Connie and Bill’s Scottish Adventure - Final Information

Friday 13th June – Monday 23rd June 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Overview

Final Information Document for V5 Final Confirmed Trip

 

A wonderful chance to get under the skin of this ancient land on this ten day trip from the bright lights of the city to the rugged mountains of the Highlands.  Spend time getting to know the locals, seeing some of the beautiful wildlife that call the hills their home and sampling some of the best Highland hospitality.  You will leave taking a piece of Scotland with you in your heart and a longing to return.

 

On Trip;

While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of their stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen and there are times when the clients may need to contact us for assistance. Please see below for ways to get in touch while on the trip;

Please note that on days with your main driver-guide, please ask your guide for assistance in the first instance. As they are best placed to answer any queries directly & in a timely manner.

Email: If you have a general question please feel free to email your Sales Consultant or Agent.
Note – Emails are monitored during office hours only.

Call us directly: Office number +44 (0) 1479 420 020
Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:30

Out of Office Hours Number: +44 (0) 7766 794 640 for use after 5:30pm and at the weekends.
Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call or Whatsapp our Out of Office Hours Number

 

Highlights

  • Private tour of the catacombs of the city
  • Kayak with seals on the sheltered waters of Loch Torridon
  • Learn the art of making shortbread with an expert chef

Day by Day

Day 1 - Friday 13th June - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at the airport you will be met by a private transfer driver and whisked into the heart of the city and your luxurious hotel.  After freshening up, you will be met by your main guide and will head to the top of the Royal Mile for a tour of Edinburgh’s most famous landmark – the Castle!  See the Scottish Crown Jewels and Great Hall before finishing the day in the catacombs of the city and enjoy a private tour of what life was like for residents hundreds of years ago.  A great way to start your Scottish adventures

Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: Master Room
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: United Airlines | Flight Number: 161
Departure Airport: Newark Liberty International Airport | Departure Time: 23:45
Arrival Airport: Edinburgh Airport | Arrival Time: 11:40

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Services
Booking Reference: 2720315
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport Arrivals | Pick Up Time: 11:40 | Approx Duration: 45 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private driver will have a sign with your name on.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 1 - Guide Details - John Hamilton Read More +

Name: John Hamilton
Contact Number: +44 (0)7496 554 756
Meeting Place: Your Hotel Reception | Meeting Time: 14:00

Your guide will be in contact with you to check meeting details.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Fishers In The City | Location: 58 Thistle Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1EN
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: BJDPN7ZK - Constance Mackinson
Phone: +44 (0) 1312 255 109 | Website: https://www.fishersrestaurants.co.uk/fishers-in-the-city/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 1 - Private Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Tour
The Real Mary Kings Close:
Start Location: 2 Warriston's Close, High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1PG | Start Time: 17:45 | Approx Duration: -1 hrs
Booking Reference: 41915219

Your guide will take you to the venue for your private tour

Day 2 - Saturday 14th June - Exploring Edinburgh

You will set off to explore the city this morning with an expert local guide, getting off the beaten path and finding out the secrets that this city hides within the cobblestone streets.  From the bustling Royal Mile to the calm waters of Dean Village your guide will regale you with stories of life in days gone by and show you the lesser known sites as well as the iconic buildings.  Finish your morning with a tour at the Palace of Holyrood – the Edinburgh residence of His Majesty King Charles III.  This afternoon you have the option to enjoy a private trip on the Firth of Forth in a private catamaran or simply spend some time relaxing and taking advantage of the facilities at your hotel.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Scran & Scallie | Location: 1 Comely Bank Road Stockbridge Edinburgh EH4 1DT
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BTNRHJL7 - Constance Mackinson
Phone: +44 (0) 131 332 6281 | Website: https://scranandscallie.com/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Please see notes from restaurant below;

Dear Constance Mackinson
Thank you for booking with us at The Scran & Scallie. Please check the details of your reservation below.

Booking Details;

Date: Saturday, 14 June 2025
Time: 19:00
Area: Dining room
Guests: 2
Ref: BTNRHJL7
Leave Time: We respectfully require your table to be released by 20:45
Kindly note that we will contact you by email 48 hours prior to your reservation to ensure your booking is re-confirmed.

