Scotland correspondent issue 9

Scotland the beautiful Bellfield brewery ringing the changes Perfect blend of Outlander and whisky p1

Celebrating a trio of icons Buying a slice of Highland heaven Movie drive for golfers

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inside this issue

22 The

spans of time

International acclaim for Forth’s third crossing.

12 Stunning

Scotland

The most beautiful country in the world.

Photo by Chris Combe -Firth of Forth Photo by Gerry McCannGlencoe

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38 Every

room with a view Mural trend gets the Scottish treatment.

46 Beer

necessities for healthier life The pioneering Edinburgh brewery winning awards.

58 Escape

an estate

to

Boom in buyers heading for the Highlands.

70 The

new Bravehearts

The attractions of Outlander and whisky.

the most of Morris & Son

82 Making

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The biopic of sporting icons driving golf tourism.

Cover Photo

92 Ice

and a slice of tradition

Curling academy reviving interest in an ancient sport.

100 Honouring

historic heroes

Photo by Visit Scotland Glasgow Cathedral

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Photo - Bellfield Brewery

Celebrating top Scots who made a difference.

It’s a date

A round-up of what’s on this month.

Kieran Middleton, Business Manager of Bellfield Brewery

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YOUR CHANCE TO INFLUENCE WHAT WE DO, AND HOW WE DO IT p8

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cotland Correspondent Magazine is eight-months old and we’re going from strength to strength, but we can be better.

We created the magazine to showcase the best Scotland has to offer. Every issue covers a variety of topics, including history and heritage, travel and events, food and drink, entrepreneurship, great achievements, arts and culture, outdoor activities and celebrity interviews.

following in more than 22 countries.

We know you, our readers are among some of the most passionate in the world with an interest in, and love for, all things Scottish and we want to hear from you.

Your opinions matter very much to us. We really do care what you think about the words, pictures and videos we feature.

Scotland Correspondent combines traditional words and pictures with video and audio, embedded in the text or advertisements, to provide readers with an all-round media experience.

We want to know what you like or don’t like. What you think we should cover more or less of. Understanding what you want from Scotland Correspondent Magazine is essential for us to evolve into the kind of publication that best promotes all things Scottish.

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This most beautiful land

Photo by Gerry McCann Skye

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here is an old joke that when God created the world he called to the Archangel Gabriel to look at what he had done.

“This is my best work yet,” said The Lord, pointing at a small corner of the globe.

“I’ve created a country that has dark and brooding majestic mountains, purple heather-clad hills, golden beaches and rugged landscapes, lush green glens, rich forests, sparkling lochs and rivers filled with fish.

“The land will be fertile on which to grow an abundance of crops, including barley to make into a special drink called whisky. The seas will be stocked with all manner of creatures and beneath the earth there will be riches of coal, gas and oil. This land will be called Scotland.”

The Archangel Gabriel looked in amazement and then asked: “Aren’t

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Photo by Macieklew Dunottar Castle

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you being too generous giving all that to one little country?”

“Not really,” replied God. “Wait till you see who their neighbours are going to be.”

Punch line aside, as we honestly don’t mind our neighbours at all, it appears that many a true word really is spoken in jest. Scotland has just been voted the most beautiful country in the world.

A survey of international globetrotters, carried out by the renowned Rough Guides travel

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experts, has ranked Scotland above countries such as Canada and New Zealand for its rugged and dramatic natural scenery. Coupled with a vast array of romantic ruins, spectacular castles, historic attractions and cosmopolitan cities Scotland is a firm favourite for visitors of all ages.

“We are delighted Scotland has received this remarkable accolade from Rough Guide readers, but of course it will not be a surprise to anyone who has encountered our wonderful country,” said Malcolm Roughead, Chief Executive of VisitScotland.

“From our awe-inspiring landscapes to our remarkable historic attractions, to our bustling but beautiful urban centres, Scotland takes people’s breath away.

“Our latest campaign, the Spirit of Scotland was based on feedback from visitors that they get a special feeling while in the country - whether it’s in the wilds of Glencoe on a stormy day or taking part in a ceilidh on Burns’ Night - there is something different about Scotland that they can’t experience anywhere else in the world.”

This year alone Scotland has experienced a surge in the number of visitors from around the world.

A cocktail of factors, including the low value of Sterling, increased promotion of themed events by tourism experts and the phenomenal Outlander effect, have all helped make the country attractive to an international audience.

Strolling along a narrow footpath, that separates the houses of the historic fishing village of Crovie in Aberdeenshire from the waves of the North Sea, Hans Janssen, 34, from Amsterdam admitted he had fallen in love with Scotland. “On a day like this, when the sun is shining, Scotland is beautiful. Even when the sun isn’t shining there is still a magic to the place that keeps me coming back,� said Hans who has visited Scotland four times in the last nine years.

Further south, enjoying the views

Photo by Paul Kelbie Crovie

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of Loch Lomond, Megan Lowe, 29, from New York, a self-confessed fan of all things Scottish, was captivated by the scenery.

“I’ve always wanted to visit Scotland.

My ancestors came from here and it’s in my genes. As soon as I arrived it felt like coming home. Everywhere I go there’s so much history and it is incredibly atmospheric - even in the rain,” said Megan who was on a 10 day tour of the country with her boyfriend Adam Dunhill, 33, also from New York.

“I’m not aware of any links to

Photo by VisitScotland Edinburgh

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Scotland in my family but I can see why Megan was so determined to visit - it’s beautiful,” said Adam.

Many of the country’s top tourist attractions, such as Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, the Wallace monument and the Scotch Whisky Experience have reported a boom in visitor numbers.

Accommodation providers from the the borders to the Highlands and islands have seen bookings rise by almost 60 per cent compared to 2016.

For fellow travellers Ann Mitchell, 48, and her husband James, 47, from Manitoba, Canada this year’s holiday marked their third trip to Scotland.

“So far we’ve been to Skye, Inverness, Edinburgh and Stirling on this trip but there’s still so much to see. I’m already thinking about what I want to do on our next trip.”

This year an increased number of tourists from other parts of the UK, mainland Europe and the USA have been joined by a rise in visitors from emerging markets in India and China.

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Photo by David Wilson Glenfinnan Viaduct

“We’ve had a very busy year with a real mix of nationalities booking tour flights with us,” said David West of Loch Lomond Seaplanes.

The former commercial airline pilot launched the UK’s only seaplane service more than a decade ago to provide sight-seeing flights over the west coast of Scotland.

“I have flown all over the world and seen some of the most breathtaking views on the planet but there is nowhere that can compare to the beauty of Scotland,” said David.

The top 10 most beautiful countries in the world, as voted by Rough Guides readers, are: 1. Scotland 2. Canada 3. New Zealand 4. Italy 5. South Africa 6. Indonesia 7. England 8. Iceland 9. USA 10. Wales

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Glenfinnan Bay

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Iconic trio

Photo by VisitScotland / Airborn Lens Firth of Forth Bridges

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spanning the centuries

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he windswept Firth of Forth may not enjoy the climate of San Francisco, Sydney or even London but it could soon rival these global cities as a leading destination for bridge tourism.

Experts from VisitScotland, the national tourism organisation, believe the opening of the new Queensferry Crossing, which stands alongside the Forth Road Bridge and iconic Forth Bridge, could see the area emulate the success of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Sydney’s Harbour Bridge and Tower Bridge in London - all of which regularly attract millions of visitors every year.

