Latest news with #NC500
Scottish Sun
16 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Wild camping in Scotland let me find the remote space that I'm used to, says Tim Peake
MAJOR Tim Peake has revealed that being in a remote corner of Scotland reminded him of his historic mission to space. Ten years ago Tim became the first Brit to join the European Astronaut Corps, blasting off from Kazakhstan to spend a total of 185 days onboard the International Space Station. 5 Major Tim Peake is heading to Scotland in September for a series of live dates 5 Tim and his Scots wife Rebecca exploring the great outdoors in Scotland He has been in demand ever since, reading a CBeebies bedtime story from 250 miles above the earth and was even recently quizzed about his time in orbit by Hollywood legend Tom Hanks. But last year he and his Scots wife Rebecca decided to get away from it all when they went 'off grid' while touring the North Coast 500. He says: 'We did kind of like the western part of the NC500. That was brilliant. 'We got this camper that looked like something out of Jurassic Park with this module stuck on the back of a Ford Ranger. 'We went completely off-grid - solar panel, hot water, outdoor shower, all that kind of stuff. And it was just great fun.' When it's pointed out he will be used to being so remote and self-sufficient after his time onboard the Space Station, he added: 'I know, it was brilliant. 'It was wonderful just kind of having that freedom to be able to go everywhere. 'We spoke to a few farmers who were very kind and just said, 'Yeah, you can go out on our land and find a spot and camp up.' However one thing Tim - who brings his live show Astronauts: The Quest To Explore to Scotland in September - wasn't plagued by in space were any pesky invaders like he experienced on his camping trip. He laughs: 'Most of the time when I go to Scotland, the midges are not a problem. Katy Perry kisses the ground after all-female Blue Origin mission – as Bezos's fiancee moved to tears by power of space 'But actually, last summer, they were quite bad, I have to admit. It was head nets on at least three nights.' Tim from Chichester, Sussex, attended Sandhurst in 1990, becoming a fully qualified helicopter pilot in 1994. But it was while posted to Germany he met his wife-to-be Rebecca, from Comrie, Perthshire - the couple married 27 years ago and went on to have two sons. He says: 'Rebecca she was in the Royal Logistics Corps and I was in the Army Air Corps. We were both based out there, met there, and got married in St Andrews.' But Tim's career really took off when he made the most of his time in space, conducting a crucial space walk to help carry out repairs to the ISS and even remotely running the London marathon. That's why he had absolutely 'no concerns' when his NASA astronauts pals Suni Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore ended up stranded on the station for nine months instead of just an eight day mission. 5 Katy Perry faced international ridicule for her antics during an 11 minute space flight 5 Tim played a track by Scots singer Amy Macdonald while he was in space He says: 'Once they kind of made that mental adjustment to think, 'Okay we're up here for the long haul' then they would have absolutely loved it. 'I mean they both got to do spacewalks. They mucked in as an ordinary space station crew. They did so much science and maintenance. And as astronauts, that's what you train for.' However, Tim is dubious about the benefits of space tourism, which in April saw Katy Perry and an all-female crew blast off in the Blue Horizon spacecraft owned by Amazon boss Jeff Bezos. The pop star faced international ridicule when she kissed the ground following her 11-minute space flight. But can Katy officially call herself an astronaut? Tim says: 'Yes, because she's passed the Kármán line, which is a hundred kilometres away and that's the official boundary of space. 'But I think we're kind of approaching an era of career astronauts, who have trained for years to do what they do. 'Then you have a tourist spaceflight participant, with the bare minimum of training, who are just like passengers on an aircraft.' He adds: 'I think every mission to space should be grounded in having some benefit for humanity. 'So right now, there's not a huge amount of benefit (to space tourism).' Tim, 53, even got to spend Christmas Day in space, talking to his wife Rebecca and sons Thomas and Oliver back on earth. He says: 'It was nice. I was kind of keeping an eye on them from up there.' And he has been delighted to recount his experiences in space to thousands of schoolkids and space enthusiasts since returning to earth, including to Tom Hanks, 68, when they appeared on a Radio 2 show together. He says: 'Tom wanted to know if the stars were brighter in space. They weren't actually but they don't twinkle up there. It's our atmosphere that makes them do that. So they are steady stars 'And of course there is zero light pollution up there so the Milky Way is amazing.' Tim also took an extensive playlist into space including Amy Macdonald's 2007 single This is th Life. He beams: 'That is a brilliant track. It's just got so much energy. It's one to be on the treadmill to or the bike machine. 