Tartan was once banned. People risked punishment for wearing it. Today, it is recognised around the world as one of Scotland’s most powerful symbols. In this episode, Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, unravel the remarkable story of how a forbidden fabric became the cloth of rebellion, identity and pride.

They also explore Scotland's witch trials, the campaign to remember those accused of witchcraft, and the powerful stories behind one of the darkest chapters in Scottish history. Finally, Coinneach takes a delicious journey through Scotland's culinary heritage, revealing the origins of iconic dishes, forgotten recipes and why Scotland's food deserves far more recognition than it often receives.

Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.

Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com

Find out more: The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.com Gallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scot Follow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod

Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeod Produced by Rachel McConachie Edited by Beth McHugh Music by Paper Rifles

The listener Q&A edition of This is Scotland returns as Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, answer your questions on Scotland's links with Norway, the revival of hutting, the Scottish diaspora and the future of Gaelic.

This week, they explore whether Scotland shares a northern soul with Norway, why off-grid cabins and hutting have become such an important part of Scottish life, and how Scottish communities have kept traditions alive through Highland Games across the world. They also discuss whether Gaelic should once again become Scotland's national language, what meaningful support for the language looks like today, and celebrate inspiring projects helping it thrive.

Along the way, expect stories from the Hebrides, reflections on Scotland's global connections, plenty of friendly debate and, as always, a few laughs between Ally and Coinneach.

Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.

Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com

Find out more: The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.com Gallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scot Follow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod

Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeod Produced by Rachel McConachie Edited by Beth McHugh Music by Paper Rifles

Do we romanticise the Vikings too much? Which Scottish accent is the best? And should Scotland have its own Eurovision entry?

In this episode of This is Scotland, Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, debate three big topics. They explore the Viking legacy in Scotland, from Hebridean ancestry to the realities of Viking raids, discuss how geography, identity and culture have shaped Scotland's rich variety of accents, and ask whether Scotland should be represented on the Eurovision stage in its own right.

Along the way, Coinneach reveals why some people doubted he was Scottish because of his accent, Ally explains why Vikings may get an easier ride in history than they deserve, and the pair uncover Scotland's surprising Eurovision connections. Plus, Ally shares another fascinating story from Scottish history and asks listeners to help settle some big national debates.

Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.

Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com

Find out more: The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.com Gallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scot Follow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod

Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeod Produced by Rachel McConachie Edited by Beth McHugh Music by Paper Rifles