Loch in the Scottish Highlands famed for Nessie and its geological heft
The Isles of Scilly is replacing the Scillonian III with Scillonian IV after 49 years; the new 75-metre vessel will carry 600 passengers, improve comfort, reduce journey times, and start service in March 2027. The upgrade follows a multi-decade investment in regional ferry links to boost reliability for residents and visitors.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony has opened in Glasgow, with King Charles III and Queen Camilla attending. The event features a time-travel Tardis entrance, a garden stage, 74 nations parading, and a rotation of Scottish cultural moments amid budget constraints.
The Ness Guga Hunt remains a flashpoint as campaigners press for change and officials weigh the potential impact on seabird populations. Local communities stress cultural significance while NatureScot and government face ongoing public interest and petitions.
The gWest estate at Blackford, Perth and Kinross, known as Scotland’s ghost course, has been offered for sale. The 639-acre site includes an unfinished 18-hole course, a domed clubhouse shell, and planning consent for up to 170 homes, a hotel and spa. Buyers face a legacy of delayed development tied to the global financial crisis, Brexit, and the Covid-19 pandemic. Knight Frank warns the asset could reposition Scotland’s luxury tourism, with global interest anticipated.
Auditor General reports ScotWind revenues have been drawn down to £96m with £507m expected by 2031; government promises transparency as developers’ long-term leases determine future income and public value.