'She's just an amazing artist and I love her music. I haven't met her but my playlist is out there. So maybe she knows that her track's been into space.' But when he's not working, Tim and his activity-mad family are regular visitors to the Cairngorms in The Highlands where they take part in 'hill climbing, cycling and kayaking'. However one thing he was unable to deliver during his months in space was a cloudless snap of Rebecca's home country. He says: 'I got quite a few pictures of Scotland, actually. It is pretty difficult to photograph in the winter months, I'll grant you that. 'I was trying to get a nice picture of the whole of the UK cloudless. I don't think I ever achieved that.' *Tim's live show Astronauts: The Quest To Explore Space will be at Eden Court, Inverness on Sept 1 and 2, Aberdeen's Music Hall Sept 3 and Dunfermline's Alhambra Theatre on Sept 4. For more info visit:
Daily Record
a day ago
- Daily Record
Scottish road trip through rugged terrain and picturesque coastline that rivals the NC500
The North East 250 is a quieter 250-mile Scottish road trip that rivals the famous NC500 with stunning scenery Scotland's famed North Coast 500 has long been a magnet for adventurers, drawing visitors from across the globe eager to tackle its 500-mile circuit of breathtaking Highland landscapes. But while it may dominate the headlines and bucket lists, another road trip is quietly making waves, offering a scenic, crowd-free alternative with just as much charm. Introducing the North East 250, a 250-mile circular route through some of Scotland's most captivating terrain. Since launching in 2017, it last year earned a place on Lonely Planet's Ultimate Travel List, celebrated as one of the world's top 500 unmissable travel experiences. From the wild beauty of the Cairngorms and the windswept coastlines of the Moray Firth to the whisky-soaked glens of Speyside, the NE250 is a journey packed with wonder. The route begins in the Cairngorms National Park and loops around the northeast coast before curving back down through whisky country. It's ideal for cars, campervans and even bicycles, with popular stopovers in towns like Peterhead, Banff, Buckie, Aberlour and Ballater. Travellers can choose to start at three convenient locations: Glenshee, Aberdeen Airport or Ballindalloch. While not as well-known as the NC500, that's part of its appeal. The NE250 offers a quieter, more peaceful road trip without sacrificing the spectacular views or local flavour. As more tourists flock to the north, this lesser-known gem allows you to sidestep the crowds and still enjoy a truly Scottish adventure. When to go Scotland's weather can be unpredictable, but spring through autumn, roughly early April to late September, is the best time to explore the route. Winter is the only real exception, as snow can cause road closures in higher parts of the Cairngorms. How long does it take? The North East 250 can be completed in two to three days, but taking it slow over three to four days will allow time to soak up the scenery and make the most of its many stops. Highlights of the NE250 From towering peaks and ancient castles to whisky tastings and dolphin sightings, the route is packed with unforgettable moments. Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms Start with Balmoral Castle, the Royal Family's beloved Scottish retreat, and the nearby village of Ballater, a charming Victorian spa town brimming with character. Just a short distance away lies Crathie, home to Scotland's own pyramid, a unique granite memorial on the Balmoral Estate. Aberdeen and the Coast The northeast coast offers dramatic seascapes and hidden gems. Near Portknockie, Bow Fiddle Rock juts out of the water like a natural sculpture, a must-see for photographers and dolphin watchers alike. In Fraserburgh, the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses tells the story of over 200 beacons that have safeguarded Scotland's shores, while the haunting ruins of Slains Castle, said to have inspired Dracula's castle, stand dramatically on the clifftop near Cruden Bay. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Speyside As you reach Speyside, the whisky trail begins. Visit Ballindalloch Castle and Distillery, where you can admire stately architecture before sampling a dram next door. Glenfarclas Distillery, a family-run operation, is known for its rich traditions and detailed tours. Aberlour is another favourite, with its Walkers shortbread shop and the nearby Linn Falls, a picturesque waterfall tucked in the woods just a short walk from the village. At the Speyside Cooperage, visitors can witness the ancient craft of barrel-making firsthand, watching skilled coopers prepare casks destined for some of the world's finest whiskies. And don't miss Elgin Cathedral, a magnificent medieval ruin often referred to as the 'Lantern of the North.' Built in the 1200s, its soaring arches and intricate stonework are a poignant reminder of Scotland's ecclesiastical history.
