Time for ‘just the two of us’?

Time for ‘just the two of us’?

by | Dec 22, 2016 | Blog

Christmas is a brilliant time of year, but there’s no denying it can get crowded! Family, friends, in-laws and everyone in between will soon be beating a path to your door. So, wouldn’t it be nice to have something to quietly look forward to? For just the two of you? Stirling is a beautiful place for a romantic break, and these properties might be just what you’re looking for.

Springwood apartment, Stirling

Springwood apartment offers luxury for two in a central location

Stronend Cottage, for couples who want to escape

Stronend Cottage, for couples who want to escape to a peaceful setting

Fine dining and a short walk home

Springwood Apartment: This luxurious one-bedroomed apartment is set within a beautiful Grade B listed Victorian villa. Standing in mature and secluded gardens, the apartment offers privacy and quiet, even though it’s just a short walk to Stirling city centre. So, it’s perfect for couples who plan a few tables for two during their stay. Within walking distance, you’ll find many options for dining, including the Friar’s Wynd Hotel and the Colessio Hotel. To book Springwood: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/properties/springwood-apartment/

Situated at the foot of the Castle hill in Friar’s Street, Stirling, The Friar’s Wynd is recently renovated, restoring original period features to give it a truly Scottish feel. The restaurant draws from traditional Scottish fare alongside contemporary dishes. There’s a good wine selection in the bar, and plenty of local whiskies too. http://www.friarswynd.co.uk/

The Colessio Hotel in Spittal Street, Stirling is a decadently grand boutique hotel. It includes a sophisticated cocktail bar and Grill Room Restaurant. The striking Grill Room restaurant offers high quality local produce, prepared with flair and impeccably served. Be seen in the bar and peruse the ever-changing cocktail menu. A special night out for two! http://www.hotelcolessio.com/

Seclusion, nature and panoramic views

Stronend Cottage: Though it can sleep six, this is still a great value choice for two people wanting to leave the hustle of Christmas behind. Located on the south-east margin of the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, Stronend Cottage offers peace and tranquility. Yet it’s within easy reach of Stirling, Glasgow and Edinburgh, and all that the area has to offer.

This old-style farm cottage has been recently built to exacting standards, with traditional features found in local dwellings that have stood for generations. Enjoy superb spectacular sunsets and panoramic views from the open plan dining and lounge area. Or, on warmer evenings, the large enclosed garden is the perfect space for a sundowner, while taking in the views. To book: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/properties/stronend-cottage/

Nights by the fire and star-gazing

Redcarr Lodge: If the two of you fancy cosying up by a wood-burning stove in an idyllic lodge house, then Redcarr Lodge is for you. Nestled in the quiet village of Blairlogie at the foot of the Ochill Hills, Redcarr Lodge is a beautifully restored cottage just five minutes’ drive from the centre of Stirling and all main routes. Set in immaculate gardens, the lodge itself provides a haven for couples. There’s a real country cottage atmosphere, yet it’s within easy access of all Stirling’s attractions.

The tranquil Scottish village of Blairlogie is set in a magnificent landscape, ideal for walking. Many of our guests also enjoy the short walk from Redcarr Lodge to the nearby ‘Coffee Bothy’ for coffee, cake and a warm welcome. This area is largely free of light pollution, too, so star gazers will appreciate the dark skies that this property offers. Be sure to pack your binoculars or telescope! To book: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/properties/redcarr-lodge/

Redcarr Lodge, a cosy break for two

Redcarr Lodge, a cosy break for two

Redcarr's secluded gardens come into their own in the warmer months

Redcarr’s secluded gardens come into their own in the warmer months

More information: Henderson’s Bistro, Albert Halls, Dumbarton Road, Stirling FK8 2QL. Tel: 01786 469727 Website: www.hendersonsstirling.co.uk

Photo credits: Food and interior pics of Albert Halls, reproduced by kind permission of Henderson’s Bistro. Photographer Paul Andrew. Albert Halls exterior: Kenneth Allen [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons.

