Shaun and I'm a vlogger from Edinburgh in Scotland - on this channel, Dreaming of Scotland, I share all the good stuff about Scotland. My other channel, @shaunvlog, is more focussed on travel! Thanks for joinging me here - please do hit the subscribe button!--#Shaun #scottish #scotland #scottishaccent #edinburgh #glasgow
Edinburgh Royal Mile | Walking Tour Shaun Alex 2023-06-28 | Welcome to our walking tour of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh - read all about visiting the Royal Mile in our blog post here: dreamingofscotland.net/royal-mile-edinburgh-old-town-guide-experience-scotlands-past-and-presentGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletterWatch our Edinburgh vlogs here: youtube.com/watch?v=Z7ddxcw9YFY&list=PLmI40gBOMaEmaEz7Mj5kaf5UgfVQFnqnxThe Royal Mile, located at the heart of Scotland's historic capital, Edinburgh, is one of the most iconic streets in the world. It runs between two symbolic landmarks: Edinburgh Castle at one end, perched atop an ancient volcanic rock, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other. Over the course of its 'Scots mile' length, approximately one mile and 107 yards, it offers a journey through centuries of Scotland's turbulent history. The area teems with landmarks, museums, and traditional pubs, creating a unique fusion of antiquity and vibrancy. Walking the Royal Mile, one steps into Scotland's rich tapestry of history, culture, and tradition, a must-visit when exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Edinburgh's Old Town.#Edinburgh #VisitScotland #scotland
Visiting Scottish Castle Sinclair Girnigoe Shaun Alex 2023-06-14 | Read our guide on visiting Castle Sinclair Girnigoe: dreamingofscotland.net/castle-sinclair-girnigoe-and-the-demise-of-clan-sinclairGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletterAbout this video: Located along the rugged northeastern coastline of Scotland, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is a fascinating testament to Scotland's tumultuous history. The structure, sitting atop steep cliffs overlooking the stormy North Sea, is a compelling blend of grandeur and desolation, telling a narrative of power, conflict, and decay. Built in the late 15th century by William Sinclair, the 2nd Earl of Caithness, this castle, with its evocative ruins, served as the stronghold of the Sinclair family for centuries.The castle, renowned for its unique double-layered architecture, comprises two components: the medieval Castle Girnigoe, and the later Castle Sinclair, added in the 17th century. The compound displays an array of defensive features, from an imposing gatehouse and curtain walls to a deep moat and secret underwater entrance.Though abandoned since the 18th century, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe was not forgotten. Today, under the stewardship of the Sinclair Clan, restoration work is underway, and the castle has been listed by the World Monuments Fund as one of the world's 100 most endangered heritage sites. Its ghostly silhouette against the Scottish sky serves as a poignant reminder of a bygone era, attracting history enthusiasts and tourists seeking an authentic glimpse into Scotland's past.#Scotland #castle #history
Walking Up Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh Shaun Alex 2023-06-12 | Read our blog post about walking up Arthur's Seat, including maps: dreamingofscotland.net/walking-arthurs-seat-in-edinburghArthur's Seat is the volcanic hill in the centre of the city, a fantastic centrepiece of what is already one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. This video shows you the best hiking route for Arthur's Seat.#Edinburgh #Scotland
Visiting Blackness Castle in Scotland - an Outlander Fan Favourite Shaun Alex 2023-06-07 | Read our blog post all about Blackness Castle for Outlander fans: dreamingofscotland.net/blackness-castle-scotlandGet a 50% discount to the Ultimate Guide to Scotland here: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-guideFor news, guides and more Scottish goodness, join our exclusive newsletter: bit.ly/dreaming-of-scotland-newsletterBlackness Castle, dubbed "Fort William" in the popular television series 'Outlander,' served as the backdrop for the notorious scenes of Jamie Fraser's incarceration and punishment. The castle's grim authenticity provided the perfect setting for this dark chapter in the series.Overlooking the southern banks of the Firth of Forth, Blackness Castle, often referred to as "the ship that never sailed," stands as a formidable example of Scotland's military architecture. Constructed in the mid-15th century by Sir George Crichton, the fortress's unique ship-like silhouette pays homage to its initial role as a royal castle and later transformation into a naval stronghold.Blackness Castle, characterized by its sturdy curtain walls and three towers – the stern, main mast, and stem, aligning with its nautical theme – presents a formidable defense structure. The castle's strategic location ensured its role as a key fortress in Scotland's defensive line, especially during times of conflict, including the Anglo-Scottish Wars and Oliver Cromwell’s invasion.In the centuries following, Blackness was utilized for various purposes, ranging from a prison, housing high-profile captives, to an ammunition depot in the 1870s. Today, under the care of Historic Environment Scotland, the castle has been painstakingly restored and opened to the public.Visitors are drawn to Blackness Castle, not only for its unique naval architecture and dramatic setting, but also for its cinematic fame, having featured in films and television series such as 'Outlander' and 'Mary Queen of Scots.' This fortress continues to captivate with its resilience, symbolizing the enduring strength of Scotland's historical past.#scotland #Outlander
