Stirling Newsletter 2014 April 2014
Explore Scotland Ltd 01796 473335 The newsletter Gives you the latest Stirling tourist business news
Explore Stirling and Forth Valley Tourism News. Written by the businesses themselves. vide information on specific areas of Scotland, much of which does not have a web site or Would you believe that we have been producing championed by some business or enterprise. I the Explore Stirling Guides since 1999, fifteen call these the gold nuggets, the special pieces of years! In these fifteen years we have seen a lot information, that when you are on holiday make your Good holiday luck a bit different. to us
Explore Scotland News
Our new Explore web sites (new in 2012), have all in the 2009 made use of the latest technology. They are acTourist Season. cessible through all types of devices from mobile phones, net of books to desk top computIntablets, the year ers. They useThe Google language translator (for all those whose first language is not English), GoogleHomecoming Maps to show locations and a direction planner through out the web site. There is also a Trip Planner on each Explore web site, where visitors can go round the web site collecting all the things that catch their eye from Events to attractions and those ‘gold nuggets’ that they do not find on other sites. They can print this off and bring it with them on holiday, to remind them what caught their eye when they were doing their holiday research.
Written by the businesses themselves
Once upon a time, a few years past, tourism businesses collected information for their customers at Start of the Season Leaflet Days. These events by and large do not happen any more! This publication brings you news direct from other tourism businesses in the area.
We have also learnt that Events can make a big
of change in how we access the tourist market, how the visitors are looking and finding information for their holidays. The big change in this time has been how the tourism industry has had to embrace the internet. Back in 2000 many holiday makers arrived in their destination and headed for the Tourist Office to collect information. Today visitors do much of their planning on line. Our focus as Explore Scotland has been to pro1
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Explore Stirling Tourism Newsletter 2014
Explore Scotland News (cont). difference to people’s holidays. Events are generally scattered across a whole host of web sites, that most holiday makers will never have the time nor the energy to trawl through. So we have specialised in pulling the events together in place and made them highly usable (see the article on page 3).
we are going to eat, and do. Despite all this technology people still like to have something they can read in their hand, preferably with maps to help them make these decisions. This is where our
The big hitters on the Internet.
the internet, but it does set out to promote the area in a easy to use informative style (no graffiti adverts, where businesses buy a space and splash what ever they want on it, trying to out compete the other spaces sold in the publication). We control the information format and style. Many visitors tell us they collect the guides for the different areas and take them home as their holiday souvenir.
The big money generators on the internet are the accommodation booking engines, (see article on page 11), which charge commission to the owners and the purchaser, making millions in the process.
Accommodation providers are part of the Explore Scotland team. The Explore guides were developed back in 2000 with lots of excellent feedback and constructive criticisms from accommodation providers that have shaped today’s Explore Guides. Our objective has always been to give accommodation None of us like to travel to a destiproviders a reasonable quality publicanation not knowing where we are tion, that promotes their area to their going to stay. It would be a real guests. Maps supported by good inforlottery and highly stressful. So we mation helps them learn the choices search, taking time to work out they have and hopefully encourages where we can stay and our broad some of them to stay longer and others travel itinerary, while we are still at home. The hour by day plans are often left Explore Guides fit, the Explore guides do not to come back again, as there was so much for when we are on holiday, such as where sell accommodation, which we believe is for to do.
New Destination Manager Appointed for Stirling We would like to take this opportunity to wish Destination Stirling the very best of luck. We know a number of local Stirling business people have been working VERY hard behind the scenes over the years to bring this government funding in to Stirling to help take Stirling’s Tourism offering to a new level.
development initiatives duced across Stirling.
I ask that you all give Geoff Morrison and the rest of the Destination Stirling your full support and do not sit on the side lines and whinge. Please join them, give them your constructive comments and ideas!! James Rattray Explore Scotland Ltd.
“We are delighted to welcome Geoff Morrison onto our team at such a crucial time for Stirling. Destination Stirling heralds a new era for tourism in Stirling and this new organisation aims to command the attention of the trade, visitors and all stakeholders in the industry. I feel the portfolio of experience that Geoff brings to the role will greatly enhance the success of this project”.
Douglas Ross, owner of Allanwater Brewhouse and Karene Aitchison, Sales and Business Manager at Stirling Management Centre both co-chair Destination Stirling.
Destination Stirling Ltd has announced the appointment of Geoff Morrison as the new Destination Manager for the Stirling area. Funded by Scottish Enterprise; Destination Stirling is a newly established industry-led destination organisation aimed at bringing tourism businesses together to drive forward the tourism agenda for Stirling. Destination Stirling will act as a voice for the tourism industry, lobbying to a range of local and national bodies on issues which impact on the tourism infrastructure and future
intro-
tourism growth prospects of the area. As well as marketing the area Destination Stirling will also provide regular training opportunities and useful networking events for local tourism businesses. There will also be a series of customer service and product 2
Geoff Morrison studied at Stirling University and has close to ten years’ experience working in the Scottish tourism industry, prior to his appointment he held the position of Marketing Manager at Crieff Hydro - Scotland’s Leading Leisure Resort. To find out more visit www.DestinationStirling.com or geoffmorrison@destinationstirling.com
April 2014
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Stirling Tourism wish list for Destination Stirling! Our wish list of things, that we feel, Destination Stirling could do, to make a difference to Stirling Tourism?
