by ssc | Jan 14, 2015 | Blog
Head to the Tolbooth Stirling for great fiddle music in February
They say that ‘January is the cruellest month’, in which the combined force of cold weather and credit card bills can dismay even the most positive among us. But the New Year is also a blank canvas for trying something new, and in this blog, we’re making a suggestion that could lift your spirits through to spring – it’s time for live music! Stirling and Perthshire are blessed with some brilliant live music venues. Here are just a few – do let us hear your recommendations too.
The Tolbooth, Stirling: Stirling’s venue for Music and the Arts kicks off its musical year on 6 February, with ‘Think Thoughts’, its unique monthly platform for intimate singer-songwriter performances. Just a week later, four of Scotland’s finest female fiddle players will perform from their album ‘Rant’. Thursday 26 Feb brings McGoldrick, Cusker and Doyle, bringing together the traditional instruments of flute, fiddle, pipes and whistles with guitar and vocals. More information: http://tolbooth.stirling.gov.uk/
The Albert Halls, Stirling: This imposing venue has been at the heart of Stirling’s Civic life for more than 150 years. Its first live music event is the Simon and Garfunkel Story on 18 February. If that appeals, make a note in your diary for the Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular too – that’s in June. For details: http://alberthalls.stirling.gov.uk/alberthalls/albert-whats-on
The Guildhall Music Club brings together musicians of all genres and ability
Guildhall Music Club, Stirling: Stirling’s newest music venue meets monthly in the 17th century Cowane’s Hospital, in Stirling’s historic Old Town. These informal evenings combine music, craft beer, wine, food and chat, bringing together musicians from across Scotland in an informal, intimate setting. From professional to keen amateur, musicians of all genres are invited to come along and join the open session which runs from 7.30pm to 10.30pm. Next meeting is 24 January, with a Burns theme. More information: http://www.cowanes.org.uk/guildhall-music-club-cowanes-hospital/
The Macrobert, Stirling: Celebrated as one of Britain’s foremost chamber ensembles, performing over fifty concerts throughout Scotland and beyond each year, the Macrobert welcomes the Edinburgh Quartet on 23 January, when they will be performing from Haydn, Mendelssohn and Elgar. For bookings: http://www.macrobert.org/event/edinburgh-quartet/
Perth Piano Sundays feature the Dvorak Piano Quintet in January
Perth Concert Hall, Perth: If you’re staying in one of our Perthshire properties, this venue has a packed schedule even in the winter months. Choose from 150th birthday celebrations for composers Carl Nielsen and Jean Sibelius, the Dvorak Piano Quintet performed as part of the successful ‘Perth Piano Sundays’ series, a semi-staged performance of The Marriage of Figaro, and A Celebration of American Voices. And that’s just January! For full listings: http://www.horsecross.co.uk/whats-on
Pub Venues: If you like your music informal and enjoyed over a pint, pull up a bar stool in one of Stirling’s pub music venues. The Allanwater Brewhouse (http://bridgeofallan.co.uk/) combines both traditional pub and brewhouse, and has regular music events thrown in too. It’s tucked away in picturesque Bridge of Allan, and well worth a visit. Head to No2 Baker Street, Stirling for regular live acts, jam nights, and a Burns Special on 25 January. Details here: http://www.no2bakerstreet-stirling.co.uk/whats-on. As well as its famed ghosts, Nicky Tams Bar and Bothy in Stirling is home to some great live music. Wednesday night is ‘jam night’ for local musicians and Saturday’s live acts perform from 4pm til 6pm. Check the Nicky Tams Facebook page for up to date listings: https://www.facebook.com/nickytams123
by ssc | Dec 29, 2014 | Blog
The Kelpies in early morning mist
There’s something special about being outdoors when everyone else is inside. To do something quiet when all else is noise. Ask a runner what it’s like to pound the pavements before dawn on Christmas Day – their eyes will go misty and they’ll use adjectives like ‘magical’. The same goes for New Year’s Day. When everyone else is at home, eating too much steak pie and highlighting the last remaining pages of the Radio Times, why not head outdoors for fresh air and silence? It takes little more than a thermos and a sandwich to have a New Year’s Day with a difference. Here are four inspirational places to start 2015. Enjoy!
