Wishlist 2022

wishlist

we’ve got christmas covered

contents

‘Tis the season, and whether your Christmas is all about going out, shopping till you drop or cuddling up at home, it’s the only time of year when it’s socially acceptable to start the day with an eggnog and an After Eight, so we are here for it.

Whatever your December plans look like, we’re going to help you on your way quicker than you can say ‘ding dong merrily on high’. Our Christmas gift guide is stacked with perfect bits and pieces to help you get your shopping finished (page 18), our selection of the best of Scotland’s panto action is on page 10 and we’ve combed through Edinburgh and Glasgow’s packed calendar to bring you the very best going-out opportunities, both Christmas flavoured and not so much, starting from page 9.

Looking forward to 2023 starts with our Hogmanay guide on page 12, and if you’ve ended up organising the office Christmas do this year, we’ve pulled together a selection of restaurants where turkey is positively discouraged on pages 14–16.

Christmas starts here, so from the whole team at The List, we wish you merry!

a message from our sponsor...

Festive celebrations are returning to Edinburgh’s Johnnie Walker Princes Street with incredible decorations, dazzling entertainment, and an array of fantastic gifts to be found across the venue’s eight oors.

Escape the hustle and bustle of festive shopping by treating yourself to the ultimate whisky experience on the multisensory Journey of Flavour tour. Whether you’re on an

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12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

Your essential festive agenda

9 EVENTS

From Christmas markets to New Year's Eve, we've got it covered

14 FOOD Christmas party ideas without the stu ng 18

of ce night out or a festive getaway, immerse yourself in the 200-year history of Johnnie Walker, complete with three personalised drinks.

Swing by the state-of-theart retail store to purchase the perfect gift for your loved one. Complete with exclusive whisky and a personalisation station, you’re sure to make someone’s festive period! Or, enjoy an expertly crafted

26 CURL UP AT HOME

From books to boxsets, stay cosy with us

30 VOUCHERS & SUBS

Christmas shopping without leaving the house? Hard approve

festive cocktail in one of two rooftop bars to really get yourself into the spirit of the season. With unmatched views over Edinburgh, take in the festive magic of the capital with a delicious drink in hand. There’s no shortage of ways to ring in the festive period at Johnnie Walker Princes Street. Book now to avoid disappointment.

 johnniewalkerprincesstreet.com

Christmas isn’t Christmas without . . .

It’s a hard life being a pantomime heroine. Sure, you usually get the whole show named after you, but the likes of Snow White, Cinders and Red also have to scrub the dishes, put the uglies in their place and kiss a few frogs before they get a chance to chill on Christmas Day. To make up for all that strife, we asked a handful of Scotland’s leading panto ladies to tell us what makes their Christmas special

To me, Christmas isn’t Christmas without music. It’s such a happy time of year when the radio plays old classics and favourite carols; I love singing festive songs with my friends and family too. It’s the perfect way for everyone to enjoy and celebrate such a special occasion.

 Francesca Ross plays Snow White in the King’s Theatre production of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs at Festival Theatre, Edinburgh, Saturday 17 December–Sunday 22 January.

Christmas is a time we can look forward to together; a season of joy. For me, it’s about Christmas shopping with friends to find the perfect Secret Santa gift to make someone smile. It’s singing carols and listening to cheesy Christmas tunes. And, of course, going to a pantomime which makes you laugh, sing and dance all the way home.

 Blythe Jandoo plays Belle in Beauty And The Beast at King’s Theatre, Glasgow, Saturday 26 November–Saturday 31 December.

In no particular order: laughter, food, gin! Christmas isn’t Christmas without our audiences. They are always buzzing and ready to celebrate; the atmosphere they create is so joyful and I can’t wait for our show to start. On a more personal note though, I’m especially looking forward to Christmas dinner. My mum is an amazing cook!

 Cindy Awor plays Red in the Citizens Theatre production of Red Riding Hood at Tramway, Glasgow, Friday 9–Saturday 24 December.

12 Days of Christmas

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Not feeling it this year? The RSNO and Children’s Classic Concerts have got your back. They’re joined by the RSNO Junior Chorus and Manor School of Ballet in a completely irresistible Christmas treat that’s sure to melt even the grinchiest of hearts.

 Usher Hall, Edinburgh, Sunday 4 December; Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, Saturday 10 December.

THE CURE

Robert Smith and co haven’t toured since pre C-word times, and this big arena gig is set to be an epic night.

Eschew the Christmas spirit with a firm hand, revel in the bah humbug and celebrate your inner grumpy goth. The Twilight Sad support.

 OVO Hydro, Glasgow, Sunday 4 December.

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CHRISTMAS AT THE BOTANICS

With over a million twinkling lights, this after-dark trail through Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden is full of wonder, illumination and colour. Street food vendors are on hand for suitably festive warmers at a visually stunning event that feels a million miles away from gaudy Christmas commercialisation.

 Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Thursday 17 November–Friday 30 December.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Chapterhouse Theatre Company bring their family-friendly production of Dickens’ classic Christmas tale to the atmospheric surrounds of Stirling Castle’s Great Hall, with period costume, song, dance and an original score. Can the ghosts of Christmas melt Ebeneezer Scrooge’s cold, hard heart? Of course they can.

 Stirling Castle, Friday 16–Sunday 18 December.

PAOLO NUTINI

There are homecomings and then there are homecomings. Cresting the wave of his huge new album Last Night

In The Bittersweet, local hero Paolo Nutini sells out a five-night run at the Hydro. Beg, borrow or steal a ticket, because this one’s going to be triumphant.

 OVO Hydro, Glasgow, Tuesday 13, Wednesday 14, Friday 16, Sunday 18 & Tuesday 20 December.

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL MAGIC FESTIVAL

Explore a world of wonder, imagination and illusion, with a feast of world-class talent presenting a host of shows and workshops. From intimate performances in the Storytelling Centre to Kevin Quantum’s high-octane Christmas Special, there’s something for every age and stage.

 Various venues, Edinburgh, Saturday 17–Saturday 31 December.

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PICT URE: ANDY FELL

HOOLIE IN THE HYDRO

Billed as the biggest night of Scottish traditional music ever, the Hydro will play host to an almost unimaginably huge ceilidh. Dougie Maclean, Mànran, the Sharon Shannon Band, Skerryvore and Trail West are all set to appear.

