by ssc | Apr 3, 2014 | Blog
If you are staying in Stirling and enjoy a wee dram, what could be better than creating your own whisky trail? The following attractions are all within 30 miles of Stirling, so the designated driver will have things easy. If you find any other distilleries just a stone’s throw from Stirling (Perthshire is another whole whisky holiday in itself …) then do let us know!
Deanston whisky distillery in Doune, just 8 miles from Stirling
Deanston Distillery: Located in Doune, just eight miles from Stirling and nestling at the entrance to the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Deanston Distillery is a hidden gem. This former cotton mill sits beside the River Teith and has been distilling whisky using traditional methods since the 1960s. Take a 50 minute tour from just £8, enjoy a dram and redeem £5 against a bottle of Deanston malt, renowned for a sweet flavour that delivers a malty, honeyed spiciness on the palate. Or make an event of it with a hand-crafted tour that includes an ample three drams. Touring done, there is excellent food to be had in the distillery’s café, the Coffee Bothy. For bookings, directions and more details, see: http://www.deanstonmalt.com/
Tullibardine whisky distillery and visitor centre in Blackford
Tullibardine Distillery: A sweet, elegant and complex malt whisky, Tullibardine has been distilled at its Blackford home since 1949. The distillery uses clear waters from the Danny Burn in the Ochil Hills, the very same spring bottled by the famous brand name ‘Highland Spring’. The distillery’s location at this gateway to the Highlands is historic; the earliest sale of beer was recorded here in 1488, when the young King James 4th of Scotland stopped by on his way to his coronation to buy beer from the local brewery. The distillery is just 14 miles from Stirling and runs daily tours. To book a tour do phone ahead on 01764 661809. For directions, and more details, see http://www.tullibardine.com/
Oak casks in the warehouse of Glengoyne whisky distillery near Killearn
Glengoyne Distillery: Claiming the slowest distillation process in Scotland, Glengoyne Distillery lies just 26 miles from Stirling city centre in Dumgoyne, near Killearn. A whitewashed building at the foot of Dumgoyne Hill, the distillery has been producing since 1833 using only traditional methods, the finest oak casks, and time. The result: a single malt whose 10 year old bottle yields flavours of fresh green apples, toffee and a hint of nuttiness. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, ranging from a standard tour at £7.50 a head to an in-depth masterclass for connoisseurs at £125 per person. Every tour is guaranteed to be entertaining – they’ve been described ‘best whisky tour’ by The Sunday Times. For more information and directions, see: http://www.glengoyne.com/
Stirling Whisky shop: If you’ve still time on your hands, head to the Stirling Whisky Shop within the Stirling Highland Hotel. There you will find Stirling’s largest selection of Scotch Whiskies, gins, vodka, liqueurs and beers, accompanied by a selection of wine, champagne, cognac, plus much more. There are daily whisky tastings, a monthly whisky club, and you can benefit from the experience of a small team of dedicated staff who really do know their whisky. For information, events and directions see: http://www.stirlingwhiskyshop.com/
by ssc | Mar 27, 2014 | Blog
Easter – it’s that time of year when we start to venture outdoors again after the colder months, and family outings are definitely back on the agenda. To help you organise your Easter break, we’ve had a look at some of the best family-friendly Easter events available this year.