The Kelpies, The Helix, Falkirk: These two 30-metre high structures are the largest equine sculptures in the world, and they’re stunning. When you first lay eyes on them as you approach on the M9, or by boat on the Forth Clyde Canal, you will catch your breath momentarily. And they are the perfect place to spend New Year’s Day. The Kelpies are a beautiful tribute to Scotland’s industrial past: a past that was fuelled by the power of water, and of horses just like them. But more than that, the Kelpies also celebrate Scotland’s departure from that past, its promising future, and our new appreciation of nature, beauty, and sustainable industry. If you want a focal point to contemplate past and the future, you’ll be hard pushed to beat the Kelpies. Go as early as you can, as the mist rises, ghostlike, from the canal waters in the first morning sun. For more information: http://www.thehelix.co.uk/things-to-do/the-kelpies/
The Wallace Monument, Stirling, a historic landmark to see in the New Year
The Wallace Monument, Stirling: If there is one place in Scotland that crystallises what it is to be Scottish, it is, perhaps, the Wallace Monument in Stirling. Built upon the outlook where William Wallace and his small army lay the night before their unlikely victory at Stirling Bridge in 1297, the Monument gives an unparalleled view across the snaking River Forth to Stirling Castle and beyond. You needn’t enter the monument itself to get a spectacular vista, and indeed, the Monument is closed on 1 January anyway. Just park in the car park, follow the winding road up to the foot of the monument and look out. Breathe in the history – there are few more historically important views than this in the world. And its great exercise getting up there too.
The Birnam Oak, Birnam: Those who love literature might want to connect with the New Year and our literary history with a visit to the Birnam Oak, just outside Dunkeld. The 300 year old Birnam Oak and its neighbour the Birnam Sycamore are thought to be the sole surviving trees of a once great forest, celebrated in Shakespeare’s Macbeth as the famous Birnam Wood. The prophecy of Shakespeare’s three witches has origins in history: the branches of trees from great Birnam Wood were used nearly 1,000 years ago to camouflage armies advancing against Macbeth (See: http://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofScotland/Duncan-MacBeth/ for background!) . It is believed that Shakespeare got inspiration for this section of `The Scottish Play` during a visit to Perth, Birnam and Aberdeen in 1599 as one of a troupe of comedians. Visit these trees as part of the Birnam Walk.
The Falls from the Hermitage
The Falls of Braan, Dunkeld: Despite being one of Perthshire’s most popular beauty spots, the Falls of Braan, seen from Ossian’s Hall, also referred to as The Hermitage, is unlikely to be crowded on New Year’s Day. This Georgian Folly was built by the Duke of Atholl to face one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the River Braan. The balcony viewing area fills the senses with the sight and sound of the crashing water below, true to its origins in the Romantic era, when appreciation of rugged nature was first in vogue. While this spot is the ideal place to watch salmon leap in autumn, it’s an unbeatable place to contemplate the year ahead on 1 January too. Wear strong waterproof shoes after rains, as the path up to Ossian’s Hall can get muddy in bad weather. Happy New Year! Photo credits:
by ssc | Dec 18, 2014 | Blog
Dollar’s Deli, Bridge Street, Dollar
In the heart of the beautiful village of Dollar (and just a few minutes from our property Harviestoun House) is Dollar’s Deli, whose dedicated team have been planning this Christmas since 27th December last year. The Deli is owned by Kerry and Alistair Prow, who took it over six and a half years ago, and who are loving every minute of the festive season.
Kerry describes how rewarding the deli is, particularly at this time of year. ‘Our team love the one to one with our customers and hearing how their Christmas plans are going. Alongside that, we’re shipping hampers globally to our clients worldwide, our artisan cheese sales are phenomenal over the festive period, and our hand-picked wine selection is a big seller too’.
