In 1725 an extensive military road and bridge-building programme was implemented by the British crown that would transform 18th-century Scotland. Aimed at pacifying some of her more inaccessible regions and containing the Jacobite threat, General Wade's new roads were designed to replace 'the old ways' and 'tedious passages' through the mountains. Over the next few decades, the laying out of these routes opened up the country to visitors from all backgrounds. After the 1760s, soldiers, surveyors and commercial travellers were joined by leisure tourists and artists, eager to explore Scotland's antiquities, natural history and scenic landscapes, and to describe their findings in words and images.In this book a number of acclaimed experts explore how the Scottish landscape was variously documented, evaluated, planned and imagined in words and images. As well as a fascinating insight into the experience of travellers and tourists, it also considers how they impacted on the experience of the Scottish people themselves.

For over 560 years the University of Glasgow has acted as a remarkable patron of architecture. Each generation has sought to maintain and adapt the University's buildings to the ever-changing needs of a world-class teaching and research institution. Often the University has turned to the finest architects, designers and craftsmen to realise its ambitions. Recent survey work undertaken by Historic Scotland in collaboration with the University has unearthed an extraordinary record of these partnerships. Now, for the first time, the story of the University and its buildings can be told through a wealth of never-before-published archive material, ranging from photographs, plans and drawings, to contracts, accounts and personal letters. Building Knowledge traces the development of the institution from its founding in 1451 right up until the present day - including the latest chapter in its architectural history, about to be written with the expansion of the main campus.The University's fascinating buildings - which continue to inspire thousands of students, residents and visitors - have much to tell us about Scotland's enduring role as a centre of learning and culture in both Europe and the wider world. In this lavish new book, the story of a thriving University - and the people who built and shaped it - is brought to life in vivid detail.

The dramatic story of Scotland - by charismatic television historian, Neil Oliver. Scotland is one of the oldest countries in the world with a vivid and diverse past. Yet the stories and figures that dominate Scottish history - tales of failure, submission, thwarted ambition and tragedy - often badly serve this great nation, overshadowing the rich tapestry of her intricate past. Historian Neil Oliver presents a compelling new portrait of Scottish history, peppered with action, high drama and centuries of turbulence that have helped to shape modern Scotland. Along the way, he takes in iconic landmarks and historic architecture; debunks myths surrounding Scotland's famous sons; recalls forgotten battles; charts the growth of patriotism; and explores recent political developments, capturing Scotland's sense of identity and celebrating her place in the wider world.