Highland Perthshire Newsletter 2014
Explore Highland Perthshire. Thanks to the many businesses that have contributed to this start of the season news!
April 2014
Explore Scotland Ltd 01796 473335 info@explorescotland.net The newsletter Gives you the latest tourist business news Written by the businesses themselves
Did you know? Cycle tourism—it is calculated that the Gross Value Added of Scottish leisure cycling is £58.5 million.
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 Good luck to us their eye from Events to attractions and those all in the ‘gold nuggets’ that 2009 they do not find on other sites. They can print this off and bring it with them on Tourist Season. holiday, to remind them what caught their eye In the year of when they were doing their holiday research.
Explore Scotland News
Would you believe that we have been working in Pitlochry and Highland Perthshire since 1996, eighteen years! In these years we have seen a lot of change in how we access the tourist market, how the visitors are looking and The We have also learnt that Events can make a big finding inforHomecoming difference to people’s holidays. Events are genermation for their ally scattered across a whole host of web sites, holidays. that most holiday makers will never have the time The big change in nor the energy to trawl through. So we have spethis time has cialised in pulling the events together in place and been how the made them highly usable (see the article on page tourism industry 3). has had to emThe big hitters on the Internet. brace the internet. Back in 2000 many holiday makers arrived in The big money generators on the internet are the their destination and headed for the Tourist Office accommodation booking engines, which charge to collect information. Today visitors do much of commission to the owners and the purchaser, their planning on line. making millions in the process. Our focus as Explore Scotland has been to provide information on specific areas of Scotland, much of which does not have a web site or championed by some business or enterprise. I call these the gold nuggets, the special pieces of information, that when you are on holiday make your holiday a bit different. Our new Explore web sites (new in 2012), have made use of the latest technology. They are accessible through all types of devices from mobile phones, tablets, net books to desk top computers. They use Google language translator (for all those whose first language is not English), Google Maps 1
None of us like to travel to a destination not knowing where we are going to stay. It would be a real lottery and highly stress-
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Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2014
Explore Scotland News ful. So we search, taking time to work out where we can stay and our broad travel itinerary, while we are still at home. The hour by day plans are often left for when we are on holiday, such as where 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 Explore Guides fit, the Explore guides do not sell accommodation, which we believe is for 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.
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 providers a reasonable quality publication, that promotes their area to their guests. Maps supported by good information helps them learn the choices they have and hopefully encourages some of them to stay longer and others to come back again, as there was so much to do.
Last year we added an extra 4 pages to the Explore Highland Perthshire Brochure with maps of Kenmore, Aberfeldy and an enhanced map of Dunkeld. In addition we made the area map full page on the back Accommodation providers are part of the page of the brochure. We are pleased to say Explore Scotland team. The Explore guides
we had lots of comments in approval. We very much appreciate your feedback, as without it we not know what needs to be changed next. Talking of change this year the Pitlochry Map has been extended to include the Black Spout walk to Edradour Distillery, also the Ben-y-Vrackie Car Park just north of Moulin, both of which we were asked to add, as they are both sort after spots by the visitors. Eileen Owens who has worked with us for eight years, is retiring. We would like to thank Eileen for all the work she has put in to help our little business work. Over these eight years Eileen has seen different web sites, new graphic packages and of course all her work with the What’s On not just here in Highland Perthshire, but St Andrews, Stirling and Inverness too. THANK YOU Eileen!!!
Victoria’s Restaurant Fiona, Angus John & family look forward to welcoming you to Victoria's Restaurant in Pitlochry this coming season.
watering meal. Our team of dedicated, long-standing staff are once again on hand to offer our trademark friendly and consistently excellent service and we’re looking forward to seeing faces old and new over the coming months.
At Victoria's, the dining experience is a stylish blend of daytime speciality coffee house merging seamlessly into a chic evening eatery. Open from 10am until late and serving mouth-watering food from breakfast through to dinner, menus include a wide choice of dishes from patisserie and pasta to steak, seafood & fajitas.
As always, we like to keep in touch with our customers through email newsletters and our facebook and twitter pages, so if you’d like to receive news and offers from us, be sure to sign up through our webOur aim is simple, to make sure that each site at www.victorias-pitlochry.co.uk. and every customer to Victoria’s has an You’ll also be able to see what’s happening excellent dining experience no matter if of our delicious home baking or if you’re on Pitlochry’s Atholl Road by viewing our live you’re just popping in for a coffee and some celebrating something special with a mouth- web-cam, also available on our site.
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April 2014
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The Scottish Crannog Centre at Kenmore The events do not require booking and run from 11am to 4pm, while the Centre is open daily from the 1st April from 10am to 5:30pm. As always, volunteers are welcome. Event details are updated regularly at www.crannog.co.uk and on our Facebook p a g e s a t www.facebook.com/scottishcrannogcentre. For further information please telephone on 01887 830583 or email the team at info@crannog.co.uk
The Iron Age team at the Scottish Crannog Centre has had a busy winter this year between sorting out their flooded grounds, continuing their hazel coppice project and coordinating Kenmore’s WinterWeek+ festival (www.winterweek.co.uk) Now the team is focusing on refurbishing their indoor exhibits and Giftshop, with a new layout and several new displays planned. More conserved artefacts will be on display, including a rare example of an early cultivation tool similar to an ard, and there will be several new themes and DVDs to view. The Centre will be a hive of activity in the coming weeks as they work to complete the changes in time for Easter.
“Now the team is focusing on refurbishing their indoor exhibits and Gift Shop, with a new layout and several new displays
between April and October from Scotland, the USA and from Austria. The 5-12 week long work placements provide valuable experience for the students and staff alike while supporting new events and activities. There is an expanded events programme for 2014 embracing several experimental archaeology projects relating to Iron Age cooking, textiles and metalworking which are being developed by staff with a passion for those crafts. The first events this year are both food-related: a Pancake Day for Easter Sunday, 20th April and the annual Celtic Food & Drink Festival on Sunday, 27th April.
Another project currently underway is the redevelopment of the Scottish Crannog Centre website at www.crannog.co.uk Working with archaeology student Christina Gilfedder, from the University of Glasgow, the team is seeking feedback about the website. Christina has designed a short online survey as the first stage of consultation which forms part of her research. The survey is not traceable to you, is multiple choice and takes just 3 minutes of your time. Christina and the Crannog Crew would welcome your input, so please take a look at the website first and then follow this link to complete the survey:
http//freeonlinesurveys.com/s.asp?si d=3k4k1objq5ih395048 The Centre is also looking forward to hosting several university students this year 3
Photos: High water level at the Scottish Crannog Centre. (copyright The Scottish Crannog Centre) A rare example of an early Iron Age cultivation tool found at the 2,500 year old site of Oakbank Crannog in Loch Tay. (copyright T N Dixon)
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Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2014
Hetties Tearoom games... we should all be really is no boring tea brand, it is a great fun, positive, kicking our heels al- great quality, contemporary tea brand. Our new addition which we are super excited most!! about is our Perthshire Tea. This is a wonAt Hetties we are also very posi- derful blended black tea, A tea with all the tive. .. with good reason too …we heritage of Blair Castle, a flahave a new arrival due vour as deep as the Tay, colour any day now. Now belike The Birks in October and a fore you go thinking. .she “These teas taste that satisfies like a hike must be younger than up Schiehallion! In short it's she looks... it's not that have been damn good! And, it will be availtype of arrival I am talkdeveloped able in Hetties Tearoom very ing about – gone are the right here in soon. days!!
Pitlochry “
In Spring we are launching our 26th tea. And if you don't know what I am talking about.. ….at Hettie's we have our very own tea brand. Hettie's, hand blended, loose leaf Teas, exclusively available in Hetties Tearoom and from Hetties website. These teas have been developed right here As we surface from the wettest winter most in Pitlochry with the help of our wonderful of us can remember, it is nice to think East- Tea Blender! er is just around the corner ... with Summer a hop and a skip after that! All the signs are for a healthy season for us all in 2014, what With names like Morning Cuppa, Hettie in with those green shoots everyone is talking the Heather, Little Miss Spice Girls, Zing a about, the golf and the commonwealth Ling a Ding Dong and Pucker Up Lover.... it
News from the Logierait Inn The team at Logierait Inn have for some time been toying with the idea of concentrating the focus of the chefs and the kitchen team on the two courses; Mains and Desserts. This will allow the Logierait team to focus all their efforts on these two dishes and ensure that they are of the best quality, while giving the customers a good and efficient service. It will also allow the chefs to produce a range of daily specials. For those who are peckish while waiting for their main course, there will be a selection of sharing platters. The Inn will be serving food all day Wednesday to Sundays from 12 noon to 8.30pm mid April to Nov. 4
So as you can see there is lots more to Hettie's than those enormous cakes and scones in the window and the teal and pink décor! Hettie's Tearooms is the home of Hettie's Teas which have we are very proud to say been sent to customers on every continent in the World. So when you trot passed Hettie's next time? Think about The Green Eyed Goddess, The Very Fair Maid, Berrytastic Baby and Milly Molly Minty.... all waiting to be sampled inside! Happy slurping!
