Magaidh tells tales of the Outer Hebrides’ history and traditions

The Outer Hebrides is the latest area of Scotland to feature in the latest episode in a series of podcasts from tourist body VisitScotland.
The Calanais Standing Stones feature in the Tour Tales of the Outer Hebrides.The Calanais Standing Stones feature in the Tour Tales of the Outer Hebrides.
The Calanais Standing Stones feature in the Tour Tales of the Outer Hebrides.

Tour Guide Tales are hosted by Grant Stott, and each episode features a different tour guide who recounts their personal experiences and reveals secret tales relating to special places in Scotland.

In the latest episode, Grant speaks to tour guide Magaidh Smith, from the Isle of Lewis.

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With six generations of her family calling the Hebrides home, her unrivalled knowledge of the rich cultural history, traditions and communities of the Outer Hebrides makes for a fascinating listen.

From Moon Gods and stone circles, to Neolithic history, clan battles and the Gaelic language, Magaidh has a wealth of incredible stories to tell.

Eva Kwiecinska, Senior Marketing Manager, VisitScotland, said: “The concept of Tour Guide Tales is simple – to share fascinating, entertaining and sometimes unexpected stories from some of Scotland’s most enthralling tour guides.

“For those who might not be able to travel right now, it’s a chance to capture that wee bit of Scotland from home.

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“We also hope it encourages people to explore more of the country or even book a guided tour to discover the secrets of their local area.

“Tourism businesses are facing huge challenges in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic so now is a great time to support them as we look toward rebuilding the industry in a responsible way.”

Otherepisodes include stories relating to Glasgow Central Station, Blair Castle in Perthshire, Skail House in Orkney, the National Wallace Monument, locations used in the Outlander series, and sites of Edinburgh’s haunted past.

Ten new podcasts will be released over the course of a nine-week period.

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Coinciding with 2020 as Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters, several episodes feature tales about coastlines and waterways, including the Scottish Maritime Museum in Irvine, Kilmartin Glen, Sumburgh Head and Lighthouse in Shetland and, of course, Magaidh Smith’s stories from the Outer Hebrides, offering up tales of the sea and wildlife associated with her homeland.

Tour Guide Tales is VisitScotland’s latest digital initiative to connect people with Scotland, with other activity including Sketching Scotland and Stargazing in Scotland.

Now the industry has begun to re-open it is hoped these initiatives will not only entertain, but also encourage people to get out and explore what’s on their doorstep in a responsible way.

You can find all the podcasts at Tour Guide Tales