1. Stirling Castle, a massive attraction, the jewel in Stirling Tourism’s crown, bringing in huge numbers of people to Stirling each year. Alas many of these people ONLY visit the castle when they are in Stirling!! Historic Scotland’s web site dated June 2012 “Stirling Castle, in second place, (after Edinburgh Castle) saw a massive 17% more visitors year-on-year with 441,924 through the gates.” I was told this year, that a survey was conducted (not sure when), that came up with the statistic that 83% of people who visit Stirling Castle do NOT do anything else in Stirling. So only 75,127 of these people will have had a direct benefit to another businesses in Stirling.
I am sure Historic Scotland will come out with a lot of rhetoric, telling us what a superb job they do in Stirling, which is true in many ways. BUT until they address this issue of people ONLY visiting Stirling Castle and work out with other tourist businesses , they will be letting Stirling down. Maybe this is an opportunity for Destination Stirling, to show it can make a difference? Can Destination get this fabulous attraction working in a meaningful way with the many other businesses in Stirling? In my opinion, Stirling is being let down by this jewel in its tourism crown!
What makes Stirling unique? What sets Stirling apart from all these other great places in Scotland for visitors to visit? Again I suggest Destination Stirling gets a pilot group of its members to brainstorm this subject and come up with what its members think sets Stirling apart. What do I think?
Stirling Castle, the NEW Bannockburn Centre and the Wallace Monument are three MUST see destinations. BUT how do we make visitors, who only come to Stirling for 2. Accommodation, we distribute our a day, leave feeling they have missed out? Explore guides to a number of areas across Scotland. We have a spread sheet which I am told there are seven battle sites records all the hotels, B&B, Guest Houses, around Stirling. Is it possible to highlight Campsites we can find in each area. Stirling these sites? Is there anything there?
has always been light in accommodation Stirling was at the heart of the Scottish compared to other areas of Scotland. Wars of Independence,. Independence is a I know when I speak to businesses in the term that resonates with nations and cultown they tell me on occasions they find it tures across the world. Is this 13th century hard to identify where there are available struggle worth make more of? Is there an opportunity of putting a story together that beds to send visitors. I am not sure how true this figure is, but it is joins up the three great historic attractions a figure I know, reflects what many other So my next wish for Destination Stirling, to in away that tells a much bigger story? businesses in Stirling suspect. make a difference, is to have a system, that allows your members (which should be all One final thought, Stirling is a hard place to Stirling Castle’s web site hails the fact that tourism businesses in the Stirling area), to beat, in terms of location , it is on the main “Stirling Castle named as one of top 40 record their availability. It should be free of road and rail network. Now how about Destiexperiences in Europe by Lonely Planet” charge and all accommodation providers nation Stirling getting the message out that which should be brilliant news for Stirling. and businesses can direct visitors to availa- people should use Stirling as their base But is it really? when on holiday. Surely it is much easier to ble rooms in the area. See www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/lonely-planet travel from Stirling to Edinburgh by public One of the national accommodation lodges transport than the other way round. I have long argued that Stirling Castle is in the Stirling area, told me their property is owned by the people of Stirling and in turn one of the busiest in the UK and yet I am 4. Events Drive Tourism. I ask DestiScotland. It is managed on behalf of the told by other accommodation providers that nation Stirling to stop and think what events people of Stirling and Scotland by Historic there is spare capacity. can it deliver? Events bring people to an Scotland, an organisation that does a suarea that would not have otherwise have perb job in so many ways, no doubt collectI ask Destination Stirling to ask its accom- been there. I ask Destination Stirling to ing huge amounts of revenue for the Scotmodation providers what they think will come up with one new big event each year. tish Government. work, what they believe will help. This could Events do not just happen they take time to be done quite simply through Survey Mon- grow, you need to allow 3 to 5 years for BUT in common with many of the attractions key and then a pilot group to come up with them to mature. We have been involved in that Historic Scotland manage, from their a possible solution to share with its mem- the Enchanted Forest, (1st yr 2,500 to head quarters in Edinburgh, there is VERY bers, BEFORE any funds or construction 40,000+ people in 10th yr). Etape CaledoPOOR local accountability. There is next to costs are committed. nia , (1,200 participants 1st yr, to 5,500 no monitoring on what the attraction does selling out in under 12 hrs in 8th yr). to work directly with other local tourism 3. One Day Destination. Stirling is businesses. seen as a one day visit, by many people. I 5. Finally and probably most imLet me give you a local example to Stirling. suspect, if I read some of the travel guides, portant of all. Remember Destination On the next page you will read about Stirling they will recommending a one day visit. Why Stirling, you have joined the rest of us who Walking Tours a private initiative to have do so many people travel to Stirling from have for years been marketing Stirling. It is something happening for tourists at the top Edinburgh for the day? fantastic you have all this public money, but end of town, Historic Stirling. While this new do not get carried away with your own self venture is trying to establish itself, it finds So my next wish for Destination Stirling to importance. Work with us, be open, be inlast summer, Historic Scotland in August, make a difference, is to stop and ask your- clusive, you should be the catalyst for getgiving out free walking tours, with absolutely self and your members what Stirling has to ting us all to be part of a joined up strategy. no reference to this new venture that is on do to be more than a day trip? We all want Stirling to win!! Stirling has so much going for it and many their doorstep. has not established what Stirling is about. 3
April 2014
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Stirling Walking Tours The tours for 2014 are running in May, June & Sept at weekends and Wednesdays to Sundays during July & August. Tours last 70 mins.