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Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2014
New Red Deer Centre at Highland Safaris
Highland Safaris continues to build on its reputation as an inimitable Five Star Visitor Centre with the opening of the new Red Deer Centre this Easter, with the official opening on 23rd May with John Swinney MSP. This investment underlines Highland Safaris ongoing commitment to delivering authentic, value for money experiences in order to encourage new visitors to Highland Safaris and inspire past guests to return. Drawing inspiration from the unique Highland Perthshire environment – its wildlife, trees, and historical past, Highland Safaris is effectively using Scotland’s most valuable natural assets to put its Visitor Centre firmly on the map in this important year of Homecoming.
Directors Donald and Julie Riddle said ‘The iconic Red Deer has been key to the development of Highland Safaris as a Visitor Attraction - the Red Deer Centre with its dedicated Feeding Barn was a natural addition to our offering . It will enable exciting interpretation and interaction with our tame Red Deer herd allowing visitors to come face to face with and even handfeed Britain’s largest land mammal safely in the company of our experienced, knowledgeable Safari Rangers. Furthermore, the new centre will facilitate the addition of a brand new species in the form of a Barn Owl with the opportunity for customers to learn about and handle this fascinating bird’.
This family-run enterprise has grown over the last 20 years to attract in the region of 45,000 visitors annually from all over the world. Highland Safaris was the first UK business to offer Land Rover Safaris and has also seen tremendous growth in Event Management. However, other aspects of Highland Safaris such as the awardwinning café, Gold and Gem Panning Centre (unique in Scotland), the Gift Shop and Mountain Bike Trail Centre have contributed to making this diverse operation a must visit destination in Highland Perthshire. Please contact Highland Safaris on info@highlandsafaris.net or tel. 01887 820071
Richard Pinn, Regional Director at VisitScotland said: “This new Red Deer Centre is an excellent addition to Highland Safaris already outstanding tourism offering. …. Our natural environment is the number one reason why people visit Scotland, so to have a centre where visitors can come face to face with some of our most beautiful wildlife is a real feather in Highland Safaris’ cap.”
Blair Atholl Watermill, Tearoom and Bakery cream optional!).
have stalls for all ages, mill tours and bread making demonstrations in aid of the ChilIn the bakery Rami is, as ever, exdren’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS). perimenting and we plan to add to Hope you can come along. our selection of baking for the tearoom and online. The shortbread We will be at the Perth and Logierait farmand oatcakes received excellent ers markets this year as well as the new reviews from the judges on ITV’s Aberfeldy market on the first Sunday of the Britain’s Best Bakery competition month. which we took part in this year. So Here’s to a good summer! far the medium oatmeal (‘oaties’ ) and the orange chocolate chip Kirsty and Rami shortbread have been very well received! The Blair Atholl Watermill, Tearoom and This year we now offer three Bakery bread making course: Basic, Intermediate and a two day Here at the mill we are looking forward to Sourdough course so suitable another season milling, baking and hopefulfor all levels and they run ly seeing you in the tearoom! throughout the season. Gift After listening to customer feedback and vouchers are available for the with the success of introducing the break- baking courses or the tearoom fast menu last year, we have decided to which make a great present for open at the earlier time of 9am but still a foodie. close at 5pm. More delights have been addWe are planning to run another ed such as our own porridge (berries and charity day this summer. We will 5
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Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2014
April 2014 Annual Report on HighlandPerthshire.com er we can enter a new market to attracted interested web traffic. Whether we like it or not, many visitors to the area see Pitlochry as the dominant town in the area, the equivalent of a Stirling, St Andrews, Oban etc. So when they are thinking of coming on holiday here their instinct is to type in the major town’s name “Pitlochry”. ‘Pitlochry’ attracts more traffic than all the other towns in Highland Perthshire put together. Summary. It is almost 4 years since we launched HighlandPerthshire.com Web traffic is showing another incredible step, with an increase of 39.2% so for the first 9 months of this year. The new web site Explore Pitlochry and its relationship with HighlandPerthshire.com We compare the HighlandPerthshire.com web traffic figures year on year. Discuss ideas going forward Discussion. First of all I want to tell you about the new Explore Pitlochry web site, which we launched of Monday 9th September 2013. Explore Pitlochry on www.PitlochryScotland.co.uk focuses on the whole area similar to Highland Perthshire.com; the most searched for terms are all are to do with ‘Pitlochry’ (see below). Explore Pitlochry www.PitlochryScotland.co.uk site is part of the promotion for Explore Scotland package we offer businesses that take advertising space in our 12 page 85,000 Explore Highland Perthshire guides with maps, and social media etc.
I did a quick search on Google to see the search volumes for our different larger towns and villages and found the following:‘Aberfeldy’ 5,400 searches per month. ‘Blair Atholl’ 2,900 searches per month. ‘Dunkeld’ 3,600 searches per month. ‘Highland Perthshire’ 210 searches per month. ‘Pitlochry’ 14,800 searches per month. ‘Rannoch’ 880 searches per month.
The Pitlochry Partnership (the local tourism association) has an excellent web site www.Pitlochry.org that serves its members very well. If you have a business in the Pitlochry area, we highly recommend you join, as this web site attracts huge amount of traffic and serves its members very well. We will be cross referencing the Explore Pitlochry www.Pitlochry-Scotland.co.uk with HighlandPerthshire.com when ever possible. If you look under the accommodation section we have linked the accommodation enquiry form and under the What’s On we have taken the feed from HighlandPerthshire.com. As with all new web sites it will take time for all the search engines to crawl it and for all the pages to be indexed and appear in the search engines.
HighlandPerthshire.com 1. We are pleased to report that HighlandPerthshire.com appears well for many Google searches using ‘Highland Perthshire’ (abbreviated below as HP) with:-
Whether we like it or not the vast majority of visitors to the area identify the area with ‘Pitlochry’. One holiday maker recently told me, ‘Pitlochry is a name that sounds Scottish, is not too difficult to pronounce and we can
‘Highland Perthshire’ – 2nd ‘HP Things to do’ – 1st, and 2nd ‘HP Restaurants’ - 2nd, 3rd and 4th ‘HP Shops’ and ‘HP Shop’ – 1st and 2nd ‘‘Aberfeldy Shops’ – 2nd and 3rd ‘‘HP Whats on’ – 1st, 2nd and 3rd ‘HP Accommodation’ – 1st, and 2nd ‘HP Hotels’ - 1st and 2nd ‘HP Self catering’ 1st etc
remember it’. Pitlochry first came to fame at the time of Queen Victoria, when her doctor 2. Also the web site is increasingly appearrecommended Pitlochry for all those who ing in Google searches for terms where wanted a healthier environment for a holi‘Perthshire’ is used, such as:day or recuperation. ‘Perthshire’ 3rd ‘Perthshire things to do’ 3rd ‘Perthshire what to do’ 4th ‘Perthshire whats on’ 1st ‘Perthshire events’ 2nd ‘Perthshire accommodation’ 3rd etc HighlandPerthshire.com ‘Visits’ At the top of the next page, you can see the Google Analytics graph for the last three and a half years.
Over past years, we have used ExploreHighlandPerthshire.com to promote the businesses. But with HighlandPerthshire.com up, we felt it was an opportunity to see wheth-
The significant drop you can see, in the first third, is the off season months of November and December. The traffic picks up again from Xmas onwards.
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April 2014 Annual Report on HighlandPerthshire.com Cont’d FaceBook, it is also sent out via this Twitter channel. So if you only have a FaceBook page and do not have a Twitter account, I would suggest you link the two accounts as this will spread your business to a different audience. You Tube – http://www.youtube.com/HiPerthshire The Highland Perthshire You Tube channel:-
Over the last 12 months there have been 45,549 performances which equates to 90,540 minutes or 1,509 hrs, or 62 days or over two months of viewing on Highland Perthshire topics.