ARRIVAL

The Scran & Scallie is an independent establishment and as such, our continued viability relies heavily on reservations being honoured by our guests or sufficient notice being given of any changes to plans or reservations. Please note that, if we are not informed of any delays or late arrivals, the table may be released 20 minutes after your reservation time, without further notice.

OUR MENUS

At The Scran & Scallie we are passionate about our philosophy ‘From Nature to Plate’ and we always work with the seasons. Since we work closely with nature, the menu is subject to change at short notice.

CELEBRATIONS

We love to welcome guests to The Scran & Scallie for celebrations. Our talented pastry team would be delighted to create a bespoke cake to enjoy after your meal. We require 72 hours notice for all cake requests. For more information, please contact the reception team on 0131 332 6281. Our tasty cakes range from £30 – £50. Kindly note for health & safety reasons, we are unable to accept brought in cakes which have been made outside the premises.

BAR

The bar at The Scran & Scallie presents an array of seasonal cocktails, a wealth of wines and an enviable selection of beers and ales from leading Scottish breweries.

At The Scran & Scallie we operate the ‘Challenge 25 Policy’. This means that by Scottish law anyone under the age of 25 or anyone who looks under the age of 25 may be challenged to produce a valid photographic ID to purchase alcohol.

 

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS & ALLERGIES

Kindly inform us, prior to your meal, if you or your guests have any allergies or food intolerances.

DIRECTIONS

The Scran & Scallie is located in Edinburgh’s New Town, in the vibrant area of Stockbridge and a short distance from Princes Street. For directions, please visit Google Maps.Both Edinburgh train stations Edinburgh Waverley and Edinburgh Haymarket are located within equal distance from the restaurant, about 20 minutes by taxi. We recommend contacting Central Taxi on 0131 229 44 66 for pre-booked taxis.Buses 24, 29 and 42 run frequently from Edinburgh Waverley train station to Comely Bank Road, next to The Scran & Scallie. For Edinburgh Airport, we recommend to allow at least a 1 hour journey time depending on traffic.

ACCESSIBILITY

The Scran & Scallie is situated on one level and has wheel chair access. Do feel free to contact us should you require further information on 0131 332 6281 or by email [email protected].

 

We very much look forward to welcoming you to The Scran & Scallie. If we can do anything to make your visit more enjoyable, please feel free to contact us directly on 0131 332 6281 or [email protected]

Kindest regards,

The Scran & Scallie Team

 

TERMS & CONDITIONS

The time slot you select is when you will be seated at your table. Please contact us should you be delayed, as late arrivals can disrupt service. Should you not arrive within 30 minutes of your booking time, the table may be released without further notice.

By making a reservation at The Scran & Scallie, you agree to confirm your reservation 24 hours or more prior to arriving. You will be sent an email requesting confirmation of your reservation and should follow the link provided in the email. If your reservation remains unconfirmed on the day of the reservation then The Scran & Scallie reserves the right to cancel your reservation without further notice.

We require a minimum of 24 hours notice to amend or cancel a reservation. You can amend your booking by contacting us on 0131 332 6281 or by email [email protected]. Tables are allocated on the day by the restaurant team and although we will do everything we can to allocate a table in your preferred area of the dining room, we cannot always guarantee this.

For all reservations, guests are required to provide credit card details at the time of booking to secure the reservation. The Scran & Scallie reserves the right to charge any guest cancelling within 24 hours or any guest who fails to show for their reservation, £30 per person in respect of a lunch reservation and £40 per person in respect of a dinner reservation.

Charges will be taken from the debit/credit card provided at the time of booking without further notice.

 

Force Majeure 

In the unlikely event that a reservation is cancelled by The Scran & Scallie Limited we shall not be liable or responsible for any failure to perform, or delay in performance of, any of our obligations under our contract with you that is caused by events outside our reasonable control (such as serious damage to the venue, serious adverse weather conditions, a pandemic or epidemic, government lockdown/restrictions or interruption or failure of utility services such as electric power, gas or water). In these circumstances, we shall use every effort to notify you as soon as is reasonably practical. The Scran & Scallie Limited cannot be held liable for any travel or accommodation costs in relation to a cancellation.

