About me

I am a historian, writer, presenter, museums professional and Canadian-born ‘New Scot’ based in Edinburgh since 2011.

Since then I have immersed myself in Scotland’s history and stories, having visited over 400 castles and innumerable ancient monuments, battlefields, urban archaeological sites and historic landscapes. As Calvin & Hobbes triumphantly proclaimed, “There’s treasure everywhere!” - and I strive to find and share it. Nothing is more rewarding than sharing knowledge which inspires others to go out on history-themed adventures of their own.

My writing across mediums, though primarily in prose, has allowed me to work with national heritage organisations including Historic Environment Scotland, the National Trust for Scotland, Archaeology Scotland, National Museums Scotland, VisitScotland, and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, of which I am an elected Fellow. I have given lectures and public talks for History Scotland, Museums & Galleries Edinburgh, Previously…Scotland’s History Festival, and numerous local history organisations.

Like many history obsessives, my own fascination with the subject began with fantasy and films - if not for The Hobbit, life could have turned out very differently. The symbiotic relationship between fantastical stories and a love for history is what inspired me to write my debut book, The History Behind Game of Thrones: The North Remembers, published by Pen & Sword Books in 2019. I am currently writing a creative nonfiction book centred on a selection of Scotland’s especially rich historic landscapes, using prose, poetry, folklore, first-hand experiences, museum objects and local insights to convey each one’s distinctive sense of ‘place’.

I live in Edinburgh with my partner, Ana, and dog, Calvin.

On a grassy hiilltop looking over a grey, brooding valley towards Castle Campbell, a man in a grey humper and jeans looks away towards the castle. A ruby spaniel stands next to him, looking at the camera.

  • "David knows his stuff. A valued contributor to our website and magazine, his articles are well-researched and packed with fascinating facts – you’re sure to be swept up in the hunt for our forgotten history.”

    The Scots Magazine

  • "David’s energy is infectious, whether he’s writing articles or delivering one of his sold-out talks. He’s knowledgeable, professional, extremely likeable, and he’s captured the attention of a large and enthusiastic audience."

    Dig It! Scotland