Other facts:Monthly Visitor Traffic ‘Visits’ to the web site year on year since it was launched, has steadily increased. Web site functionality ‘Quick Accommodation Enquiry’ forms. There is no commission or fees. It is important to remember that many visitors will go directly to the accommodation from HighlandPerthshire.com. They tend to use the ‘Accommodation Enquiry Form’ when they can not easily find availability in the area. Over the last 12 months there have been 200+ Enquiries generated on these form. Social Media. FaceBook We have two FaceBook pages promoting the area, the pages reflect our logic for the two web sites (as described above).
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2014 so far 1,464 Likes
YOU Tube is the second most searched channel on the internet.
There is increasing evidence to show that people watch a YOU tube video, are more likely to make a purchase, than if they had not seen the video.
We have linked videos to the relevant pages within HighlandPerthshire.com
Members of HighlandPerthshire.com can have their own video free of charge, about your business. An Inverness Business owner tells us the Americans and Australians absolutely love the video, as they want to know where they are going to stay and meet the owners too.
We have a potential reach of some 100,000 FINALLY people through the HighlandPerthshire FaHighlandPerthshire.com is a member’s site ceBook. where any tourism business in Highland Perthshire can join, on the web site you can read the member’s ‘Highland Perthshire Twitter – http://twitter.com/hiperthshire Tourism Co-operation Agreement’ and the A year ago we had 546 ‘Followers’ prices to join, the prices have stayed the Today we have 795 ‘Followers’ same since the web site was constructed. We do not actively Tweet other than having The fees, agreement can be downloaded Highland Perthshire Facebook linked to this from this web page Twitter Channel. This means every time we http://www.highlandperthshire.com/about/j post information on the Highland Perthshire oin-us.aspx Please e-mail me any comments you have. Your input and comments are very important in allowing us to develop everything we do. We certainly do not have all the answers and have only been able to meet the every changing environment in which we all operate in by the constant feed back, comments and suggestions from businesses across Scotland.
1. – Highland Perthshire FaceBook http://www.facebook.com /HighlandPerthshire - The FaceBook page champions all things Highland Perthshire from events, activities, images to image galleries. This is how the FaceBook has grown over the last three years:-
Thank you for your support.
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From:- James Rattray www.HighlandPerthshire.com 01796 473335
2011 we had 414 Likes 2012 we had 752 Likes 2013 we have 1,281 Likes 7
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Fern Cottage Instead our new menu will focus on providing the best fresh seasonal Scottish produce all year round. With that in mind we will be launching a new menu every 3 months in order to tie in with the changing of the seasons and the comingof-age of the perfect ingredients. Wild Scottish rabbit, Aberdeen Angus steaks, Perthshire venison , Scottish lamb and Scottish salmon smoked in Chef Andy’s own self made smokery will be served up during the year alongside our renowned vegetarian options and selected Mediterranean influenced dishes.
Here at Fern Cottage we are lucky to be entering another new season having retained the core members of staff who have made the restaurant so successful over the years. After 12 hugely successful (and hugely enjoyable) years we have decided to freshen up our menu and put a slightly different emphasis on the cuisine we offer. Although there will still be some Mediterranean influenced dishes on the menu this will no longer be the inspiration for the restaurant’s defining theme (don’t worry though, you can still enjoy our popular kebabs!) The menu is changing but the whole team are looking forward to continuing the same warm welcome, first rate service and great atmosphere we are renowned for and it’s set to be another exciting year for Fern Cottage.
We have always enjoyed catering for our pre-theatre customers and our PT menu will this year be on offer between 1700-1830 and priced at £18.95 for 2 courses and £22.50 for 3 courses it also offers great value for money. However, this year the A la Carte menu will not be offered during this period – and will not start until 18.45 - which will ensure efficient service, a relaxed PT atmosphere and that curtain up is missed by nobody!
served from 12.00 to 15.00 and again there is a wide variety of dishes to choose from including our Soup and a Sandwich Deal for £7.95, our special lunch menu 2 courses for £12.95 or 3 courses for £15.95 and we are also introducing a new tasty lunchtime experience with our home baked breads and New York deli style fare which will be available from 7th April. Our wine list is also extensive and offers a great selection of wines from all over the world, with suggestions to enhance and accompany the dishes that customers order.
“we will be launching a new menu every 3 months in order to tie in with the changing of the seasons “
With our own little herb garden on the roof of the Restaurant and Andy growing a variety of vegetables and fruits in an allotment that he has down at my Mum’s – along with our regular supplier – we have a constant supply of fresh seasonal produce.
We are very fortunate that we do get extremely busy in the evenings and we always recommend that our customers pre-book. Furthermore all bookings taken between 17.00 and 19.30 are allocated a maximum of 2 hours dining time as we need to use these tables again later on – therefore customers who would like to take a bit longer over their meal should book from 19.45pm onwards as there is no restriction then
at all.
It is also important to say that we are very flexible and we are happy to serve beyond 9.30pm if there is a need. Remember – just pick up the phone or send us an e-mail with your request. You can browse our new menus, wine list and much more at And remember - all our food is freshly pre- www.ferncottagepitlochry.co.uk pared and cooked to order, which of course does take longer to come out of the Kitchen than in other eateries. With this in mind, when we have groups of 10 or more, a set menu is always recommended, and we are happy to offer our Pre Theatre set menu to such groups, outside of the regular 17.00 to 18.30 time slot. For special occasions and groups we are also always happy to discuss bespoke menus to enable our customers to create their own menus according to their individual tastes and budgets. In this instance we would invite you to choose 4 dishes from our starters, mains and deserts respectively. We can also organise for the exclusive use of the Restaurant where there are numbers in excess of 40. And don’t forget that we open every day at 10.30am for teas and coffees, cakes and desserts and home baking, and serve these all day through until around 16.00 when we start to set up for dinner. Lunches are 8
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Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2014
The Tay Festival
Tummel & Tay Festival 2014 Celebrating Highland Perthshire’s Whisky, Food & Culture!
Pitlochry Festival Theatre is launching its Summer Season with ‘Whisky Kisses’, a new Scottish Musical.
This year is going to be amazing for Scotland with the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles and over 600 events throughout the country. Homecoming Scotland is celebrating all things whisky throughout May this year, How can you become involved? complimenting May 17th’s World Whisky We are hoping that the Tummel and Tay Day. Festival will be a huge success in its first In keeping with the spirit of the month, Birks year and will increase the number of visitors Cinema, Birnam Arts and Pitlochry Festival to the area in May. Theatre are working together to create a brand new Festival between 23-25 May. In In addition to the cultural events of the Fesits inaugural year, the Tummel & Tay Festi- tival, we are establishing a trail to encomval will celebrate the amazing whisky, food pass the best food and drink producers of and culture available in Highland Perthshire. Highland Perthshire. Over the three days of the Festival, there We are also very interested in hearing from will be a variety of things to see and do at local accommodation providers who are the three venues all around the central interested in joining in with the spirit of the theme of whisky. Here’s a taste of what is in festival. If you are prepared to offer whisky store at each venue: in your porridge, a miniature in your welcome pack, a whisky themed menu or any other whisky themed idea as part of your
Birnam Arts will have music, theatre, a food fayre and are hosting Mull Theatre’s fantastic production of ‘Whisky Galore’
The Birks Cinema are showcasing a mix of film, poetry and music with ‘Whisky Loosened Tongues’.
hospitality we would be delighted to include this in our promotion of the Festival (at no cost to you!). In this way, the Tummel & Tay Festival will build interest in Highland Perthshire ahead of Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink in 2015. What we will do for you We will include you on Tummel and Tay Festival website and we can also include 9
you in our brochure. How much will it cost? Nothing! We are fortunate enough to have raised enough funds from a variety of funders to run the Festival without a contribution from local businesses. What we need from you Information about your organisation including a sentence or two highlighting what you do, full contact details, what whisky experience you will be providing, a photo, your logo and a link to your website. Please contact us if you need any more information or would like to be on the website or brochure that will be coming out soon. info@tummelandtayfestival.co.uk www.tummelandtayfestival.co.uk For information about the events at Birnam Arts, Birks Cinema and Pitlochry Festival Theatre please contact the venues directly. “Highland Perthshire Whisky & Food Trail is supported by the Community Food Fund, which is financed by The Scottish Government and has been created to promote local food and drink, in line with Scotland’s National Food and Drink Policy. www.communityfoodfund.co.uk “
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Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2014
Soldiers of Killiecrankie
To mark the 325th anniversary of the Battle of Killiecrankie this summer, a new group has been formed, to commemorate the first Jacobite Battle, a short lived victory for the Jacobites on the 27th July 1689. The Soldiers of Killiecrankie group, a local community lead organisation consisting of the Community Council, the Village Hall Committee and the Battlefield land owners. The planned event will have Bonnie Dundee’s Cavalry, Government and Jacobite troops, a Living History Camp, Battlefield Tours lead by period dressed tour guides and other period sensitive activities. Jacobite Story telling and Jacobite music are some of the other events currently being considered.
kie and Highland Perthshire, joined by people from further a field, commemorate the Battle of Killiecrankie, by walking the route the Jacobite forces took that day, along with simple wreath laying ceremonies taking place at the memorial sites. At the end of last summer, Alan Larsen who runs events for English Heritage, walked up from the village and told us he would like to bring Bonnie Dundee’s Cavalry back.