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The opening of the 1.7-mile long Queensferry Crossing has provided Scotland with a unique claim to fame as the only place in the world to boast three bridges spanning three centuries in one stunning location.

As the world’s longest three-tower cable stayed bridge, the new bridge is a feat of modern engineering. It will make it easier for local, national and international visitors to travel across the east of the country, to discover attractions such as Dunfermline Abbey, Hopetoun House, Blackness Castle, Aberdour Castle, Deep Sea World and Inchcolm Abbey.

Photo by Klaus Foehl Queensferry Crossing

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Photo by Scottish Government

The newest and tallest bridge in the UK was officially opened by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II on 4 September, exactly 53 years to the day since she opened the neighbouring Forth Road Bridge.

The event marked the culmination of six years work to build the structure, involving more than 15,000 people, 150,000 tonnes of concrete, 23,000 miles of steel cabling and 19 million hours of labour.at a cost of £1.35 billion.

Already the 21st century engineering marvel has become something of a global tourist attraction. Together, with the 19the century rail structure and 20th century road crossing the three Forth bridges are bringing people from around the world to admire their ingenuity and their beauty.

Sara Thiam, Director of the Institution of Civil Engineers Scotland, described the opening

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of the new Queensferry Crossing as a wonderful example of civil engineering in action.

“Joining the other nearby bridges across the Forth, it provides us with world-leading examples of three types of bridge construction built over three different centuries,” she said.

“The new bridge will join its sister bridges as iconic examples of fine infrastructure development highlighting the latest skill and ingenuity in the industry, while acting as an inspiration for future generations of civil engineers.”

Scotland is home to an impressive range of bridges, many of which were designed by Scots or built by Scottish construction companies.

A vote on the national tourism organisation’s community pages is currently trying to find the nation’s favourite Scottish bridge. The iconic

Forth Bridge has emerged as an early favourite, closely followed by the Glenfinnan Viaduct, whose starring role in the Harry Potter films helped catapulted it to stardom.

“Bridges, such as the Queensferry Crossing, are a lasting reminder of a nation’s engineering expertise and never fail to attract global interest,” said Malcolm Roughead, Chief Executive of VisitScotland.

“This impressive structure, which rather fittingly opens during the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology 2017, marks Scotland’s place in history as the only destination in the world to boast such a remarkable trilogy. This is undoubtedly a golden opportunity for tourism and the chance for Scotland to become a global destination for bridge tourism.”

From their beauty, grandeur or breath taking engineering prowess, Scotland’s bridges each have their

own story to tell. Some of Scotland’s most recognisable structures include: Forth Bridge It now enjoys the same prestigious status as the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of China, having earned its UNESCO World Heritage Status in 2015.

Designed by Sir John Fowler and Sir Benjamin Baker, the Forth Bridge remains an important symbol of Britain’s transport heritage and Scotland’s engineering pedigree.

Its distinctive style makes it one of the most recognisable structures in the world, inspiring artists, photographers and filmmakers. Last year it was also chosen as Scotland’s greatest manmade wonder.

Photo by Dearbarbie Forth Rail Bridge

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Glenfinnan Viaduct A favourite with Harry Potter fans having starred in two of the blockbuster movies, the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct carries the railway 100ft above the River Finnan.

When it was completed in 1901 it was the longest mass concrete viaduct in Britain and was built by rail and road engineer Sir Robert McAlpine.

The Jacobite Steam train, which doubled as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter movies, runs from Fort William to Mallaig. Must-see attractions in the area include the Glenfinnan Monument and Visitor Centre which commemorates the Jacobite clansmen who fought and gave their lives in support of Charles Edward Stuart, otherwise known as Bonnie Prince Charlie.

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Photo by A Scottish Adventure Glenfinnan Viaduct

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The Brig o’Doon This 15th century cobbled bridge in Alloway is famed for its appearance in poetry.

The Brig o’Doon saved Tam o’Shanter in Robert Burns’ poem of the same name. The witches from Alloway Auld Kirk were pursuing Tam when he crossed the bridge on horseback but were unable to cross the water, and only managed to rip off the poor horse’s tail.

Originally, the old bridge was supposed to be demolished but this decision was overruled by Alloway’s increasing role as a gateway for literary tourists, attracted to the area

by Robert Burns’ work.

Clachan Bridge Built in 1792, Clachan Bridge crosses the Clachan Sound, but is known by the much grander title of ‘The Bridge Over the Atlantic’ because the sound opens directly into the Atlantic Ocean. It was designed by John Stevenson, whose family founded Oban, and the plans were revised by Robert Mylne. In the early summer, the rare Fairy Foxglove covers the bridge in a gentle purple haze.

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Photo by Martyn Gorman Brig o’Doon

Photo by WL Tarbert Clachan Bridge

Clyde Arc Best known as the ‘Squinty Bridge’ due to its twisted arch, the Clyde Arc was designed by the Halcrow Group and built by Kilsyth-based civil engineering company, Edmund Nuttall. Its construction was part of a huge regeneration project on the Clyde Waterfront.

The Clyde Arc is just one of 21 bridges that span the River Clyde, with the earliest bridges dating from the 1850s. They are diverse in style and each plays a part in telling the story of how Glasgow formed to be the city it is today.

Photo by Sceptre Clyde Arc

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Carrbridge Packhorse Bridge Celebrating its 300 anniversary this year, the Carrbridge Packhorse Bridge is one of the most iconic visitor attractions in the Cairngorms.

Originally built to allow funeral processions to gain access to Duthil Church, the crossing is often

nicknamed ‘coffin bridge’. It was funded by the Brigadier-General Alexander Grant of Grant who paid mason John Niccelsone to create what is the oldest known stone bridge in the Highlands. All that remains of the bridge is a single span, arcing high into the air across the swiftly rushing river below.

The Kylesku Bridge Replacing a long running boat service, Kylesku Bridge was completed in 1984 and is one continuous concrete curve that

crosses Loch a’Chairn Bhain. The previous ferry services had proved unpredictable, especially in bad weather, and the award-winning bridge helped travellers to avoid a

Photo by Reboelje Kylesku Bridge

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Photo by Bert Kaufmann Carrbridge

100 mile route on land. The bridge is located in the North West Highlands Geopark on the North Coast 500 driving route.

Tay Road Bridge One of the longest road bridges in Europe, the Tay Road Bridge connects the city of Dundee with Fife and spans 1.4 miles. It was designed by Glasgow-based William A. Fairhurst .

Unusually, the pedestrian pathway runs through the middle of the two lines of traffic and is raised above them.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother was in the first car to cross the bridgeon the day it officially opened in August 1966.

Photo by Russ Hamer Tay Road Bridge

Leaderfoot Viaduct, This elegant red sandstone viaduct opened in 1865 and was created by Charles Jopp and Wylie & Peddie.

Its 19 red sandstone arches carried the Berwickshire Railway over the River Tweed and although there was

flooding damage to the line in 1948, the Leaderfoot Viaduct was in use until 1965. It is possible to take an 8.5 mile circular walk which includes the viaduct, as well as Melrose, Newstead, Gattonside, Earlston.

Photo by Marsupium Photography Leaderfoot Viaduct

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Swilcan Bridge Also known as Golfer’s Bridge, this crossing might be small in size, but it’s an iconic part of golfing history and a mecca for golf fans.