 OVO Hydro, Glasgow, Saturday 17 December.

IDLEWILD

It’s been 20 years since Idlewild’s The Remote Part album was released to critical and commercial acclaim. To celebrate, the band will play the album in its entirety to their devoted fans at this gig, which marks the end of a minitour and festival run.

 O2 Academy Glasgow, Wednesday 21 December.

THE SNOW QUEEN

Scottish Ballet’s glittering take on this winter tale (the inspiration for a certain Frozen) is a sumptuous delight. Rimsky-Korsakov’s score will be performed by the full Scottish Ballet orchestra in a feast for all the senses.

 Festival Theatre, Edinburgh, Saturday 19 November–Saturday 10 December; Theatre Royal, Glasgow, Wednesday 14 December–Sunday 8 January.

The holidays are coming, and if the thought of spending time tucked up with your nearest and dearest fills you with dread, here’s our pick of things to do in Edinburgh, Glasgow and further afield this December

EDINBURGH’S CHRISTMAS

The Christmas Wheel, Traditional Market, Ice Rink and Santaland are all set to return to the city centre this year, as well as an all-new Santa Experience and a full festival of free events and activities centred around the Ross Bandstand.

 Various venues, Edinburgh, Friday 25 November–Tuesday 3 January.

THE IRN-BRU CARNIVAL

All the fun of the fair for all the fun of the family; it’s mostly indoors too, which means that, whatever the Scottish winter throws at us, you can still hang out and have a great time. Fly high across the city, or pop the wee ones into soft play to burn off some energy

 SEC, Glasgow, Friday 23 December–Sunday 15 January.

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER

It’s well over a decade since the first Avatar film was released with its then ground-breaking special effects. That’s a lifetime in movie terms, so it’s safe to say expectations are high for the sequel to James Cameron’s passion project (fingers crossed he’s spent more time on the story this time).

 General release from Friday 16 December.

PICTURE: GAVIN SMART

Khao Boi is an exciting new venture based within the Stand Comedy Club serving up delicious Thai and Southeast Asian inspired street-food to accompany your evening of entertainment.

The name Khao Boi (Khao meaning ‘Rice’ in Thai) originates from the infamous cowboy painting by T.D. MacGregor that has been the Stand’s iconic logo and backdrop for over 20 years. The child depicted in the painting just so happens to be Dave MacGregor - the founder of Khao Boi, when he was just but a wee pup.

Having put his cattle-rustling days in the wild west behind him he’s laid down his sheriff’s badge in favour of the chef’s hat, and with a good few years of travel and culinary creation under his belt, Dave is now solely focused on dishing up fresh, hearty and homely Asian dishes.

AT SELECTED SHOWS FROM OCT 20TH!

All your Christmases at once

Our selection of the prettiest, sparkliest, Christmassy-est events is guaranteed to delight your inner child

FESTIVE FOREST

This spectacular family-focused light- lled trail through the deep dark woods has bags of atmosphere, places to play and lots to see and do. Toast your own marshmallows before visiting Santa’s grotto for a story.

 Beecraigs Country Park, near Linlithgow, Friday 2–Friday 23 December.

SQUARE EYES CINEMA CLUB: ELF

Taste What You See presents a special showing of Christmas classic Elf. All the food groups (candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup) will be represented alongside the lm, in the gorgeous neoclassical setting of Glasgow’s Citation venue.

 Citation, Glasgow, Sunday 18 December.

ONCE UPON A SNOWSTORM

Based on Richard Johnson’s beautiful book, this gentle winter tale is aimed at younger children and their families. When a howling snowstorm separates a son from his father, are the woodland creatures his friends or foes?

 Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh, Friday 9–Friday 23 December.

CASTLE OF LIGHT

See Edinburgh Castle transformed into a kingdom of colours, as immersive illuminations guide you through your journey and help you discover Scotland’s stories along the way, with magical views both of the castle and the city below.

 Edinburgh Castle, Friday 18 November–Friday 30 December.

RSNO CHRISTMAS CONCERT FEATURING THE SNOWMAN

We’re walking in the air: your actual Aled Jones narrates this screening of the de nitive Christmas lm, bookended by singalong carols and festive songs in a family-friendly concert that’s sure to hit the Christmas sweet spot.

 Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, Saturday 17 December; Usher Hall, Edinburgh, Sunday 18 December.

SLEEPING BEAUTY

The team behind Mother Goose Fae Easterhoose unleash their latest creation on the world. Sleeping Beauty takes place in Mattress World Kingdom, where B has everything sorted until she nds out about an evil curse.

 Platform, Glasgow, Tuesday 6–Friday 23 December.

VIENNESE CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

Strauss, Tchaikovsky and Brahms are all present and correct in the London Concertante’s magical celebration of the music of Vienna. Elegantly festive in beautiful settings, with instantly recognisable excerpts from The Nutcracker Suite and Sleeping Beauty

 Paisley Abbey, Wednesday 30 November; St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh, Friday 9, Friday 16 December.

Hot tickets

Cash to burn in

exchange

for

brownie points come Christmas morning? Try our run-down of 2023’s most sought-after tickets

Turn up the music, turn down the lights: it’s about damn time. Lizzo, queen of crossover and three-time Grammy Award-winner is on re right now. ’Nuff said (OVO Hydro, Wednesday 8 March). There’s nothing like a long hot summer to make you optimistic for more long hot summers, even in Glasgow, and Bellahouston Park is the setting for some cracking (and hopefully sunny) openair gigs come June. Muse bring their Will Of The People tour (Friday 23 June) with Arctic Monkeys ending the weekend (Sunday 25 June).

Got teens in your life? Want to be the cool auntie or uncle, if only for a few moments between TikToks? Sell your granny for Harry Styles tickets. The feather boawearing popster brings his 'Watermelon Sugar' to BT Murray eld in the spring (Friday 26 & Saturday 27 May).

Finally, Elton John is hanging up his specs, bless him. As well as selling out a frankly astonishing run at the O2 in London in April, he’ll be calling into the OVO Hydro in Glasgow (Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 June).