“Soldiers of Killiecrankie event will take place on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July 2014”
also exploring the idea of having Jacobite Story Tellers, musicians, food. Our motto is to try to ensure everything “Period Sensitive.” I believe we will have a very special event and a unique opportunity due to a number of factors coming together, which have allowed the event to take place.”
The event will take place on the Saturday and Sunday 26th and 27th July 2014. InforTo cut a long story short, the mation will be updated on new owners of Urrard Estate HighlandPerthshire.com Major have been very receptive to the idea and Events section and the What’s On. Each year a group of locals from Killiecran- another very important cog in the wheel has been Gordon and Lin Muirhead who own the land on the Jacobite side of the battle field and farm the land on Urrard Estate, who have given the project their support. We have the cavalry organised and then needed to get the infantry in place, which we have also organised. With these in position, it has allowed us to constitute ourselves as a group and we are busily pulling all the components together to make it all happen. There will be battlefield tours, by period dressed tour guides who will take on the part of one of the people at the battle from that time. We are 10
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Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2014
Blair Athol Distillery Pitlochry
A Warm Welcome awaits you at Bell’s Blair We have also welcomed Francesca Webster to the Team back in April 2013. Here is a Athol Distillery all year round. picture of Francesca hard at work at the Blair Athol Distillery, Pitlochry Bugatti Car Rally at the Atholl Palace with Help us celebrate Whisky Day on Saturday Claire Washington who returned to join us in 2013 also. 17th May Distillery Tour, Whisky, Music and Story Telling 7pm – 9pm
We successfully trialled working in conjunction with McKays Hotel in 2013 and we hosted Whisky Tastings on certain Tuesdays throughout the summer. These proved very successful and we will be again returning in 2014. I will be sending out an e.mail in due course with a note of all the dates we will be there and hope that you will send your customers along to join us. In fact why don’t you come along and visit too.
Tickets cost £15 and are available by calling 01796482003 or e.mailling blair.athol.distillery@diageo.com During Whisky Month we will be attending numerous events to help the local community celebrate in style. We will be present at the Excel Whisky Festival in Perth on Saturday 3rd May. We will be holding our own Whisky Day Event on Saturday 17th May. Tickets are priced at £15 and must be booked in advance. For this you will receive a Distillery Tour, Music and Story Telling by Claire Hewitt and a Whisky Tasting Experience. We will also be hosting events at the Birnam Art Institue, Pitlochry Festival Theatre and the Birks Cinema over the weekend of 23rd – 25th May. Hopefully if we don’t see you for a Distillery Tour we will get the opportunity to see some of you at one of these events.
“As in previous years we would like to invite all accommodation providers, local businesses and all their staff to a complimentary tour of the distillery followed by a dram of Blair Athol 12 Year Old Single Malt.”
As in previous years we would like to invite all accommodation providers, local businesses and all their staff to a complimentary tour of the distillery followed by a dram of Blair Athol 12 Year Old Single Malt. We would also like to offer complimentary tutored whisky tastings to our local bar staff to allow them to speak more knowledgably about whisky. This offer is open all year so please send any new recruits along throughout the season.
(Tours available hourly from 10am until pre-booked visits. We would however ask that you visit our website if you are in any 3pm) doubt. Closed 25th and 26th December 2014 and st Tel 01796 482003 or e.mail us on and 2nd January 2015 blair.athol.distillery@diageo.com Easter to October Monday – Sunday: Last Tour – 1 hour before closing Jill Scougall, Blair Athol Distillery, Perth 10.00am - 5.00pm Closed Sun 11th May) Adverse Weather Conditions Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5LY Tel 01796 July to Sept 21st only: open until 5.30pm In the event of adverse weather conditions 482003 2014 Opening Hours January to March Monday – Saturday : 10.00am-4.00pm (Tours available hourly from 10.00am until 3pm)
November and D e c e m b e r the site may be closed to ensure the Health & Safety of our employees and our Visitors. Monday – Sunday : 10.00am-4.00pm Every possible effort will be made to contact 11
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Pitlochry Golf News over the world to come, see and use for themselves.
2013 has been a great year with a hot summer at last and I am sure you all enjoyed the sunshine and warm nights. I would like to thank all our members, loyal customers, local B&B’s, hotels, businesses and visitors for their continued support. For those who haven’t found us yet I would like to tell everyone that we are OPEN TO ALL and a warm Pitlochry Golf welcome awaits you. With our friendly approach to customer service, you will be made to feel like a valued member as soon as you walk through the door. With so many golfers taking advantage of the good summer weather, we had a busy season and with many great green fee deals to be had (some including catering too) we hope to see as many players back to pit their wits against our very scenic 18 HOLE GOLF COURSE sometime in the very near future. During the summer we also saw our new GOLF RANGE AND ACADEMY open to
With a fabulous clubhouse offering great food at fantastic prices, a fully stocked PRO SHOP, 2 PGA Professional’s on site offering top Pitlochry on the way to the Dam and Fish quality golf lessons in the new Golf Range Ladder. The putting green provides an ideal and Academy, equipment for hire such a introduction to the fun of the game of golf ride on buggies, electric and pull trolleys, for all the family. golf clubs and very accessible golf course set in stunning surroundings – why would For local B&B’s, hotels and businesses, you go anywhere else for a relaxing day Pitlochry Golf has a number of different out?! “Our aim isschemes and initiatives to help to promote your business, our business and the whole simple, make You don’t have to be a golfer to loveto THE of Highland Perthshire as a great destinaCLUBHOUSE. Socialise oversure drinksthat on the each tion to come and visit. Give your guest the decking with the amazing views of the and every opportunity to receive 10% discount in the course and Ben-Y-Vrackie, watch the golfers Clubhouse and discounted golf or your busiplaying their approach shotscustomer to the 18th to ness a possibility of different ways of advergreen. Enjoy tea, coffee, wine, beer, tradi-has Victoria’s tional British and international food and a anClubhouse. excellent first class service in our relaxing
dining
Dishes are cooked to order in a simple but experience” traditional way. Grilled, smoked, roasted or marinated to enhance the flavour, whether it is a casual bite or dining on steaks. We use the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced locally in Perthshire for you all to enjoy.
Throughout the year we run our very own Curry Club. This runs every Wednesday from 5pm until 9pm, with six different curries from around the world on offer and as it’s an ‘all you can eat buffet’ for only £9.99 this is becoming a very popular night. Every Thursday is our Grill Night which offers a selection of meat, fish and vegetables all grilled to your liking. We also have a very popular Sunday Carvery for both golfers and diners. Simply get your family and friends together and give mum a day off and join us for our traditional Sunday roast (where there’s the public and we are very pleased with the response we have had to this new facility – no washing up!). it’s open 7 days a week from dawn until dusk and is the ideal place to perfect that During the season we host a number of different events so check out the webgolf game in such wonderful surroundings. site www.pitlochrygolf.co.uk for our With a new short game practice area and a Theme and Tribute Nights. 6 hole, Par 3 SHORT COURSE opening in summer 2014, we are adding more strings Perhaps less known is the fact that the to our bow and will soon have an all-round golf course also has a PUTTING facility which in our view would create a top COURSE set away from the main golf drawer destination for all golfers from all course facilities, at the other site of 12
tising. For more information please visit our website www.pitlochrygolf.co.uk or contact: ProShop: 01796 472792, pro@pitlochrygolf.co.uk Clubhouse: 01796 472334, manager@pitlochrygolf.co.uk Marketing: 07711458260, marketing@pitlochrygolf.co.uk Pitlochry Golf Team
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Bespoke Highland Car Tours Pitlochry I can take people to Castles, Distilleries, Gardens etc. or just take them on minor roads to places not normally on the tourist routes.
