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Light up November

by ssc | Nov 8, 2017 | Blog

The clocks have changed and the mercury’s falling – November is always the month when we realise we’re on the road to winter. But there’s plenty to celebrate in November, so throw another log on that fire and huddle up with your diary!

Join the Supernova 5K to light up the Kelpies at dusk

Join in the fun of Stirling’s Christmas lights switch-on

Supernova 5K

What better way to light up the darker evenings than with a run, jog or walk round the Helix Park? There are still slots left in the Supernova 5K for this Sunday, 10 November. Round up everyone – grandparents, uncles, aunties, parents, kids, friends and dig out anything that glows or flashes. Get yourselves suitably sparkly and set off at your own pace – there are no time limits at all. And by the way, fancy dress is strongly encouraged. This event is for everyone – from runners striving for a personal best, to the toddler taking their first steps. Enjoy. For more information, and booking (hurry!), visit: https://www.supernovarun.com/kelpies/

Christmas Lights Switch On

Come and see Santa and his reindeer start the festive celebrations in Stirling City Centre on Sunday 17 November. Santa’s reindeer will be outside the Albert Halls from 1.00pm. They will then join Santa and some special friends and set off through the city centre at 2.00pm, winding their way through Corn Exchange and down King Street, Murray Place, Friars Street, Baker Street, Corn Exchange then returning to the Albert Halls for a well-earned rest until 3.15pm. Host Jennie Cook will keep everyone entertained with festive fun at the foot of King Street from 3pm. The entertainment will include performances from Stirling High School, the Tolbooth Young Performers, Funbox and local singer Alix Muir, who will keep the crowd dancing with her pop covers until the big switch on at 5.00pm. And it’s all free! For more information, visit: www.stirlingwinterfestival.com

Rapunzel: A Hair-braiding Adventure

November 22 opens the annual Macrobert Panto Extravaganza, whose tickets sell like hot-cakes, so it’s wise to choose your dates now. This year’s panto is written by, directed by and starring the fabulous Johnny McKnight in ‘Rapunzel: A Hair-braiding Adventure’. Poor Rapunzel’s been locked up in a tower her entire life with no telly, no Wi-Fi and no dry shampoo! But she has dreams – of walking barefoot around the mythical land they call Tullibody, of meeting her one true love and singing a duet, and of getting her hair cut. But one day the lonely Rapunzel has a surprising visit in her tower – Prince Rocco is armed and dangerous with a pair of scissors and a plan. The show runs 22 Nov to 31 Dec. For more information, visit: https://macrobertartscentre.org/event/rapunzel-a-hair-braiding-adventure/

St Andrew’s Day

Scotland’s patron saint was known for his thoughtfulness and concern for others – so this St. Andrew’s Day the National Wallace Monument will follow his ethos to share with others by providing all visitors FREE ADMISSION. You’ll want to be at the Monument bright and early on Saturday 30th November to celebrate St. Andrew’s Day 2019 with free admission (Saturday only), face painting and performances of ‘Scotland’s National Hero‘. The Monument and Legends Coffee House will be open from 10:00am until 4:00pm, and there are lots of great ideas for some early Christmas shopping in the Souvenir & Gift Shop. Wrap up warm and celebrate the country’s patron saint while learning more about another national treasure – Sir William Wallace. For more information, visit: https://www.nationalwallacemonument.com/ht_event/st-andrews-day/

Panto fun at the Macrobert

Free entry to many Scottish landmarks for St Andrew’s Day

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Indoor activities for rainy summer days!

by ssc | Jul 27, 2017 | Blog

Let’s be honest. Summer in Scotland is beautiful, but it’s, well, unpredictable, too. So, if you’re staying with us over the summer and the weather forecast looks iffy, we’ve plenty of indoor events to ensure your holiday stays magical, come rain or shine!

