Jimmy Gilligan lived in caves near Crail around 1938. PIC: James Allan/www.geograph.org
For centuries, the hermit has found a natural home in Scotland. Caves, old bothies and even islands have been deployed by those needing space, sanctuary and shelter.
From the former bank worker from Dundee who lived in a cave for more that 20 years to the little castle on a Highland beach by an architect needing some time out, here we look at the stories of nine hermits and the places that they called home.
