Join me on a journey through the landscapes and stories of the Borders, retracing Robert Burns’ 1787 tour. Often overshadowed by his famous Highlands trip of the same year, this episode shines a light on the places, people and impressions Burns gathered closer to home. With atmospheric soundscapes to bring the hills, rain and towns alive, I explore how the Bard’s footsteps connect with our heritage today, and why the Borders deserve their place in the Burns story. I finish with a piece of Burns poetry which is very close to my own heart.
I am indebted to the following sources of information:Robert Burns Birthplace museum (Alloway), The Border Magazine (dated 1905, and shared via Electric Scotland), Glasgow University for their excellent online maps of the tours), Lammermuir Life.co.uk and my friend and inspiration Ted McKie for his piece on Burns visit in ‘Cleikum Kist 2’ (2017). This was originally shared on my blog on the 22 January 2024. Read the original post by clicking here.
Sound Effects from Pixabay - thank you to Freesound Community, Eryliaa, Alex_Jauk, Universefield, Fronbondi_Skegs, loswin23
Cover Image - Robert Burns statue, Dumfries. Thank you South of Scotland Destination Alliance/Duncan Ireland.
