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The Outdoors Station

The Outdoors Station

By: Bob Cartwright
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 The World's longest running independent producer of broadcast quality podcasts for the adventurer, the long distance hiker, the backpacker, the camper, in fact anyone seeking an independent life in the outdoors as a self powered traveler. Since 2005 we've produced audio and video podcasts for the self powered outdoor enthusiast in the UK and World-Wide. For people who wants to find out more about getting into the outdoors lifestyle and enjoying the simple pleasures in life. Our range of material goes back to 2005 and dips into many aspects. We talk to others and discuss their trips and experiences big and small, we discuss and review gear, we link associated skills and interests all with the aim to inspire, inform, entertain and encourage listeners to enjoy the natural world around them. The podcasts are aimed at adventure seekers of every type. Walkers, backpackers, bushcrafters, cyclists, paddlers, travellers, equestrian users in fact anyone interested in expanding their knowledge and skills related to outdoor adventure. Winners of the European Podcast Awards UK Business Category. Current library consists of over 500 podcasts, with more than 14 million downloads to date.All media owned by R & R Enterprises Exercise & Fitness Fitness, Diet & Nutrition Hygiene & Healthy Living Personal Development Personal Success Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • Here Be Witches: Uncovering Scotland’s Wicked History within the Landscape

    Here Be Witches: Uncovering Scotland’s Wicked History within the Landscape
    Jan 2 2026
    Here Be Witches: Uncovering Scotland’s Wicked History within the LandscapeWhen I set out to explore the wilds of Scotland, I’m often captivated by the rolling hills, mist-shrouded glens, and the patchwork of ancient villages that dot the land throughout the Highlands. The network of trails—like the West Highland Way, the Fife Coastal Path, and the Great Glen Way—winds through landscapes that seem timeless, their beauty belying the tragedies that once unfolded there.Beneath these tranquil vistas lies a history as dark as the deepest loch—a history that, until recently, was rarely spoken of. In this episode I have the privilege of delving into this hidden past with Claire Mitchell KC and Zoe Venditozzi, co-authors of How to Kill a Witch and founders of the Witches of Scotland campaign.Their work is not just about history—it’s about justice, memory, and the ongoing fight against misogyny and scapegoating. In this conversation, we break down the main themes and actionable insights, offering a guide for listeners and readers who want to understand, honour, and learn from Scotland’s witch hunt legacy.As we walk the trails and pass through villages, we are reminded that the landscape itself holds the memory of those who suffered, especially women whose vulnerability was magnified by isolation, poverty, and suspicion.But history has a habit of repeating itself. Surely accusations of Witchcraft are not a modern day concern? Listen to this episode and judge for yourself if the latest news doesn't include faint echos from 500 years ago.How To Kill A Witch - witchesofscotland.com Survey of Scottish Witchcraft - https://witches.hca.ed.ac.uk/search/Setting the Scene: Scotland’s Landscape and History (00:00:17) Explores the connection between Scotland’s landscapes and its hidden, often dark, historical consequences.Introducing the Topic: Witch Hunts in Scotland (00:01:57) Introduces the main topic—Scotland’s witch hunts, the book "How to Kill a Witch," and the Witches of Scotland campaign.The Campaign’s Three Objectives (00:03:43) Claire explains the campaign’s goals: pardons, apology, and a national memorial for accused witches.Understanding Life During the Witch Trials (00:06:05) Describes daily life in Scotland during the witch trials and how hardship and belief shaped society.Statistics and Record-Keeping of Witch Trials (00:06:42) Zoe discusses population, numbers accused, execution rates, and the challenges of historical records.Cultural Context: New Year vs. Christmas (00:07:36) Claire explains why New Year is celebrated in Scotland due to the Protestant ban on Christmas.Religious and Social Control (00:08:29) Zoe describes the power of ministers, church attendance, and the legal, bureaucratic nature of witch accusations.Mechanics of Accusation and Confession (00:09:45) Explains how accusations arose, the role of scapegoating, and the use of torture and public executions.Who Was Vulnerable to Accusation? (00:10:48) Discussion on who was most at risk—mainly vulnerable, isolated women, but anyone could be accused.Confession and the Domino Effect (00:13:04) Describes how confessions under torture led to more accusations, often implicating friends and family.King James VI and the Witchcraft Act (00:14:26) Explores the role of King James VI, his beliefs, and the legal framework enabling witch hunts.Demonology and the Impossible Standard of Innocence (00:16:59) Claire discusses James VI’s book "Demonology" and the logic that made innocence impossible to prove.Why Scotland? The National Obsession (00:17:43) Examines why witch hunts were so intense in Scotland compared to England and other regions.Walking Through History: The Human Cost (00:18:51) Reflects on the real people affected and the chilling atmosphere of historical witch trials.The Process: Accusation to Trial (00:19:51) Claire details the process from accusation, confession, and the role of the Privy Council.The Witch Pricker: Pricking and Evidence (00:22:58) Explains the role of the witch picker, the search for the witch’s mark, and the infamous John Kincaid.Service Magicians, Fairies, and Regional Differences (00:28:10) Zoe discusses Scotland’s belief in magic, service magicians, and why accusations were less common in the Highlands.Modern Activism and the 2022 Apology (00:30:27) Covers the Witches of Scotland campaign’s achievements, including the 2022 government apology.Building Community and Remembrance (00:31:56) Claire and Zoe discuss building a community, the importance of remembrance, and the ongoing campaign.Contemporary Parallels: Witchcraft Accusations Today (00:33:15) Draws parallels between historical witch hunts and modern accusations, especially in politics and social media.Global Witchcraft Accusations and Modern Examples (00:33:46) Zoe describes ongoing witchcraft accusations in Africa, Asia, and the US, and their social consequences.The Persistence of Fear and ...
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    58 mins
  • Cooking Up Memories: A Wild Christmas Feast in the Heart of Nature