The National Trust for Scotland and Cadbury are organising events throughout Scotland
National Trust Easter egg trails: The National Trust and Cadbury are re-running their hugely popular Easter egg trails in 45 sites across Scotland this year from Friday 18 to Monday 21 April. Participating venues nearest Stirling are the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, Alloa Tower, and House of the Binns near Linlithgow. For 2014, the theme is adventurers – children will receive a make-it-yourself pith helmet, a Trail Journal containing all the clues needed to complete the trail and an Eggsplorer Passport to be stamped along the way. On completing the trail they will be rewarded with a Cadbury Egghead. For more details, prices and events near you: http://www.nts.org.uk/Easter and https://www.eastereggtrail.com/
The Macrobert: Stirling’s leading venue for cinema and the arts kicks off the Easter holidays with their Big Dance Day on April 5. This ambitious event includes dance workshops at the Macrob, dance trails for all ages around Stirling, and free ‘pop-up’ performances in Stirling city centre. Join in! For details and bookings, see: http://www.macrobert.org/letsdance.htm For a laid-back Easter weekend after all that, children will love Rio 2 or Tinkerbell and the Pirate Fairy in the Macrobert’s kid-friendly cinema theatre on 19th and 20th April. Or there’s the live performance of The Adventures of Robin Hood on Saturday 19th at 2pm, suitable for children 7 years and over. For bookings and further info on all these events, see: http://www.macrobert.org/
The Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway has lots of Easter fun lined up for its little passengers
Easter Special Steam Trains: If your children love the excitement of trains, then head to Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Railway for Easter Egg Special Trains from 18 to 21 April. Every child passenger receives an Easter Treat, and those wearing Easter bonnets can win a prize too. Easter egg hunts are taking place in the museum after your train ride. Book soon: these events are really popular! For details and tickets: http://www.bkrailway.co.uk/your-visit/events/
Easter at Stirling Castle: One of Scotland’s most magnificent castles is opening its doors for a family-focused Easter this year on 20th and 21st April. The weekend includes live shows, children’s activities, Hamish the Highlander and Pickles the Bear, games in the gardens, and you can even become a court jester for a day. All Easter activities are included in the normal ticket price. For details and fast-track booking, see the website here: http://www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/
The Falkirk Wheel plans a busy schedule this Easter
The Falkirk Wheel: Alongside the normal service of rides on the Wheel, there is lots of Easter-themed fun at the Falkirk Wheel for the Easter weekend of 19-21 April. There will be a visit from the Easter bunny who needs help to find his friends hidden round the wheel, and there will be a choice of children’s games and crafts, including creating Easter cards and bunny masks, as well as a visit from the Bird of Prey Centre and a ‘special guest’. Check the Wheel’s website and Facebook page for info and prices: http://www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk/events-at-the-falkirk-wheel/easter-fun-at-the-falkirk-wheel
Callendar House in Falkirk: The house offers a series of great, free Easter events throughout the holidays. Children can make their own fluffy Easter chicks on 8th, 10th, 15th and 17th April. Or, you can sample tradition Easter foods including simnel cake, hot cross buns and hot chocolate 7th to 21st April (2-4pm) in the Georgian kitchens. There will be a lamb roast cooked over an open fire on Saturday 19th April – go along and have a sample. These activities are all free. For further details, download the House’s brochure (see top right on the following web page): http://www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/venues/callendar-house/
Have a fabulous Easter everyone!
Image credits:
by ssc | Mar 20, 2014 | Blog
An Comunn Gaidhealach, the parent body of The Mòd, is based in Inverness
Hear the word ‘Mod’ in general conversation and you may be forgiven for distant memories of parkas, scooters, and thin leather neckties. But to many, if not most Scots, ‘The Mòd’ signifies something very different, and is nothing less than one of Scotland’s greatest expressions of its Gaelic culture.
In its original meaning, the Gaelic word mòd refers to any kind of gathering or assembly. But in contemporary Scottish understanding, the Mòd is an annual festival of Scottish Gaelic song, arts, and culture that is held in a different Scottish location every October. This year, Inverness plays host to the Royal National Mòd. This event draws visitors not only from all over Scotland and the UK, but attracts tourists and competitors from across the globe. For the Mòd is not only a celebration of the most traditional aspects of Gaelic culture, but a (sometimes fierce) competition between some of the most talented musicians and Gaelic singers you are likely to witness.
A choir from the Stirling Mòd perform in Stirling City Centre
Perhaps most significantly for the health and longevity of the Gaelic language and its culture, the Mòd isn’t confined to one event in the annual calendar. Local or ‘provincial’ Mòds are held throughout the year in towns and cities across Scotland, providing the heats which feed into the final competitions of the National Mòd. This year, the Stirling Mòd (or Mòd Shruighlea, in Gaelic) is held on 16 and 17 May, slap bang in perhaps Scotland’s sunniest month – the weather always seems to be at its very best in full spring. Lined up for this busy weekend are piping and fiddle competitions, as well as recitation, solo and duet singing, and choral singing contests – all in Gaelic. Children and adults alike take part, and the festival concludes in a ceilidh where the tension of competition is forgotten and both entrants and organisers let off steam in a traditional night of music and dancing. We spoke to Kirsty Galloway, Entries Secretary for the Stirling Mòd, to learn more.
‘In addition to the long established Coisir Og Shruighlea (Stirling Junior Gaelic Choir) Stirling’s Gaelic school Riverside Primary provides many entrants, but we are also starting to see entries from other local schools as interest in Gaelic grows throughout Scotland.’ The competitions are well subscribed – the piping competition alone will attract around 70 junior entrants, for example. But is the Mòd an exclusive club where only Gaelic speakers are accepted? Far from it, it turns out: ‘Take the choir,’ explains Kirsty, ‘perhaps only half of the choral singers are able to speak Gaelic.’ She classes herself as a non-speaker too. However, once people start to get involved, it’s clear that many find the lure of the language irresistible and start to learn it for themselves: ‘The whole point of the Mòd is to promote the Gaelic language by encouraging people to take part,’ Kirsty explains.