Enjoy music despite the rain at Stirling Castle

Enjoy an evening with the SCO at Stirling Castle

Hidden treasures at the Albert Halls antiques fair

History and a little bit more

The Antonine Wall in Falkirk: Escape a rainy day and head to Callendar House in Falkirk, just a 20-minute drive from Stirling. Browse the fabulous house itself, and be sure to visit the Georgian kitchens. There’s usually some foodie treats to sample from the fully costumed cooks there, who’ll give you a taste of early 19th century fare handmade that day. The House’s permanent displays are The Story of Callendar House, a history covering the 11th to the 19th centuries; The Antonine Wall, Rome’s Northern Frontier; and Falkirk: Crucible of Revolution 1750-1850, tells how the local area was transformed during the first century of the industrial era. And it’s all free. For more information, visit: http://www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/venues/callendar-house/

The Scottish Chamber Orchestra at Stirling Castle: Who cares what the weather is doing when you are listening to orchestral music within the stunning surroundings of Stirling Castle? Made a date for 18 July, when the SCO visit to perform at the historic venue. The Orchestra’s principal Cellist Philip Higham is soloist in Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations – a work that tips its hat to the eighteenth century, but is Romantic at heart. The opening of Mozart’s ‘Paris’ Symphony demonstrates Mozart making use of clarinets for the first time in a symphony. Conductor Philipp von Steinaecker continues the genial high spirits and passion in Haydn’s final Symphony. For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.stirlingcastle.scot/whatson/

Free guided tour at the Engine Shed: On 20 July, join your guide for a free guided tour of this building – Scotland’s dedicated building conservation centre. The building in Stirling was once a military goods and transfers shed, built sometime between 1896 and 1913. The exact details of its construction were subject to an information blackout and are still unknown today. In 2017, after an extensive restoration, The Engine Shed opened its doors to the public. During the guided tour, you’ll learn how the Engine Shed was renovated using traditional materials in a contemporary way, and how many other traditional materials have been recycled or restored during the restoration. For more information, visit: https://www.engineshed.scot/whats-on/

Appreciate the environment and antique treasures

Eco Fayre at the Macrobert, Stirling: Drop in for free with all the family! Inspired by Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and his friends (a play for children running this summer) the Macrobert is running a selection of events to talk about wildlife and the environment. The Eco Fayre on 28 July gives you a chance to browse stalls from organisations like Plantlife Scotland and the RSPB, exploring simple changes we can all make to help take care of our environment. You can also have a go at some hands-on activities. For more information, visit: https://macrobertartscentre.org/event/eco-fayre/

Scotfairs Antiques Fair: If the forecast says rain, then why not rummage for treasures on the first Saturday of every month? Head to the glorious Albert Halls in Stirling, where you will find antiques for the connoisseur, hidden gems for the experts, and thousands of gorgeously affordable items for everyone else. Be sure to have lunch or at least a coffee at Henderson’s Bistro within the halls, too. Perfect. For more information, visit: http://www.scotfairs.co.uk/calendar.htm

Comedy?

Comedy sneak peek: On the 12 July, at the Macrobert, Stirling, you can see Craig Hill, Micky Bartlett, and Mark Nelson’s Edinburgh Fringe preview. It’s a night of comedy with a difference – headline comedians trying out their brand new material – off notes and adrenaline. So come expecting nerves, a bit of chaos and a lot of laughs … but don’t come expecting a slick, finished comedy show on the cheap. Contains adult humour and some rude (but hilarious) jokes. Strictly 16+ and those not easily offended. Please note these shows are a ‘work in progress’ – so it won’t be slick, but it sure as heck will be funny. For more information, visit: https://culturestirling.org/events/comedy-sneak-peek/

Music and dancing …

Gary Innes: 26 July at the Tolbooth, Stirling, see Highland-born accordionist and MG Alba Scots Trad Awards ‘Instrumentalist of the Year’ winner, Gary Innes. Born in the village of Spean Bridge in the North of Scotland, Gary is one of the founding members of award-winning Scottish super-group Mànran and has been [performing for over 16 years. Gary returns to The Tolbooth this July with his band, following the release of his latest album in February 2019. For more information, visit: https://culturestirling.org/events/gary-innes/

Summer Ceilidh: With dates in both July and August, enjoy a traditional Scottish ceilidh for all at the Tolbooth Stirling. You’ll have a great night out in great company, with a ceilidh led by the International Ceilidh Collective featuring some of Scotland’s finest traditional musicians. The band will lead you through the best known Scottish dances. For all levels and ages – a ‘caller’ will talk you through the steps – just bring your dancing shoes. For more information, visit: https://culturestirling.org/events/summer-ceilidh/

Kids will love the hands-on activities at the Macrobert Eco Fayre

Scottish music can dispel any rain cloud

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

Photo credits:

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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Summer holiday fun in Stirling

by ssc | Jun 15, 2017 | Blog

From Highland Games to ceilidhs, to summer storytelling, music festivals and even Jedi training – Stirling has everything you could ever want for a school holiday your family will never forget!