PICTURE: EUAN ROBERTSON

Left to right: Once Upon A Snowstorm, Sleeping Beauty, Festive Forest

Oh yes it Is!

Curtain’s up on panto season, as Jo Laidlaw checks out the best theatrical family fun to be had in Edinburgh and Glasgow this Christmas

EDINBURGH

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS

Billed as Edinburgh’s most spectacular festive show, the major refurbishment of the King’s Theatre means the city’s glitziest traditional panto is taking the Festival Theatre back to its variety roots this Christmas. Allan Stewart and Grant Stott lead the laughs, with pals old and new packing in the jokes, songs and routines.

n Festival Theatre, Saturday 17 December–Sunday 22 January.

SINBAD THE PANTOMIME

The Brunton in Musselburgh always puts on a cracking panto and its smaller auditorium makes it a particularly perfect introduction to theatre for little ones. Expect local references and jokes aplenty as the intrepid Sinbad leaves Fisherrow to seek his fortune, as well as the traditional singalongs and sweeties, pirates and pizazz.

n Brunton Theatre, Wednesday 23 November–Saturday 31 December.

AN EDINBURGH CHRISTMAS CAROL

The night before Christmas, Ebeneezer Scrooge is visited by three mysterious ghosts: Lang Syne, Nouadays and Ayont. Tony Cownie’s retelling of Dickens’ magical tale of humbug and humanity is brilliantly set in Victorian Edinburgh, with a full community choir joining the action. Can Scrooge discover the true meaning of Christmas before it’s too late?

n Royal Lyceum Theatre, Thursday 24 November–Saturday 31 December.

Wishlist 2022

glasgow

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Panto legend Elaine C Smith is back on the boards in this full-throttle tale of magic and derring-do. Can Belle see beyond the Beast’s outer skin and fall in love with him before the last petal falls from the enchanted rose? We all know the answer; the fun is in the finding out.

n King’s Theatre, Saturday 26 November–Saturday 31 December.

THE MAGICAL ADVENTURES OF ALADDIN

They’ve been packing them into the Pavilion panto for almost a century now. Join a host of familiar faces as Aladdin defeats the Wicked Sorcerer, hangs with a genie, falls in love with the Princess, dances, sings, cracks a few jokes and generally saves the day.

n Pavilion Theatre, Thursday 1 December–Sunday 15 January.

RED RIDING HOOD

The story of a wolf, a granny and a girl called Red who is tired of following the rules; this fun-filled magical show is designed for children aged 5+ and their families. Maureen Carr stars in this high-quality alternative to panto from The Citz team, with P7s from two Gorbalsbased primary schools presenting two curtain-raising performances involving 600 young people.

n Tramway, Friday 9–Friday 23 December.

Begone 2022: it’s about time for these 20s to roar.

Jo Laidlaw shares the lowdown on the return of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations

It’s safe to say that, so far, this decade has been a lot And really, the only correct response to that is to gather your nearest and dearest, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to welcome the new year with open arms. Thankfully, after a three-year absence, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is back; and it’s better than ever, with not one, not two, but three spectacular concerts in Princes Street Gardens.

It all kicks off on the Night Afore (December 30), with pop princess Sophie Ellis-Bextor joining Glasgow pop legends Altered Images to start the party in an all-new family-friendly concert. There’s no letting up on the 1st either, when a spectacular Final Fling concert will close the festival with a bang, rather than a whimper. If you prefer a little contemplation in your new year mix, the beautiful Candlelit Concert in St Giles’ Cathedral provides a little calm, while a series of free First Footin’ performances will lead music fans through the city’s bars and pubs on New Year’s Day.

But all eyes are on the night itself. The Pet Shop Boys will headline the Concert In The Gardens on Hogmanay, with the world-famous Street Party seeing thousands of revellers not just taking to the streets, but becoming part of the show: for the rst time, they’ll be issued with LED wristbands which will create amazing lighting effects in the lead-up to the glories of the midnight reworks.  Various venues, Edinburgh, Friday 30 December–Sunday 1 January.

Shake it off

Market magic

It’s always better to buy direct and that’s never truer than at Christmas. Thankfully there’s a host of fairs and markets offering a chance to get up close and personal with Scotland’s makers in a festive setting

I n Fife, Bowhouse’s December market (Saturday 10 & Sunday 11) is devoted to all things yule, with gorgeous activities for the wee ones, delightful handmade gifts and, of course, the pick of the region’s food and drink; all that plus a lively street food hall makes it well worth a day trip.

In Glasgow, the city’s Royal Concert Hall hosts the ever-popular craft, art and design Christmas Fair (Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 November) with paintings, photography and ceramics well represented. Or if beauty is your thing, then the Girls’ Day Out Christmas Makeover might be worth a visit at the SEC (Friday 11–Sunday 13 November). Social enterprise Art On Scotland’s events on Royal Exchange Square are still on hold, but they’re making up for it with their Art By The Burn markets in Johnstone. Their Christmas light switchon is takes place on Sunday 27 November, with arts and crafts and a festive farmers’ market the following weekend (Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 December).

In Edinburgh, Jupiter Artland’s annual Christmas Fair (Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 December) sees the steadings transformed into a winter wonderland, with lots of beautiful gifts on offer as well as Santa’s grotto. Continuing the arty theme, Summerhall’s Christmas Market runs over a full weekend for the rst time this year (Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 December) with indoor and outdoor stalls featuring some of Scotland’s best independent makers, as well as food and entertainment all day. And if waiting until December to do your shopping all feels a bit last minute, Hopetoun House’s traditional Christmas fair takes place from Friday 25–Sunday 27 November, with vendors piling their work high inside the glorious setting of one of Scotland’s nest stately homes.

PICTURE: JESS SHURTE

THIS YEARS BEECRAIGS FESTIVE FOREST RETURNS BRIGHTER AND BOLDER THAN BEFORE FEATURING...

