Scotland Outdoors

Helen Brown from the Water of Leith Conservation Trust shares how otters are thriving in Edinburgh’s urban rivers. Eileen Stewart, director at NatureScot, discusses the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and its celebration of 20 years of responsible outdoor use. Alan Stephen tells the whimsical tale of the Turra Coo, a beloved cow that became a symbol of community protests against taxes. Together, they highlight the intersection of nature, community, and conservation in Scotland.

Explore the captivating Mearns region, where the landscapes inspired Lewis Grassic Gibbon's beloved novel. Discover the unique geology shaped by the Highland Boundary Fault and how it influences local culture and agriculture. Hear about a moving trip to a war memorial by Donutter Castle, intertwined with local legends. Experience an exhilarating boat ride along dramatic cliffs, and soak in the stunning coastal beauty during golden sunrises. Finally, appreciate vibrant wildlife and breathtaking formations at Trollochie Burn and Dunotter Castle.

Guests include Keri Tomlin, an author and celebrant illuminating the roots of the Imbolc festival, and Anna Neubert-Wood from Wander Women, who shares her personal connections to this celebration. Harley Matheson, a conservation volunteer, takes listeners on a journey through Frankfield Loch, discussing the importance of wetland ecosystems. The conversation highlights community efforts like the Big Farmland Bird Count, emphasizing the changing seasons and wildlife conservation, while also touching on personal growth through nature.

We celebrate Burns Day on Out of Doors on the 265th anniversary of his birth. Mark chats to Professor Fiona Stafford from University of Oxford who writes about Burns ‘the bard of nature’. They chat about his understanding of ecology and how that comes through in his poetry.Rachel hears the good news story about Goldeneye Ducks in the Cairngorms. Goldeneyes are a protected species that have suffered severe population declines, with only around 200 pairs in the UK. But recent work has seen their numbers increase. She finds out what’s behind the success.In our Scotland Outdoors podcast this week Helen Needham headed up Morven, a Corbett in Aberdeenshire with artist and adventurer Morven Stewart. We hear an excerpt where they chat about where her passion from sketching came from.No Burns Day would be complete without a haggis. Rachel heads to Glenesk where every year the locals make their own for the Tarfside Rural Burns supper. Anne Littlejohn lets Rachel into her kitchen to see the process- guts and all!We get a live update from the team at Ellisland Farm. Ellisland near Dumfries was built by Robert Burns in 1788 for his young wife Jean Armour and their family and it’s where he penned some of his most famous work. The team at the Robert Burns Ellisland Trust was awarded funding last year which has allowed them to make plans to secure the property’s future. We hear about what they’ve got in store.There are ambitious plans to completely transform a former opencast mine site at St Ninians in Fife. The land was purchased by community interest company National Pride over three years ago. Mark met chair of the company, Irene Bisset, at the site to hear about their hopes to create a facility that enables visitors to enjoy being close to the natural world.And we delve into the archive to hear a piece from 2020 where Mark and Euan visited the famous Globe Inn in Dumfries, a pub frequented by Burns after his move to Ellisland in 1788.

Helen Needham walks up Morven in Aberdeenshire with Morven Stewart

Ellie Corsie, project manager for the Nevis Nature Network, shares her insights on a massive nature restoration initiative in Lochaber, covering 22,000 acres of precious habitats. She discusses the challenges of managing invasive species and enhancing biodiversity while balancing ecological restoration with tourism needs. The conversation then shifts to the exhilarating world of endurance racing, revealing why athletes are drawn to grueling competitions like the Spine Race, and highlights the importance of ecological projects in supporting Scotland's breathtaking landscapes.

Mark Stephen chooses some Burns favourites including his rendition of Tam O' Shanter

Lily Camp, an expert instructor from the Huntly Nordic and Outdoor Centre, shares her passion for cross-country skiing, breaking down essential techniques and tips. Jack Somerset recounts his firsthand experience as a learner. Kirsty Matheson discusses the emotional impact of weather in art at the 'A Weather Eye' exhibition. Donald MacRae highlights the challenges faced by Scottish Mountain Rescue teams in winter conditions. Photographer Shahbaz Majeed showcases his stunning work, featured on banknotes and in his new book, capturing the beauty of the Scottish landscape.

Rachel Stewart speaks to photographer and Landward presenter Shahbaz Majeed

Helen Needham meets musician and composer Cosmo Sheldrake