We'll be spending about three weeks in Scotland, and although we're going for the experience, not the shopping, I'll still want to pick stuff up.

We all know where to buy good stuff by mail-order, but, for instance, if I'm on Lewis and Harris is there anywhere to buy amazing, hand-knit kilt hose directly from the lady who knitted them? Or do I have to wait until I get home and order them through two or three intermediaries?

We'll be in Stirling, Oban (passing through, not sleeping there), Mull, Iona, Fort William, Lewis and Harris, Elgin and Edinburgh.

I'm not looking to pick up a kilt in Scotland, but would conceivably be looking for hose, headwear, sporrans, sgian dubhs...maybe keeping my eye out for used MOD brogues. That kind of thing.

So where are the secret kit stores?