This surprising grand tour follows the River Ythan in rural Aberdeenshire, flowing through a landscape of fields and haunted castles to a coast rich in wildlife.

Along the River Teviot, Paul Murton discovers bloody reiving history, joins the Hawick Common Riding, visits a haunted jail, then reaches the Tweed, where a king went off with a bang.

The River North Esk south of Edinburgh is a hidden gem. Paul follows it from the Pentlands through a landscape steeped in myth and legend - including the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel.

Paul explores the River Annan in Dumfries and Galloway, following it from where it rises above the Devil’s Beef Tub all the way to the Solway Firth.

Paul explores the lower reaches of Royal Deeside, runs aground in a canoe, breathes in the scent of lavender, and enjoys a rowie - Caledonia’s version of a croissant - in Aberdeen.

Paul explores the Upper Dee, from the Cairngorm mountains to Balmoral castle and Royal Deeside and learns about a lost German zeppelin and Queen Victoria’s 'darling' man.