Do we romanticise the Vikings too much? Which Scottish accent is the best? And should Scotland have its own Eurovision entry?

In this episode of This is Scotland, Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, debate three big topics. They explore the Viking legacy in Scotland, from Hebridean ancestry to the realities of Viking raids, discuss how geography, identity and culture have shaped Scotland's rich variety of accents, and ask whether Scotland should be represented on the Eurovision stage in its own right.

Along the way, Coinneach reveals why some people doubted he was Scottish because of his accent, Ally explains why Vikings may get an easier ride in history than they deserve, and the pair uncover Scotland's surprising Eurovision connections. Plus, Ally shares another fascinating story from Scottish history and asks listeners to help settle some big national debates.

Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.

Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com

Find out more: The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.com Gallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scot Follow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod

Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeod Produced by Rachel McConachie Edited by Beth McHugh Music by Paper Rifles

The listener Q&A edition of This is Scotland returns as Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, tackle your questions on Scotland's most fascinating places, traditions and mysteries. This week, they explore whether ruined castles such as Linlithgow Palace should be restored, uncover the surprising origins of Eigg, Rum and Muck, reveal their favourite Scottish graveyards, and create the ultimate Scottish playlist.

Along the way, expect stories of lairds and sea pigs, ancient trees and Pictish stones, lively musical disagreements, Gaelic history, island folklore and plenty of laughs as Ally and Coinneach answer listeners' questions from across Scotland and beyond.

Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.

Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com

Find out more: The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.com Gallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scot Follow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod

Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeod Produced by Rachel McConachie Edited by Beth McHugh Music by Paper Rifles

Why doesn't Scotland have an official national anthem? In this episode of This is Scotland, Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, explore the story behind Flower of Scotland, Scotland the Brave and the debate over what song best represents the nation.

They also share their favourite Scottish road trips, from island adventures to spectacular Highland routes, before turning their attention across the Atlantic to uncover Scotland's remarkable influence on the United States. From American presidents with Scottish ancestry to Scottish-named towns across the US, they reveal the enduring links between the two countries.

Along the way, expect plenty of laughs, surprising stories, listener challenges and a lesson in how to wish America a happy 250th birthday in Gaelic.

Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.

Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com

Find out more: The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.com Gallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scot Follow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod

Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeod Produced by Rachel McConachie Edited by Beth McHugh Music by Paper Rifles