The busy counter, heart of Dollar’s Deli
The couple came to the delicatessen from highflying careers in bar and restaurant management and super yacht crewing, seeking an outlet for their knowledge of food and wine, and the balance they needed to bring up a young family. They’ve achieved both in Dollar, with the support of what Kerry describes as their ‘fantastic and experienced team’. And they give a lot back at this time of year, supporting local charity event, the Dollar Under Fives Stroll, by donating their van, mulled wine, hot drinks and mince pies to help raise charitable funds within the close-knit community.
Back in the deli, Kerry and Alistair choose their stock primarily from independent and lesser known suppliers, with a simple but critical emphasis on taste and on quality. Their range includes charcuterie, artisan cheeses, Scottish pates, Italian olives, over 200 wines, handmade ice cream, and breads baked fresh on the premises. And that’s not to mention the 100% Arabica coffee to go. It sounds like that’s more than enough work for young parents, but just two months ago Kerry and Alistair opened their own restaurant, the Bridge Street Kitchen. ‘Hospitality is in our blood. You can’t fight it!’ says Kerry. ‘We were about to install an external kitchen in the deli to cope with the volume of cooking we were doing for both it and outside catering. It was to be the “kitchen” for our deli. So when the opportunity came up to open our own restaurant we grabbed it.’ Since its opening, the thriving restaurant has been fully booked every night with an atmosphere all its own, which Kerry describes as ‘bustling, vibrant, and fun!’.
The informal surroundings of the bustling Bridge Street Kitchen
The deli, the restaurant, and their owners radiate warmth, energy and enthusiasm, but when will they relax this Christmas, if at all? ‘We close the Deli on Christmas and Boxing Day so that we, and our team, can focus on what’s important. Bridge Street Kitchen will close until 21st January. As for us, on Christmas Day we will be in our festive PJs playing with our two young children. We’ll have a lovely lunch and hopefully a walk in the snow. It’s all about them.’
So if you’re in Dollar looking for a last-minute gift, a bottle of wine for Christmas Eve, or even just some food suggestions from a team who are rightly proud of their wares, you know where to head. Merry Christmas!
by ssc | Dec 3, 2014 | Blog
Get outside and see a bit of nature this winter.
There’s nothing quite like coming back to a warm house and a mulled wine after venturing outside out on a crisp, clear, winter’s day. So if you want to wrap up and get out there despite the nip in the air, there are plenty of festive outdoor events taking place near Stirling and in Perthshire this year.
Want to understand the impact that winter and the darkest days have on nature? Take part in the Winter Solstice family fun days in Dunkeld, Perthshire. There will be children’s activities, nature trails and quizzes from 11 til 3 on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December at Loch of the Lowes Nature Reserve, Dunkeld. The reserve covers 98 hectares of diverse natural habitat near Dunkeld and is well worth a visit throughout winter for the chance to see red squirrels, siskins, otters, geese, woodpeckers and much more from the comfort of their viewing windows. For details of the Loch of the Lowes full winter programme of events, see this Scottish Wildlife Trust booklet.
You can try wreath making from natural materials at the Lodge Visitor Centre, Aberfoyle
Queen Elizabeth Forest park encompasses some of Scotland’s best-loved locations, from magnificent Loch Lomond, the Trossachs hills and Loch Katrine to the craggy tops of Strathyre. The Lodge Visitor Centre will be busy every weekend in December with a celebration of the forest in winter. Choose your own Christmas tree, make some decorations for it, try wreath-making, join the festive trail or tuck in to hot drinks and mince pies. There’s a red squirrel viewing camera too. More information.
There are loads of activities going on throughout winter in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. There are ‘Live Active’ walks on easy terrain throughout December with trained guides, as well as Farmers Markets on the 7 and 21 December. And if you want winter wildlife watching, wrap up well and join your guide on 13 December with a gentle walk from RSPB Loch Lomond, Gartocharn. The RSPB guide will tell you all about winter birds and other wildlife. Booking is advised. Details here.