This stone footbridge crosses over Swilcan Burn, which meanders across the 1st and 18th fairways of the Old Course in St Andrews. It has witnessed 29 Open Championships in its time and been privy to some of the finest moments in golfing history.

To cast your vote for your favourite Scottish bridge visit: https:// community.visitscotland.com/ discussion/1135/your-favouritescottish-bridges

Photo by St. Andrews Links Swilcan Bridge

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Photo by Guy Phillips

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More than writing on the wall

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Eilean Donan Castle

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f you love Scotland then you’re probably going to like the latest offering from leading bespoke interior fashion experts Wallsauce.

Now any home, anywhere in the world can have a room with a view of an iconic Scottish landscape.

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These beautiful made-to-measure wall murals from www.wallsauce.com can turn almost any space into a fantasy Highland home to be enjoyed all year long.

Choose from a large range of photography and illustrations of Scottish landscapes of hills and glens, lochs and castles or any location of your choice.

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River Tay, Perth

Across the Loch

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All murals are made-to-measure so they fit perfectly on any wall in any home, and are supplied in panels just like wallpaper. They’re available in three different materials, including an easy to install “peel and stick” version l that doesn’t require any wallpaper paste.

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Edinburgh Castle

Wallsauce.com aims to deliver the very best quality and experience using cutting edge printing technology. Recognised for its high-quality, made-to-measure wall murals and ‘excellent’ customer ratings, Wallsauce.com is one of the UK’s leading wall mural companies.

Delivering high-quality products to homes and businesses worldwide, there’s a mural for every interior wall.

Prices start from £26/m² with designers on hand to offer expert advice on choosing your perfect mural. All orders are available for print onto a choice of wallpapers including paste the wall papers and peel and stick wallpaper – perfect for rented homes!

For more information, visit www. wallsauce.com/wall-muralswallpaper/united-kingdom-wallpapermurals or search ‘Scotland’ on Wallsauce.com.

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Heather across the loch

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Cheers for gluten free beers

Kieran Middleton, Bellfield Brewery Busniness Development Manager

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wo entrepreneurial Coeliac sufferers who started their own brewery to get a decent beer are to expand their business to meet international demand.

Launched in March 2016 by Giselle and Robin Baillie the Edinburghbased Bellfield Brewery has enjoyed several big contract wins in recent months as the ‘free-from’ food and drink sector continues to expand.

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Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder which prevents the body from digesting gluten, a natural protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Sufferers can end up with damage to their small intestine resulting in serious gastrointestinal discomfort and malnutrition. There is no cure and the only treatment is a strict gluten free diet.

However, not everyone who chooses to avoid gluten has been diagnosed with celiac disease. Increasing numbers of people do so because they believe it is healthier. Many practitioners of the diet report feeling better and having less bloating and stomach upsets.

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Now available in bottles and draft

It is estimated that around 15 per cent of the UK population now regularly buy ‘free from’ foods and are avoiding gluten as part of a healthy choice diet.

According to market research specialists, Mintel, demand for ‘freefrom’ food and drink is estimated to have grown 13 per cent to reach £531 million in 2016, up from a around £470 million in 2015. The trend is forecast to grow even further to more than £673m by 2020.

This increased interest in ‘free-from’ products has proved to be a boon for Bellfield and its mission “to brew certified gluten-free beer that tastes great.”

Unlike most other breweries now producing gluten-free beers, Bellfield does not ‘de-glutenise’ its beer using enzymes. Instead, it has optimised its brewing process and recipes to produce great-tasting, gluten-free beer, naturally.

As the UK’s only dedicated glutenfree microbrewery it recently managed to raise £430,000 via equity, to support its rapid expansion.

The investment was led by the angel syndicate Equity Gap and was supported by Scottish Investment Bank, the investment arm of Scottish Enterprise, and existing shareholders, many of whom supported Bellfield’s original Crowdcube raise in 2015.

Now the brewery will create a number of new jobs, allowing the existing operational team to commit on a full-time basis and strengthening the sales team. The first senior appointment will be an experienced Sales Manager to develop the craft brewery’s UK sales in the on and off trade.

Bellfield will also invest in taking new products and formats to market to ensure the company maintains its position in the free-from sector. Both its beers recently won awards at the prestigious Free From Food Awards 2017.

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“We already know from our first year in business that there is considerable demand for our products in the UK and beyond,” said Marie Brown, company director.

“We’ve already delivered on our ambition to produce beer that stands up to anything in the market and we’ve secured listings with many of the leading food & drink distributors

Anna Orr, Marketing Manager with Kieran Middleton

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and wholesalers in the UK. We will now invest to grow our sales and operational team to build on the opportunity and grow our range of beers.”

In the UK, most mainstream breweries that have jumped into the gluten free market create their products by ‘de-glutenising’ their normal beer, using enzymes.

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neighbourhood in Edinburgh Portobello – where the founders live.

The copper coloured, aromatic beer is brewed as a traditional American IPA made with pale and crystal malts and Cascade and Centennial American hops for a modern, citrusy finish.

At the recent World Beer Awards Lawless Village IPA was named UK Country Winner while the Bohemian Pilsner was named as UK Silver Winner.

All of Bellfield’s beers are Coeliac UK accredited and carry the ‘crossed grain’ symbol. They are craft brewed in small batches using the simplest ingredients: Scottish water, malts from Crisp and Fawcetts, the best hops that Bellfield can source from around the world and carefully chosen yeasts.

The company has also started to sell its beer in kegs in response to demand from pubs and bars who report that it’s selling well to coeliacs and non coeliacs alike as most customers don’t even realise it’s gluten free.

As a result of their success considerable interest has been shown in the beers from overseas and Bellfield has already shipped pallets of beer to wholesalers in Malta, Singapore and Switzerland.

Bellfield Brewery is now working intensively with Scottish Enterprise to help it realise its growth ambitions, both in the UK and across the globe.

Kerry Sharp, Head of the Scottish Investment Bank, praised the company for its funding success and commitment to expansion.

“Food and drink is a key sector for Scottish Enterprise,” she said.

Bellfield has chosen not to do that and instead uses a combination of ingredients and processes to brew gluten free beer naturally.

The company currently makes two award winning beers. Bohemian Pilsner (4.5% ABV) which is

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described as “a noble classic Czech pilsner, pale with a light body, slight background bitterness and gentle floral tones from the finest Saaz hops leading to a soft refreshing finish.”

The other, Lawless Village IPA (4.5% ABV), is named after a

“We look forward to continuing to work with the company, both from an investment perspective and through our account management support, to deliver its long term growth ambition.”

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Estate of play

Photos by Galbraith Glenlochay Estate

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here has probably never been a better time to invest in buying an estate in Scotland.

Despite any concerns about Britain’s impending exit from the EU it appears there’s still plenty of overseas buyers willing to splash out and become monarch of their own glen.

There are currently at least a dozen major sporting estates on the open market across Scotland, ranging from a few hundred thousand pounds to more than ÂŁ11million.

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For those with a passion for the rural sports of hunting, shooting and fishing, or even just rambling among spectacular secluded scenery, few places in the world can match the Highlands of Scotland.

For most people the prospect of buying a whole estate may seem an expensive dream, but compared

Scaliscro Estate

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to a modest flat in a salubrious part of London or New York, it can be a veritable bargain.