Old Town Tours a Hit with Tourists New character-based guided tours of Stirling’s old town are getting rave 5 star reviews from visitors on Trip Advisor and are already rated number 4 activity to do in Stirling!
The popular tours are being operated by well known local guide David Kinnaird, famous for his Stirling GhostWalk tours and hangman prison tours at the Old Town Jail until its recent closure. David commented: ‘’Our daytime tour highlights the history of often overlooked characters, events and locations from the Burgh's colourful past. The Old Town Explorer tour is an exciting opportunity for me to share my enthusiasm with locals and visitors alike."
tact info@stirlingwalkingtours.com Visitors really enjoy the performance elewww.stirlingwalkingtours.com ment, as tours involve real historical characters from our past, Old Town Tour “Meet: including costume changes! Departs:
Cowan’s May, June & Sept Sat & Sundays No minimum numbers are required on tours and there are big Hospital 2pm, 4pm discounts for children and concessions. Tickets can be pur- next to the July & August Wed –Sunday 2pm, chased on-line, from the Tourist Church of 4pm Information or the Guide 10 mins Cowan’s Hospital next to Launched last summer by new start-up com- before the tour. the Holy Meet: the Church of the Holy Rude pany Stirling Walking Tours, the daytime Rude.” tours depart from the Cowan’s Hospital next FREE tours for local Tourism busiTickets Book On-line, from your to the Church of the Holy Rude and offer an nesses Guide or Tourist Information (Old entertaining mix of comedy, drama and If you would like to come on a FREE tour or Town Jail) storytelling. take leaflet stock, simply get in touch. Con-
Maharaja Authentic Indian Cuisine suit your taste and new experience. The Mararaja has a private dining area which can seat up to 14 people that is available at any time if you want a more secluded celebration.
“Maharaja Authentic Indian Cuisine Stirling’s newest
They can also cater for special dietary needs, such as Opened in December 2013, the Maharaja’s gluten free and nut owners set out to produce curries that were free dishes on re- Restaurant” produced in the distinctive style of northern quest. India, curries full of special flavours. 3 course lunches Kamaljeet, or Ricky using his British name, from £6.95 is arguably the best deal in Stirwill often be found at the front of house ling. The Mararaj is very conveniently situatwelcoming guests, tells us ‘We totally refur- ed in King Street, a short walk from the Rail bished the restaurant when we took it over. & Bus Stations, the Thistle Centre or a trip We also had a long hard look at the dishes to the old town. we put on our menu.’ He continued ‘we have also introduced a number of dishes Special children’s menu includes western from India that we felt would go down well. food such as burgers, fish fingers, chicken We also produce a range of popular British nuggets, etc. curries.’ The staff will help advise dishes to Lots of good reviews on Trip Advisor. 4
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Explore Stirling Tourism Newsletter 2014
Jimmy Chungs
Located 2 minutes from Stirling’s main and for price, we certainly will not make a No wonder after all these years, we are still shopping street is Jimmy Chung’s Chinese hole in your wallet! Stirling’s finest Chinese restaurant Buffet Restaurant, an establishment that Many of our customers are has been running successfully who know exactly over the last decade. “2 minutes locals where we are, but we are Jimmy Chung’s Chinese Buffet from Stirling’s also known to tourists who can boast we are Stirling’s flagare exploring Scotland and ship Chinese restaurant. For main street, also students from abroad. choice, there are ample selections, over 15 starters and 20 Jimmy Chung’s Only a 5 minute walk from the historic site of Stirling main courses at any one time on Chinese Buffet Castle and Stirling Universia daily basis. ty, there is nothing better Restaurant” after a day of exploring but For authenticity, we have experienced chefs from all over South to sit back, recharge and fill East Asia to create dishes that up with all you can eat Chitaste to perfection. For service, our staffs nese buffet, and if you have any room left engage with locals and tourists alike and there is a fine selection of fresh fruit desmake every customer feel like right at home, sert to finish off your day.
Corrieri’s Pizzeria and Fish & Chip Shop crust pizzas, freshly prepared using the finest pizza flour, home-made tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella cheese, and cooked in an authentic Italian pizza oven.
When Corrieri’s opened in Causewayhead 50 years ago, the fish and chip shop was the mainstay of our business. We have grown over the years, developing into an extremely popular pizzeria, fish and chip shop, café and ice-cream parlour but still retain the same traditional values.
