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Spring and Easter escapes to beautiful Stirling

by ssc | Jan 26, 2017 | Blog

The Christmas credit card bill is paid, the mornings are getting lighter, and the dawn chorus is back. That can only mean one thing – spring is coming! And here’s why to spend it in Stirling.

Relax this spring in Gladstone’s beautiful gardens

Celebrate spring with champagne in the hot tub at Oakside cottage

A city break in Stirling

A spring break is all about taking a moment out of life to make some fresh memories and get outside a bit more. Fancy a city break? Stay at one of our properties in the heart of the city. Take a peek at Gladstone, Pear Tree House, and the Courtyard, to enjoy a luxurious break that puts you right at the heart of things. Just minutes from King’s Park and a short stroll from the Castle, you’ll witness Stirling burst into bloom again after the colder months. We have properties in beautiful Bridge of Allan too, like Haverstock, Springwood and Allanwater. They are the perfect base to explore Bridge of Allan’s gardens and the University grounds set on the historic Airthrey Estate. There are many unique little shops and great dining tucked away in this former spa town, too.

A secluded break to enjoy nature

Perhaps you’d prefer to immerse yourself in a more rural setting away from the City. Our properties like LallyBroch, Oakside Cottage, Stronend Cottage or Balfron Hayloft will give you the seclusion and landscape you crave. Whether you want to escape as a couple, a family, or group, these properties offer stunning views, easy access to Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, wood burning stoves, hot tubs and idyllic settings. Outlander fans may even want to use Lallybroch as their base for an film locations tour, too. Or, for young families, these properties are ideal for visits to the Balfron Woodland Experience, Blair Drummond Safari Park, which reopens on 18 March, and Briarlands Farm, which re-opens in mid-February.

Wherever you choose to stay, make sure you don’t miss out on these fabulous Spring and Easter events in Stirlingshire:

The Snowdrop Festival

Nothing promises that spring is coming quite like snowdrops. And every year, Scotland opens up many of its most beautiful gardens, so that the everyone can enjoy the season’s snowdrop displays. The Festival runs from 18 February to 12 March. You can find participating gardens here: http://www.scotlandsgardens.org/news/snowdrops-2017

Easter Egg hunts at historic buildings

Thinking of booking your spring break at Easter time? 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! Find an Easter Egg Hunt near you: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/whats-on/event/?eventId=297608b0-3502-4fde-9195-a6cc00fa3d0c

Easter Egg Steam Trains

Boness and Kinneil’s annual Easter trains run on 14 and 15 April and are becoming ever more popular. Climb aboard, enjoy the short trip, and the conductor will arrive with a chocolate egg for every child. Children wearing Easter bonnets also have the chance to win a prize. And there are Easter egg hunts in the museum too. Book soon! For tickets and schedule, see: http://www.bkrailway.co.uk/your-visit/events/

Crannog Centre Easter Extravaganza

Help the Crannog Centre kick-start their 20th anniversary year by celebrating Easter Iron Age style on beautiful Loch Tay, Perthshire. Join their Pancake Eggstravaganza on Easter Sunday, 16 April from 10.30am to 4.30pm. You will cook pancakes over an open fire, bake bread in clay ovens, and churn your own butter to spread on them. Gather round the fire to learn about ancient crafts and ways of life from skilled Iron Age guides. Or just gaze into the flames. For more information, see: http://www.crannog.co.uk/

Nothing says spring like the Snowdrop Festival

The Crannog Centre, on stunning Loch Tay

Photo credits:

Crannog Centre on Loch Tay: By Dave Morris from Edinburgh, UK (Flickr.com – image description page) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

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Thank heaven for Robert Burns

by ssc | Jan 10, 2017 | Blog

Whatever you think of his poetry, there’s no denying that all Scots have one thing to thank Rabbie for. Quite simply, the bard brings a welcome and guilt-free knees-up to an otherwise dreich January. Respite from the post-Christmas dark days and all that self-denial. So, get together with some pals, buy yourselves a haggis, and raise a glass to the farmer poet on 25 January. Or, if you want to mark the event with a day or a night out, here are our top picks!