In the last couple of years quite a few wealthy overseas buyers have realised the potential of investing between 2 and 10 per cent of their wealth in a sporting estate. It can make good business sense.

According to selling agents Strutt & Parker more than 50 per cent of estate buyers in 2015 were from overseas, a continuing trend from 2014 and that carried on into 2016 and beyond. Indeed, 2016 was a big year for estate sales with a 32 per cent increase on the number of deals done in 2015.

In addition to potential UK-based buyers interest in acquiring a Scottish estate came from Holland, France, Russia, Germany, Scandinavia and the USA. Scotland has a global reputation as the birthplace of many country sports, much in the same way it has for golf, and there is a growing

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demand from foreign visitors who want to sample what the country has to offer.

The number of American visitors especially is on the rise, spurred on to some extent by the favourable exchange rate between the dollar and the pound.

However, there is also a home grown demand. According to the Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group (SCSTG) more than 4 million people in the UK are actively involved in country sports.

And it’s not just the estate owners who reap the benefits. As previously reported by Scotland Correspondent

millions of pounds a year trickle down into local communities and businesses.

A recent survey of 45 grouse estates across Scotland found that more than ÂŁ23 million a year flows directly into local businesses in trade generated by estate activity.

Scaliscro Estate

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In 2016 more than £98million changed hands through the buying and selling of estates, compared to £65 million in 2015, and this year looks like being just as good if not better.

Strutt & Parker are currently selling Bolfracks Estate in Perthsire and Ledgowan estate in Wester Ross for

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offers over £11million and £4.5million respectively.

Knight Frank are marketing Gualin Estate in Sutherland for offers over £2.6m, Duchal estate in Renfrewshire for over £3.08m and Loubcroy Estate in Sutherland for over £1.65m.

Savills currently have Barvas estate

on Lewis on the market for over £850,000 and Ashiestiel Estate in the Borders for £5.5million plus.

Recently Galbraith sold Scaliscro near Uig on Lewis for £2.5million.

Scaliscro, a spectacular mixed sporting estate near Uig, Isle of Lewis, includes about 5,570 acres in

“With around three miles of coastline, the estate offers access to good sea fishing, lobster potting and of course wonderful sailing. There are also excellent opportunities for salmon, sea-trout and brown trout fishing on a number of beautiful lochs making Scaliscro a really great allround estate.”

Scaliscro Lodge is approached via a two-mile private road. Overlooking the loch, and situated on an elevated site well within the estate, the lodge offers breathtaking views of the hills of Uig and Harris. a beautiful setting on the shores of Little Loch Roag.

A traditional Hebridean sporting estate it offers the opportunity of obtaining a legendary ‘Macnab - the challenge of bagging a salmon, stag and brace of grouse in a single day between dawn and dusk. In addition to red deer stalking, there is grouse, woodcock and snipe shooting, as well as salmon, sea-trout and brown trout fishing.

Glenlochay Estate

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“It is very rare to come across a coastal estate anywhere in Scotland which combines this variety of sport with a privately positioned lodge overlooking the sea”, said John Bound, a partner with Galbraith.

“The challenging terrain amidst dramatic scenery provides the perfect backdrop for truly wild walked up sport for grouse, snipe and woodcock. The deep peat hags also provide exciting stalking ground.

In addition, there is a row of three inter-connected cottages which are currently used as a single house.

There are also useful outbuildings, including a large portal framed shed providing essential indoor storage, stock housing or workspace. There is also potential for a small hydro scheme.

Below the lodge is a jetty/slipway, and there is another slipway at the head of Little Loch Roag. It is possible to waterski and sail in the

Glenlochay Estate

loch, or to venture further out to sea by RIB or yacht from moorings directly below the lodge.

While it may be too late to put an offer in for Scaliscro, Galbraith is currently inviting offers over £4.2million for the 12,816 acres estate of Glenlochy, situated in one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens in Highland Perthshire near the village of Killin.

Just 90 minutes from Glasgow and Edinburgh international airports the estate is steeped in ancient Scottish clan history.

Formerly part of the extensive estates of the Earl of Breadalbane the famous Gaelic poet, Duncan Ban MacIntyre, immortalised Glenlochay in one of his best known poems “Song to Coire a Cheathaith”. It’s believed that as a forester to the Earl of Breadalbane, he occupied the estate’s Batavaime Bothy and kept an eye on the once Royal ancient deer forest of Mamlorn.

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Glenlochay Estate

Glenlochay Estate

Glenlochay Estate

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Glenlochay Estate

The Forest of Mamlorn, which formed part of Glenlochay, was famed at one time as being one of Scotland’s most prolific and spectacular deer forests and it is said that Robert the Bruce, roamed here as a fugitive following his defeat by Alistair MacDougall of Lorne at the battle of Methven in 1306. Bruce subsequently defeated the MacDougalls at the Battle of the

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Brander Pass in 1308.

In addition to the land the estate comes with a former Drovers Inn turned into a two bedroom farmhouse, a three cottage and two bothies.

According to Galbraith “the estate offers privacy, seclusion and vast

areas for deer stalking or walking while being within easy travelling distance of Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Winding through the centre of the estate is the River Lochay. Kenknock Farmhouse, steadings and cottage, together with Badour Cottages and Batavaime Bothy all lie on the northern side of the river and enjoy outstanding southerly views”.

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Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland

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Outlander and whisky fans boost interest in Scotland

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heady cocktail of romance, history and whisky has stirred, but not shaken, many of Scotland’s major attractions into action to deal with an unprecedented invasion of visitors.

A combination of Outlander and whisky is fuelling a huge rise in interest towards a variety of ancient and modern sites across the country.

As Season three of the timetravelling, bodice-ripping swashbuckler Outlander hits the screens in the US and UK new figures have revealed the impact the show is having in Scotland.

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Not since Mel Gibson painted his face blue and yelled freedom at the top of his voice while telling the fictionalised story of William Wallace has the magic of the movies had such an effect.

VisitScotland Chief Executive Malcolm Roughead has hailed Outlander as the new ‘Braveheart’ of tourism with visitors from around the world flocking to experience the landscape that inspired the

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series, the same way that thousands travelled to the country after the release of Braveheart in 1995.

Latest figures from the Moffat Centre’s Visitor Attraction Monitor show the tangible effect the series, which is based on Diana Gabaldon’s famous novels, has had on attractions in Scotland with many reporting as much as a 92 per cent rise in visitors.

Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland Glenturret Distillery

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Photo by VisitScotland Doune castle

Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland Preston Mill

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Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland Blackness Castle

Between 2014, when the series first aired and 2016, Doune Castle - which doubles as Castle Leoch in the popular show - has had an unprecedented 91.8 per cent increase in visitors from 47,069 to 90,279.

Blackness Castle, which provides the setting for malicious Black Jack Randall’s headquarters has welcomed 85.5 per cent more visitors since 2014, rising from 16,559 visitors per year to 30,053 in 2016.

Other key attractions which have seen a growth in numbers since Jamie and Claire first hit our screens include Glencoe Visitor Centre (+53 per cent), Glasgow Cathedral (+35 per cent) and Preston Mill (+18 per cent).

Recent VisitScotland research has also shown the profound impact the series has had on visitors with Outlander being the most mentioned TV or film inspiration for people, especially those from the USA,

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wanting to come to the country, above Braveheart, Harry Potter and Highlander.