Traditional events at Stirling Highland Games

Whether at Bridge of Allan’s Highland Games, or Stirling’s, you’ll enjoy some local colour!

Bridge of Allan Highland Games

Visit this beautiful Victoria spa town for a unforgettably Scottish day out on Sunday 6 August. There will be Highland dancing, pipe bands, and a full programme of traditional Highland Games competitions covering athletics, cycling, heavyweights, tossing the caber, and wrestling. There will be plenty of interesting stalls to browse as well as food stands and even an adjoining fairground for the kids. Bus and car parking is free and there are two car parks. That’s one day out sorted! For info: http://bofagames.com/

Summer fun outdoor sessions at the Helix

The Helix Park has organised a packed programme of fun outdoor activities for the wee ones from the 7th of July until the 17th of August. There are sessions for all ages and interests, from the Under 5s Hungry Caterpillar and Incy Wincy Spider, to 5-8 years Woodland Treasure Hunts and Jedi Training, right to Mad Scientists and Den Building for those who’re 8 plus, to Fire and Food Sessions for kids over 10! For these and even more ideas, see: http://www.thehelix.co.uk/all-events/helix-summer-outdoor-fun-sessions/

Summer Ceilidhs

These have become one of Stirling’s ‘must-do’ summer events and sell out quickly, so do book now. They are suitable for all the family, locals and visitors alike, and for anyone who likes a jig, no matter whether they know the dances or not. These ceilidhs will gently introduce you to ceilidh culture, with dances led by a ‘caller’ who will talk you right through the moves. The ceilidh band features some of Scotland’s finest musicians and is a brilliant way to meet new friends and enjoy a great night out. They run on 12 July, 3 and 23 August at The Tolbooth, Stirling. For more information, visit: http://culturestirling.org/events/

Doune the Rabbit Hole

If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to introduce your kids to Festival culture, then this it. Doune the Rabbit Hole is an intimate, independent music & arts festival located amidst the glorious ancient oak trees of the Cardross Estate, near the Lake of Menteith in Stirlingshire. The Festival started life in 2010, at a site near Doune (hence the name!) and for the last seven years has been growing in popularity and celebrating the very best of Scotland’s independent/DIY arts scene alongside amazing international guests. This is a fabulous event for all the family on the weekend of 18-20 August. For tickets: http://dounetherabbithole.co.uk/

Stirling Highland Games

One of the City of Stirling’s signature annual events, Stirling’s Highland Games welcomes visitors from around the world to witness traditional Highland games competitions. The games field behind Stirling Sports Village offers brilliant views over to the Wallace Monument, Cambuskenneth Abbey and Stirling Castle. There’s a full programme of traditional events that include running, cycling, Highland dancing, heavyweights, long jump and triple jump. Enjoy piping performances throughout the day, too. In addition, the Traders Village will present its own foodie festival, with great Scottish fayre on offer. Sample from the hog roast, craft beers, Prosecco bar, ice creams, preserves, and whisky stalls. And get hands-on with some foodie activities with the experts. http://www.stirlinghighlandgames.com/

Summer Story Trails

Need something quieter for the very little ones? Then join storyteller Daniel Serridge for a story walk around some of Stirling University’s most interesting sculptures this summer. Dress for the weather and bring your sling or all-terrain buggies. A brilliant activity for kids ages 0 to 6 years and their grown-ups. These run on 1, 8 Aug 10-10:45am. 1, 8 Aug 11-11:45am. 1, 8 Aug 12-12:45pm. 1, 8 Aug 2-2:45pm from the Macrobert Arts Centre. For tickets, see: http://macrobertartscentre.org/event/summer-story-trails-age-2—7/