You’ll spot Robert the Bruce on your Bannockburn drive thru

Celebrate with a traditional Burns Supper at Stirling’s stunning University campus

Burns Supper Drive Thru at the Battle of Bannockburn Centre

No need to book – just ‘drive thru’ at a time that suits! Enjoy a Burns Supper with a twist at the first-ever Bannockburn Burns Supper Drive Thru. Drive into Bannockburn, order and then enjoy in the comfort of your own car or take away. You may even happen across a bit of poetry or a song on the way. The Burns Haggis Supper features haggis, champit neeps and mashed tatties with a whisky sauce, followed by a Tunnock’s Teacake, all washed down with a can of Irn Bru for £6.50. There are veggie options too, and the kids might prefer the haggis bon bons or chicken goujons with skinny fries. From 3.30 on Saturday 25. For directions and more info: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/bannockburn

Burns Night at the Kilted Kangaroo

For an informal and fun Burns Night in genial company, head to the Kilted Kangaroo Bar in Stirling City Centre to celebrate Scotland’s fondest son. Tickets are £21.50 include a three course menu, piper and dram. For info: https://www.facebook.com/events/the-kilted-kangaroo/burns-night-kilted-kangaroo/463948674267173/

Burns Supper and Ceilidh at the University of Stirling

Head to the stunning University Campus on 24 January for a more formal celebration of Scottish culture to commemorate the life and work of Robert Burns. An evening of traditional food and drink, poetry and Scottish dancing. Book now – this event has sold out for the last 7 years! For tickets: https://www.stir.ac.uk/events/calendar-of-events/2020/january/burns-supper-and-ceilidh/

Burns events at The Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh

The Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh loves celebrating Burns in real depth, and is well worth the one-hour train hop from Stirling. Check out these inspiring events.

Telling the Big Tale: On 18 January, head to the City for ‘Tam O’Shanter – Telling the Big Tale’. Donald Smith shares his lifelong quest to understand the poem and do it justice in that ever-elusive perfect telling. Suitable for those wishing to understand Burns’ defining work, as well as those focussed on performing or interpreting his work artistically. A mighty challenge packed with fun, and do hurry for tickets.

Café Ceilidh: Contrastingly, on 21 January, join friends from the Scots Music Group for an afternoon session of traditional songs, music, poems and stories celebrating Scotland’s national poet. It’s held in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court, and is free, non-ticketed and all are welcome to listen or bring a tune for a turn!

Supper with Burns: Enjoy an alternative Burns Supper in the beautiful setting of the Storytelling Court, serving up a delicious 3-course Scottish dinner – with the centre piece haggis – and a generous helping of Burns’s stories, song and lore. Hosted by storytellers David Campbell and Ruth Kirkpatrick, with clarsach player Katie Harrigan. Hurry to book: only two dates, 23 or 24 January.

Burns for Brunch: On 25 January, the Netherbow Theatre welcomes Robert Burns as he awakes in Auld Reekie 2020 sharing his thoughts, poems and songs, casting a satiric eye around his Scotland and ours. For 14+ and hurry for tickets!

The Ceilidh House Tam O’Shanter: You’ll receive a warm welcome on 25 January to the Burns Night Ceilidh House, where people meet to dance, sing, play music and share stories. Enjoy a special improvised ceilidh telling of Tam O’ Shanter in a friendly, lively, and enjoyable setting, with the chance to participate or just to sit back and enjoy the fun!

For all events above held at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, see: https://www.scottishstorytellingcentre.com/

A wee dram, the traditional tipple for Burns Night

A wee dram: a traditional tipple for Burns Night

Choose from a number of events to celebrate Burns Night at the Scottish Storytelling Centre

Photo credits:

Scottish Storytelling Centre: Image supplied by their media centre
Nicky Tams Bar & Bothy: Photo reproduced with permission of Nicky Tams

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Time for ‘just the two of us’?

by ssc | 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 offers luxury for two in a central location

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’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!

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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Supermoon 2016: fall in love with dark skies

by ssc | 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

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?

You can pick up a star map for next to nothing
You can check for any forecast aurora sightings: http://aurorawatch.lancs.ac.uk/
Find out about seeing the Northern Lights in Scotland: http://www.visitscotland.com/about/nature-geography/northern-lights
Check for events like meteor showers on this stargazing calendar: https://britastro.org/observing
And for information on Dark Skies in Scotland: http://www.darkskydiscovery.org.uk/int_dark_sky_places.html

Landmarks like the Wallace Monument will provide striking silhouettes

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

by ssc | 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. Photo: Rob McDougall

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

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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