“We have been absolutely blown away by the response globally to the Outlander series and the direct impact it has had on visits is truly exceptional,” said Malcolm Roughead.

“In past research it is always Braveheart, Harry Potter or even the Da Vinci Code which was mentioned as film inspiration, but in recent times it is Outlander which is referenced above all others. And I’m not surprised, Scotland looks truly stunning in the series and I can see why fans of Jamie and Claire want to experience the land that inspired Outlander for themselves.

“Film tourism is hugely important for the Scottish economy and year on year we see more and more set-jetters coming to our country to experience for themselves the backdrops that feature in their

favourite film or movie. This is not a trend that will go out of fashion, so whether it’s heading to Lewis to see where Katie Morag’s adventures began or unlocking the mysteries of the Holy Grail at Rosslyn Chapel, we hope many more will continue to come to Scotland to see the real life movie sets.”

Scottish locations to have benefited from their association with movies or television shows include Braveheart (1995) - The Wallace Monument in Stirling saw visitor numbers leap from 30,000 a year to nearly 200,000 in 1996.

The Da Vinci Code (2006), based on Dan Brown’s 2003 novel, had a huge effect on Rosslyn Chapel. Visitor numbers increased by 72 per cent, from 68,603 in 2004 to 118,151 in 2005. In 2006, following the release of the film directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks, visitor numbers reached 175,053.

The 2012 movie Skyfall, the 23rd film

Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland Still House, Glenturret Distillery

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in the James Bond franchise, was great news for Glencoe. Statistics from the National Trust for Scotland revealed that 114,298 people visited the region in 2013/14 - up 41.7 per cent on 2012/13.

However, it’s not all kilts and broadswords that’s raising spirits.

Uisge beatha, the ‘water of life’ itself, is attracting an increased number of visitors.

Scotch Whisky tourism has never been more popular. New figures reveal the country’s distilleries achieved a record 1.7 million visits last year - up almost 8 per cent on 2015 - and more sites than ever are opening their doors to showcase the skill and craftsmanship of this iconic industry.

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Photo by SWA Karen Betts, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association

The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has found that visits have increased by around a quarter since 2010 and more than half of Scotland’s 123 Scotch Whisky distilleries now welcome members of the public.

Collectively, Scotch Whisky distilleries rank among some of the most popular Scottish and UK attractions, with a similar number of visits annually to the likes of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Royal Albert Hall and the Scottish National Gallery.

Visitors are also spending more than before at distilleries. A total of almost £53 million was spent by visitors in 2016, up from 2015. And average spend per person increased 13 per cent to £31 from £27.

The current Scottish Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology is likely to give a further boost to visitor numbers as Scotch Whisky is a key part of Scotland’s past and its present.

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In the short term, many distilleries believe that Brexit has given tourism a boost with more visitors coming to Scotland because of the weak pound and spending more at distilleries while they are there.

Over the last year distilleries have spent money on new bar areas, technology, such as apps for visitors, and staff, partly as a result of longer opening hours to meet demand.

Over the next 12 months, many plan Photo by Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland Highland Folk Museum

to continue to invest, for example in upgrading shops and tasting areas to enhance the visitor experience.

festivals, such as Islay and Speyside, are also helping to attract new visitors to distilleries.

Distilleries reported that the largest proportion of visitors came from Germany, Scotland and other parts of the UK, the USA, and France.

Distilleries are also popular with whisky enthusiasts from Sweden and Norway. The success of whisky

“Scotch Whisky – Scotland’s most popular export - is known throughout the world. It is produced right across Scotland, in some of our most beautiful landscapes and some of our remotest communities,” said Karen Betts, Chief Executive of the

Scotch Whisky Association.

“Each distillery is distinctly of its place. Their histories, stories and modern-day craftsmanship fascinate locals and overseas visitors alike.

It’s not surprising that more and more tourists are visiting Scotland’s distilleries to see how Scotch is made and to meet the people involved.

Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland

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Tom Morris biopic at fore of drive to attract more golfers

Photo by Kenny Lam / VisitScotland Swilcan Bridge, St. Andrews

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movie biopic of the ‘Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods’ of the 19th century is inspiring more people to tee off in the Home of Golf.

Tommy’s Honour, which was released in cinemas in July is helping to create interest in one of Scotland’s most iconic sporting heroes and encouraging more golfers to hit the fairways across the country.

Directed by Jason Connery and based on the critically acclaimed book by Kevin Cook, the film tells the story of a father and son from St Andrews who have a difficult personal relationship but who go

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on to change the face of the game.

It was filmed in various locations in Fife, East Lothian, Midlothian and the Scottish Borders.

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Golf historian Roger McStravick, award-winning author of St Andrews In The Footsteps of Old Tom Morris, describes the men as “the Jack

Nicklaus and Tiger Woods of their day�.

Young Tom Morris, played by Jack

“American architects would spend time with Old Tom, like CB Macdonald and then head back to the States to create hundreds of courses. Simply put, no single pairing have had a greater impact on the game or the growth of the game worldwide.

Old Tom Morris

Lowden, is considered the first true superstar of golf, winning The Open four times before he was 21, while Old Tom, played by Scottish acting veteran Peter Mullan, was not only a four-time Open winner, but he is also credited with designing or influencing around 60 courses throughout the UK & Ireland, many of which are still considered among the world’s best.

Probably Old Tom’s greatest legacy is the Old Course at St Andrews, where

Photo by VisitScotland / Airborn Lens Cruden Bay designed by Old Tom

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he created the famous 1st and 18th holes – the most famous starting and finishing holes in golf.

“Tom and his son Tommy were the Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods of their day. Crowds would flock in their thousands to see them play – the oldest and youngest winners of The Open and the only father and son ever to come first and second,” said Roger McStravick.

“The beautiful backdrop to this film shows Scotland at its best. It may be set 140 years ago but the joy of Scotland is the scenery, especially in places like St Andrews, where little has changed. The timeless beauty of Scotland on show in the film will undoubtedly inspire golfers and nongolfers alike.”

To celebrate the film’s release, VisitScotland produced a map

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highlighting the filming locations in Fife and East Lothian as well as detailing some of the best Old Tom Morris-designed golf courses around the country.

“Tommy’s Honour is a true Scottish story and by seeing the film, you are effectively seeing Scotland. It is a story that is truly close to my heart as I grew up with my father on a golf course. It is an extraordinary and

intimate tale of love and family at the beginning of the great game of golf,” said Jason Connery.

Regarded as one of Scotland’s most famous exports, golf tourism is worth more than £286 million to the Scottish economy with almost 750,000 visitor rounds played every year.

“Tommy’s Honour provides a

Photo by Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland Isle of Harris Golf Club

wonderful insight into the history of the game of golf through the lives and relationships of two of the game’s most iconic figures,” said Stephen Owen, Chair of Fife Golf.

“When you play golf in St Andrews, and throughout Fife, you quickly become aware of the impact Old and Young Tom have had on the game in the region.

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“A number of our courses are amongst some of the oldest in the world and visitors today play on layouts that have changed little since golf’s most famous family honed their skills on them in the 19th century.

Fife is fortunate to also have some of the finest modern links in the world, giving the visitor a fantastic opportunity to experience golf through the ages.”