A spectacular 1.8km illumination trail of stunning woodland featuring state-of-the-art lighting design, amazing visual installations, dazzling projections and stunning sound by one of the UK’s leading lighting and production companies

The longest light tunnel in Scotland

Santa’s Grotto and Storytelling Experience with his cheeky Elves, toys, sweets and North Pole post box

New Santa’s Christmas village selling festive gi s, treats and novelties

Traditional Christmas market stalls selling delicious festive Scottish street food and drink

Children’s funfair rides featuring Helter Skelter, Candy Cane Bungees, Crazy Elf cars and new mini Polar Express

Radio Forth Silent Disco

Cala Homes Live stage featuring fantastic local talent - DJ, singers, musicians, choirs and carol singers

Our amazing street performers featuring fire acts, stilt walkers, jugglers and magicians

Some of your favourite festive movie characters hiding in the forest

Our new magical Festive Fairy House hunt

Our 12 secret ‘Elfies …plus much much more!!!

A KINGDOM OF

FLIp the bird

It’s not easy choosing somewhere a bit different to eat, drink and be merry over the festive season, especially when you’re trying to please a big group of friends, family or workmates.

EDINBURGH

Suzy Pope and David Kirkwood take the pain out of the process, choosing some of the best spots to gather the gang that aren’t all about the ubiquitous turkey

LADY LIBERTINE

Swap traditional turkey dinners for slowcooked lamb shawarma packed with spices from the Levant. Apart from a precision menu of towering burgers inspired by Lebanese cuisine, there’s a huge array of craft cocktails at this tucked-away basement bar on the corner of St Andrew Square; the basil and orange spritz is a particular delight for the tastebuds.

 ladylibertine.co.uk

TAPA

What better way to get the troops together than with a feast of small sharing plates?

The menu at Tapa covers the best of Spain, whether from land, hills or sea. There’s rich chorizo, moreish padron peppers and black pudding topped with runny quail eggs, plus litre-sized jugs of sangria are perfect for big groups.

 tapaedinburgh.co.uk

FAVA

Raw wood tables and wicker accents combine in the boho-chic interior of this new Greek restaurant on Morrison Street. There’s a mezze selection of classic dishes like lamb koftas, cooling tzatziki and crisp saganaki. Those that don’t like sharing can take their pick from the likes of flavour-packed gyros or a Greek mixed grill.

 favarestaurant.co.uk

MOTHER

INDIA

Forget sage and onion: embrace coriander and turmeric. Mother India has been serving great Indian street food staples for years and is a go-to for fat malabari prawns and butter chicken. Tapas-style sharing is perfect for big groups who can’t settle on one thing plus, exposed stone walls and candle-lit tables create an intimate feel at this time of year.

 motherindia.co.uk

BONNIE & WILD

Got a big group with widely varying tastes? Packed with independent stalls (from MasterChef-winning fish and chips to Sri Lankan kotthu), Bonnie & Wild’s indoor street food market covers all kinds of dietary requirements and preferences. While one person chows down on a sourdough pizza, another can opt for salt and chilli soft-shell crab. Everyone’s a winner.

 bonnieandwildmarket.com

HARMONIUM

Since moving to bigger premises on London Street, Harmonium is the ideal spot for big group get-togethers, especially for plantbased eaters. Their menu of filling vegan dishes (like gravy-topped poutine, noriinfused ‘fish’ burger and cauliflower steak) is accompanied by a huge selection of craft beers on tap and cocktails galore.

 harmoniumbar.co.uk

glasgow

MURPHY’S PAKORA BAR

This much-romanticised venue of yesteryear made its triumphant return to Finnieston this spring. There are 15 types of pakora including wildcards like banana or chorizo; but other options like Goanese fish tacos or Indian fried chicken (as well as a curries section) keep the appeal broad and the vibe thoroughly fun.

 murphyspakorabar.co.uk

PHILLIES OF SHAWLANDS

High seats, low seats, booth seats, bar seats; this trendy Southside monster handles all manner of bookings and the food is way above your average bar grub, with bulgogi nachos, wagyu burgers and posh prawn toast, alongside more standard fare like pizzas. Ten craft beer lines, strong cocktail game and, if you’re a rowdy bunch, this is where the party’s at in Shawlands at the weekend.

 philliesbar.co.uk

HO WONG

Not cheap for a Chinese restaurant, but compared to the set menus and price hikes found elsewhere, maybe a bit of Cantonese fine dining at this time of year could be an interesting alternative. Soft-shell crab, butterfly king prawns and sizzling fillet of black pepper beef are all cooked with precision and served with aplomb.

 howongglasgow.com

BOTHWELL

HOUSE

Spacious, well laid-out venue where fairy lights and glassware twinkle as you enter. This modern interpretation of a bistro-grill menu is awash with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean nods alongside their steaks. Expect a festive menu that combines these influences with seasonal traditions in a classy manner, as well as a cocktail bar that’s impressive in its own right.

 bothwellhouse.co.uk

SLOUCH

The rock’n’roll aesthetic defines everything in this city-centre bar, with a fun take on the festive menu that’s in keeping with the vibe. There’s curried parsnip soup and beef wellington if you’re playing it safe, crab empanadas and turkey gyros if you want to mix it up a bit.

 slouch-bar.co.uk

STEREO

Stereo still leads the way in Glasgow for exciting takes on plant-based eating in a cool, music-focused setting. Gochujang and togarishi tofu burgers and beer-battered banana blossom ‘chip suppers’ are two of the more guilty pleasures you’ll find here, alongside plenty of light bites and nibbles.

 stereocafebar.com

Christmas shopping piling on the stress? We’ve got you covered with our pick of the best gifts going

The Culture Vulture

From discounted trips to beautiful prints, ideal presents for your favourite art-lover

1. West Of Somewhere print by Rory Kennedy, Alchemy Experiment, £40, alchemyexperiment.com

2. The Story Of Art Without Men by Katy Hessel (signed edition), £30, theportobellobookshop.com

3. Record display shelf unit, Legend Vinyl, £26.99, assai.co.uk

4. National Art Pass, £45, artfund.org

5. Vintage 60s geometric floral barkcloth zipper pouch, Dapper Alice, £20, dapperalice.co.uk

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Sophie Home Bruten throw, £90, Hoose Glasgow, hoosglasgow.co.uk

Roasters, £8.50, hinba.co.uk

Scotland, £24.99, pairs-scotland.com

mynordicliving.co.uk

Glasgow, £55, bloomsglasgow.co.uk

Comforting gifts for those who just want to curl up at home

the homebody

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2. Zaju Mexico ground beans, Hinba Coffee