Famous too for our pasta, (gluten-free pasta available), freshly prepared lasagne and pasta sauces, prepared with fresh ingredients – fruit, vegetables, meat and fish sourced locally or freshly imported from Italy. To complement our delicious food we offer a carefully selected list of our favourite Italian wines and a selection of beers, soft drinks and legendary milkshakes, made with our award winning icecream which is freshly made on the premises in a wide choice of flavours. Or why not relax with a cup of our delicious Italian roasted coffee.We strive to maintain the highest standard at all times with fresh home-made products enjoyed by a regular following of local customers and many tourists each year.
Our latest refurbishment of the fish and chip shop in January 2014, introduced a state-of-the-art frying range, thereby maintaining the freshness of the product by cooking to order. Fish is supplied daily from the Glasgow fish-market and potatoes from We look forward to seeing you. a local potato merchant. In addition to our well-loved fish and chips, Corrieri’s is renowned for its delicious thin Robert and Peter Corrieri 5
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Explore Stirling Tourism Newsletter 2014
Brea However, what places Brea above the rest is their selection of gourmet burgers. Prepared using a secret recipe, their selection - including steak, lamb and chicken – has made the restaurant a success with the local area. If their options are not to your taste, then you can always go for something a little more inventive and create your own burger (challenge) from a variety toppings and other accompaniments. The quaint restaurant space itself allows for a more welcoming atmosphere. The friendly Accessibly located at the entrance of Stir- and approachable front of house team are ling's Old Town, Brea prides itself in making always accepting to any enquiries in regards to the menu. The choice the regular comforts of dining out of wine has been spe“A small and that little bit different. An eclectic cially selected to complimenu which is appropriately suitindependently ment all the dishes on ed for the season, every dish is the menu and satisfy made to order by the staff of owned the most picky of contrained and qualified chefs, to noisseurs. On the beer restaurant, ensure the highest quality reand ale side of things, mains consistent. Brea lives by its Brea proudly boasts With produce that have either itself as being the only motto of been locally or specially sourced, establishment in Stirling each dish has been designed to that offers a variety of get the best flavours from their beers and I.P.As from 'love food'.” ingredients. A selection of fish the popular Brew Dog courses, including mussels, scalcompany. However, if lops and salmon, allow you to get you are more partial to a flavour of what Scotland has to offer. a craft ale or cider, then you can choose Alongside a range of traditionally prepared from the selection provided by the Loch steaks and vegetarian friendly meals, Brea Fyne Brewery or the up-and-coming Thistly seeks to satisfy the most discerning of ap- Cross. Naturally, if you don't even know petites, understanding particular dietary where to begin with their vast selection, the Brea team are fully clued up on what each requirements and preferences.
The Stirling Arcade What makes The Stirling Arcade truly unique is our diverse range of specialist independent retailers that you wouldn’t find on the High Street. From contemporary Scottish gifts to high fashion, you’ll definitely find something special from our mix of 20 different outlets. We are also proud to have Stirling’s only vegetarian café and one of Scotland’s best Italian restaurants, for those moments you would like to sit and relax. Look for the entrances to The Stirling Arcade in King Street and Murray Place and inside you will find Stirling’s hidden treasure… Steeped with history and stunning architecture you will be able to discover the true beauty of the Arcade which has recently benefited from an extensive renovation and redecoration programme. The internal refurbishment has encapsulated the original history of the Grade B listed building but with a stylish modern twist to give you an unforgettable shopping experience.
We are delighted to welcome our newest editions to The Stirling Arcade – Amilou Bridal and sister shop Everything but the Bride, dedicated to making the most important day just the way you want it. Stocking Enzoani exclusively along with other sought after wedding dress designers as well as Mother of the Bride and Bridesmaid outfits. We also have the pleasure of welcoming The Oriental Centre- Specialist in Oriental food and Sushi take out. Experience shopping as it should be – personal, enjoyable and relaxing. 6
beverage offers, so they will have no problem helping choose one that's right for you. While also offering lunch and breakfast deals during the day, Brea warmly welcomes bookings and folk who are just passing by. For any more enquiries or to reserve a table, why not call them on 01786446277. Or to see a copy of the menu, just drop by or email breastirling@gmail.com. You won't regret it for long.
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Explore Stirling Tourism Newsletter 2014
No 2 Baker Street
who wish to watch the football without the hooliganism that other venues can sometimes present. Although not within the old part of Stirling we get a lot of passing tourist trade being on the main street down from the castle, old town jail and Church of the Hollyrood. Adding to our attraction we offer a versatile menu with a wide variety of food that will No. 2 Baker Street has a real history within suit most peoples needs as well as an array Stirling having operated over many dec- of cask ales which change regularly and ades. It offers much to both locals and tour- consist of both local, for example ales from the Harviestoun brewery and ists alike and has a real new Williams Brothers brewery as oldie worldy feel to it with “No. 2 Baker well some from further afield; for wooden beams and a relaxed Orkney brewery, Wells and inviting atmosphere. It Street has a example and Young brewery and Timothy attracts a wide clientele rangWith being the only real real history Taylor’s. ing from locals, tourists and venue within Stirling that offers local celebrities of all ages and within Stirling ales to a high standard and with from all walks of life. a wide variety many tourists will having Throughout the year we offer a come in after seeing us in the wide variety of entertainment good beer guide (as well as the with an eclectic array of music operated over good pub guide) to sample some played on a Wednesday of the local ales and we see a many through to Saturday nights as definite increase in sales of ale well as on the second and last decades. ” through the months of April and Sunday of each month. This September as a result of the ranges from acoustic sets, soft increased footfall of tourists. In rock, a newly established jazz set and much addition to this we host a bi-annual real ale more. On a Wednesday evening we hold a festival. jam session with one of Stirling’s legendary A few years ago we featured in a television musicians- Ted Christopher. advert for visit Scotland featuring Scotland’s We have recently introduced BT Sport which own Neil Oliver from Coast who provided the although only new has started to bring in a voice over. Secondly, we featured in a BBC new clientele as well as offering something Alba program back in 2011 featuring live new to existing customers who previously Scottish music. would go elsewhere to watch football, tennis etc. We provide an excellent venue for those
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Explore Stirling Tourism Newsletter 2014
Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum 2014 is a really special year for Stirling, with the Ryder Cup, Commonwealth Games, Year of Homecoming and 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn.