Some of the film was shot at Musselburgh Old Course which plays a pivotal role in the development and history of golf not just in Scotland but as an international sport. Indeed the four and a quarter inch diameter hole made mandatory by the R & A in 1893 resulted from the use of a random implement used to cut Musselburgh’s course holes during the Victorian era.

“It is ‘wholly’ appropriate that Tommy’s Honour, which depicts the story of leading Scots Victorian golfers, included this iconic venue which hosted the Open on six occasions between 1874 and 1889.

Filmgoers may be interested to know that they can re-create their own ‘Tommy’s Honour’ by playing Musselburgh Old Course using

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hickory clubs,” said John McMillan, Provost of East Lothian.

and 3.85 days participating in other tourism activities.

Latest research figures show that 47 per cent of overnight visitors travel from overseas to play golf in Scotland with the North American market representing 30 per cent of those. Most visitors tend to spend an average of 7.5 days playing golf

It’s hoped the 2019 Solheim Cup, due to be played at Gleneagles, will encourage more interest from female golfing visitors. On average 12 per cent of golfing visitors to Scotland are female.

Photo by Cut Media / VisitScotland

The Solheim Cup is seen as a key event in Scotland’s goal of growing golf tourism with a number of Authorised Tour Operators already promoting travel packages.

The event underlines Scotland’s commitment to supporting women’s golf and growing junior and female participation as well as showcasing

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Scotland as a world-class golf tourism and events destination.

members from the Ladies European Tour (LET).

Held every two years, the event has grown into the most prestigious international women’s professional golf team event between he best U.S.-born players from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour and the best European

The 2019 Solheim Cup will take place at Gleneagles from 13-15 September 2019 with the PING Junior Solheim Cup played at the same venue earlier in the week.

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Ice idea to attract younger players p92

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here’s high hopes a new multi-million pound National Curling Academy will help increase interest in the ancient game invented in Scotland and exported around the world.

As Scottish as kilts, haggis and bagpipes the sport of curling has been played throughout Scotland for more than 500 years.

More than 20,000 Scots are active participants in the game but most of those are of an older generation.

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Photos by Gerry McCann Curling at Muir of Ord

Traditionally a winter sport, played throughout October to April, curling was first recorded as being played around 1541 between a monk from Paisley Abbey and a relative of the Abbot. Little did they know then that their game of sliding stones across a frozen pond would turn into a global sport still played centuries later.

Although originally an outdoor activity a changing climate means winter could not always be relied upon to provide a frozen loch or pond so indoor arenas had to be built. There are now some 26 ice rinks in Scotland where the game can be enjoyed.

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As Scots emigrated across the world they took the game with them, especially to Canada where the Royal Montreal Curling Club was founded in 1807, now the oldest sporting club in North America.

The first curling club in the US was founded 1830, soon followed

by Switzerland and Sweden as they made the most of their natural playing conditions. Today, the game is popular all over Europe and as far a field as Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Korea. It became an Olympic sport in 1924.

An exciting game, requiring absolute

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precision, players use continuous movement from a long-handled brush to slide stones across the ice with the objective of getting closest to the circular target.

Although the 2014 British men’s team, made up entirely of Scots, won a silver medal and the women took bronze in the Sochi Winter Olympics, the game is less popular here among younger players than other sports. But, with the opening of a dedicated centre it’s hoped to revive enthusiasm among a new generation for the ancient game in the land of its birth.

Scotland’s Minister for Public Health and Sport, Aileen Campbell, threw the first stone to declare the new £3.15 million world-class facility at Stirling Sports Village open.

Scotland’s first dedicated curling academy aims to ensure that from now on Team Scotland, Team GB and ParalympicsGB athletes and community players have year-round

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access to high-quality ice to train on.

As well as helping the sport develop from a grassroots perspective, the National Curling Academy provides a year-long training environment where the continuous delivery of outstanding coaching and support programmes to our world-class athletes can take place.

World Class “We’re delighted that sportscotland and Stirling Council’s investment partnership has resulted in a worldclass facility and home to curling in Scotland. The sport now has a terrific opportunity to attract new, grassroots curlers while, simultaneously, a dedicated hub for our performance athletes can help them continue to achieve excellent results on the world stage,” said Mike Whittingham, Performance Director at the sportscotland institute of sport.

“The technology in the National Curling Academy is cutting-edge

and a welcome addition to our Olympic and Paralympic training programmes.”

Women’s 2018 PyeongChang Olympic Team GB skip and Olympic, World and European bronze medallist, Eve Muirhead, believes the new facility gives the British Curling programme a real edge over rival nations.

“I am really impressed with the new Academy and it has made our lives easier and I know it has made the coaches’ lives easier as well.

Video will be available so that you can analyse your game right down to the tiniest margins – if anyone has a facility like that I don’t know what makes it better and I can’t see anyone beating this,” she said.

“It’s fantastic turning up to training knowing that you have this facility on your doorstep and it has made a big difference to us already and I know it will right up to the Olympics and for the future of curling.”

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Top Scots celebrated A

pioneer in the treatment of advanced breast cancer is to be remembered with a plaque honouring his contribution to medicine.

Glasgow-based surgeon Colonel Sir George Thomas Beatson is one of three historic names to be recognised through the Commemorative Plaque Scheme in Scotland.

Along with acclaimed artist Joan Eardley and mathematician Mary Sommerville - who appears on the The Royal Bank of Scotland £10 note due to be released to the public on October 4 - the celebrated doctor is latest in a long line of recipients.

Now in its fifth year, the scheme - run

by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) - celebrates the life and work of significant persons from history by highlighting the link between them and a building connected with their work or life, giving an insight into both the life of the person and the social history of local architecture.

Physician George Thomas Beatson (1848 -1933), published a paper in 1886 which detailed his pioneering treatment of three patients with advanced breast cancer leading to him being considered the father of anti-hormonal treatment of breast cancer.

In 1948 the Glasgow Cancer Hospital

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Bust of Col Sir George Thomas Beatson

Col Sir George Thomas Beatson

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was renamed the Royal Beatson Memorial Hospital in his honour and is now known as the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre.

Joan Eardley (1921 -1963), remains one of Scotland’s most enduringly popular artists, noted for her portraiture of street children in Glasgow and for her landscape paintings of the fishing village of Catterline.

Photo by Marydoll 1952 Joan Eardley’s cottage

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Born in Sussex to a Scottish mother she moved to Glasgow in 1939 and enrolled at the Glasgow School of Art. Ten years later she set up a studio in Glasgow where she became known for her drawings and paintings of poor city children playing in the streets and scenes of the shipyards of Port Glasgow.

In the 1950s Eardley bought a cottage in Catterline, a small fishing

village near Stonehaven, where she delighted in the ever changing light and weather conditions.

She died, aged 42, in 1963 from breast cancer and her ashes were scattered on Catterline beach.

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Mary Somerville

The last of the three, Scottish science writer and polymath Mary Somerville (1780 -1872), was one of the first female members of the Royal Astronomical Society.

The daughter of Vice-Admiral Sir William George Fairfax, she was related to several prominent Scottish families through her mother and was born at the manse of Jedburgh in the Borders.

A thirst for knowledge, she had a natural talent for mathematics and science. She was also passionate about astronomy and was strong supporter of female suffrage.

Her book Mechanism of the Heavens

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(1831) was a text book set for undergraduates at University of Cambridge into the 1880s while her work On the Connexion of the Physical Sciences, published 1834, ran to 10 editions and was its publisher’s most successful science book until The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin in 1859.