3. Grey alpaca bed socks, Pairs

4. Fluted contrast mug, Royal Copenhagen, £21,

5. Kentia (Howea) palm plant, Blooms

6. Our Share Of Night by Mariana Enriquez (hardback), £18.99, toppingbooks.co.uk

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1. Tea pick’n’mix, Teapigs, from £12.99, teapigs.co.uk

2. At Home hamper, East Coast Cured, £30, eastcoastcured.com

3. Wine shopper, Pretty Pickled, £28, prettypickled.co.uk

4. Kerr’s Navy Strength Gin, The Borders Distillery, £50, thebordersdistillery.com

5. Rum Union, Holyrood Distillery, £39.99, holyrooddistillery.co.uk

6. Feragaia Alcohol-Free Spirit, £24.95, feragaia.com

7. Mini Jars taster set, Highland Moon, £14, highlandmoon.co.uk

8. Halloumi cheese making Kit, The Big Cheese Making Kit, £22.50, bigcheesemakingkit.com For those who love the

the bon vivant

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the self-care guru

For when only cosy will do

1. Anniversary 22 Braw Beard oil, Braw Beard, £26.99, brawbeardoils.com

2. Cashmere eye mask, Rosie Sugden, £35, rosiesugden.com

3. Christmas Collection, Bare Bones Chocolate, £6.50 each, bareboneschocolate.co.uk

4. Luxury No1 body butter, The Edinburgh Natural Skin Care Company, £17.99, edinburghskincare.com

5. Leaf tea mini sampler, Shibui, £6, shibui-tea.co.uk

6. Silver chevron Jacob blanket, Green Grove Weavers, £110, greengroveweavers.com

7. Self Care bath set, ishga, £45, uk.ishga.com

8. Hidden Loch soy wax candle, Gold Moss Candles, £15.95, goldmoss.co.uk

9. After The Rain reed diffuser, Arran Sense of Scotland, £33, arran.com

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1. Scotland By Road print, Thompson Illustrations, £35, davethompsonillustration.com

2. Magma flask 1000ml, Vango, £16, vango.co.uk/gb

3. Nevis boot, Fife Country, £79.95, fifecountry.co.uk

4. Folding cubes, Trakke, £60, trakke.co.uk

5. Meander jacket, Meander Apparel, £198, meanderapparel.com

6. Hand cream bar, The Edinburgh Natural Skin Care Company, £12, edinburghskincare.com

7. Billy sunglasses, COVET, £30, thoushaltcovet.com

8. Prime triathlon and swimming wetsuit, Lomo, £119, lomo.co.uk

SCOTLAND

The Adventurer

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shop local

BENTOYA

EDINBURGH

13 Bread Street 0131 629 3993 | bentoya.co.uk

Let head chef Kenny Zhong take you on a trip to Japan with tempura, nigiri, sashimi, bento boxes, curry, ramen, and rice. Bentoya uses classic Scottish ingredients to create authentic Japanese cuisine, offering both dine-in and takeaway options for customers. This is high quality, authentic food at an affordable price.

VOUJON BENGALI & INDIAN RESTAURANT

EDINBURGH

107 Newington Road 0131 667 5046 | voujonedinburgh.com

Voujon is a passage to India, serving traditional Bengali and Indian cuisine in a modern Scottish environment. The menu is a fusion of traditional recipes with influences from East and West. Voujon also has a private dining room which is the perfect venue for business lunches, birthday parties and events.

FRUITMARKET

EDINBURGH

45 Market Street 0131 226 8181 | fruitmarket.co.uk

This Christmas, spending time with people feels more important than ever, so the Fruitmarket bookshop’s focus is on thoughtfully selected, sometimes unexpected, beautiful games, activities and books to share with those you love. Luxurious gifts that are kind to your bank balance, every purchase goes back into funding the gallery’s programme.

RAGAMUFFIN

EDINBURGH

278 Canongate, Royal Mile 0131 557 6007 | ragamu nstore.com

Beautiful knitwear, clothes and accessories in natural fibres, responsibly sourced from Scotland and beyond. We love buying hand-made. We love sourcing fair trade. We love buying from designer makers. We love selling things that will last. We love colour and texture. Find useful, cosy gift ideas at Ragamuffin.

EAST COAST CURED

EDINBURGH

3 Restalrig Road 0131 553 9043 | eastcoastcured.com

East Coast Cured produces a range of award-winning Scottish charcuterie. Pop into the shop above their basement production space to stock up on housemade cured meats as well as products from other quality Scottish producers. Shop online for UK wide deliveries.

DALMAHOY HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB

EDINBURGH

Kirknewton | 0131 333 1845 dalmahoyhotelandcountryclub.co.uk

One of Scotland’s top golf resorts and country estates, Dalmahoy offers the convenience of a city hotel in a 1000-acre countryside retreat with leisure club, two 18hole golf courses and innovative seasonal menus, from fine dining in The Pentland to The Brasserie experience and afternoon tea.

CTRL+R

GLASGOW

121 Saltmarket ctrlrglasgow.com

Bring a little bit of gaming history home today with retro gaming retail specialists, CTRL+R. From consoles and games to peripherals and merchandise, if you're looking to add to your own collection (or even someone else's) we might just have what you're looking for. Give retro gaming an extra life!

THE BEAR’S LARDER

EDINBURGH

15 Colinton Road 0131 281 1957 | thebearslarder.co.uk

An urban farm store offering an array of artisan foods lovingly made by local suppliers; there’s a perfect gift for any occasion. Serving locally roasted coffee and hot chocolate as the ideal accompaniment while you browse our cosy store’s range, from cheeses to sweet treats and, of course, great Scottish gins and spirits.

Shopping close to home is not only good for the local economy, it's good for the environment too. So give independent businesses your support this Christmas and check out this fantastic selection of shops, restaurants and other enterprises – one of them could be just what you're looking for!

LOCAVORE

GLASGOW, EDINBURGH & KIRKINTILLOCH

0141 328 3303 | locavore.scot

Locavore are Scotland’s champion for a better food system with their veg box deliveries and local, organic and zero waste supermarkets across central Scotland. Visit their shops for all your ethical food shopping needs as well as lovely local and ethical gifts. Alternatively, head online and order a veg box to start the new year on a fresh footing. Find locations online.