The Mod Ceilidh dance is an ideal introduction to Gaelic culture for tourists
So, how do visitors, tourists, and those new to the Mòd get a flavour of this annual festival of Gaelic culture? ‘Turning up at the Stirling Mòd without knowing Gaelic might be a bit confusing!’ says Kirsty. ‘Perhaps the best idea is to come to our closing ceilidh, join in the dances, and hear the best competitors deliver their winning performances again. It’s inclusive and child friendly too – that would be a good introduction!’
Good luck to all the organisers and competitors this year. And if you want to take Kirsty’s suggestion and see what it’s all about, the Stirling Mòd Ceilidh takes place at 7.30 on Saturday 17 May at the Golden Lion Hotel, Stirling. Tickets will be available at the door. Enjoy!
For more information, see: https://www.facebook.com/modshruighlea Or follow the Stirling Mòd on Twitter at: @ModShruighlea
Photos: An Comunn Gaidhealach The Royal National Mod sign and hanging basket outside the offices in Church Street, Inverness: Colin Smith [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Other photos by kind permission of https://www.facebook.com/modshruighlea
by ssc | Mar 13, 2014 | Blog
John Muir travelled alone, 'carrying only a tin cup, a handful of tea, a loaf of bread, and a copy of Emerson'
John Muir is widely known as the ‘Father of the National Parks’. Almost singlehandedly, the author and ecologist was responsible for the safeguarding of such famous and vital habitats as Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park and many of America’s most untouched wildernesses. He is loudly and deservedly hailed in the United States as a conservation pioneer, visionary, and activist. But back here in Scotland, where John Muir was born, you could be forgiven for having overlooked him entirely. However, this April sees the opening of the John Muir Way, which should change that forever.
Early years: John Muir was born in the Scottish town of Dunbar, East Lothian, on April 21 1838. The third child of eight in a strict Presbyterian family, John had a less than happy upbringing and endured many a beating at the hands of his father Daniel Muir. Forbidden to study anything other than the bible at home, John read secretly, devouring books on natural history and other subjects into the small hours, while his family slept. In 1849, the family emigrated to Winsconsin in the United States, where the restless boy had even wider landscapes to discover – this time on horseback.
A new purpose: Age 22, John began University, studying an eclectic mix of subjects including botany, chemistry and geology, though he never graduated. However, after two years he’d learned enough for his own needs, which were to study and understand the natural world around him. In 1866 John was working as a sawyer, when an eye injury focussed his ambitions. John was confined to darkness for six weeks, where he contemplated the future. Regaining both his sight and his purpose, he soon set off on his famous 1,000 mile walk from Indiana to Florida, published as ‘A Thousand Mile Walk to the Gulf’.
John Muir and President Roosevelt camped together at Glacier Point, Yosemite in 1903
A figurehead for nature: Muir then travelled to California, where he lived for three years in a simple cabin in Yosemite. Scientists, artists, and celebrities of the day visited, drawn by his knowledge of the terrain and his skills of storytelling. Among them was Ralph Waldo Emerson. The essayist and lecturer offered John a teaching position at Harvard, which he declined. Despite his obvious reluctance to follow a ‘typical’ career path, John was writing ever more widely about his studies and travels, catching the eye of Century magazine. Editor Robert Underwood Johnson promised to publish anything John could write about the preservation of the Yosemite area, and crucially, helped introduce a bill to Congress to establish it as a national park. It was successful. In 1892, Muir was also elected President to the newly created ‘Sierra Club’, a conservation society protecting the American wilderness. John’s standing as a spokesperson for nature was secured, and he went on writing and campaigning until his death on Christmas Eve, 1914.
John Muir's birthplace in Dunbar will mark the starting point of the new John Muir Way
The John Muir Way: Back home in Scotland, the John Muir Festival will take place from 17 to 26 April 2014. The festival’s strapline ‘Bringing John Muir Home’ says it all; as a nation we need to get to know John Muir better – he is, after all, one of our most influential exports. The newly created John Muir Way will commemorate 100 years since his death, and will stretch from his birthplace in Dunbar to the waters of the Clyde at Helensburgh. The new path will open up the varied landscape of Central Scotland for all to enjoy and respect, as well as provide a walker’s gateway into Scotland’s first National Park at Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. John Muir would definitely have approved.