She’s had an array of honours, including an Oxford University college, an asteroid belt and a lunar crater on the moon named after her.

When she died in 1872, her obituary in The Morning Post hailed her as “The Queen of Nineteenth-Century Science”.

Sir Ernest Shackleton

“By running this scheme, we are placing a spotlight on the social and human stories behind Scotland’s local and national architecture and the different contributions of those who helped to shape Scotland’s story,” said Martin Ross, Policy and Projects Manager for HES. “This latest group of recipients

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highlights this diversity and ranges from explorers and writers to mathematicians and golfers. We hope that by recognising them in this way it encourages people to find out more about their role in Scotland’s varied and extensive history.

Other recipients of the scheme include pioneers in the fields of

engineering, architecture, literature, sport, science, and politics:

Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton (1874–1922) Polar explorer who led three British expeditions to the Antarctic, and one of the principal figures of the period known as the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.

Charles Glover Barkla

Charles Glover Barkla (1877–1944) British physicist and Nobel prize winner for Physics in 1917. He was a key experimentalist solidifying our understanding of the quantum world.

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Willie Park Snr

literature, standing alongside her contemporaries Susan Edmonstone Ferrier and Christian Isobel Johnstone in developing a tradition of national domestic fiction in postEnlightenment Scotland.

Robert Stevenson (1772–1850) Famous Scottish lighthouse engineer and the grandfather of ‘Treasure Island’ author Robert Louis Stevenson. He devoted himself with determination to follow the profession of a civil engineer, and Robert Stevenson

Willie Park Snr (1833–1903) One of the most prominent Scottish golfers in the mid-late 1800s, who promoted the development of the game as an open event which came to be known as the ‘Open Championship’. He won the Open four times and was the greatest golfer of his day.

Walter Macfarlane (1817–1885) Local politician and pioneer of prefabricated architectural ironwork, who supplied rainwater goods, bandstands, fountains, banking halls and entire railway stations to India and South Africa.

Margaret (Maggie) McIver nee Russell (1879–1958) The Barras Queen saved money to buy the land for a market to enable the hawkers to sell their goods.

Enclosing the market allowed Maggie to build a second floor, which in turn could be used as a ballroom, later becoming a venue for dances, and attracted musicians from all over the world.

Phyllis Mary Bone (1894–1972) Renowned female sculptor and illustrator, who was the first female Royal Scottish Academy member, contributing to Scotland’s rich sculptural heritage and inspiring women artists in Scotland.

Mary Burton (1778–1818) Scottish novelist and writer.

Burton holds an important place in the history of Scottish women’s

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applied himself to the practice of surveying, and architectural drawing.

Christian Isobel Johnstone (1781– 1857 ) Prolific journalist and author, writing a number of popular fiction and non- fiction works during her lifetime.

Mrs Johnstone wished to curate and present stories in a manner that could be received by the working poor, to open up the demographic of the readership and give more people the opportunity to read.

Photo by Stephen Dickson Edinburgh Grave of Christian Isobel Johnstone

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Date 4 ur diary

Scotland

31 August - 1 September Northern Meeting Piping Competitions Bishops Road, Inverness.

The Northern Meeting Piping Competitions have emerged as the pre-eminent and most prestigious piping competition in the world. http://piping.northern-meeting.org

If you have a future event you would like included in our diary please email details to news@scotlandcorrespondent.com 2 - 3 September The Scottish International Airshow Ayr http://www.tsia.scot 2 - 3 September Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival Balloch A weekend full of delicious food and drink, live music, family-friendly entertainment and much more. http://www.lochlomondfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

1 - 2 September Electric Fields Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway One hour south of Glasgow and Edinburgh, deep within the stunning forests of Dumfries & Galloway, enjoy a weekend of music in a truly intimate and unique setting. http://electricfieldsfestival.com

2 September Carve Carrbridge Carrbridge, Inverness-shire Top chainsaw carvers both from the UK and around the world, including entries from the USA and Europe will compete for the magnificent Claymore trophy. http://www.carvecarrbridge.com

2 September Dalmally Show Dalmally, Argyll A celebration of rural life with a variety of attractions, exceptional exhibits, and wonderful Highland produce in a spectacular setting. http://www.dalmally-show.co.uk

2 September Ben Nevis Race New Town Car Park, Fort William, Inverness-shire An amateur race to the summit of Scotland’s highest mountain for experienced hill runners only. http://www.bennevisrace.co.uk

2 September Braemar Gathering Braemar, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, UK There have been Gatherings of one sort or another at Braemar since the days of King Malcolm Canmore, nine hundred years ago. Since 1848 The Gathering has been attended regularly by the reigning Monarch and members of the Royal Family. https://www.braemargathering.org 2 September The Prime Four Beast Race - Loch Ness Dores, Inverness-shire BEAST yourself on an epic 10k obstacle course race over tough Scottish terrain featuring 25 mega obstacles; giant water slides; icy loch water; thick mud & swamp crossings. http://www.beastrace.co.uk 2 - 10 September Largs Viking Festival Main Street, Largs, Ayrshire This week-long annual festival marks the 1263 Battle of Largs, the last mainland battle between the Scots and Norse. https://largsvikingfestival.org

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3 September Tour o’ the Borders Peebles A classic road race in the stunning Scottish Borders with mile after mile of spectacular scenery and some of the best cycling terrain in Scotland. http://tourotheborders.com 6 - 10 September Linlithgow Folk Festival West Lothian Live music sessions and concerts, a ceilidh, street entertainers and a craft fair. http://www.linlithgowfolk.com 8 - 10 September Highland Military Tattoo Ardersier, Inverness A showcase of the best of Highland and military culture and traditions, set against the stunning backdrop of Fort George near Inverness. https://highlandmilitarytattoo.co.uk 8 - 10 September Bloody Scotland Stirling International crime writing festival with workshops for aspiring authors, a series of events on true crime and fascinating forensics. http://www.bloodyscotland.com

8 - 10 September True North Aberdeen True North is Aberdeen’s music festival located at the heart of the city, the festival features the contemporary music industry’s most interesting, relevant and exciting artists. http://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/truenorth

15 - 17 September The Scottish Adventure Travel Film Festival Poolewe, Achnasheen.