SYLVAN

GLASGOW

20 Woodlands Road 0141 332 9310 | sylvanglasgow.com

Quintessential vegetarian and vegan dining in Glasgow, Sylvan offers a daily menu in a relaxed, spacious room. A thorough collection of natural wine and cider, rotational taps, and seasonal cocktails make Sylvan’s old shop-counter bar one worth hopping in its own right. See also: House Wine by Sylvan, for monthly nat-wine deliveries.

LEITH BOTTLE SHOP

EDINBURGH

30 Great Junction Street leithbottleshop.co.uk

Positioned right in the heart of Leith’s thriving brewing community, Leith Bottle Shop offers a taste of all the latest craft beers from renowned local breweries including Pilot, Moonwake and Newbarns. They also offer a selection of Scottish gins, malt whisky and quality wines. Free tastings from 6pm on Thursdays.

TALBOT RICE GALLERY

EDINBURGH

University of Edinburgh, Old College, South Bridge 0131 650 2210 | trg.ed.ac.uk

Qiu Zhijie | Lara Favaretto | Nira

Pereg

29 October 2022–18 February 2023

Talbot Rice Gallery is proud to announce our new exhibitions by Qiu Zhijie (Beijing), Lara Favaretto (Torino) and Nira Pereg (Tel Aviv). Opening 29 October. Admission free, all are welcome.

COVET

EDINBURGH

20 Thistle Street 0131 220 0026 | thoushaltcovet.com

If you are looking for extra-special unique gifts, you will be spoilt for choice at Covet, renowned for their high-quality handbags, jewellery and accessories from Europe and for showcasing local talent. Many gifts for under £30, with designer silk pyjamas, gloves and painting scarves by artist and Covet owner Anna Somerville.

SEBASTIAN KOBELT

LINLITHGOW

sebastiankobelt.com

Discover Sebastian Kobelt's Chocolate Advent Calendar (£30.50), illustrated with his cheery Scottish Santa. Enjoy 24 inventive festive chocolates including the Douglas Fir, a homage to the smell of freshly cut Christmas trees. Taste Sebastian's German heritage in the Dominostein, a traditional German confection which combines gingerbread with marzipan, red berry jelly and dark chocolate.

BONNIE & WILD

EDINBURGH

Level 4, St James Quarter 0131 560 1800 | bonnieandwildmarket. com

Put Scotland’s Food Hall firmly on your Wish List. With 12 food stalls plus three bars all showcasing the best of Scottish food and drink, the stylish Bonnie & Wild in Edinburgh has unrivalled menu choice, heaps of seating and an open, welcoming vibe. Plus check out their free monthly ceilidhs!

THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY

SOCIETY

EDINBURGH & GLASGOW

The Vaults, 87 Giles Street & 28 Queen Street (Edinburgh) | 40 Bath Street (Glasgow) | smws.com

Sharing a passion for whisky is what we're all about, with one-of-a-kind bottlings, exclusive events, access to Members' Rooms and a wealth of whisky content. Pop in to pick up a membership offer for the whisky lover in your life, by quoting SMWSLIST10 for 10% off the total cost of £65.

Buying alcohol as a Christmas present can be a bewildering and pricey experience. So Kevin Fullerton has done the hard work for you, scouring Edinburgh’s finest drinking establishments for tipples that taste great and won’t break the bank

Buying boozy gifts for Christmas is a delicate balancing act of generosity and nancial prudence. Go for cheap cans and you’ll gain a reputation as the resident miser of your social group, but splash out on the most luscious libations in all of Scotland and you’ll be bankrupt before Hogmanay. If only your pals were grateful for a £1.49 super-strength lager from the offy, life would be a lot easier. To relieve the pressure of your gift-buying experience this year, we’ve tracked down three drinks that’ll make perfect presents; and all are £30 or less.

Bottoms up!

First up for the wine lover in your life, the Bodegas Ondarre Rioja Graciano 2019, a smooth red crammed with complexity. This is the perfect Christmas wine, its focus on wintry berries and warming spices tingling those festive pleasure centres. The bottle also claims that there’s a hint of aniseed, white pepper and balsamic in the mix. While my peasant’s palate couldn’t detect them, there was still enough body in this bottle to make every sip a new experience.

Finding a reputable whisky below an ‘oh dear, I’ve just had to re-mortgage the house’ price-point is a tricky business. But a novel selection for any dram enthusiast is Thistly Cross Whisky Cask Cider, a dry drink aged in Glen Moray whisky casks for six years. There’s an overt sweetness to most of Thistly’s output that’s welcomingly absent here. Instead, this is the kind of mixture you’d nd in vaguely threatening provincial pubs across the market towns of England, but with strong hints of vanilla adding a sweet texture. One to try if you fancy an interesting culture clash between the traditionally English process of cider-making and the quintessential Scottish spirit.

The most decadent drink on our list is Aelder Wild Spiced Elderberry Liqueur, a blood red liquid that has the thickness of cough syrup but the richness of a chocolate gateaux. My god, this one’s a showstopper, every sip feeling like you’re gorging on the nest dessert. It has the heaviness of a port but with a sweetness that makes it a pleasant gateway for those uninitiated in the world of digestifs. As far as gifts go, the bottle is a masterclass, as dark and mysterious as this bottomless well of taste.

