Country Life Magazine – August 23, 2023: This week’s issue features the ‘Scotland special’, filled with castles, nature and 43 pages of magical dream property.

In the swim

Christopher Woodward dives into the pools that keep the golden age of swimming alive

Holding fast

Brooding on its island cliff top, Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye, has been splendidly restored to glory, finds John Goodall

Hoop, stock and barrel

Vital to the water of life, whisky barrels require ancient skills. Joe Gibbs visits Speyside Cooperage to witness the magic

It’s all in the genes

Small details put the finishing touch on Backhouse Rossie in Fife. Caroline Donald visits a garden redolent with history