    Cooking Up Memories: A Wild Christmas Feast in the Heart of Nature
    Dec 25 2025

    In this special Christmas episode of "The Outdoors Station," I join my friend Andy Howell for a festive wild camping adventure in the Welsh hills, braving stormy weather to cook a full three-course Christmas dinner in a tent. In this re-edited episode we share laughter, memories, and practical tips, reflecting on the joy and healing power of spending time outdoors with loved ones.

    This heartfelt tribute to Andy, who passed away unexpectedly, reminds me how precious these moments are—encouraging everyone to disconnect from digital distractions and cherish simple, shared experiences in nature, especially during difficult times.

    Introduction and Tribute to Andy Howell (00:00:20)

    Host introduces the special Christmas episode, pays tribute to Andy Howell, and reflects on the value of time outdoors with loved ones.

    Setting the Scene: The Christmas Challenge (00:01:39)

    Host describes the 2011 challenge: cooking a three-course Christmas dinner in a tent during harsh Welsh weather.

    Arrival and Weather Commentary (00:03:08)

    The friends arrive, discuss the dreadful weather, and reminisce about past rainy adventures and outdoor attire.

    Walking to the Campsite (00:05:43)

    They set off on foot, comment on the landscape, weather, and memories of outdoor experiences.

    Pitching the Tent and Camp Setup (00:09:50)

    Struggles with pitching the tent in strong winds and losing tent pegs; setting up camp.

    Aperitif and Christmas Spirit (00:10:15)

    The ritual of sharing an aperitif in the tent, setting the mood for the Christmas meal.

    First Course: Soup and Cooking Prep (00:11:31)

    Preparation and enjoyment of tomato and basil soup; discussion of real ingredients and cooking logistics.

    Christmas Carols and Party Atmosphere (00:15:41)

    Adding Christmas carols and disco lights to the tent for a festive atmosphere.

    Main Course: Cooking and Banter (00:17:54)

    Detailed commentary on cooking turkey, vegetables, and stuffing using multiple pot cozys.

    Pot Cozy Tips and Cooking Techniques (00:21:45)

    Discussion of pot cozy efficiency, cooking methods, and gear tips for outdoor meals.

    Serving and Eating Christmas Dinner (00:27:03)

    Plating up the meal, tasting, and enjoying the full Christmas dinner in the tent.

    Christmas Crackers and Jokes (00:32:36)

    Pulling crackers, sharing jokes, and enjoying the festive traditions in the tent.

    Christmas Pudding and Brandy Butter (00:36:03)

    Serving Christmas pudding with homemade brandy butter, reflecting on the meal’s success.

    After Dinner Reflections and Future Plans (00:39:37)

    Post-meal treats, drinks, and discussion about long-distance treks and lightweight backpacking.