Lots of people arrive in the area with either no car, or no knowledge of the area. I am taking 2-4 people on tours tailored to their perfect day out.
“Why not let me take the strain whilst you relax and enjoy what Highland Perthshire and beyond has to offer!”
Bespoke Highland Car Tours Pitlochry Ronnie Owens Personal Driver Guide Killiecrankie Pitlochry PH16 5LR Tel: 07979 412831 e.mail rowens55@rocketmail.com Follow me on Facebook.
I do a minimum tour of four hours, but some people book me exclusively for 3 or 4 days, picking them up from their hotels etc. I am a retired police office (qualified to class 1 driver) and am fully insured with over 10 years experience within tourism in Highland Perthshire. I have a new top of the range 4x4 vehicle.
New All Terrain Vehicle for Highland Safaris and a glass roof to add an new dimension to all Safari options. Furthermore, the Pinzgauer will satisfy the demand from larger groups and those seeking a memorable family celebration (where being together on the mountain is key), as well as increasing capacity in the busy summer months.
Aberfeldy based 5 Star Visitor Attraction, Highland Safaris, will be taking delivery of an exciting new vehicle this April in the form of a refurbished Pinzgauer. The Pinzgauer, named after the Austrian farm horses of sturdy build, high endurance and excellent mountain climbing ability, was developed as a multi-purpose, military vehicle for on and off-road use to operate in some of the most difficult terrain in the world. Highland Safaris has worked closely with a Welsh based company to develop a safari vehicle that seats up to 10 passengers with comfortable forward- facing seats and excellent vision out of large panoramic windows
Directors of Highland Safaris, Julie and Donald Riddell said ‘We are excited about this major investment and think that the fantastic look of the vehicle will create even greater demand. We will still keep some of our Land Rovers however, the Defender model is being discontinued in 2015 so we are staying ahead of this by customising a tried and tested vehicle’. Please contact Highland Safaris on info@highlandsafaris.net or tel. 01887 820071
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Café Biba Pitlochry place for a quick lunch, or a relaxed informal dining experience with a well varied menu and daily specials which utilise local seasonal produce.
A warm welcome awaits at Cafe Biba, Pitlochry. Situated on Atholl Road opposite the War Memorial our quaint Victorian cottage facade hides a Tardis like space inside with a roomy conservatory and enclosed open air courtyard area. A long established business we have been popular with locals and visitors for many years with a reputation for warm friendly service from Brenda our Manager and her staff. Our success is due to the fact that we can cater for a wide variety of customers needs, we are a cosy coffee shop to some, a great
“We open at 9.30 every day and are open till late for most of the year.”
We offer a breakfast menu with filled rolls, pancakes and full breakfasts, scones are baked daily, and we have a lovely selection of cakes, some baked on the premises and some from a local artisan baker. We are famous for our fabulous sweet pancakes hot off the griddle and served with a variety of toppings. We also have great Pizza menu for eating in or Takeaway and our main menu ranges from sandwiches and snacks to traditional main courses, children of course are always welcome and can choose from our Kids Menu. We buy our Beef and Game from the award winning MacDonald Butchers here in Pitlochry
and we source our fresh fish directly from a well known Aberdeen Fish Merchant, we are licensed and keep a small but interesting selection of wines and local and international beers, as well as a full range of soft drinks and teas and coffees.
We open at 9.30 every day and are open till late for most of the year, and have bike racks available at the rear of the restaurant for cyclists. We hope to see you soon.
Blair Castle International Horse Trials The stunningly beautiful “Next year Blair 2015 European Eventing Champibut testing CCI*** cross Alec Lochore the event Castle will be onships, country course is designed director commented “We expect by Scotland’s very own hosting the FEI this year’s event to be a stepping three time Badminton 2015 European stone to the Blair Castle FEI Eurowinner, Ian Stark. The pean Eventing Championships in Eventing scenery and the Castle September 2015, providing Scotitself provide a truly Championships land with a major international breathtaking backdrop. in September competition to look forward to.” Steeped in history, the Box Office opens May 2014 castle and grounds are open to the public during the event. Visit the website www.blairhorsetrials.co.uk Equal in splendour to the castle is the Follow us on: Facebook magnificent landscape of the 145,000- http://www.facebook.com/blairhorsetrials 21st—24th August 2014 acre estate in which it is set, which offers Twitter http://twitter.com/BCIHT Blair Castle International Horse Trials and beautifully scenic vistas of rolling farmland Bruadar Country Fair is one of the biggest and wild open hills. events in the Scottish sporting calendar and The Bruadar Country Fair runs alongside the the largest equestrian event in Scotland. equestrian activities on the Saturday and Running over four days in August each year Sunday, featuring displays of both traditionand attracting in excess of 40,000 visitors. al and more modern countryside pursuits. A Olympic medalists compete alongside ama- large shopping village houses top class teurs in the four International Eventing clas- shopping from some of the country’s leadses, whilst British Showjumping and show- ing fashion retailers, jewellery stores and all ing classes provide a platform for riders in sorts unusual and original gifts are among other disciplines to compete on Blair's hal- the 200 plus trade stands. lowed turf. Next year Blair Castle will be hosting the FEI 14
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Pitlochry in Bloom We have continued to work over the winter on the second phase of our project, namely reprinting the Town Heritage Trail map with new signage. This should be in place for the beginning of this season. And lastly, a book of memories, poems, stories from near and far about Pitlochry Station and the line will be published later this Spring. We are very grateful to the HLF without whom none of this would have been possible.
Sesquicentennial of the Highland Mainline Railway
er last year, let’s hope for a repeat of the sunshine. We would hope that as many businesses as can will get behind us in our bid for a 5th Gold this year, especially as the Royal Horticultural Society celebrates it’s Golden Anniversary in 2014.
We did manage, although a close shave again!, to hold the Reindeer Parade last year, as we still had no local sponsor and with no Autumn Festival in town, no opportunity for us to fund-raise as in the past. But we would ask that if any business or local organisation could help bring the Reindeer here for our local children to enjoy, please do get in touch. Any assistance, however Pitlochry in Bloom entered small, would be gratefully received. Beautiful Scotland in 2013, having had a break from competitions in Pitlochry Litter Action Group continued to 2012. We collected a Gold Medal, the Small carry out a monthly planned litter-pick on Town Trophy and the Rosebowl. This has led the last Thursday of the month, from Februto us being entered by Beautiful Scotland ary until October. The group have already begun this year in February and will continue thru to the Autumn. Any helpers always welcomed.