Bodegas Ondarre Rioja, Graciano 2019, £14 for 75cl, supplied by Vino; Thistly Cross X Glen Moray Whisky

Pairing Gift Set, £25 for three Whisky Cask 330ml bottles, one Glen Moray 5cl bottle, and one Glen Moray glass.; Aelder Wild Spiced Elderberry Liqueur, £30 for 500ml, supplied by Bon Vivant’s Drink Emporium.

under the covers

The season for giving is upon us and what better gift for those dark winter nights than a great book. Lynsey May picks some literary highlights guaranteed to delight any bookworm

Christmas crackers Festive-themed books to curl up and get cosy with

MAKE YOU MINE THIS CHRISTMAS

BY LIZZIE HUXLEYJONES

Warm your cockles with this delightful queer Christmas romcom. The loveable Haf kisses Christopher under the mistletoe, agrees to pretend to be his girlfriend for the annual family gathering, then sets her eyes on his gorgeous sister. Holiday hijinks ensue. Hodder & Stoughton

ORPHEUS BUILDS A GIRL

BY HEATHER PARRY

Based on an utterly chilling true story, this is the tale of Wilhelm von Tore and his unhealthy obsession with his rst love. It’s an obsession that prompts him to plunder her grave and attempt to put into practice his scienti c belief that death doesn’t have to be the end. Gallic Books

STAY ANOTHER DAY

BY JUNO DAWSON

A chaotic and compulsive feelgood story about a family with three very different siblings who want very different goodies under the tree. Fern would like everyone to love her new boyfriend, Rowan wants to be out on the pull and Willow would like to cancel Christmas altogether. Quercus

THE CHRISTMAS BOOKSHOP

BY JENNY COLGAN

Step into the magical world of The Christmas Bookshop for a heartwarming festive read. After being made redundant, Carmen accepts her sister’s invitation to Edinburgh and an ailing bookshop, but will she be able to conjure up a miracle to save them all? Sphere

Embrace long, wintry nights with gothic and dramatic novels The dark side

WAKENHYRST

BY MICHELLE PAVER

A manor on the edge of the Suffolk Fens is home to a whole host of dark and disastrous occurrences in this Edwardian thriller. The uncovering of a painted medieval devil in the house’s graveyard unleashes unhallowed forces that haunt the family. Head of Zeus

LUCKENBOOTH

BY JENNI FAGAN

See Edinburgh in all of its murky, deceitful and enchanting glory as you follow the devil’s daughter on her dramatic entrance into the city atop a boat made from a cof n. Discover the stories and secrets left by the inhabitants of one tenement at in a novel that glitters darkly. Windmill Books

ONE BODY

BY CATHERINE SIMPSON

A warm and witty memoir about how we treat our bodies and how our bodies treat us. Novelist and memoirist Catherine Simpson charts a diagnosis of breast cancer and all of the thoughts, fears, memories and feelings prompted by her treatment in a darkly comedic book. Saraband

THIS IS NOT A PITY MEMOIR

BY ABI MORGAN

Screenwriter and playwright

Abi Morgan had a huge and utterly normal to-do list the day her husband Jacob suffered a traumatic brain injury and everything changed. Acerbic, charming, relatable and real, Morgan documents their experiences in a memoir that pulses with life. John Murray

SHRINES OF GAIETY

BY KATE ATKINSON

Step into the seedy and delirious delights of Soho in the 1920s. The clubs are lled with starlets, foreign dignitaries, gangsters and girls; and nothing is as it seems.

Atkinson’s post-WWI novel is a glittering story of ambition and betrayal that will transport you to another era. Doubleday

PEACH BLOSSOM SPRING

BY MELISSA FU

An epic story spanning continents and generations, Peach Blossom Spring follows one family’s dif cult journey across China en route to America. As the characters search for refuge, they are inspired by ancient fables and wisdom, and the reader will be too. Wild re

FAITH, HOPE AND CARNAGE

BY NICK CAVE & SEAN

O’HAGAN

A deeply personal conversation between an icon of music and a well-established journalist turns into an utterly absorbing read. Meditating on grief, life, art and everything in-between, this book is a balm for the soul.

Canongate

LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY

BY BONNIE GARMUS

In the early 1960s, chemist Elizabeth Zott is ready to shake up the establishment but her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute isn’t so sure. Love, motherhood and divorce follow, setting her on a new path; one that could have explosive results for women everywhere. Doubleday

humour me scare me

Laughs, frights, deep insights or just something to jingle your bells; whatever your bag, Brian Donaldson rounds up some of the best shows to stream from the comfort of your own couch

going out

Bo Burnham

Multi-talented comic/musician/actor/director Bo Burnham has not one but three stand-up specials (plus an hour of outtakes that are better than most people’s entire careers) to enjoy including Inside, his phenomenal lockdown piece. Net ix

Atlanta

Donald Glover aka Childish Gambino created and stars in Atlanta as a down-at-heel dropout attempting to manage his cousin to hip-hop stardom. Silly, strange and occasionally surreal, this is a very different kind of comedy series. Disney+

London Irish

Before Derry Girls came London Irish, Lisa McGee’s short-lived sitcom about a bunch of Irish pals in, yep you guessed it, the English capital. It stars the always excellent Sinéad Keenan with occasional appearances from Ardal O’Hanlon. Prime Video

Drunk History

What could be better than comedians getting tipsy and talking rot in Drunk History? Andrew Maxwell dissects Burke & Hare, Romesh Ranganathan tackles Tutankhamun, and Diane Morgan pours salt into the wounds of Florence Nightingale. NOW TV

Frasier

With news con rming the return of Frasier (albeit with most of the original cast reportedly only guesting), this is the ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the 90s sitcom that gave us a mere 264 episodes of erudite wit. All 4

Song Exploder

Not every successful podcast makes for an equally great TV adaptation, but Song Exploder is a clear exception. Hrishikesh Hirway’s show invites a musical artist to go deep into one of their tunes, with Trent Reznor and Dua Lipa among the guests. Net ix

Brain Games

Hosted by the likes of Keegan-Michael Key and Neil Patrick Harris, Brain Games is an interactive series focusing on illusions, experiments and counter-intuitive thinking in order to explore the wonderful world of cognitive science. Disney+

The Great Hip Hop Hoax

In the early 2000s, Sillibil N’ Brains were predicted to be the next big things in Californian rap. Except, they were a pair of Dundonians pranking the entire industry. The Great Hip Hop Hoax tells the full, quasi-unbelievable story. Prime Video

Obama: In Pursuit Of A More Perfect Union

NotDirected by Peter Kunhardt, Obama: In Pursuit Of A More Perfect Union is a stirring and insightful three-parter about the ground-breaking commander-in-chief. NOW TV

Britain's Most Historic Towns

In the most recent series of Britain’s Most Historic Towns, Professor Alice Roberts hangs out in genteel tea rooms in Glasgow and uncovers dark imperial controversies in Edinburgh. All 4

Ozark

Laura Linney and Jason Bateman are progressively more terrifying as the initially respectable couple who eventually get up to their necks in organised (and plenty of disorganised) crime in the lavish Ozark Net ix