There is a packed programme of events for families at the Helix this year,
and why not see the Kelpies, too

Storytelling on Stirling University Campus

Enjoy a story walk with your little ones in the beautiful Stirling University campus

Photo credits:

Stirling Highland Games images kindly supplied by Stirling Highland Games, and copyright Bryan Robertson.
Stirling University Image: By University of Stirling (University of Stirling) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

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Easter Family Events 2017

by ssc | Apr 5, 2017 | Blog

Easter. Scotland has burst into bloom and the days are noticeably longer. It’s time for getting outdoors, and catching up with the kids now the school term has finished. To help you plan an Easter to remember, we’ve rounded up some of the best family events on offer within easy reach of Stirling.

Take an Easter Egg Special at Boness and Kinneil Railway

Hunt for Easter eggs at Culross Palace

Easter Egg Special Trains at Boness and Kinneil Railway

The railway’s popular Easter Egg special trains run on Friday 14, Saturday 15, Sunday 16 and Monday 17 April 2017. There’s a prize for the best Easter bonnet and an Easter egg hunt in the Museum. Enjoy the free colouring, crayons and tasty Easter treats that the Easter Bunny has left for all boys and girls over the weekend. The journey from Bo’ness to Manuel takes around 70 minutes, but all tickets are Day Rovers, so you can hop on and hop off as you like. Stay all day and explore the Museum, Model Railway and the railway site via the Visitor Trail at Bo’ness and the stations along the line. More information.

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts with National Trust

Cadbury have teamed up with the National Trust for Scotland again this year to create Easter Egg Hunts in some of Scotland’s most historic settings. Chocolate and culture, combined! The nearest hunts to Stirling take place from Good Friday to Easter Monday at Alloa Tower in Clackmannanshure, Culross Palace, Fife, and House of the Binns in Linlithgow. Events are included in the normal admission price. Check your chosen venue’s Egg Hunt dates and other postcodes on the Cadbury website first.

Easter Eggsplorer Trails with Historic Scotland

Not to be outdone, Historic Scotland’s Easter Eggsplorer Trails take place at a number of iconic castles, abbeys, forts and palaces throughout Scotland. All you need to do is find the clues and complete the challenge to be a winner. Drop-in throughout the day, and the events are included in normal admission. The nearest participating venue to Stirling is Linlithgow Palace, from Good Friday to Easter Monday. You can search for other venues and more information here.

Easter weekend at Stirling Castle

Join the Easter family fun at Stirling Castle on Easter Saturday and Sunday. There are lots of heritage, history and archaeology themed activities for children. These are included in the normal admission price. More information.

RSPB Nature Scavenger Hunt at the Helix

On Easter Monday, work off all that chocolate with a scavenger hunt at the Helix. Meet near the adventure playground to set off on an adventure. What natural treasures can you find in the Park this spring? Check the weather and dress accordingly. And wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty! Suitable for families with children aged 4-10. Free, and no need to register. More information.

Feed the Lambs at Briarlands Farm

Easter just isn’t Easter without seeing an adorable lamb or three in the fields. Even better, you can feed them yourself at Briarlands Farm, just outside Stirling. Until 30 April you can hand-feed the farm’s newest arrivals at 12 noon and 4pm daily. Sessions are included in the normal admission price. Remember, there’s lots of outdoor fun to be had at Briarlands, so pack a picnic and make a day of it. More information.

Easter in the kitchen at Callander House

At 11am each day (Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday), join the cook at Callander House to sample Easter treats from the Georgian Kitchen. The cook will be roasting a leg of lamb on the roaring fire on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, with samples offered throughout the weekend. Find out how the Georgians celebrated Easter by using traditional methods to colour their eggs, and get the chance to taste delicious Easter simnel cake and hot cross buns. More information.

Feed the lambs at Briarlands Farm

Whatever you choose to do – Happy Easter!

Photo credits:

Culross Palace: By Palickap (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Boness and Kinneil Railway: Thomas Nugent [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!

by ssc | 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?

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

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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