Last year was the 150th anniversary of the Highland Mainline opening fully. A great number of diverse events took place up the line to celebrate this enormous engineering achievement. After over 10 years of writing letters, meetings and lobbying, Network Rail and Firstgroup/Scotrail finally agreed to repair and paint the Victorian Footbridge and indeed the whole Station for us. Work commenced in late March and continued until late May. Pitlochry in Bloom had the Victorian MacFarlane 7 Drinking Fountain stripped of over 100 years of layers of thick paint, treated for rust and beautifully restored. This collected a Railway Heritage Trust Highly Commended Award last December and we have been advised to submit the whole Station in 2014. Pitlochry High School and Breadalbane Academy S3 classes Poster Project, which produced beautiful artwork, are on permanent display along the Station railings and a new Mural was produced for the North-bound Station Waiting Room. A floral train was also put on Platform 1 and lastly two reproduction Victorian lamps, gifted by the Railway Heritage Trust, into the Royal Horticultural Society’s Britain in Bloom in 2014. We are one of only 6 put in place on the footbridge this winter. communities in Scotland to represent the In early July we were the proud recipient of country in this prestigious competition. a Heritage Lottery Fund Award, 150 Years On Track was our project, which helped fund The Petit Jardin opposite the Scout Hut has the celebrations last September. An official finally got a new pine cone too this year. event was held on September 9th, with speeches, a plaque and fountain unveiling We are still pushing for the cleaning of and a lunch in Fishers Hotel. That night a the War Memorial by P&KC (as promCommunity Ceildih was held in the Atholl ised to Kate Howie and us two years Palace. On Wednesday that week, we held a ago). It is a great shame that our MeVictorian sports & tea party for Pitlochry morial, which was 90 years old in Primary classes in Fishers Hotel Garden and 2012, is now covered in green moss, later that evening, the renowned Highland hiding the beautiful Rubislaw granite Railway author, Neil Sinclair gave a talk on and the walls and pillars are also in a his new book about the line in the Bow bad state. Let us hope as a mark of Lounge of the Atholl Palace. Very apt as the respect for those whose names are local Perth architect, Andrew Heiton, had listed that it willthget done in this year designed the Athole Hydropathic and the 2014, the 100 anniversary of the original frontage on Perth Station in the late outbreak of The Great War. 19th century. We had an amazing summer’s weath15
Pitlochry in Bloom is 21 years old this year too and who would have thought all those years ago that we would still be going strong. Our small band have raised and spent an amazing amount in the town over the past 21 years, we estimate around £1,000,000 has now been raised in some shape or form by our little group since we began. We can always do with new volunteers, so if you like gardening and could spare a couple of hours a month through the main season, please do get in touch. We are, as ever, really grateful to all those businesses who support us, whether financially or putting on their own beautiful floral displays. They are very much appreciated by our visitors, so we hope we will all be able to keep Pitlochry the clean and green destination it has become. And we hope too, that the green shoots of a financial recovery will continue in 2014. We wish you all a very good Season and surely another summer of sunshine will smile on the Commonwealth Games, the Homecoming and the Ryder Cup this year!
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The Black Watch Inn & the Croft Restaurant very popular. We have a fantastic selection of Malt Whiskies including Aberfeldys’ own variety of malts and blends distilled only a short walk from our premises. We also stock seasonal Real Cask Ales, Fine Wines and various other beverages for your enjoyment.
The Black Watch Inn and Croft Restaurant are a connecting bar and restaurant, the bar is popular to locals and visitors alike, with a traditional feel and warm welcome. We have an outside seating area and pool table and serve bar lunches (seasonal) and evening meals which are great value and
The Croft Restaurant is tastefully designed and has a vast menu of food and wines. We offer very friendly service and delicious food in a great atmosphere so please come along and pay us a visit, booking is advisable though! Watch out for our famous Friday Steak Nights and Sunday Roasts!
thing special we aim to give you an excellent experience.
Our contact details are, telephone 01887 820699, address Bank Street, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, PH15 2BB, website If you are just popping in for a coffee or a www.aberfeldypubs.co.uk and email inglass of wine or if you are celebrating somefo@aberfeldypubs.co.uk
The Fountain Bar every paying adult so this is very popular with families. You will receive a warm welcome and friendly service on every visit whether coming in for a quick drink or a bite to eat! Throughout the year we also have regular evening entertainment with live music by several local artists and bands. We also host frequent quiz and poker nights, please check our website for listings. The Fountain Bar The Fountain Bar is a centrally located very popular bar for food, drink and entertainment alike. We serve food 7 days a week from 12 noon till 9 pm, kids eat for £1 with
In the warmer months we have an outside seating area situated in Aberfeldys’ central square where you can watch the world go by!
Our contact details telephone 01887 820418, address Fountain Bar, The Square, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, PH15 2DD, website www.aberfeldypubs.co.uk and email info@aberfeldypubs.co.uk
Habitat Cafe
From the moment you step into Habitat Cafe you realise it’s all a bit different. Why is there a map pinned with luggage tags on the wall? Salvaged marine lights and reclaimed timbers create a striking bar area. And the cafe's various certificates and
thank-you letters hang next to crayon drawings made by local kids. It feels nice.
tic attractions in town, we saw a chance to offer something different, something new to Highland Perthshire.”
The team at Habitat Cafe are obsessively passionate about what they do. In their first year they won two national awards from The Beverage Standards Association: 2013 Best Espresso in the UK, and Scotland’s only winner of ‘5 cups’ – the Michelin Stars of the hot drinks industry.
“We offer more than just a functional meal, or another cup of loose leaf tea like all the rest. By working with fantastic ingredients, such as award-winning Dunkeld Smoked Salmon and Has Bean Coffee, our goal is to give customers an exceptional experience within their day.”
Owners Jan and Mike are enthusiastic. “We may be just a cafe, but our baristas, chefs and waitresses still aim to delight everyone who comes in.” says Mike. “We’re often asked why we chose Aberfeldy. Because it’s amazing! And between all the other fantas16
In 2014 Habitat Cafe is hoping to build on their strong start. Ideas they are working on include an evening food service, craft beers, and a few classes in how to get the most from your speciality coffees and teas at home. Don’t miss this place! www.habitatcafe.co.uk
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Mains of Taymouth This last year Mains of Taymouth has seen the addition of a new corporate/wedding facility located in the former Byre Bistro catering for up to 60 people seated in the function room with separate bar and ability to attach a marquee sited on the adjacent lawn allowing parties of up to 214, (also the number of people we can accommodate within our 4 and 5 star cottages). The Coach House overlooks the first tee and last green of the golf course which is now under the management of Head Greenkeeper and Estates Manager Peter Bancroft. Also new to the team is our wedding/events coordinator / receptionist Julie Kilpatrick and at the stables Andy Dewar-McCabe who was head of equestrian training at Sandhurst Military College. Andy is assisting manager Katy
Bennett with lessons for any level of experience and day to day running of the trekking centre. Lastly we have a lovely new team of staff at The Courtyard Bar and Restaurant under the management of David Errington head chef and front of house manageress Klara Horcickova. David's traditional Scottish food which is all locally sourced and freshly cooked together with Klara and teams attention to service is encouraging a welcome return of local custom and kept us very busy over the quiet winter months. In March we loose long time general manager Mike Carry who we thank for many years of loyal service and also temporarily, Liz Aiken, resident beauty therapist who is expecting her first baby in July. Good luck to both Mike and Liz. 2014 is already proving to be an exceptional year at The Mains of Taymouth with the commencement of 3 major new developments. Firstly, April will see landscaping begin to form an exquisite gated Retirement Village of 38 residential riverside leisure lodges aimed at the young retiree and available for purchase by late summer. These luxury lodges are designed for easy living and aimed at the active over 50 keen to realise their asset of their home and purchase a leisure lodge and relocate to Highland Perthshire. Secondly, a new and exhilarating major visitor attraction situated in the
forest park behind the estate, The Celtic Mile Zip Line Adventure Park. This is an educational and exciting tree top trail with amazing views whilst travelling through the tree canopy on zip wires and is planned to open in July......3rdly building development continues at Mains of Taymouth with the continuation of the hugely successful buy to holiday let properties. The next 6 Maxwells, one and two bedroom houses will commence after Easter. These popular properties are so in demand from both customers and buy to let investors that deposits are now being received. Meanwhile we have beautiful riverside plots ready and available for holiday homes and bespoke Island Leisure lodges.
Taymouth Courtyard Shop It goes without saying we are all hoping for the weather we had last summer to put a smile on our faces again this year. Kenmore is a wonderful place to enjoy the sunshine. We are surrounded by beautiful walks and there is so much to see and do. The Courtyard Shop is nine years old and we aim to to
offer our customers something a bit differe n t a n d u n ex pe c t e d. In the Deli we continue to increase the number of local suppliers we have with more than 25 Perthshire companies now filling our shelves. We have developed our business on line so if you can't come to see us go to www.foodofscotland.co.uk and select from some of our best sellers. We have some of the best Ice Cream in the area which is also available from our little shop in Aberfeldy in the square called "Cones". We have food tastings throughout the summer and every day at our oil a n d vinegar bar. The Gift shop has a selection of books 17
iconic Scottish t-shirts and lots to offer all the family. Keep up with our offers and what we are up to by following us on Twitter @courtyardshop.