    Outdoor Shows and Community (00:44:18)

    Conversation about changes in outdoor shows, meeting the outdoor community, and the value of such events.

    Winding Down the Night (00:46:07)

    Preparing for bed, reflecting on the day, and previewing the next morning’s breakfast.

    Pot Cozy Reflections and Nighttime (00:47:33)

    Host reflects on the challenges of cooking, the value of pot cozies, and the friends settling in for the night.

    Morning After: Pancake Breakfast (00:49:03)

    Waking up to subzero temperatures, making pancakes for breakfast, and discussing cooking techniques.

    Pancake Flipping and Bannock Bread (00:53:50)

    Flipping pancakes in the tent, talking about bannock bread, and the evolution of outdoor cooking.

    Bushcraft, Packaging, and Food Philosophy (00:57:10)

    Discussion on bushcraft, packaging waste, and the benefits of real food versus processed meals.

    Packing Up and Heading to Hay-on-Wye (01:01:26)

    Packing up camp, leaving no trace, and heading to Hay-on-Wye for a celebratory pub visit.

    Pub Reflections and Future Adventures (01:02:46)

    Warming up in the pub, reflecting on the trip, and making plans to camp together more often.

    Final Reflections and Farewell (01:04:30)

    Host’s closing thoughts on the importance of shared outdoor moments and encouragement to spend time with loved ones.

    Outro and Credits (01:06:10)

    Podcast outro and information on accessing more content from The Outdoors Station.

    Please join our newsletter and follow us on our socials > https://linktr.ee/the_outdoors_station
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Wainwright Coast to Coast Part 9

    Wainwright Coast to Coast Part 9
    Dec 19 2025

    In this final episode of our Coast to Coast series, I recount the last leg of our journey across England with Rose, Simon, and Ruth. We reflect on memorable campsites, favorite meals, and the challenges of carrying our own gear.

    Arriving at Robin Hood’s Bay, we celebrate quietly, sharing practical advice for future hikers and appreciating the kindness of strangers along the way.

    The trek was both demanding and deeply rewarding—a true immersion in England’s landscapes. I’d do it again in a heartbeat, grateful for the adventure and the lessons learned on the trail.

    Podcast Introduction (00:00:03)

    Brief station identification and episode introduction.

    Dawn at Intake Farm (00:00:24)

    Waking up at Intake Farm, noticing unique birdsong, and reflecting on the changing landscape.

    Morning Routine and Setting Off (00:01:30)

    Morning activities, breakfast anticipation, and preparing for the final day’s hike.

    Crossing Greystones Moor (00:02:59)

    Walking towards the coast, discussing other hikers, and reflecting on carrying full gear.

    Reflections and Key Moments (00:04:35)

    Talking about the experience, highs and lows, and planning to review memorable moments over tea.

    Coast Cafe and Group Reflections (00:05:45)

    Stopping at Coast Cafe, asking Rose, Ruth, and Simon about best food, camping, and memorable moments.

    Best Food on the Trail (00:06:28)

    Each hiker shares their favourite food experiences from the journey.

    Favourite Camping Spots (00:08:12)

    Discussion of the most memorable camping locations along the route.

    Most Memorable Moments (00:09:22)

    Sharing personal highlights and meaningful encounters from the trek.

    Our Reflections (00:11:02)

    Host shares their own favourite food, camping, and memorable moments.

    Arrival at Robin Hood’s Bay (00:12:11)

    Reaching Robin Hood’s Bay, searching for the finish sign, and celebrating the journey’s end.

    Final Steps and Celebrations (00:12:49)

    Walking through the village, taking photos, and enjoying the atmosphere at the finish.

    On the Beach at Robin Hood’s Bay (00:16:19)

    Standing on the beach, reflecting on the journey, and discussing post-walk plans.

    Closing Reflections and Advice (00:17:43)

    Summing up the adventure, sharing lessons learned, and offering tips for future hikers.

    Final Thoughts and Farewell (00:26:03)

    Philosophical reflections on the journey’s meaning, future plans, and podcast sign-off.

    Podcast Outro (00:27:08)

    Thanking listeners and directing them to the Outdoors Station website.

    Please join our newsletter and follow us on our socials > https://linktr.ee/the_outdoors_station
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    27 mins
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