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It’s Christmas! Dancing, singing, crafting, watching. You choose!

It’s Christmas! Dancing, singing, crafting, watching. You choose!

by | Dec 8, 2016 | Blog

Many of us would admit that the journey to Christmas is as festive as the day itself – if not more so. So, if you love to stack up a few events to get you and your family feeling Christmassy, then why not try one – or all – of these four traditional Christmas pastimes?

Christmas ceilidh magic at Ghillie Dhu
Ceilidh magic at Ghillie Dhu
Theatre or ballet this Christmas? What's your choice?
Theatre or ballet this year? What’s your choice?

Dancing

There are still a few precious tickets left for the Tolbooth’s increasingly popular Christmas ceilidhs on 10 December. With a family-focused ceilidh at 3pm, and then a more grown-up version starting at 8pm, this is a brilliant way for everyone to get a taste for traditional Scottish ceilidh dancing. No experience needed – the band will talk you through everything, and mistakes are part of the fun! For tickets (hurry), see: http://culturestirling.org/whats-on/

If you miss out on tickets, why not plan a Christmas day out in Edinburgh before enjoying dinner and dancing at the Ghillie Dhu in Rutland Place, Edinburgh. You can dine and dance there right up till 24 December. And if you get together a group of six or more, they will throw in some fizz too. For details: http://ghillie-dhu.co.uk/ceilidh/

Watching

Nothing is more traditional than theatre at Christmas. And what could be more festive than a production of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’? On 16-17 December, this American family classic comes to the Tolbooth, Stirling. Performed as a 1940s live radio broadcast in front of a studio audience, six actors will play not only the radio actors, but the dozens of characters they in turn portray from Frank Capra’s heart-warming movie. In its fifth year, this production is gathering a fervent following, so book tickets soon: http://culturestirling.org/events/wonderful-life-radio-play-stage-3/

Prefer a fairy-tale at Christmas? Then watch the Macrobert’s screening of The Nutcracker, live from the Royal Opera House, from 8-15 December. For tickets, see: http://macrobertartscentre.org/event/royal-opera-house-the-nutcracker-26/

Crafting

For many people, Christmas means crafting. If you fancy some grown-up crafting but want both the materials and guidance on hand, why not book a festive crafting workshop at Green Aspirations in Balfron Station? The sessions use natural, sustainable materials to create wreaths, wall-hangings, baubles, wrapping paper, cards and gift tags. To book, and to enquire about children’s drop in craft sessions, see: http://www.greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk/workshops

If you’re getting ready for Stirling’s New Year, there are a series of lantern making workshops to get you all set for the celebrations on the 31 December. The workshops take place in the Old Town Jail until 30 December. For details on the sessions, and the Hogmanay celebrations, see: http://www.stirlingwinterfestival.com/

Singing

It feels good to give your voice a rare outing at Christmastime. Why not clear your throat for a carol or two in the splendid surroundings of Stirling Castle on 11 December? Enjoy a glass of mulled wine as the Stirling contingent of the National Youth Choir of Scotland perform some classic carols and Christmas songs. Booking is essential! For tickets, visit: http://www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/whatson/events/carols-at-the-castle/

If you’re after a medley of modern Christmas classics, some brass, and some famous faces on top of your traditional carols, then head to the Albert Halls on 16 December. There, Eddi Reader, Karen Matheson, John McCusker and Phil Cunningham deliver a fun night of modern and traditional Christmas music. Bring the family and get seriously Christmassy. For more information, visit: http://culturestirling.org/events/phil-cunninghams-christmas-songbook/

If you miss out on these or simply want more, then Stirling City Choir’s annual Christmas Carol Concert takes place at the Church of the Holy Rude on 10 December from 7.30 pm. For information, see: http://www.stirlingcitychoir.org.uk/

Stirling University’s annual lunchtime Christmas Carol Concert takes place on campus on 13 December. This event, along with refreshments, is free, but you should book your place: http://www.stir.ac.uk/events/2016/december/christmasconcert/name-138652-en.html