A celebration of great adventure travel films in a unique destination at the end of one of the best road journeys in the world, at Inverewe in Wester Ross. http://www.adventuretravelfilmfestival.com/scottishfestival/

9 - 16 September Isle of Harris Mountain Festival Tarbert The Isle of Harris Mountain Festival aims to highlight the opportunities to enjoy outdoor pursuits on the Islands’ incredible land and seascapes. http://www.iohmf.co.uk

15 - 17 September Lagavulin Islay Jazz Festival Port Ellen, Isle of Islay A weekend of high-quality jazz with Scottish and international musicians playing in venues throughout Islay. http://www.islayjazzfestival.co.uk

9 September Pitlochry Highland Games Pitlochry, Perthshire Traditional Highland Games, including dancing, heavy events, tug o’ war, cycling, running and piping. http://www.pitlochryhighlandgames.co.uk/index.html

15 - 17 September Shetland Food Fair Lerwick The Shetland Food Fair is an annual celebration of Shetland’s finest produce. http://www.shetland.org/things/events/culture-heritage/ food-fair/

9 - 10 September Best of the West Festival Inveraray, Argyll The festival is now arguably Scotland’s finest boutique festival, one where music and food lovers from the world over gather to celebrate the very best in Scottish music, food and drink. http://www.bowfest.co.uk 10 September Farming Yesteryear and Vintage Rally Perth Vintage tractors, stationary engines, steam engines and agricultural machinery will be on display together with vintage cars, lorries and other vehicles. https://scone-palace.co.uk/whats-on/farming-yesteryearvintage-rally 10 September Perth Festival of Yarn Perth, Perth and Kinross Scotland’s Contemporary Yarn and Fibre Festival bringing together independent dyers, farmers, small-holders, knitter, spinner, felters and weavers. https://perthfestivalofyarn.uk 12 - 17 September Nairn Book and Arts Festival Nairn https://nairnfestival.co.uk/news 12 - 17 September Ceol Cholasa Colonsay Isle of Colonsay Isle of Colonsay’s Annual Music Festival. http://ceolcholasa.co.uk

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15 - 24 September The Lammermuir Festival Haddington, East Lothian The Lammermuir Festival was born of a conviction that historic architecture and beautiful landscape can be an ideal environment in which to experience great music and music-making. http://www.lammermuirfestival.co.uk 16 September Invercharron Highland Games Bonar Bridge, Sutherland Traditionally the final games of the year, many of the Scottish Highland Games Association league results are decided at Invercharron, making it one of the most exciting of the season. http://www.invercharronhighlandgames.co.uk 16 - 17 September Battle of Pinkie Re-Enactment Festival Weekend Musselburgh The Battle of Pinkie, the biggest battle ever to take place on Scottish soil, is set to be fought again for the first time since 1547, as part of a spectacular weekend of events. http://www.eastlothianbattles.com 22 - 24 September Clydebuilt Festival Glasgow Something for everyone at the first Clydebuilt Festival, a celebration of boats and the folk that use them for work and play.

Date 4 ur diary

22 September - 1 October Wigtown Book Festival Wigtown, Dumfries & Galloway A ‘must attend’ event in Scotland’s cultural calendar. http://www.wigtownbookfestival.com

22 - 23 September Skye Live Portree, Isle of Skye A line up packed full of some of the finest Bands & DJs from Scotland and beyond, taking place on one of the most unique festival sites in the world. http://www.skyelive.co.uk 23 September - 1 October Shetland Wool Week Hay’s Dock, Lerwick Shetland Wool Week is a world renowned celebration of Britain’s most northerly native sheep, the Shetland textile industry and the rural farming community on these islands. http://www.shetlandwoolweek.com 24 September World Stone Skimming Championships Easdale Island, by Oban, Argyll The smallest, permanently inhabited Hebridean island, Easdale, gears up to host the World Stone Skimming championships.

28 September - 29 October The Enchanted Forest

by Pitlochry, Perthshire Set amidst the stunning Autumn woodland of Forestry Commission Scotland’s Faskally Wood in Highland Perthshire, The Enchanted Forest is Scotland’s premier sound and light event. http://www.enchantedforest.org.uk 29 September - 30 October Loopallu Festival The Pier, Ullapool This music fest located in the spectacular surroundings of Ullapool. http://www.loopallu.co.uk

If you have a future event you would like included in our diary please email details to news@scotlandcorrespondent.com The largest rural Jazz & Blues festival in Scotland. http://www.callanderjazz.com 30 September - 15 October Highland Archaeology Festival Inverness Run over two weeks to celebrate the heritage of the Highlands from earliest settlers to modern times, below ground and above. http://www.highlandarchaeologyfestival.org 30 September Camanachd Cup Final Inverness Two top teams compete for the iconic Camanachd Cup, shinty’s most prized possession and one of Scotland’s oldest sporting trophies. http://www.shinty.com 26 - 30 September Findhorn Bay Festival Forres, Invernessshire Delivering high quality arts events and projects, nurturing and showcasing creativity and celebrating and promoting Moray as a place for outstanding art. http://findhornbayarts.com

Australia

10 September Armadale Highland Gathering & Perth Kilt Run Armadale, WA Australia https://perthkiltrun.com.au 16 September Clans on the Coast Nelson Bay, NSW Australia An annual festival celebrating and sharing the cultural contribution of the Scottish and Celtic settlers to Australia. http://www.clansonthecoast.com

Canada

29 September - 1 October Scottish Home Show Aberdeen Showcasing the latest in home and garden design, gadgets and interiors. http://www.scottishhomeshow.com

2 - 3 September Canmore Highland Games Canmore, AB Canada The Highland Games draws more than 5,000 visitors to Canmore a year and it celebrates the unique Scottish Heritage of the Town. http://canmorehighlandgames.ca

29 September - 1 October Callander Jazz & Blues Festival Callander.

2 September Calgary Highland Games

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Calgary, AB Canada The Calgary Highland Games is one of the oldest gatherings in North America and will be celebrating 102 years since the first games, held in 1913. http://www.calgaryhighlandgames.org 9 -10 September Trenton Scottish Irish Festival Trenton, ON Canada The Trenton Scottish Irish Festival is the premiere event for all who love a traditional Scottish and Irish celebration. http://www.trentonscottishirish.com/about

USA

1 - 3 September Wisconsin Highland Games WI United States The skirl of the pipes... the mighty strength of the athletes... the leaping grace of the dancers... the Wisconsin Highland Games offers a weekend of affordable Celtic fun for the entire family. http://www.wisconsinscottish.org 2 - 3 September The 152nd Scottish Highland Gathering and Games Pleasanton, CA United States Come and celebrate Scottish culture, cuisine, competition and entertainment at its very best. www.thescottishgames.com 5 - 10 September Clan MacRae Family Gathering Estes Park, CO United States http://macrae.org/2017-clan-macrae-family-gathering/ 7-10 September Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival Estes Park, CO United States http://www.scotfest.com 7-10 September Edinboro Highland Games & Scottish Festival Edinboro, PA United States + Google Map Scotland has proud traditions of independent and innovative thinking, and the Edinboro Highland Games celebrates that heritage. http://www.edinboro.edu/events/highland-games/ 9-10 September Columbus Scottish Festival Columbus, IN United States AÂ weekend of Scottish entertainment, competition, history and much more www.scottishfestival.org 9 September Middle Tennessee Highland Games 2017

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Hermitage, TN United States Plenty of music, dancing, exhibitions, games, competitions, as well as food & craft vendors. http://www.midtenngames.com September 15 - September 17 New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival Lincoln, NH United States + Google Map A celebration of Scottish heritage at Loon Mountain Resort, 60 Loon Mountain Rd. Info: 1-800-358-7268 or www.nhscot.org.

16-17 September 17th Niagara Celtic Festival Olcott, NY United States Celebrating the best in Celtic music, food, culture and fun! www.niagaraceltic.com 16 September Fresno Scottish Gathering and Games Fresno, CA United States Creating, stimulating and sustaining an interest in Scotland. www.fresnoscottishsociety.org 22-24 September Celtic Classic Highland Games and Festival Bethlehem, PA United States An internationally known celebration of all things Celtic. http://www.celticfest.org 30 September Dixon Scottish Highland Games Dixon, CA United States Promoting the culture, entertainment and education of Scotland. www.scotsindixon.org

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