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Scottish Sun
‘Turn the sprinklers on' cry NC500 locals as camper blasted for ‘really rude' act
It follows constant rows about the behaviour of tourists embarking on the hugely popular 516-mile journey CAMPER FURY 'Turn the sprinklers on' cry NC500 locals as camper blasted for 'really rude' act A LOCAL living along the North Coast 500 route has hit out at a camper over their "really rude" behaviour. The furious Ullapool resident was left unimpressed after discovering a tourist had set up camp for the night beside someone's house and garden. 1 An image shared online shows a blue tent erected near someone's house Credit: NC500 The Land Weeps It follows constant rows about the behaviour of tourists embarking on the hugely popular 516-mile route. Taking to Facebook group NC500 The Land Weeps, the local wrote: "Camping by duck pond, right by someone's house/garden. Hanging clothes on someone's garden fence. "Top-notch campsite a few hundred meters away." Fellow locals flocked to the comments to react to the "rude and inconsiderate" behaviour. One fumed: "Turn the sprinklers or garden hose on the fence or go out and paint it and their clothes." Another said: "Disgusting and disrespectful. If I were that homeowner, I'd be playing very loud music at 2am." A third weighed in: "Above the law. 'Entitled' to do as they please." A fourth put: "How does anyone think this is ok! A fifth added: "Hope the property owner has had a word or two with them." A sixth blasted: "How did they even find their way down there? The tent must be pitched on the drive." Locals fury at NC500 pranksters Over the years, NC500 tourists have been accused of cramming car parks with motorhomes and overpopulating small areas, causing damage to the local environment. There are also concerns that the single-track roads "cannot cope" with the increasing volume of traffic. Meanwhile, a report revealed that cases of people doing their business in laybys and elsewhere has doubled in two years. The Highlands get more than six million visitors a year - including day-trippers, overseas travellers and cruise passengers. Fresh calls have recently been made for a tourist tax on campervans trailing along the route. Some NC500 residents are unhappy that the roads are clogged with campervans, and many have had to deal with tourists doing the toilet outside their homes. Meanwhile, Rangers in the Highlands have been forced to call in cops to deal with outbursts of extreme aggressive behaviour from visitors.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Calls for campervan tax in the Scottish Highlands amid claims roads ‘can't cope' with traffic
Calls have been made for a campervan tax in the Scottish Highlands amid claims that roads 'cannot cope' with increased tourist traffic. A Scottish Labour candidate for Inverness and Nairn for next year's Holyrood election has floated the idea of a tourist tax that specifically targets campervans being driven in the area. The candidate, Shaun Fraser, said that roads can no longer handle the surge of traffic in the Highlands, much of which is on the popular driving route, the North Coast 500 (NC500). Tourists flock to the 516-mile 'superloop' each year to drive among some of Scotland's most magnificent scenery as it weaves past glens, mountains, castles and coastline. The NC500 follows the main roads along the coastal edges of the North Highlands of Scotland, through Wester Ross, Sutherland, Caithness, Easter Ross, the Black Isle and Inverness-shire. Motorhome tourism has become popular along this route, with campervans making it easy to stop in off-grid locations with the essentials they need when shops or accommodation become scarce. The Highland Council estimated that nearly 36,000 campervans toured the historic and mountainous region in 2022 alone. However, with the surge in visitors has come an uptick in complaints from local residents over damaged verges, blocked passing spaces and overfilled bins, The Herald reported. Mr Fraser told the newspaper he wants to see a campervan tax introduced that would form part of a 'fair and well-designed' visitor levy to help maintain roads and boost public services. The Labour candidate continued: 'Tourism is a key aspect of the Highland economy, and it is important that we are sensitive the the introduction of such a scheme, but there has been a 65 per cent increase in tourist numbers since 2012 and local infrastructure has not kept up with these demands.' 'Initiatives such as the North Coast 500 have transformed the dynamics of Highland tourism, with a huge rise in campervans using rural single-track Highland roads. Our roads cannot cope with this. It is a mixed blessing.' 