Create your own green Christmas decorations this year
Create your own Christmas decorations this year
The Church of the Holy Rude - just one of the many venues for Christmas carols this year
The Church of the Holy Rude – just one of the many venues for Christmas carols this year

Photo credits:

  • Church of the Holy Rude, Stirling: By Robert Cutts from Bristol, England, UK (The Church of the Holy Rude, Stirling, nave) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
  • Ghillile Dhu ceilidh image reproduced with kind permission from Ghillie Dhu: http://ghillie-dhu.co.uk/
  • Handcrafted wreath image reproduced with kind permission from Green Aspirations: http://www.greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk/

 

 

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Supermoon 2016: fall in love with dark skies

Supermoon 2016: fall in love with dark skies

by | Nov 14, 2016 | Blog

Something special is going to happen tonight. Look up, and you will witness the biggest and best ‘Supermoon’ in around 70 years.

This is the second supermoon of 2016
This is the second supermoon of 2016
The moon will appear unusually bright and 'low-hanging'
The moon will appear unusually bright and ‘low-hanging’

The supermoon

It’s not just astronomers who are interested in the skies any more – we’ve become a nation of people who like to look up. And tonight, we’re going to be rewarded with something spectacular. This will be our closest full moon of the year – nearer to Earth than it has been since 1948. To be exact, the gap between the Earth and the moon will close to its shortest point (the perigee), a distance of 221,525 miles. As a result, tonight’s supermoon will appear some 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than a normal full moon. So, if it’s a cloud-free night, you’ll be hard pushed to miss it!

Where to see it

If you want to see Luna at her very best, you’ll need to wait until at least 5pm before looking south. If you can, head out of town to get away from light pollution. Our favourite place for stargazing is Sheriffmuir, Dunblane, which provides easily accessible height and good darkness. You can park your car at the Sheriffmuir Inn  (why not have a bite to eat too?) then leave the car behind to find a vantage point on foot. Abbey Craig, Dumyat, and Stirling Castle ramparts will all afford great views, though the latter will have some light from the City.

What will it be like?

Not only will the moon appear large, bright, and beautiful – it will also appear very low in the sky. This effect is largely an optical illusion – because the moon is close to the horizon, it becomes ‘measurable’ to the eye against familiar landmarks in the foreground like rooftops, chimneys and trees. This exaggerates the appearance of the moon as ‘low-hanging’ and makes for a striking display. With binoculars and clear skies, the moon’s craters and seas will be visible. Those lucky enough to have telescopes will see the moon surface in remarkable detail.

Taking photos

Because of its ‘low-hanging’ position, tonight’s moon will offer unprecedented photo opportunities. Anything that breaks the skyline will provide a striking silhouette against the illuminated moonscape. The Wallace Monument is a clear choice, but you’ll need to be some distance away and north of the monument to create the shot you want. Stirling Castle, The Kelpies at Helix Park, and statues like Robert the Bruce near The Battle of Bannockburn visitor centre will all provide compelling outlines for photos against the supermoon.

When will it happen again?

This is the second supermoon of 2016. We had a lesser one in October, and there is another yet to come on December 14. However, tonight’s will be the best of the bunch – until 25 November 2034, that is.

Love dark skies?

If you are planning a late autumn or winter break in Stirling, how about planning some stargazing too?

Landmarks like the Wallace Monument will provide striking silhouettes
Landmarks like the Wallace Monument will provide striking silhouettes
Stirling Castle ramparts offer a good vantage point, though not free of light pollution
Stirling Castle ramparts offer a good vantage point, though not free of light pollution

Photo credits:

  • The Wallace Monument (just outside Stirling, Scotland), taken from Burrough Meadow in the loop of the River Forth (Lat 56.1257 Lon -3.909). By John Preece (Taken by John Preece) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html), CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/) or CC-BY-SA-2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
  • Stirling Castle in Stirling, Scotland. Taken at night, showing the extensive illumination of the castle. Taken December 28th 2003 by user: Finlay McWalter. Copyright © 2003, 2004, 2005 Finlay McWalter {{GFDL}} {{cc-by-sa-2.0}}
 
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Remember, remember the best of November

Remember, remember the best of November

by | Nov 2, 2016 | Blog

Don’t miss November in the headlong rush toward Christmas – there’s so much to see and do in this crisp, clear month, from music and foodie festivals, to the very best winter markets.

