The Unremembered Places: Exploring Scotland’s Wild Histories

Scotland boasts some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Yet, for every spot which is remembered, there are those off the beaten track that are often overlooked.

In his latest book, Patrick Baker attempts to rectify this, showcasing some of the hidden gems Scotland has to offer.

Travelling across some of the most remote areas of the country from mountains to lochs to uninhabited islands, Baker unlocks the secrets of these seemingly forgotten destinations, retelling the stories and histories they contain, and showing how these locations have helped inform our nation’s modern identity.

While the subject matter may not appeal to all readers, Baker’s impressive writing skills ensure that what could, in the wrong hands, be rendered a taxing and factual read, is transformed into a fascinating and compelling journey.

Much of the landscape discussed is quite barren, but Baker describes it in such a way that reinvigorates it, breathing fresh life into even the most desolate of his surroundings by incorporating interesting stories and historical references.

By seamlessly weaving geography, history and cultural references into his observations, there is depth and purpose to the book which make it such an interesting and enlightening read.

In some ways, this is a very personal account of Baker’s own experience in his expeditions so while it provides inspiration for places to discover, it shouldn’t be mistaken for a factual travel guide, but rather gives a complementary narrative to anyone wishing to discover them for themselves.

That being said, one doesn’t have to physically go to these places to appreciate what they have to offer, as Baker really takes the reader with him on his travels, immersing them in his descriptions and ensuring they are as intrigued in his surroundings as he himself so clearly is.

The result is an insightful and intelligent read. From the comfort of your own home, Unremembered Places is the perfect book to lead you on an eye-opening journey across some of Scotland’s forgotten treasures.

Under Baker’s skilled penmanship, the seemingly unremembered places, once discovered, soon become unforgettable.

Review by Emma Reekie.