Day 2 - Guide Details - Shauna Ansell Read More +

Name: Shauna Ansell
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7989 664 023
Meeting Place: Your Hotel Reception | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your local city guide will meet you in reception of the hotel to go on a walking tour of the city

Day 3 - Sunday 15th June - The Art of Baking

Shortbread is one of the most well known baked goods that Scotland produces and today you will spend the day with a private tutor learning the art of Baking, including this famous biscuit.  You could try out some more advanced techniques as well as recipes that you have not tried before.  Enjoy a delicious lunch with wine before taking home your baked goods to enjoy at your leisure this evening.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior and will take you to and from your activity

Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Witchery | Location: Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NF
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BXN9W7NH
Phone: +44(0)131 225 0974 | Website: http://www.thewitchery.com/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Please see notes from restaurant below;

Dear Constance Mackinson

This email is to confirm your reservation at The Witchery on Sunday, 15 June 2025 at 7:00 PM.

Your reservation details are below:

Ref: BXN9W7NH
Date: Sunday, 15 June 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Guests: 2
Area: The Original dining room
Leave Time: We respectfully require your table back by 9:20 PM
Thank you for choosing The Witchery, we look forward to welcoming you soon.
We ask for 4 hours’ notice of a cancellation or reduction in numbers and reservations that fail to give this notice will automatically incur a £50pp fee.
We respectfully require all guests to order a minimum of one main course, for any lunch or dinner reservations.
Please advise us in advance if you have any special dietary requirements. We take the utmost care to ensure that all reasonable dietary requests are accommodated when dining at The Witchery; however, due to the nature of our offering we are unable to guarantee that any item will be 100% allergen free.

Thank you for your reservation. We look forward to welcoming you to the Witchery by the Castle.

With kindest regards
The Witchery

If you need to CANCEL your reservation, please use this link to do so.

Day 4 - Monday 16th June - To the Cairngorms

It is time to leave the bright lights of the city behind this morning and start your adventure north.  Your first stop will be at Stirling Castle, one of the most important castles in Scottish history.  Explore the hallowed halls and hear the stories of how the castle changed hands many times during the Wars of Independence. Arriving in the heart of the Cairngorms in the early afternoon you will spend time with a local forager exploring the hedgerows for some tasty treats before heading back to make your very own cocktails of the botanicals you have picked.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior and will have all entry tickets with them

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Royal Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Flying Stag | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00

Table is booked under Mackinson

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 5 - Tuesday 17th June - The local characters of the Cairngorms

Spend the day today with a local character who was the resident factor (estate manager) at the Invercauld Estate so knows all there is to know about this area.  With secret knowledge and access to some incredible places such as the old picnic cottage used by Queen Victoria and Crathie Kirk where the Royals worship.  A truly remarkable character who will provide you with an incredible day out in the wilderness.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Royal Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Fish Shop | Location: 3 Netherley Place, Ballater, AB35 5QE
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 4ZTVRF3A3UUD - Mackinson
Phone: 01339 720250 | Website: https://fishshopballater.co.uk/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Please see notes from restaurant below;

Constance Mackinson
Tuesday, 17 June 20252 guests · 18:30 – 20:30
Reserved for Restaurant table
Thank you for your reservation. Should your plans change, please let us know 24 hours before your reservation time. We look forward to welcoming you.

If you need to EDIT or CANCEL your reservation, please use the relevant link to do so.

Day 6 - Wednesday 18th June - Cycling and Crafts

It is time for you to enjoy some separate activities this morning. Bill will head off to feel the wind through his hair as he tackles some of the incredible road biking that is on offer in this part of the country.  From the hill climbs to the meandering twisty roads, there is something to cater for any ability and your guide will be on hand to make sure you make the most of your day.