Dougie MacLean's Perthshire Amber Festival begins this weekend

Dougie MacLean’s Perthshire Amber Festival begins this weekend. Photo: Rob McDougall

perth chocolate festival november

Perth Chocolate Festival, 19 and 20 November

Perthshire Amber

For autumn music, head to Dunkeld this weekend. This four-day long music festival is enjoying its twelfth year in its Perthshire home. Developed by musician Dougie Maclean, the festival celebrates the music, history and culture of Perthshire and Scotland. Guests from home and abroad perform in an array of evocative venues, from village halls to castles and Dunkeld Cathedral too. The Royal Dunkeld Hotel becomes the ‘Amber Central’ – the main hub for the festivities. There are lots of events for all family members. There’s a decorated wheelbarrow parade and hugely successful free outdoor picnic on Sunday 6 November. And if you can’t make it, you can live-stream the evening concerts from their website too! For full details of all events and tickets, see: http://www.perthshireamber.com/

Perth Festival of Chocolate

Chocolate fans will want to take the short train ride to Perth again in mid-November. Celebrating ‘the delights of the cocoa bean’, Perth Festival of Chocolate is now in its fourth year. It takes place on 19 and 20 November in King Edward Street, Perth. Coinciding with Perth’s Christmas lights switch-on, the Festival attracts hundreds of visitors to the scenic city. The Festival comprises market stalls selling speciality chocolate, home-baked chocolate products, chocolate drinks, cocoa-based cosmetics and much more. Local restaurants showcase their own “chocolate dinners” and chocolate-themed specials and cocktails during the event. As well as chocolate, there will be hot street food, entertainment, tastings, children’s workshops, demonstrations and more. Details here: http://www.perthfestivalofchocolate.co.uk/

Edinburgh Craft Beer Revolution

For those who enjoy a craft beer, this is a new festival on the scene. Edinburgh Craft beer revolution showcases 13 breweries and over 60 different craft beers from across Scotland and the UK. It takes place on 24-26 November at Assembly Roxy in the capital city – again just a train hop from Stirling. Beers for all palates will be on tap, from pale ales to the hoppiest brews. And that’s not all – there will be craft gin and vodka, and a tip-top wine selection too. Music, masterclasses and hearty street food are sure to make this newcomer festival a big hit for grown-ups. And a cheering way to send off the last days of November, too. For tickets, directions and more information, see: http://www.revolutioncraftbeer.com/

Glasgow’s Continental Market

Not a strictly a festival, we know, but with all the right ingredients – food, fun, music and spectacle. When a trip to Germany’s famed Christmas markets is beyond your budget, take the short train ride to Glasgow instead. Scotland’s friendliest city is transformed into a winter market wonderland from 10 November. Markets are setting up at both St Enoch Square and at George Square, set beneath the Christmas lights. There will be live entertainment, fairground rides and other festive surprises. Stallholders from all over Europe present their very best festive wares, delicious hot food and drink, as well as craft beers. There’s even talk of a stallholder from Lapland – now who could that be? Warm your hands and heart on a mug of Gluwein, or sample a beer at the Bavarian Bar. Wrap up well and enjoy the very best tastes of Europe in the heart of Glasgow. For more details, see link: http://www.glasgowloveschristmas.com/

Edinburgh's first craft beer festival opens later this month

Edinburgh’s first craft beer festival opens later this month

Glasgow's winter market stallholders will be ready from 10 November

Glasgow’s winter market stallholders will be ready from 10 November

Photo credits:

Perthshire Amber photo by Rob McDougall, www.perthshireamber.com

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A City Break and Some. Stirling in Autumn

A City Break and Some. Stirling in Autumn

by | Oct 20, 2016 | Blog

Season of mists and mellow fruitfulnesss – autumn in Scotland can be one of the most rewarding times to visit. Burnished leaf displays, quieter streets, temperate weather, and good value accommodation too. Here’s five reasons why an autumn holiday in Stirling is far more than your average city break.