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Taymouth Marina Watersports/Activities Our fun filled Highland Games, hosted on the Kenmore Pavilion grounds, have gone down a treat as a day after activity for wedding parties. (Sometimes proving more enjoyable than the wedding itself!) Whilst As the newest attraction to our Archery Loch Tay we would like to start Range and by saying a huge thank you for “I think some m o b i l e the warm welcome and supClimbing port we have received so far. If guests actually Wall are you have not yet been to visit the perfect addition for any parenjoyed the ty or day event. then let us tell you why you Our bespoke Highland should… activity packages inc. raft buildTMW has lots to offer for those have been popular with Stag Games more ing wanting to enjoy the outdoors. and Hen parties as well as team We invite you all to come and building days for uniform than our enjoy our fabulous playground, groups. This upcoming season wedding” Loch Tay. Whether you wish to we will be adding to our adrenacycle round the Loch or use lin filled Rib Rides with banana one of our many boats to sail or paddle on boat sessions and sail tours as well. Lookthe Loch, we have something for everyone. ing for a relaxing afternoon then why not In only a few of months we have had fami- hire one of our mountain bikes or go for a lies, couples, birthday parties and corporate wee paddle in one of our family favourite groups joining our instructors out on the Katakanus. We really do have something for water exploring the Loch. everyone.
Taymouth Marina/Training/Staff: water and training, as such he has had the opportunity to gain multiple qualifications in the teaching of outdoor sports and first aid.
TMW has three major forces working together to make it such an impressive place and strong venture; the location - which has to be seen to be believed, the facilities - which speak for themselves and are constantly improving and finally… the staff. At the head of the operation is Marina and Centre Manager Stewart Griffiths, he brings with him 7 years of commercial boating experience mixed with numerous seasons as an outdoor instructor/lifeguard/trainer. Stewart has a genuine passion for safety, rescue,
almost all activities we offer. We can offer a range of certified courses and bespoke custom made training options, which ever best suits your needs and requirements. An example of the activities we can teach are powerboating, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, cycling, climbing and first aid which we can TMW has a developing offer up to HSE 3 day first aid at work and marina which at the momany specialist courses for your unique ment consists of a 20 needs. berth serviced pontoon system including power To see how our team could help you please and freshwater, 9 swing contact us on 01887 827085 or t moorings, trailer park/ hard standing and a slip- aymouthwatersports@gmail.com way. We are also able to provide or arrange a vast range of services including transport, sourcing, brokerage, engineering, covers, painting, boat building and repairs and many more. All marine services are available year round to locals and visitors alike for long or short term stays. Due to the high calibre of staff that we employ we are not only able to offer equipment hire and trips we are also able to offer training courses in 18
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Food in the Park, Blair Atholl excited about being able to continue the high level of customer service that has been enjoyed in past years. We will also be welcoming back Nel Davidson, our scrumptious cake maker, who delivered above and beyond last year in terms of quality and taste on a wide range of delicious cakes! ‘Food in the Park’ Fish and Chip & Pizza Restaurant and Coffee House in Blair Atholl was a very busy place to be last year with a few changes made around the area that
Further plans for Food in the Park are to expand our already large garden area at the back of the property to include a children’s play area, so watch out for news of that in in his “From the bottom of Scotland to the
bought in quite a few very impressed customers! The most noticeable change is obviously the lovely new car park and picnic area around the Information Centre and new Information Hub that was really well used in the summer after being completed in early 2013. Blair Atholl Bike Hire was also newly situated at the cafe and has had a very encouraging first year in its new home. Our Yo! Frooty Frozen Yoghurt and Smoothie unit is now nicely positioned at the front of our property looking out over the picnic area and nicely manicured lawn of the Information Centre, ready to take full advantage of the beautiful summer that we keep being promised! So all in all customers at Food in the Park are in for a treat this summer with so much to offer!
the near future!
We have 4 very dedicated staff returning for a 2nd and 3rd season with us plus 2 new full time staff with a wealth of previous experience in the catering trade, so we are very
Visitors continue to vote our Fish and Chips as the ‘best in Scotland’, so we are making plans to have that made official in 2015 by entering Food in the Park into The National Fish and Chip Awards. Winners for 2014 have just been announced so we will be visited by the judges at some point this year to hopefully be crowned a prize winner for 2015 in the category of ‘Seasonal Fish and Chip Restaurants’. Votes from customers and the public all help towards a win so we will be publishing details of where to vote once we have been officially entered!
top of Africa” challenge and many more individual charity challengers! We have our usual number on which to place an order (01796 481484) so you can pre-order your meal and pick it up later in the day or night. We also take bookings on this number to enable you to reserve seats in our restaurant, if you have a large party. Further details about any special events that we are hosting can be found on our website at www.foodinthepark.co.uk.
As always we will be catering for and supporting quite a number of charity events that are passing through Blair Atholl; Cyclists from Lands End to John O’Groats completing the Wooden Spoon Challenge, Speed Munroe baggers, Alan Stewart who is fighting for every heartbeat through 1,000 miles of personal challenges for British Heart Foundation and will be travelling through Blair Atholl to complete 3 Munroes REMEMBER! We have a huge car park, facilities to eat in or sit outside in one of our two alfresco areas with views of the river and mountains, or take – away . We also have a large garden ideal for kids to run around in and work up an appetite! Open 11am until 8pm (9pm in the Summer Holidays) 01796 481484
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Riders of the Storm I would like to introduce you to Riders of the ous events planned for the 2014 season Storm. and are as far afield as Reeth show in Yorkshire to Caithness Show in Thurso, but a few close to home such as Grandtully Gala Day and Soldiers of Killiecrankie. We also provide lessons, camps and experience days and holidays at our base in Killiecrankie. We have people travelling from all over Britain to try out these unique experiences. Aimed at adults, children, families and groups, there is something for everyone. You don’t even have to have ridden before the join in the fun, all we ask is that you’re reasonably fit and healthy and under our weight limit. We also add TV and Film to our repertoire, providing horses and riders. Most recently filming a BBC documentary called a Quest for Bannockburn to be aired in June. If you would like any more information on any of the services we provide or to watch our showreel please visit our website . www.ridersofthestorm.co.uk or facebook page www.facebook.com/ scotlandsstuntteam
Founded by local Kirsty McWilliam, Riders of the Storm is Britain’s youngest and Scotland’s Elite Equestrian Stunt Display We are currently looking for 2014 main Team. We travel throughout Britain performsponsor, if you are interested in supporting ing displays at agricultural shows, country this local youth team please get intouch. fairs, horse trials and galas. We have vari-
Blair Castle and Gardens new WW1 Exhibition
To commemorate the centenary of World War I and Scotland’s Year of Homecoming, an exciting new exhibition demonstrating the involvement of the 7th Duke of Atholl and his family in the war will be on display in the castle from 1st April 2014. The 7th Duke’s three sons were all heavily
involved in military operations as Lord Tul- Following the end of the war, the 8th Duke libardine (who became 8th Duke in 1917) was responsible for fundraising and building commanded the Scottish Horse Regiment, the National War Memorial at Edinburgh which later merged with the Black Watch; Castle and the war memorials on the estate Lord George served with the Black Watch at Blair Atholl, Logierait, Dunkeld and and was tragically lost during the Battle of “Our Land Bankfoot. the Aisne in September 1914, although rumours circulated that he was a prisoner of Rover The Family at War exhibition will display war; and Lord James of the Camervarious artefacts and inforSafaris will on Highlanders was injured early mation on the individual family on in the war, returned to the front “Entry members during the war, inre-start in and was captured. He remained in cluding letters, photos and ”. various prison camps in GermanyAprilprices: documents of the Duke’s sons, for the rest of the war. a section on the ballroom as a Adult Red Cross Hospital which inThe ladies of the family also did £9.90, cludes extracts from a scraptheir bit for the War effort as Dorothea helped in a hospital and Concession book kept by one of the nurses, and a section on the plans and suffered a Zepplin raid in the south fundraising effort for the Na£8.40, of England, Helen raised funds for tional War Memorial. the Scottish Horse and the castle Child was used as a Red Cross hospital Entry to the exhibition is includcommanded by Duchess Kitty. The ed in the general admission to ballroom was transformed into a Blair Castle and Gardens. ward and recreation room while additional rooms were used as dining areas for nurs- Entry prices: Adult £9.90, Concession £8.40, Child £5.95, Family £26.75. ing staff and patients. 20
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Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2014
The Old Mill Inn Pitlochry Owned and run by Fiona and Angus John MacLellan (who also own Victoria’s Restaurant in Pitlochry), The Old Mill Inn is a well-loved vibrant bar & bistro, popular with locals and visitors alike and we’ve become known for showcasing some of Scotland’s best music acts in our bar each weekend. Food & drink is great value at The Mill and the cornerstone of our business is friendly service, so you can expect a warm welcome when you come to visit. Our accommodation is spacious and well-appointed and we offer a selection of double, twin and luxurious deluxe king-size rooms. Keep up to date with all the live music, offers and goings on at the Mill on our facebook page www.facebook.com/ oldmillinn or visit our website www.theoldmillpitlochry.co.uk As always, we would like to thank you all for your support and custom and we look forward to seeing you over the coming season.
