Are you concerned about your cow companions? Do you want to protect your bovine besties from evil enchantments? Welcome to Fireside Folklore, a fun wee episode, where Annie and Jenny try to understand the mysterious phenomenon of cow cursing. After noticing cursed cows turn up in multiple episodes, Annie and Jenny try to understand why cursed cows appear so frequently in Scottish folklore. What do these stories tell us about Scottish culture and values? Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland.

Annie and Jenny journey to the Far North of Scotland to trace the intricate tale of this once-feared predator: the wolf. These enigmatic creatures, deeply woven into Scotland's culture and environment, have long been subjects of awe, reverence, and lament. Jenny tells the haunting tale of the Last Wolf of Sutherland. A poignant reflection on the extinction of a species, this story serves as a haunting reminder of human's capacity to reshape nature. Annie brings out a romantic Victorian poem about grave-digging wolves. We have a look at the beautiful wolf-related artifacts held by Inverness Museum, including the Ardross Stone, some taxidermy, and a suspicious bog body. We consider the possibilities and complexities of rewilding. Journey with us as we walk from ancient paths to modern controversies, with the distant howls of a bygone era, and the hopeful calls of a future yet uncertain. You can read the full wolf poem for free here: https://books.google.co.uk/books/about/A_Book_of_Highland_Minstrelsy.html?id=bsoIAAAAQAAJ&redir_esc=y Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland Thank you all so much for listening to Scotland’s most popular history and folklore podcast. 

Welcome to Fireside Folklore, an enchanting wee episode, where Annie and Jenny take us deep into the heart of the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands. We unearthing tales of the mystical fairy dogs that roam the majestic mountainous landscapes. Ensure your sheep are safe and secure, cuddle your four-legged companions, and hold a wee piece of metal to protect yourself from fairy frolics. Whether you're a folklore enthusiast or simply looking to experience the magic of Scotland's natural wonders, this episode promises to captivate your heart and imagination. Content warning: This episode includes a description of a person with suicidal thoughts. If you are based in Scotland and require mental health support, check resources here: www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/mental-health-support/mental-health-services-at-nhs-24 Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland Thank you all so much for listening to Scotland’s most popular history and folklore podcast. 

Unravel the secrets of the Galloway landscape in this deep dive into the geology of the marvellous mountain, the Merrick. Ever wondered how nature sculpted its majestic peaks and craggy contours? This episode journeys back millions of years, retracing the earth's steps in moulding this iconic landmark, and a funny wee boulder atop it. Jenny and Annie also explore the Cairnholy sites, which are ancient megalithic wonders that stand as a testament to Galloway’s rich prehistoric past. Join us to merge the world of geology with archaeology, and discover the tales and tectonics that shaped Scotland's scenic wonders. Perfect for history buffs, geology enthusiasts, Scots, Scottish travellers, adventurers and everyone in between! Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland Thank you all so much for listening to Scotland’s most popular history and folklore podcast.

Jenny and Annie return with Fireside Folklore to visit the enchanting world of the mystical tales of selkies, the mythical creatures that live as seals in the sea but shed their skin to become human on land. Dive into two enthralling traditional stories that weave the magic and mystery of Scotland's coastal legends, rich with romance, betrayal, and transformation. Whether you're a folklore enthusiast or a newcomer to the legends of the Scottish Highlands and Islands, these selkie stories will transport you to a world where the line between human and seal is as fluid as the wild ocean waves. Selkies have captured the hearts and minds of storytellers for centuries. For more information from our advertisers, on the UHI Culture and Heritage BA Hons course, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/courses/ba-hons-culture-and-heritage/ It’s an internationally accredited course from the University of the Highlands and Islands, available as an online course, learn on your own schedule from a yacht in the ocean, the top of a mountain or your spare bedroom! You can get a degree covering the language, heritage, archaeology, literature, landscape, identity, folklore and magic of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland Thank you all so much for listening to Scotland’s most popular history and folklore podcast.