and the town key (1746) over their arms, For further information, contact referencing the original gift of Thomas Stuart Smith in 1874, and the importance of Dr. Elspeth King Stirling’s history. Director, Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum As always, the Stirling Story is a permanent Dumbarton Road feature at the Smith. We like to tell visitors Stirling that they haven’t seen Stirling until they’ve FK8 2RQ Tel 01786 471 917 seen the Smith. www.smithartgalleryandmuseum.co.uk The exhibition programmes commemorates significant events. On 11 April 1914, the famous film maker Norman McLaren (19141987) was born at 21 Albert Place, opposite the Smith.
It is also an important year for the Stirling Smith, which celebrates its 140th birthday. At the beginning of the year came four important birthday presents. The Public Catalogue Foundation published the Central Scotland and Fife volume with photographs of paintings in public collections, and the cover image features ‘The Cuban Cigarette’ a painting by the galleries founder, Thomas Stuart Smith (1815-1869). All of the Smith’s 820 paintings are featured; six of them are given a full page each. Present 2 is the novel ‘The Shadow in the Gallery’ a crime thriller by Dr. Thomas Christie, who is a former Smith Administrator. The action is placed in the early years of the Smith and features the fictional story of a missing emerald.
The exhibition ‘A Dream of Stirling – Norman McLaren’s Scottish Dawn’ runs 11 April – 22 June at the Smith, and is presented from the University of Stirling Archives and McLaren 2014. From 16 April – 12 October, the Bannockburn 700 exhibition ‘Remember Bannockburn’ looks at the 699 years and 363 days since the battle was fought. From 24 June – 17 August, the Dunedin Through Time Exhibition celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the twinning between the cities of Stirling and Dunedin, Florida. 23 August – 26 September sees Hugh Green’s Stirlingshire featured in a retrospective exhibition of the work of water colour artist Hugh Green (1891-1972).
Present 3 is the Stirling 2014 banner, a gift from the Stirling Embroiderer’s Guild, sewn by 20 members and featuring the landscape, built and natural heritage of Stirlingshire. The banner is a portable, travelling advertisement for Stirling and the Smith, as well as a useful backdrop for TV and Film Interviews. ‘A Heavenly Gift’ came from Stirling- based artist June Carey in the form of a mural which graces the space above the doorway of Gallery II. Two angels share a shower of stardust and carry the Guildry Ring (1360) 8
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Explore Stirling Tourism Newsletter 2014
Explore Scotland Social Media and What’s On. they have all the events dur- something to say and you would like our ing their stay. support in helping to get the word out, we will be delighted to support you, if at all Monthly What’s On brochure. possible. Each months events are You can contact me on compiled in to an on line brochure which you can print Fionna@explorescotland.net off for your guests. We know hotels, Guest houses, that print off the months events brochure and leave it in the reception for their guests, reprinting if guests take it away with them. I would like to introduce myself as part of the Explore Scotland Team. My name is Fionna and I co-ordinate the social media sites Facebook, Twitter & Google+ for Explore Scotland and look out for events to add to the events (What’s On) section of the Explore Scotland web sites.
Adding events FREE of charge – if you are running a tourist event (it can be of interest to locals too), and would like it to be included in the above, all you have to do is:-
Go to the Explore What’s On web site section.
We coordinate the events in the area on the What’s On section of the web site, by highlighting the events in the area. If you are on holiday, how much time do you spend trying to find out where all the events are? Surely better to have them all in one place!
Top left, just under the logo, click on ‘Submit your event’ link
Events – What’s On.
Fill in your event details. This will come to us at Explore Scotland and we will double check all the content before publishing it. We try and do this process as quickly as possible, usually with in 24 hours, your event will be live. Social Media. I manage the day to day Explore FaceBook, Twitter Google+ channels, talking about and championing the area, promoting many of the events that are on during each month in the What’s On.