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Guided Walks in Rannoch that start from the village square. Monday 7 April 1000 – 1130 Scampering Squirrels Rannoch is a stronghold for the Red Squirrel, so come along and find out more about these acrobatic creatures. We may be lucky enough to see some in the tree tops. Thursday 17 April 1900- 2030 Meet the midgie munchers. An enthusiastic group of volunteers have been leading guided walks during the holiday periods over the last year, and we are delighted to be doing them again. This year we plan to do Guided Walks out with the core tourist season. As it is a programme that is still being developed please contact rannochscotland@gmail.com for further information. However, as a taster here are some that are planned for April and May,
So what creatures eat the pesty 500-630 (not confirmed little insects that drive us all mad? They Sunday 4 May make up a good meal for many a creature yet) Dawn Chorus. but who? Bring a torch and warm jacket. As spring is in full swing join us for a gentle Monday 21 April 1000 – 1130 Rannoch ramble to hear the song before the dawn. Critters As the sun rises we may be lucky to even spot the “singers” Who and what lives in Rannoch? Come and find out more about our top six favourites and where to see them.
Welcome to Rannoch & Tummel cycling or a simple drive round Loch Rannoch you can experience nature at its best. Stop in one of the many lay-bys, picnic by the shore and dip your toes in the water. Using the bus route? You can get on and off wherever you want. www.pkc.gov.uk/ bustimetables Tummel Bridge and Kinloch Rannoch have a general shop and a cafe. In Kinloch Rannoch you can hire bikes and boats, go fishing or use the new play park. If you are a geocacher you can spend many happy hours in Rannoch, we have over thirty caches in the area. To find out more go to www.geocaching.com . Enjoy the Clan Trail – follow the posted route around Loch Rannoch to find out more about the clans who used to live in the glen. Leaflets are available at the Country Store. Spectacular scenery, photographers delight, hills, mountains and an amazing waterfall right in the centre of Kinloch Rannoch.
Welcome to Rannoch & Tummel. "OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND - NATURE NEVER CLOSES ITS DOOR" on the “The Road to the Isles” your adventure begins, by bus, walking,
If its wildlife you’re looking for there is an abundance of birds including osprey and Rannoch is a red squirrels stronghold! Take a trip to Rannoch station at dusk; you are bound to see some deer. At the east end of the loch read about the special fish species that live here. 22
For serious walkers you can follow the old cattle drove roads such as Annat to Dalwhinnie, Bridge of Gaur to Bridge of Orchy or take the Kirk Road from Dall to Glen Lyon. Don’t forget the train trip to Corrour and walk back to Rannoch Station. (Wear appropriate clothes and carry food and water.) Those looking for a shorter ramble can explore the core paths round Kinloch Rannoch and Tummel Bridge, go to McGregor’s Cave, follow trails marked in the Carie Woods or explore the Black Wood of Rannoch. Guided walks are on offer and information can be found at www.rannochandtummel.co.uk or email rannochscotland@gmail.com
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Rannoch Paths roads and Scottish Rights of Way and many start from the Clan Trail which circles Loch Rannoch. At Carie, the Forestry Commission offer way marked paths of different lengths. Several of our other paths are not yet way marked but can be clearly seen on OS map 42 on various walking websites. Rannoch and Tummel Tourism group is working towards sensitively upgrading and marking paths. A local paths guide is being planned to describe routes such as the romantic Victorian path to MacGregor's Cave or the Annat circular passing a historic deserted village. Want to find out more please check www.rannochandtummel.co.uk or Walking in Rannoch has something to suit contact rannochscotland@gmail.com everyone from a short multi-use path in Kinloch Rannoch to long distant paths such Many of our paths make good cycle routes as the Kirk route from Dall to Glen Lyon. and the road round Loch Rannoch is ideal The routes are often historic, old drove for all levels of cyclists from the serious
Prince of India served from 5pm to 11pm each night. You will find all the popular Indian continent dishes on the Prince of India’s menu, including authentic Balti dishes, Chef's recommendation and European dishes (for non -curry eaters in the party). 10% discount is offered on the Prince of India Take Away meals; you can phone in or drop in, order and wait for the meal to be prepared. Large groups are catered for, if Prince of India, Pitlochry’s only Indian Res- pre-booked you can have your own special menu agreed with the Prince of India chefs. taurant . It all started in July 1994, twenty years ago If you want a menu for your guests please this July. The Prince of India is rated 10th pop in and ask the staff, they will be very happy to help. out of 43 restaurants on Trip Advisor Its Special Lunch deal is the best in Pitlochry £6.95 for three courses and children under 12 eat for £3.95, 12noon to 4.30pm (2pm winter). Main evening meals are
The Prince of India is open all year, 7 days a week. Summer open all day long. Off seasons open 12noon to 2pm and 5pm to 11pm. Tel: 01796 472275 or 01796 473770
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Etape participants to family outings with youngsters on bike seats or tag-alongs. To keep youngsters engaged with a walk why not try Geocaching. Rannoch has over 30 caches to find using Gps. To learn more go to www.geocaching.com
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Drummonds Restaurant and Public House place to go. Two course High Tea, with choice of pate or soup starters, selection of main courses and three deserts for £11 served from 12 noon to 6.30pm. You can also choose dishes from the main menu which is also available from 12 noon to 9pm each day. All payments are cash or by cheque, as part of Drummonds drive to provide good value food it does not have credit card facilities, thereby saving on these extra costs to the business. Rated 9th out of 43 restaurants in the Pitlochry Trip Advisor area, with 143 reviews giving it a rating of 4.5 out of 5, (85.2% of the reviews rate Drummonds as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Very Good’) sets this understated family restaurant in its true context
This year Drummonds are introducing a new range of dishes in to their daily specials menu ranging from chicken, pastas, roast pork and lamb to home made rice pudding and ice cream and fruit.
Importantly Mags and family invite you to The Drummond Family who run the restau- come along and try Drummonds out, after rant consisting of Mags, Angela, Adele, Ab- all how can you tell your guests about some bie, Michael, Cha and Mick would like to where if you have never been and tried it yourself. welcome you to Drummonds in Ferry Road, Here are a couple of Pitlochry. the most recent Trip Advisor Reviews to let Mags says it still amazes you know what others her after 14 years of thought of Drumbeing open, how many monds:people who live in the Pitlochry area have never “Fabulous” - We have been to Drummonds. been in Pitlochry for a She says people are still couple of days for a coming up to her and weekend break from saying they have never near Edinburgh. been in Drummonds Not knowing the town before, if you are one of we had been directed these people, Mags and to a few of the local her family ask you to bars/restaurants by please come in and give Drummonds a try. the hotel we were staying and were What sets Drummonds apart from the other shocked by the prices. restaurants in town, is that it provides good affordable meals, home from home cooking, By chance we bumped into the chef from ‘Just as your Mum would cook it”, none of Drummonds in the local Fishers Bar who this fancy modern stuff. Everything is told us about Drummonds. cooked to order using good wholesome We decided to try out the place yesterday Scottish produce at all times. afternoon for food and a drink .. this was by If your guests are looking for some home far the best for good hot food and much cooked food at affordable rates, this is the more reasonably priced drinks and relaxed family atmosphere and ALL staff were Scottish making you actually feel you were visiting a Scottish town. We would recommend this restaurant for the atmosphere, friendliness and best of all the prices. 28th February 2014, Bonnyrigg, Scotland “Lovely Food” - We called in here just on the off chance. It's small and when you walk in, its maybe not what you are expecting. How24
ever the lady who served us, was polite and did everything. She did drinks, food orders, served the food and cleaned up without a sweat!! The food was fresh and nicely cooked and considerably cheap for what you get. Would return any day... 30th March 2014, York, England.
“Day Trip” - After visiting Pitlochry we decided to pop into Drummonds on Ferry Road for an early tea. We picked from a good range of options on their menu and we decided to have there fish teas which were delicious and very reasonably priced and the service was friendly and efficient. It is a small but homely restaurant with very pleasant and accommodating staff Peter was very helpful giving us plenty of information about the town and places to stay for future visits. I would definitely recommend this restaurant well worth it will be back. 3rd April 2014 Alexandria, Scotland