American Horror Story

If you can stomach it, there are well over 100 episodes of Ryan Murphy’s American Horror Story to watch through your ngers, with each series taking on a single tale of torment with titles such as ‘Murder House’, ‘Cult’ and ‘Freak Show’. Disney+

The Shining / Doctor Sleep

A double bill of The Shining and its eventual sequel Doctor Sleep, in which Ewan McGregor plays the grown-up Danny who marginally escaped from the clutches of his mad dad in the snow outside the Overlook Hotel. One is an all-time classic; the other: not so much. Prime Video

This England

A drama which kicks off with the discovery and spread of Covid is already the stuff of nightmares. But throw in a pitch-perfect impersonation of Boris Johnson by Kenneth Branagh and This England is sheer undiluted terror from start to nish. NOW TV

Train To Busan

Don’t you just hate it when you’re on a high-speed train and a zombie apocalypse breaks out in a nearby carriage? This is the set-up to South Korean horror classic Train To Busan All 4

Christmas On The Square

The Emmy-winning Dolly Parton’s Christmas On The Square features the country music icon as an angel (who sings) in a story about a wealthy woman (Christine Baranski) returning to her hometown with the sole purpose of evicting its residents. Net ix

Home Alone

If you think Home Alone is merely a Macaulay Culkin vehicle, think upon that twice. Disney is the proud domicile of the three big-screen affairs and the more recent trio of TV lms. Disney+ Elf

Elf has been ung around the channels down the years but this alternative festive gem lands on Prime with the recently departed James Caan and Ed Asner supporting Will Ferrell’s naïve Santa helper. Prime Video

Knowing Me, Knowing Yule

Back in his 90s broadcasting ‘heyday’, Alan Partridge was still enjoyably tactless, with the classic Knowing Me, Knowing Yule featuring him literally begging for a second series. NOW TV

Alternative Christmas Message

This year’s Alternative Christmas Message might be a different beast altogether given the circumstances, but here’s your chance to dip into the archive to see what the likes of Danny Dyer, Tom Daley and Quentin Crisp had to say for previous 25ths. All 4

PUSH THE BUTTON

Sworn off wrapping paper? The thought of the shops just too exhausting? Or is it Christmas Eve already? Fear not: Ailidh Forlan’s pick of online subscriptions and vouchers makes those last-minute gifts a piece of (Christmas) cake

EVERYMAN CINEMA MEMBERSHIP

Lights, camera, action! Gift a year of luxury Everyman Cinema experiences, where big-screen favourites can be watched in style, complete with velvet furnishings, cocktails and the likes of truf ed artichoke dip delivered to your sofa. Basic membership includes seven tickets, no online booking fee, 10% off food and drinks, and perhaps a little kickback for the purchaser too (recipients can bring a guest for free on Mondays).

 Membership from £95 a year, everymancinema.com

WEE FOLK OF THE WOODS FORAGING COURSE

There’s nothing Falkirk-based duo Lindsey and Gerry don’t know about Scotland’s wild larder, including which coastal herbs will transform your summer salads and where to nd highly sought-after Scottish morels. A short walk with them is a treat for any budding chef or aspiring home cook, who’ll soon be able to identify edible berries, plants and fungi to enhance their meals.

 Prices from £40 for group walks, weewoodsfolk.wixsite.com

THE EDINBURGH REMAKERY GIFT VOUCHERS

What do you buy someone who’s already got it all? The skills to make do and mend, of course. From sewing machine expertise to bookmending classes, dog coat-making to cushion cover courses, Edinburgh’s environmental social enterprise has workshops for everyone in their new open-plan base at Ocean Terminal. You can even shop refurbished electronics and second-hand furniture while you’re there.

 Workshops from £20, edinburghremakery.org.uk

RARE BIRDS BOOK CLUB SUBSCRIPTION

We’ve all been overwhelmed walking into a book shop lined with shelves of eye-catching stories, not knowing where to start (and that’s for ourselves, let alone a gift). Rare Birds, Edinburgh’s popular indie book store dedicated to championing female authors, does the hard work for you. Each month they shortlist the best new ction and present the recipient with two secret blurbs to choose from. From the anticipation of next month’s options, through to receiving it in the post beautifully wrapped alongside a limited-edition post card, this is a super fun way of supporting local while participating in an online book club.

 Prices from £42.75 for 3 months, rarebirdsbooks.com

ADOPT AN ANIMAL . . . without enraging your landlord! Support conservation efforts and help with the costs of homing rare animals at Edinburgh Zoo or Highland Wildlife Park by adopting a cub for the animal lover in your life. There are over 200 species to choose from, including the Nubian giraffe, snow leopard and slender-tailed meerkat.

 Adopt a cub from £40, adoption.edinburghzoo.org.uk

NATIONAL GALLERIES SCOTLAND MEMBERSHIP

Calling all culture vultures: if whiling away hours examining contemporary art or coming face to face with paintings of historical Scottish gures is your loved one’s perfect rainy-day activity, an annual National Galleries Scotland membership might just be the gift for them. By becoming a Friend, the lucky recipient will enjoy unlimited free entry to all exhibitions alongside exclusive previews and events, free parking at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and money off in gallery cafés.

 Memberships from £40, nationalgalleries.org

YOUR VIEW AT THE FORTH BRIDGE

For just a handful of days per year, lucky ticket holders can ascend this UNESCO World Heritage Site to soak up sweeping views of Edinburgh and Fife, climbing a whopping 361 feet to the top of the iconic rail bridge. Perhaps not one for your friends with vertigo, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with proceeds supporting vulnerable children in Scotland.

 Tickets from £70, check Barnardos website for limited release tickets, barnardos.org.uk/events/your-view-forth-bridge

WILD GORSE POTTERY WHEEL-THROWING COURSE

If you know someone looking to get into the world of clay, check out Jen and Anna’s pottery shop in Glasgow’s Southside; it’s a therapeutic haven for the crafty and artistic. Their wheel-throwing evening classes are ideal for beginners who, across ve weeks, will learn how to throw pots, bowls and jugs before glazing their work, taking home six to eight pieces.

 Five-week course £200, wildgorsepottery.com

AN

EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER BOOK NOw

IN A CITY LIKE NO OTHER