Twin room in Glendevon Apartment, one of our budget properties
Twin room in Glendevon Apartment, one of our budget properties
Edinburgh Castle, just a one-hour trip from Stirling
Edinburgh Castle, just a one-hour trip from Stirling

Great value accommodation

If you’re considering a city break in Stirling, why not choose from our budget accommodation portfolio at budgetacommodationstirling.co.uk? Each one of our properties is perfectly equipped for your stay, with crisp, modern interiors and ideal central locations in both Stirling and in Bridge of Allan. Offering exceptional value for money, these apartments will provide you with the ideal base to explore Stirling and its beautiful surrounds without hammering your budget in the run up to Christmas!

Gateway to Glasgow to Edinburgh

Slap bang in the heart of Scotland, Stirling is the perfect place for a city break. Not only is it the gateway to the Highlands (heck, you can be in the wilds of Glencoe in under two hours!), but its central location opens up both Glasgow and Edinburgh as easy day-trip destinations too. Direct trains run frequently from Stirling City centre to both cities, and you could be in the heart of Glasgow or Edinburgh in around 50 minutes. Plan your Edinburgh day trip here: http://edinburgh.org/ or your Glasgow adventure here: https://peoplemakeglasgow.com/

Experience Scotland ‘in the fall’

For those who love autumn colour, there’s no need to get on board an expensive flight to New England. Stirling can provide the perfect base for ‘leaf peeping’ – just an hour from Stirling by car or even less by train, Perthshire has earned itself the title of ‘Big Tree Country’. Here, you can find Europe’s oldest tree, the world’s highest hedge, Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood in present day, and lots more. Visit some of the stunning sites recommended for leaf peeping by Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust at http://www.pkct.org/. Browse through their ‘Top 10’ for inspiration. Wow.

Scottish autumn wildlife

From spotting red squirrels to the bellow of red deer stags, autumn is an exciting time in the Scottish landscape, and it’s probably the best time to see our more elusive animals as they prepare for winter. For general information on what to look for and where, see VisitScotland’s autumn wildlife e-book here: http://ebooks.visitscotland.com/scottish-wildlife-series/. And if you want the help of an expert guide, there are many companies who can help you get the sighting you want. Check out this website for full information: http://www.wild-scotland.org.uk/

Seasonal produce

One of the best things about the autumn is the bounty it brings, and Stirling is a brilliant place to get your hands on it. Visit Stirling Farmers’ Market on the second Saturday of every month, from 10-4pm in Port Street Stirling. There, more than 25 stallholders will brave all elements to bring you the very best seasonal fare from their farms, orchards and kitchens. For more information, see: http://www.stirlingfarmersmarket.co.uk/. Look out too for Perth Festival of Chocolate on 19 and 20 November at http://perthfestivalofchocolate.co.uk/. And if foodie festivals are your thing, take a look at http://foodfestivalfinder.co.uk/scotland to ensure you don’t miss any during your Stirling city break!

Craigvinean pine cone shelter, by Ronald Weir
Craigvinean pine cone shelter, Perthshire. Photo by Ronald Weir
Autumn can be the best time to see Scotland's wildlife
Autumn can be the best time to see Scotland’s wildlife

Photo credits:

  • Edinburgh Castle By Klaus Hermsen (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html), CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/) or CC BY-SA 2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
  • Craigvinean Pine Cone Shelter: Photo by Ronald Weir and originally supplied by Perthshire Big Tree Country, now http://www.pkct.org/
  • Red squirrel By 4028mdk09 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
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