What makes the Explore What’s On so speIf you would like me to help procial? mote an event coming up, please make sure the details are in our Well you and your guests can:What’s On page. You can send a Sort events by category; family, mu- photo too and I will add it to the sic, outdoors, markets, talks etc. entry to help enhance it. I will then post and talk about your event on Sort events by date of arrival and our social media sites and help you departure for your guests. get your message out. Print the sorted events off – to pre- Also let me know when you have sent to your guests on arrival, so 9
and
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Explore Stirling Tourism Newsletter 2014
National Wallace Monument Referbishment
STRONG VISITOR NUMBERS IN 2013 SET THE SCENE FOR NATIONAL WALLACE MONUMENT REFURBISHMENT
Between April and September this year the Monument received almost 79,000 visitors, an increase of over 6% on the same period in 2012, and a strong indicator of how the good weather helped to strengthen the appeal of Stirling as Scotland’s heritage capital. Now the operators of the attraction are planning to build on this growth in 2014, with the opening of new exhibition galleries.
specialist contractors Campbell & Co., explained how a 19th Century innovation will be wrapped up in the latest digital technology: “In 1862, whilst the National Wallace Monument was being built, Professor John Pepper developed an illusion technique using mirrors and reflective glass, to make characters appear and disappear. That same principle will be used at the Monument to present a new film in which William ONE OF STIRLING’S FIRST VISITOR ATTRAC- Wallace and Andrew de Moray discuss The TIONS
“When it opened in 1869, The Wallace Monument was one of the first purpose-built visitor attractions in Stirling, and appropriately it tells the story of one of the first characters from Scottish history to be acclaimed as a national hero”, remarked Zillah Jamieson of Stirling District Tourism, which is responsible for the management of the historic building. “The story of Wallace is central to the story of Scotland itself, so we want to make sure that it is told in a way which is every bit as captivating for today’s Battle of Stirling Bridge, reflecting on Scotvisitors as it was when the Monument first land’s victory, and thinking about what lies opened its doors. Stirling will be in the spot- ahead”. light in 2014, and the Monument The story of the Battle of has an important role to play in Bridge, and of “Strong Visitor Stirling enabling visitors to gain a powerWilliam Wallace, sets the ful impression of the historic city, scene for the Battle of Numbers in and an understanding of the part Bannockburn, which will Wallace played in shaping Scot2013 set the be the focus of the new land” National Trust for Scotland VICTORIAN INGENUITY MEETS MODERN TECHNOLOGY A strong increase in visitor numbers has been recorded for the 2013 visitor season at Stirling’s National Wallace Monument, allowing the operators of the famous attraction to look forward with confidence to 2014, when the building which has been welcoming visitors since 1869 will undergo a major refurbishment.
scene for National Wallace Monument Refurbishment”
The refurbishment of the Monument will involve the installation of new displays and exhibitions in all three galleries within the historic tower, and as visitors enter the building they will first hear the story of The Battle of Stirling Bridge, re-told through an exciting new initiative. David Campbell, of
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Visitor Centre, due to open in 2014. The investment in these two heritage destinations, following the reopening in 2011 of the Royal Palace at Stirling Castle, will mean that visitors to Stirling will be able to trace the story of Scotland through three outstanding attractions.
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Explore Stirling Tourism Newsletter 2014
Mediterranea chips. The dish comes as a main course or as individual wraps, the most popular street food of Greece and a big hit as a take away option. But we haven’t forgotten some of our favourite tapas dishes and we are now using a new Spanish foods supplier, who is providing us with some of the finest quality chorizo and Serrano ham available to the UK.
There have been plenty of exciting new changes this past year at Mediterranea. In addition to tweaking our menu a bit in offering more dishes from The Middle East and Greece (our heritage) we’ve added an additional chef, born and raised in Lebanon who has a wealth of experience with Levantine cuisine. We have received plenty of positive feedback by old and new customers alike regarding dishes such as Shish Taouk; Lebanese grilled chicken skewers with mushrooms seasoned with garlic and served with tabbouleh and pita, and baba ganoush; a Levantine dish of smoked scented aubergine dip blended with lemon, tahini and a hint of fresh garlic, served with vegetables. Another popular dish we’ve been serving a little over a year now is Greek Gyros, pronounced ‘yeros’, which consists of crispy pork shavings roasted on a vertical spit and served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, tzatziki (yoghurt sauce) and home-made
Events this past year included live Sunday afternoon gigs by various bands such as Wingin’It, Rusty Nail, and Mojo. DJ club nights with professional sound and lighting systems provided, Salsa and Latin night DJ parties, Greek nights with a special all Greek menu including music, charity fund raisers with live music and other forms of entertainment, Monday night jam sessions at 10:00 pm every Monday, a second Thursday of the month poetry evening, which included a poetry slam this past March, and even a Brazilian style Carnival party hosted by a group of Brazilian students from Stirling University.
In addition to the changes to our menu we are proud of the fact that our restaurant, with its amazing basement space has become a hob for many live and international events, hosted by local promoters, out of town promoters, and students alike. We have even hosted art and jewellery exhibitions and allow local theatre and film societies to use our space for putting on productions. If anyone is interested in putting on an event and we have availability we would be glad to listen to you. Follow us on Facebook to get the latest updates for future events.
