Chris Muir

Moxon Architects has unveiled the Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge, a stunning stone and steel structure in the Cairngorms National Park of the Scottish Highlands. This new bridge, shortlisted for the 2025 RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award, replaces a historic crossing while blending modern design with local heritage, with the winner set for announcement on December 5. Design That Honors Tradition The Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge draws direct inspiration from its 250-year-old neighbor, the original Gairnshiel Bridge. Moxon Architects aimed to create a "sibling" structure that echoes the old bridge's slender arch and tapering walls, but with fresh materials like…

Tilaknagar Industries, India's top brandy maker, launched Seven Islands Pure Malt Whisky on November 20, 2025, in Maharashtra. This new premium blend mixes Indian and Scottish single malts, priced at 5,200 rupees for a 750ml bottle, marking the company's big push into the growing whisky market. Behind the Launch Tilaknagar Industries has built its name on brandy brands like Mansion House. Now, it steps into whisky after buying Imperial Blue, the world's third top selling whisky. The move comes as Indian consumers crave more premium spirits. This launch taps into India's booming whisky scene. Market data shows whisky makes up…

An editor's fresh take on Scotland's style scene draws crowds to the capital's rainy streets. Edinburgh, Scotland, buzzes with fresh fashion vibes as travelers flock to see tartan trends up close. A recent trip by style experts highlights what cool girls wear amid the city's castles and cobblestones in late 2025. Arrival and First Impressions The journey to Edinburgh feels quick from major cities like New York, taking under seven hours by direct flight. Once there, visitors land refreshed and eager to dive into the mix of old world charm and modern flair. Hotels like the Kimpton Charlotte Square stand…

Snow blanketed northern Scotland on November 19, 2025, forcing the closure of dozens of schools and creating dangerous road conditions for drivers. Heavy flurries and ice gripped areas like Aberdeenshire, the Highlands, Shetland, and Moray, prompting travel warnings from local councils and the Met Office. School Closures Hit Hard in Key Regions Authorities closed 19 schools in Aberdeenshire to keep students safe from the sudden snow dump. In the Highland Council area, another 20 schools shut their doors for the day, affecting thousands of pupils who had to shift to remote learning or stay home. Shetland saw several schools and…

Accountancy firm BDO LLP has named James Paterson as the new head of tax in Scotland. This move comes at a key time as businesses face upcoming tax changes from the UK Autumn Budget set for November 26, 2025. Paterson's Path to Leadership James Paterson brings nearly two decades of experience to his new position. He joined BDO in 2006 and started his career training in the firm's London real estate tax team. After gaining solid skills there, he moved back to Scotland in 2016 to work in the Edinburgh office. In 2017, Paterson earned a promotion to partner, a…

Heavy snow blanketed northern Scotland on Wednesday, forcing dozens of schools to shut down and creating dangerous road conditions across the region. The wintry blast hit areas like Aberdeenshire, the Highlands, Shetland, and Moray, with forecasters warning of more disruptions through Thursday night. Widespread School Closures Disrupt Education Parents and students in northern Scotland woke up to unexpected days off as snow led to widespread school closures. In Aberdeenshire, 15 schools closed their doors for the entire day, affecting thousands of pupils who now have time to build snowmen instead of attending classes. The Highland Council area saw even more…

A powerful weather event known as the Beast from the East that blanketed parts of the UK in heavy snow back in 2018 may strike Scotland again soon. Experts point to signs of sudden stratospheric warming that could usher in freezing temperatures and widespread flurries starting as early as next week. What Sparks the Beast from the East This chilling phenomenon happens when a sudden stratospheric warming disrupts the polar vortex high in the atmosphere. That shift pulls in cold air from Siberia and pushes it toward Europe, clashing with milder Atlantic weather to create intense snow and ice storms.…

Scotland's top legal officer has assured sexual abuse victims that their protections stay strong after a UK Supreme Court ruling flagged issues with rape shield laws. The decision, handed down last week, warns that current practices might violate defendants' fair trial rights under human rights law. The Supreme Court Ruling Breakdown The UK Supreme Court examined appeals from two men, David Daly and Andrew Keir, both convicted of rape in Scottish courts. While the court dismissed their appeals, the five judges pointed out problems with how evidence gets handled in sex offense trials. These concerns center on sections 274 and…

Christian groups in Scotland are calling on the government to reject bold proposals that could allow abortions up to birth. The push comes after an expert panel released recommendations on November 14, 2025, to overhaul the nation's outdated abortion laws and treat the procedure as standard healthcare. Current Abortion Rules in Scotland Scotland follows the Abortion Act of 1967, which sets strict limits on when and why abortions can happen. Under this law, most abortions are legal only up to 24 weeks if two doctors agree the pregnancy risks the woman's health or involves a serious fetal issue. After 24…

North Berwick has earned the title of Scotland's best place to live in 2025 according to the Sunday Times guide, drawing visitors to its charming seaside vibe and top spots like the Buttercup Cafe on High Street. This cozy eatery stands out as the highest rated cafe in town, loved for its fresh breakfasts, friendly service, and welcoming atmosphere that caters to everyone from locals to tourists. Why North Berwick Tops Scotland's Living Rankings The seaside town of North Berwick continues to shine as a gem in East Lothian, just a short train ride from Edinburgh. Experts praise its mix…