From Issue Eleven of Hidden Scotland Magazine

Scotland's Grand Designs

The people bringing Scotland’s forgotten buildings back to life.

Words by Lucy Gillmore

Printed in Issue Eleven of Hidden Scotland Magazine, Autumn and Winter 2025–26.

Across Scotland, there are buildings that have fallen on hard times – unloved and forgotten. Some are hidden away in remote glens; others, in plain sight, lie broken by the side of the road. While some of us merely dream of Channel 4-worthy renovation projects, thankfully those with more vision – and courage – jump in, embarking on journeys to breathe new life into old stones.

Birnam Hotel was once Fraser Potter’s old stomping ground, its grand baronial hall the scene of wild ceilidhs, celebrations and community events. Lately, though, it had lost its lustre.

The stately 19th-century hotel, built in the same era as the Fife Arms in Braemar for curious Victorian tourists, had become tired and rundown. Once an old-fashioned stop for whistle-stop coach tours, it had closed its doors to locals. It wasn’t derelict or abandoned. It wasn’t even for sale – but when Potter has a plan, details like that don’t stand in his way.

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