Visit Beecraigs in December for their annual Christmas Deer Walks
There’s no guarantee that you’ll catch a glimpse of reindeer in the skies on Christmas Eve, so it’s perhaps a better idea to head to Beecraigs Country Park near Linlithgow to get up close to their red deer herd on one of their Christmas Deer Walks. Meet the Ranger at the Sutherland Building, Beecraigs, on 13, 14, 20 and 21 December at 11 am and 2pm (only 11 am on the 13th). Wrap up, and wear sturdy shoes!
And if Christmas is getting on top of you, here’s a way to vent your frustrations! Join Stirling Council Ranger Service and Friends of Plean Country Park in a winter Rhodi Bash on Saturday 13 December at 10am in Plean Country Park. Rangers and volunteers will cut and burn the invasive, non-native species Rhododendron ponticum to try and clear it from the park to let the natural flora re-establish. Definitely a day out with a difference. Tempted? Do book in advance by calling 08452 777 000 or e-mail countryside@stirling.gov.uk For more information: http://my.stirling.gov.uk/events/view/2020?theme=Stirling2014
by ssc | Nov 27, 2014 | Blog
Deck the halls! Planning the countdown is as fun as the day itself.
Often the exhilarating run up to Christmas is as fun as the day itself – and is sometimes even better. To help you plan the countdown to Christmas and keep everyone occupied over the holidays and into the New Year, we’ve rounded up some of Stirling and Perthshire’s best events for the next month or two.
Perth’s Christmas Market is open! The fair city’s High Street is hosting its traditional Christmas market this year from 27 November until 22 December, from 9am-6pm daily. There are Alpine chalet-style stalls, a heated marquee, freshly-cooked artisan street foods, mulled wine, continental beers and free entertainment. There’s a new attraction every day, including carol singers, street acrobats, celebrity lookalikes and live animal appearances. And it’s free! If one Christmas market is just not enough, then hop on the train to Glasgow’s George Square or Edinburgh’s Princes Street for their internationally acclaimed Christmas Markets too.
Santa is in residence throughout Christmas at Dobbies Stirling
Dobbies in Stirling is busy this year with festive treats for everyone. It’s Ladies’ shopping night tonight with fizz, canapés and exclusive discounts for the girls. Children will love breakfast with Santa on 29 November, the Winter Wonderland Christmas Party on 7 December, or Supper with Santa on 13 December. Santa’s Grotto is open until Christmas Eve, and for adults, there’s Christmas afternoon tea on offer too. Most events should be pre-booked. See the Dobbies website for prices and booking.
If you’re looking for some Christmassy shows (a warm option!) then there are plenty out there. Pitlochry Festival Theatre are staging a musical of the classic story of ‘Miracle on 34th Street’ – the perfect show for kids whose belief in Mr Claus is wavering. In Stirling, panto gets a disco twist with the Macrobert’s sparkling new take on Aladdin. If you prefer to kick up your heels, then the Tolbooth Stirling has the choice of two Christmas ceilidhs this year on Saturday 13 December. Families can go along from 3-5 in the afternoon, and the grown-ups can follow from 8-10pm. These ceilidhs invariably sell out, so book quickly!
The Kelpies are celebrating their first Christmas this year
For a very different day out close to Stirling, Scotland’s newest National Treasures, the Kelpies, are celebrating their first Christmas this year. There will be hot drinks, warm mince pies and free entertainment on Sunday 14 December at the Kelpie Plaza, the Helix Falkirk. You’ll find Santa is in residence at the Falkirk Wheel (how does he do it?), with a grotto and regular Santa boat trips from 13 December until Christmas Eve. If you miss him there, you may find the man in red enjoying the log fire, warm punch and mince pies on offer at Linlithgow Canal Centre on 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st December, where he will also be handing out gifts to children. You can also enjoy a leisurely boat cruise with full Christmas lunch on Sundays 14 and 21st December.
