The Highland Rambler
Scottish Country Dance Instruction
THE HIGHLAND RAMBLER (R8x40) 3C (4C set) Roy Goldring Leeds Silver Jubilee 19871- 8 1s dance in and cast to 2nd place, dance RH across with 3s
9-16 2s+1s dance LH across, 1L followed by partner cast up round 2L and dance down middle to 1L between 3s and 1M between 2s
17-24 1s+2s+3s dance down the middle and back
25-32 1M followed by partner dance up, cast down round 2L to 2nd places on own side and turn RH
33-40 2s+1s+3s circle 6H round and back
(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)
The Highland Rambler
Roy Goldring Leeds Silver Jubilee
Reel 8 x 40 bars 3 Couple Repeat 4 Couple Set Longwise Set
1-4 1s advance and cast to 2nd place;
5-8 1s3s right hands across;
9-12 2s1s left hands across;
13-16 1L, followed by 1M, cast up around 2L and dance down the centre line, finishing 2M1M2L 3M1L3L in lines across facing down;
17-24 2M1M2L 3M1L3L lead down and back;
25-28 1M, followed by 1L, cast around 2L and dance in to finish in 2nd place on own sides;
29-32 1s turn by the right;
33-40 2s1s3s 6 hands round and back.
(MAXICRIB. Scottish country dancing instructions compiled by Reuben Freemantle)
Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams
Dance Instruction Videos
The Highland Rambler - Scottish Country Dancing Instruction VideoDance Information
This 40 bar reel, The Highland Rambler, was published in RSCDS' Silver Jubilee publication Ten Scottish Country Dances (1987).It was dedicated to John Ilingworth who 'danced with joy and loved climbing Scottish Mountains'.
The lead tune John Illingworth was written by Muriel Johnstone.
The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United Kingdom, attracting walkers and ramblers from around the world. The region is known for its rugged terrain, dramatic peaks, and vast open spaces, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the most popular long-distance walking routes is the West Highland Way, which stretches for 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William. This trail passes through some of Scotland's most iconic scenery, including Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Glencoe. The route is well-marked and offers a mix of gentle paths and challenging climbs, making it suitable for a range of abilities.
Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, is a key attraction for ramblers seeking a more demanding hike. The mountain stands at 1,345 metres and provides stunning views from the summit. The most common route to the top is the Mountain Track, which is accessible to experienced walkers with a good level of fitness.
Glencoe is another renowned area for mountain walking, featuring dramatic ridges and deep valleys. The region is steeped in history and offers a variety of trails, from shorter walks to more technical climbs. The Lost Valley and the Aonach Eagach ridge are particularly well-known among experienced hikers.
The Cairngorms National Park, located in the eastern Highlands, is home to a vast network of trails that cater to different skill levels. The park features rolling hills, ancient forests, and high plateaus, providing a diverse walking experience. The Lairig Ghru, a mountain pass cutting through the Cairngorms, is a popular route for those looking for a challenging but rewarding trek.
The Scottish Highlands are also rich in wildlife, with walkers often spotting red deer, golden eagles, and mountain hares. The changing seasons bring different experiences, with summer offering long daylight hours and winter presenting snow-covered peaks.
Rambling in the Scottish Highlands requires preparation, including suitable clothing, navigation tools, and awareness of weather conditions. Many routes are remote, so carrying sufficient supplies and understanding the terrain is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. The Highlands continue to be a favourite destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Scottish Highlands - Information Video
A Highland Rambler
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Text from this original Scottish Highlands article on Wikipedia.
Image copyright Karl and Ali under this Creative Commons Licence 2.0.
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