'I would be open to looking at options attached to campervans, including number plate recognition to charge visiting campervans using Highland roads.' Proposals for tourist taxes are not unheard of in the Highlands, as the Highland Council have already started a consultation process of introducing a visitor levy in the region. The Highlands are joined by Scotland's two major cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow, in working their way through consultations to introduce a visitor levy. The Visitor Levy Act became law in September 2024, which allows councils in Scotland to tax overnight accommodation if they wish to do so. While Glasgow is still making its way through the consultation stage, Edinburgh voted in January to add a five per cent surcharge on visitors' overnight stays by 2026. The Highland Council's visitor levy proposal would also see a charge that would apply to overnight accommodation to improve infrastructure, such as roads and public toilets, that incur wear and tear due to tourism. With more than six million people visiting the picturesque Highlands annually, the Highland Council calculated the tax could bring in between £5m and £10m a year. If approved, the Highlands' tourist tax could also be implemented by 2026.
The Independent
2 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Calls for campervan tax in the Scottish Highlands amid claims roads ‘can't cope' with traffic
Calls have been made for a campervan tax in the Scottish Highlands amid claims that roads 'cannot cope' with increased tourist traffic. A Scottish Labour candidate for Inverness and Nairn for next year's Holyrood election has floated the idea of a tourist tax that specifically targets campervans being driven in the area. The candidate, Shaun Fraser, said that roads can no longer handle the surge of traffic in the Highlands, much of which is on the popular driving route, the North Coast 500 (NC500). Tourists flock to the 516-mile 'superloop' each year to drive among some of Scotland 's most magnificent scenery as it weaves past glens, mountains, castles and coastline. The NC500 follows the main roads along the coastal edges of the North Highlands of Scotland, through Wester Ross, Sutherland, Caithness, Easter Ross, the Black Isle and Inverness-shire. Motorhome tourism has become popular along this route, with campervans making it easy to stop in off-grid locations with the essentials they need when shops or accommodation become scarce. The Highland Council estimated that nearly 36,000 campervans toured the historic and mountainous region in 2022 alone. However, with the surge in visitors has come an uptick in complaints from local residents over damaged verges, blocked passing spaces and overfilled bins, The Herald reported. Mr Fraser told the newspaper he wants to see a campervan tax introduced that would form part of a 'fair and well-designed' visitor levy to help maintain roads and boost public services. The Labour candidate continued: 'Tourism is a key aspect of the Highland economy, and it is important that we are sensitive the the introduction of such a scheme, but there has been a 65 per cent increase in tourist numbers since 2012 and local infrastructure has not kept up with these demands.' 'Initiatives such as the North Coast 500 have transformed the dynamics of Highland tourism, with a huge rise in campervans using rural single-track Highland roads. Our roads cannot cope with this. It is a mixed blessing.' 'I would be open to looking at options attached to campervans, including number plate recognition to charge visiting campervans using Highland roads.' Proposals for tourist taxes are not unheard of in the Highlands, as the Highland Council have already started a consultation process of introducing a visitor levy in the region. The Highlands are joined by Scotland's two major cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow, in working their way through consultations to introduce a visitor levy. The Visitor Levy Act became law in September 2024, which allows councils in Scotland to tax overnight accommodation if they wish to do so. While Glasgow is still making its way through the consultation stage, Edinburgh voted in January to add a five per cent surcharge on visitors' overnight stays by 2026. The Highland Council's visitor levy proposal would also see a charge that would apply to overnight accommodation to improve infrastructure, such as roads and public toilets, that incur wear and tear due to tourism. With more than six million people visiting the picturesque Highlands annually, the Highland Council calculated the tax could bring in between £5m and £10m a year.