The Cold Beer Company If sport is your thing, you won't miss a trick with us! We have three feeds and 9 big screens so you won't miss a minute of the action here! From rugby to boxing, and football to golf, 2014 is going to be a great year for sport! We also serve great tasting, homemade food every day from 12-9pm, and there is something for everyone, including our fantastic, award winning fish and chips, and a great range of specials which changes weekly. We have a fully licenced street cafe in the summer months, THE COLD BEER COMPANY is Stirling's largest pub, situated in the old post office on and a covered, heated smoking terrace for Murray Place. The clue is in the name - we when it's a bit chillier out! specialise in beer! With over 30 draught Come and join us at the Cold Beer and bottled beers from more than 14 coun- Co....Great beer, great food and great sertries, our range includes cask, craft, draught vice. and bottled beers from around the world, with a healthy selection of local beers from 84-86 Murray Place, Stirling, FK8 2BX Scotland. Whisky is also very important to Tel 01786 463524 us and our whisky list has over 200 single www.coldbeercompany-stirling.co.uk and blended malts. 11
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The Allanwater Brewhouse The Allanwater Brewhouse used to be Bridge of Allan’s best kept secret; a sleepy little microbrewery, located behind the Queens Hotel, where one could try all kinds of Real Ale and lose themselves in the warm and homely atmosphere. The pub would shut at five, and was frequented mostly by loyal locals and curious tourists.
Websites such as ‘Yelp’ and Tripadvisor are flooded with glowing reviews, and they have even earned the stamp of approval from Stirling University’s student newspaper. Music nights are diverse – expect to see upcoming talent from every corner of the world, as well as rising stars such as Stevie Jackson from Belle & Sebastian and local band Rail Fan – and busy; more proof that the Brewhouse’s cozy, fun atmosphere has tempted all sorts of people through their doors.
Owner and master brewer Douglas Ross attributes much of the Brewhouse’s recent success to their adoption of social media. “We’re connecting with our customers more than ever now. One of the things people value about us is the friendly, familial atmosphere about the place – and now we’ve brought that personality online. We can This year, however, the Brewhouse extendinteract directly with our customer base and ed their opening hours, built a stage in the plan new brews and events around what is corner of the pub, and embraced all those important to them.” eager to discover the authentic and welcoming experience that only The Allanwater There is no doubt that the Brewhouse is Brewhouse can offer. And it hasn’t gone growing in popularity – and it won’t stop unnoticed – in 2013 alone the Brewhouse there. Douglas plans on officially rewon ‘Best Business’ in the tourism category; branding the pub to reflect its new place in Tripadvisor’s ‘Certificate of Excellence’; and the community. featured in the ‘Good Beer Guide 2013’.
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Several local celebrities have already confirmed attendance at the VIP re-launch party, and the Brewhouse team are currently working on an innovative way to unveil the rebranded pub to the public. Expect great things!
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Drouthys Neebors
Drouthys Neebors, meaning Thirsty Friends, takes its name from one of Scotland's most famous poems Tam O'Shanter written by one of Scotland favorite sons, Robert Burns. Inside you will find a quirky and quaint interior with nautical maps covering the walls, and a small fishing boat against the back wall. Slate flooring, wood panelling and hand made furniture combine to give the pub a comfortable homely feel.
lection of Malt Whiskies from all of Scotland's major distilleries and a few hidden gems from some lesser known whisky houses make it a must visit for whisky lovers. Scottish Lagers and Beers, and cooked food will let you “Drouthys home soak up the experience of a Neebors, traditional Scottish pub. The sausages are from the World meaning Famous Crombies of Edinburgh and are worth stopping off for Thirsty on their own!
nings mid week, then at the weekend, every Friday and Saturday night, live local music takes centre stage. Space is hard to come by at these events so if you want a seat to enjoy the entertainment and hospitality best arrive early so you can relax and let the time melt away. For any further Information and bookings you can contact Drouthy Neebors by.....
Email: drouthys.stirling@belhavenpubs.net Phone: 01786 450 858 Drouthys, as it's known by the Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ The Scottish Theme is central to locals, also has a busy sched- DrouthyNeebors (QR code to follow) this busy and well loved local pubs ule for entertainment. Cocktail food and drink offering as well. A large se- making classes, and whiskey tasting eve-
Friends, ”
The Kilted Kangaroo Hop on down to the Kilted Kangaroo
Outdoor TVs show all the summer sport and Live Music is played on the beer garden Whichever night of the week you find your- stage. There really is no better place to be in self at The Kilted Kangaroo, you’ll find enthe sun! tertainment to enjoy and even get involved All of their events such as Stand-Up Comein from 9pm. dy, Sportsmen’s Dinners and Music FestiThey even stay open until 2am of Friday and vals are listed on their website: Saturday nights, the latest pub in the whole of the city. ten-free diets.