For Connie a morning of crafting awaits in the secluded forest of the park.  This afternoon you will meet up again and enjoy a refreshing dip in the river  followed by a sauna in the middle of nowhere with just the birdsong and sounds of the forest for company.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time for each of you the day prior

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Royal Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Clunie Dining Room | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:15

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 6 - Wild Sketching Read More +

Activity: Wild Sketching

Start Location: Your Hotel Lobby | Start Time: 09:30
Phone: +44 (0) 7883 939 854

Connie will spend the morning with Annie while John and William head out on the bikes.  Then this afternoon, everyone will meet up again for a wild swim and sauna session

Day 7 - Thursday 19th June - The dark history of Scotland

One of the darkest times in Scottish history was the Jacobite uprising in 1742.  This battle changed the way of life for all Highlanders and led to years of suppression of the national dress.  Take a tour of the place where this final battle took place and imagine what it must have been like for the clansmen on that fateful day.  Heading on to the west you will arrive at your hotel deep in the heart of the Torridon mountains in the late afternoon.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: by Achnasheen | The Torridon
Room Type: Grand Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Bo & Muc Brasserie | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30

Table booked under Mackinson

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 8 - Friday 20th June - Sea Kayaking under the mountains

You can have a relaxed morning if you wish today or head out to explore some of the wilderness with your guide before your water adventure this afternoon.

The lapping shores of Loch Torridon have been a background sound to your hotel and this afternoon you will head out in kayaks to explore the area by boat.  Keep your eyes peeled for seals, otters and maybe even a white-tailed sea eagle as you drift along and your expert guide will give you hints and tips to keep you right.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: by Achnasheen | The Torridon
Room Type: Grand Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: 1887 Restaurant | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00

Table booked under Mackinson

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 8 - Sea Kayakaing Read More +

Activity: Sea Kayakaing
Start Location: Your Hotel | Start Time: 12:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs 30 mins

Booking Reference: 782705

Please see the attached equipment list about what to wear and please make sure you have filled out the declaration form prior to the start of the activity.

Day 9 - Saturday 21st June - Whales and Walking

Set off on a wonderful adventure this morning on a private whale watching trip.  These majestic creatures are often seen off the coast here and your skipper will know the best places to find them.  Scour the waters for the tell tale thrust of water into the skies or the tail fin gentle diving down into the deep waters.

Back on dry land you will spend the afternoon exploring more of the local areas, from the small villages on the coast to the most iconic pass in all of Scotland with far stretching views across to Skye and the Western Isles.  For your final night in the Highlands you will dine in splendour at your hotel and raise a glass to your Scottish adventure.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: by Achnasheen | The Torridon
Room Type: Grand Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Bo & Muc Brasserie | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00

Table booked under Mackinson

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 10 - Sunday 22nd June - To Loch Lomond

Leaving the mountains behind, you will set off south to your final destination on the banks of the bonny Loch Lomond.  On the way there will be a chance to stop off in the iconic valley of Glencoe for a final hike and perhaps drop in at the visitor centre that showcases the intriguing history of this area.  Your accommodation this evening is the refurbished Cameron House where you can enjoy dinner with wonderful views across the loch.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: Loch View One Bedroom Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Monday 23rd June - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your hotel today and take you to the airport in time for your journey home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Drive
Booking Reference: 2720017
Pick Up Location: Your Hotel Reception | Pick Up Time: 10:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs 15 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private driver will have a sign with your name on.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 11 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 23, 2025 | Airline: United Airlines | Flight Number: UA 162
Departure Airport: Edinburgh Airport | Departure Time: 13:50
Arrival Airport: Newark International | Arrival Time: 16:30

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 10 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 1 to Day 10
  • Arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel on Day 1
  • Departure transfer from Cameron House to Edinburgh Airport on Day 11
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on the guided days
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Entry to Edinburgh Castle (not private)
    • Private tour of streets under the Royal Mile
    • Entry to the Palace of Holyrood (not private)
    • Morning walking tour of Edinburgh with a local expert
    • Baking cookery workshop at New Town Cookery School
    • Entry to Stirling Castle (not private)
    • Foraging and Cocktail workshop
    • Day out with a local character
    • Morning of biking for Bill
    • Craft workshop for Connie
    • Mobile Sauna and Open water dip for both
    • Entry to Culloden Battlefield (not private)
    • Private session Sea Kayaking
    • Private Whale Watching trip
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support form the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More

Activities are only private if so specified in the inclusions

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather in Scotland can be very changeable. Suitable clothing and footwear is essential, as well as a flexible attitude. Plans may have to be changed to accommodate Mother Nature, and your guide will have back-up plans that they will discuss with you if required.