For information on the John Muir Festival and maps of the John Muir Way see: http://www.johnmuirfestival.com/
- Photo credits: John Muir’s Birthplace: By Otter (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
- John Muir/John Muir with Roosevelt: public domain images
by ssc | Feb 27, 2014 | Blog
Spring, we love it. It’s a beautiful, optimistic season full of promise and fresh starts. Here are five great reasons to spend it in Stirling.
The Scottish Snowdrop festival holds events around Scotland in February and March
Re-connect with nature: For spring flowers, emerging bulbs and early blossom, take a leisurely stroll through Bridge of Allan’s beautiful Memorial Park, near the entrance to the University of Stirling. From there, circle the University of Stirling’s Airthrey loch to spot snowdrops, daffodils, and nesting wildfowl – those who love to dote on a fluffy chick or three won’t be disappointed. Entrance to the University is free, and parking starts at £1. Enjoy lunch at Clive Ramsay’s in the Uni Sports Centre, or in the Macrobert Arts Centre, where it’s well worth picking up an events brochure too. For those who just can’t get enough of a hopeful little snowdrop peeking through the soil, head to Kilbryde Castle in Dunblane for huge drifts of these early flowers in March. For directions and entry prices check this website. Don’t forget the Scottish Snowdrop festival, which holds open events in West Plean House, Stirling, Gargunnock House Gardens, Stirling, and at Braco Castle, Dunblane. The festival runs until 16 March, and details are here.
View from the foot of the Wallace Monument to Stirling Castle
The re-opening of two of Stirling’s historic icons: March 1st sees the opening of the new Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre just outside Stirling, on the site of the previous Heritage Centre, closed in 2013. Commemorating the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn, this hi-tech new centre couples immersive 3D technology with character actors to bring the historic conflict to life for visitors. April then brings the re-opening of Stirling’s National Wallace Monument after a major refurbishment to transform its three galleries and visitor centre. The Wallace Sword takes new pride of place in the heart of the Monument, mounted on a plinth created from rock hewn from the Abbey Craig 150 years ago. Even if you don’t go inside, park your car at the visitor centre and climb the spiralling path up Abbey Craig to the Monument’s foot, for one of the best spring views in Scotland.
Spring produce: Everyone is telling us to eat local, and in season, and it’s true; eating what is naturally available locally is best both for us and for the planet. March and April will bring asparagus, cauliflower, purple sprouting broccoli, spring greens and a whole lot more besides. To buy straight from the grower, have a browse round Stirling Farmers’ Market, held on the first Saturday of every month in Port Street, Stirling. What’s more, they even post a list of stallholders in the days preceding on this Facebook page, so you can plan both your shop and your menu. You will find not only fresh veg produce but preserves, meats, fish, breads, cheeses and traditional crafts too. There are plenty other markets nearby if you’re out and about: Falkirk holds its Farmers Market on the first Friday of each month in the High Street, while Linlithgow sets up its stalls on the fourth Saturday of every month, in the Vennel. For more details on all these visit scottishfarmersmarkets.co.uk.
Andy Scott's stunning 'Kelpies' which will be officially opened to launch the John Muir Festival
The John Muir Festival: Better known in the States than he is even here, Dunbar-born John Muir is rightfully known as the ‘Father of the National Parks’. The Scottish-American naturalist, writer, and pioneering conservationist was pivotal in establishing many of the most iconic national parks we know today, such as the Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks in the US. April 2014 brings the John Muir Festival, (17 to 26 April) which will officially open the John Muir Way, a national pathway named in his honour. There are some brilliant events throughout the festival, not least the finale on the shores of Loch Lomond, but not to be missed is the spectacular opening, which will also mark the official unveiling of a new cultural landmark just outside Stirling – the Kelpies and Helix. An unmissable pyrotechnics and music display on the theme of ‘Home’ will bring Artist Andy Scott’s 30-metre-high horses to life for this very special night – an unforgettable way to spend a spring evening in honour of John Muir. For tickets, see here: http://falkirkcommunitytrust.ticketsource.co.uk/
A Stirling Easter: Nothing says springtime quite like the Easter weekend, and this year, you can spend it at Stirling Castle. On 20 and 21 April, from 12 noon to 4pm, Stirling Castle will play host to a series of family shows and activities, including Pickles the Bear, Hamish the Highlander, and storytelling events uncovering Scotland’s past. Take part in a medieval sports day, learn what it’s like to be court jester, and explore one of the most significant castle in Scottish history. Adults £14.50 and children £7.50, and ticket prices include full entry to the Castle. For details and bookings go to www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk.
Photo: Stirling from the Wallace Monument. Author: Mike Pennington [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Photo: Andy Scott’s Kelpies. Author: Ben Williams, kindly provided by the Kelpies team.
