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 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.