 

Essential Packing List for Hiking

  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof over-pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes are not suitable for any hiking in Scotland)
  • Day pack 20-30 litre for carrying water and extra layers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Warm layers
  • Warm hat, gloves and a neck gaiter
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Smart casual attire for dinners
  • For Sea Kayaking
    • Swimming costume/trunks
    • Wetsuit socks, waterproof socks or warm wool socks
    • Footwear that you don’t mind getting wet
    • Non-cotton moisture-wicking base layer top
    • Non-cotton quick-dry leggings or trousers
  • For Road Cycling
    • Padded Cycling shorts for comfort
    • Leggings or similar (not loose wide pants)
    • Gloves for comfort

Note: If you would like us to provide trekking poles for your use then please just let us know and we will ensure these are available for you.

 

Luggage Notes

Please note that we expect travellers to bring an average of One Large Holdall or Suitcase and up to Two smaller day-bags or hand-luggage sized pieces. If you expect to bring more than this then please let us know well in advance of arrival so that we can ensure there is capacity for this (additional charges will apply if separate luggage transfers are required).

 

Useful Contacts

24 hour in-country support (Wilderness Scotland):  +44 (0)1479 420 020, or outwith regular office hours +44 (0)7766 794 640 (urgent calls only, but can also be used for less urgent text messages or WhatApp messages)

Emergency services:  999 or 112NHS 24 (24 hour free medical advice):  111

 

Tipping Guidelines

For tipping our guides – We don’t generally recommend a set amount as tipping is not expected in the same way that it is in North America. However, similar North American travel companies generally suggest something along the lines of £10-30 per person per day for your guide, which is a wide range to choose from. Generally, we would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide, and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations and choose an amount you are comfortable with.

For local services such as restaurants again tipping is not expected but if you receive great service then 10-15% of the bill is normal.

Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness Scotland Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020
US: 866 740 3890


Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7766 794 640


Emergency Services

999

Important Additional Information Read More

Accommodation

Gleneagles Townhouse

39 St Andrews Square | Edinburgh | Mid-Lothian |
EH2 2AD | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 131 322 3780
Web: gleneagles.com/townhouse

The Fife Arms

Mar Rd | Braemar | Royal Deeside |
AB35 5YL | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1339 720 200
Web: thefifearms.com

The Torridon

by Achnasheen | Wester Ross |
IV22 2EY | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1445 791 242
Web: thetorridon.com

Cameron House

Loch Lomond | West Dunbartonshire |
G83 8QZ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1389 312 210
Web: cameronhouse.co.uk


Meet Your Guide

John Hamilton

Contact Number: +44 (0)7496 554 756

Mini Bio

I am an individual entirely committed to the outdoors through adventure. I have a passionate appreciation of remote locations via active travel such as kayaking, ski mountaineering, canoeing, mountain biking, walking, etc – especially through sharing experiences with others. I am completely committed to introducing others to the outdoors and all that the outdoors has to offer. I take my partner and two spaniels everywhere I can and take them canoeing and have even taken my 15-year-old spaniel on the ski chair lift often. I play guitar and have supported some of Scotland’s best known traditional musicians. I love Correlejo, Fuerteventura, and have been there 14 times. I love the excitement of paddling white water. I love the snow!

Favourite Place to Play

Paddling, skiing, walking and biking anywhere in Scotland.

Not a lot of People Know This

I own a book owned by Robert Burns, Scotland’s greatest poet; his signature is on the inside cover. It has been passed down to me from my grandfather and father. Every year, I host a Burns Supper at my house and sing Burns songs in respectful memory.