Round off Christmas with Stirling’s spectacular Hogmanay Celebrations
Turning your thoughts to 2015? Why not head to Boness and Kinneil Steam Railway where you can see out the old year on a steam Train with their ‘Black Bun Specials’ on 30 and 31 December – enjoy a hot drink and Black Bun (juice and shortbread for the kids) from the comfort of your warm carriage. And New Year would simply not be complete without tickets for Stirling’s award-winning Hogmanay celebrations. The Waterboys and Skerryvore are just two big names in this year’s line-up, with music and fireworks lighting up the night against the spectacular backdrop of Stirling Castle. Tickets are selling fast, so don’t delay. If you prefer to bring in the bells indoors, book now for Stirling’s Hogmanay Ceilidh in the Albert Halls with dinner, dancing, entertainment and a full bar in sumptuous surroundings. Does it get any better? Happy New Year!
Photo credits:
by ssc | Nov 19, 2014 | Blog
The Stirling Fringe’s Street Food Festival, with Hervé, the Loving Food Truck, another of our Local Heroes!
This year, the City of Stirling hosted its second ten-day arts festival, the Stirling Fringe. Smaller, younger, and more community-focused than its Edinburgh counterpart, the Stirling Fringe is already attracting its fair share of attention in the press and beyond. We spoke to Barry McDonald, the man behind the Festival’s creation.
Where did the Stirling Fringe idea come from? ‘There wasn’t a eureka moment, as such, but I’d been visiting the Edinburgh Fringe for a couple of years as a PR consultant for some productions and noticed how many people were travelling from the Stirling area to see shows. I wondered why, if there was an appetite for the arts in Stirling, no arts festival existed. I mentioned the idea of a Stirling Fringe to a few people involved in the Stirling creative arts and they all said it was a fantastic idea. The name Stirling Fringe was never intended to be the name of the festival, just a working title. But it kind of stuck.’
Barry with Provost Mike Robbins, supporter of the Stirling Fringe
How does the Stirling Fringe differ from its Edinburgh counterpart? ‘We’re only a fraction of the size of Edinburgh – and we intend to keep it that way. Despite growing in size, we’ll always remain a manageable festival with the community at the heart of our activities.’ But Barry is clear that ‘manageable’ doesn’t mean unambitious – there are big plans for the future: ‘I’d like to see the festival grow an international reputation with more acts coming from overseas. This year we had acts from South Africa, Sweden and Canada. It would be great to attract more overseas acts as the festival grows. We also want to develop our reputation as a festival where artists can come and try something new. Over the next few years I’d also like more community engagement and have every community group staging their own shows.’
Barry is keen for the Fringe to make a difference for Stirling. ‘Apart from being very centrally located, Stirling has a rich historical culture. If we can add – in some small way – to the artistic culture, we can make Stirling the perfect destination.’ And it’s this vision that drives him: ‘One of the main motivating factors is genuinely to make a positive impact on Stirling. This isn’t my home town – I only moved here nine years ago – but it is my home now, it’s where my daughter was born and if I can help in some small way to improve the arts scene in Stirling, then it will all have been worthwhile.’
One of 2014’s highlights: acoustic nights at Cowane’s Hospital
We’re interested to know if there is any such thing as a normal working day for Barry, and his response is no surprise: ‘The great thing about this job is there is no typical day. It can involve everything from setting up a music concert (carrying heavy speakers is a prerequisite for the job!), stocking the bar, looking after the social media channels, and handing out brochures. You need to be able to turn your hand to anything.’
Highlights this year? ‘The music events we staged at Cowane’s Hospital. It’s an amazing venue for live acoustic music. We loved it so much we’re launching a new monthly music event – The GuildHall Music Club – which starts on Dec 6.’ And what’s in mind for the Fringe next year? ‘We’re just about to sit down and plan next year’s festival. Who knows what it will look like? We always welcome new suggestions – email info@stirlingfringe.com!
Photo credits: All photos courtesy of the Stirling Fringe.