The Kilted Kangaroo is an Australianthemed Bar & Grill House in Stirling City Centre. If you’re looking for some tasty tucker, a cold beer and some bonza entertainment every night of the week then look no further. The guys at the Kilted Kangaroo pride themselves in having the some of the freshest and most affordable pub food in the whole of Stirling. They offer a great selection of dishes from across the globe made from locally sourced produce, with something to suit everyone. There is a child-friendly section to the menu and they also cater for Vegetarian and Glu-
www.kiltedkangaroo.com Mon: DJ Charlie’s Musical Bingo Tue : Live Music Open Mic Wed: Red Stag Pub Quiz Thu: Kilted Karaoke Fri: Tony’s 10p Jukebox Sat: Live DJ Party Night Sun: Sunday Chillout When the sun hits Stirling, the Kilted Kangaroo really comes alive with its gigantic beer garden. The BBQ is lit and the outdoor bar is fully stocked for a fantastic day in the sun. 13
They can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and TripAdvisor. Booking is recommended and can be done by calling them on 01786 451130 or by booking online for your convenience. Hop in an say G’Day!
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The Big Hitters on the Internet! “Priceline.com is an American company and a commercial website that claims to I remember back in 2000, there was a web help users obtain site called Smooth Hound, that was the discount rates for leader in providing bookings for accommo- t r a v e l - r e l a t e d dation providers. Almost every where we purchases such went we would see their stickers on the as airline tickets and hotel stays. doors of hotels and guest houses. The company is I have just done a quick search and Smooth not a direct supHound is still around, but I no longer see it plier of these appearing in the accommodation searches services; instead as it once did. it facilitates the provision of The current big players “Barely a travel serthat we hear many accommodation providers week goes by vices by its suppliers to talk about are Bookwithout the its customings.com, Late Rooms, It is and Trip Adviser. restaurant ers. headquarindustry and tered in NorBookings.com TripAdvisor walk, ConWikipedia tells us necticut, United States.” falling out.” “Booking.com is a Dutch No registration fees, subscriptions or online booking portal, fixed costs - Registration with Bookowned and operated by ing.com is completely free. There are Priceline. It was established in 1996, and offers accommodation booking. It claims to no sign-up or subscription costs.
The big hitters - accommodation booking engines dominate the Internet
deal with more than 550,000 room nights reservations per day, and in 2013 accounted for more than two thirds of Priceline's revenue. It was acquired by Priceline in 2005. Booking.com is available in more than 41 languages.” Who are Priceline? Wikipedia tells us
Commission-based model - Guests pay you directly, so you don’t have to wait for payment. You will receive a monthly commission invoice from Bookings.com based on the guests that stayed with you that month.
Trip Advisor.com
Last week, it was reported that mischievous web-users had propelled a fictitious venue to a top ranking in Brixham, reports followed this week about how it was all a ruse to prove you can game the system, while, despite vociferous objections from its owner, a Yorkshire restaurant had numerous positive reviews removed, after TA's filters judged them suspicious. Claims and counter claims swirl around such stories, most generating more heat than light.” The article sums up the situation quite well too “Me? I'm happy to go one better and admit that in researching my "budget eats" series for the Guardian, I find TripAdvisor invaluable. As one of several research tools (local contacts, trawling guides, blogs and so on) it regularly points me towards excellent cafes and restaurants that I would otherwise have missed.
Wikipedia tells us “TripAdvisor was an early adopter of usergenerated content. The website services are free to users, who provide most of the content, and the website is supported by an advertising business model.”and “TripAdvisor TripAdvisor is very quick, it's very democratMedia Group operates seven- ic and so, particularly at that sub-£10 priceteen travel brands.” point, it's useful. Of course, places crop up The site that many business in any town's top 20 that are there because owners hate, while many said venue does an enormous carvery/it's agree at the same time using Nando's/the chef spends more time drumit to help them make their ming up online support than cooking, but to ignore TripAdvisor would be peculiarly arroholiday choices. gant, and self-defeating.” The Guardian sums up the situation quite well in an arti- So Trip Adviser is a necessary and important cle “Barely a week goes by part of a tourist businesses marketing, without the restaurant indus- whether you like it or not. try and TripAdvisor falling out. As one commentator said, “Love it or hate 14
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The Big Hitters on the Internet! (cont). Trip Adviser does have a page with ‘Top Tips for Dealing with Negative reviews on Trip Advisor’ Our suggestion is:Our suggestion is:Monitor your TripAdvisor page. You can not expect all feedback to be positive, do NOT get upset when you are criticised.
it, no one in our industry can afford to ignore Trip Advisor.” One restaurant owner of a very good establishment in Highland Perthshire told he that “The restaurant standards around here are generally of a very good standard” adding “It was due in some greater or lesser extent to Trip Advisor, you just can not ignore it.” So what should you as a business owner do about Trip Advisor?
Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, diplomatically and with as much objectivity as you can muster. Remember try as it might, TripAdvisor cannot ensure all reviews are from genuine customers.
John McEnroe said, “Everybody loves success, but they hate successful people.”
This process can be frustratingly ineffective as it is almost impossible You can report reviews to TripAdvisor you conto prove that a review is not genuine. sider are false and TripAdvisor does claim Importantly, remember with TripAdvisor take everything you read with a good pinch of to investigate and salt, enjoy the positive reviews, take heed of the constructive criticism, and if you receive remove any that it be- false reviews be flattered as some one sees you as a threat! lieves are suspicious. John McEnroe said, “Everybody loves success, but they hate successful people.”
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