What's On in the Cairngorms April 2017

What’s On FREE

APRIL

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Local Story: Bridging Rivers, Spanning Centuries Special Offers!

Events: Over 90 Inside

www.visitcairngorms.com

1 What’s On. . . . . . . . . . . . .

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1 Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 1 Local Stories. . . . . . . . . . . . 12 1 To Do. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 1 Eat and Drink . . . . . . . . . . . 17 1 Accommodation. . . . . . . . . . 18 1 Shopping and Crafts. . . . . . . . 18 The What’s On guide is also available online at www.visitcairngorms.com

Published by and all advertising sales Cairngorms Business Partnership Tel: 01479 810200. info@visitcairngorms.com www.visitcairngorms.com Produced by Landmark Press Carrbridge www.landmark-press.com Tel: 01479 841900.

Photo credits: Front Cover: Ray Conlan. Photography: Lewis Mackenzie, Garry Marsden & Balmoral Estate, James Gordon, Sylvia Watson, The Cross at Kingussie.

What’s On in april

W

elcome to the Cairngorms National Park and the April edition of What’s On, the free events guide.

To help you make the most of your time here we’ve put together an essential guide packed with what’s happening in the area. We’ve got some great ideas for things to do, places to see, where to eat and drink, and places to stay.

Spring is here at last and with it comes an array of sporting events to get you out and about. There are running races at Glenlivet, Balmoral and Aviemore, Yoga classes and guided walks throughout the Park, and thegolf season kicks off with an Open Texas Scramble in Ballater. If you’re looking for family fun over Easter weekend then head to Insh Marshes, Landmark Park, Rothiemurchus, Invermark Estate, Kincraig, Grantown, Mar Lodge or the Strathspey Railway. From the 22-28th April Glenlivet Estate celebrates International Dark Sky week with a series of star gazing events which are bound to inspire and wow you.

Finally don’t forget to enjoy a wee dram at the annual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, tickets are selling out fast so make sure you secure yours before they are all gone!

The Cairngorms National Park has something for everyone.

www.visitcairngorms.com

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What’s On

april 2017

Contents

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Calendar of Events

what’s on in april

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ou are in an all year round destination with lots going on.

Use the listings to plan your fun! The Events of Interest list outlines exhibitions and events of interest over more than one day, the Calendar section gives you a day by day list of events and Day by Day shows regular events. For more information on all the events below please refer to www.visitcairngorms.com/whatson

Events of Interest

22nd-23rd April

7th-23rd April F Photographic l

what’s on april 2017

Exhibition Iona Gallery, Duke Street, Kingussie.

12-4pm. T: 01540 673422.

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8th-23rd April F Photofest 2017 l

Abernethy Old Kirk, Nethy Bridge.

1-5pm. (Closed every Tues & Thurs) T: 07934 413063. www.oldkirknethybridge.org

April Yoga Weekend Boat of Garten Community Hall.

Sat: 9.15am-12.30pm, Sun: 9.30-11am. T: 07958 463259. getsetfit@yahoo.co.uk

27th & 28th April Run Balmoral Balmoral Estate, Ballater. www.runbalmoral.com

Saturday 1st April F King of the Planets l

Richmond Memorial Hall, Tomintoul.

8-10pm. T: 01479 870070. www.glenlivetestate.co.uk

Sunday 2nd April F Aerial Yoga - Taster l

session The Pagoda, Seafield Avenue, Grantown on Spey. 12-1pm.

T: 07707 174314. totalyoga@outlook.com Live Music with Roddy Woomble The Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore.

8.30-11pm. T: 01479 811137. www.oldbridgeinn.co.uk

26th April-1st May

Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival (SOSWF) Various Locations. See daily listings.

8th-17th April T: 07789 671635.

Easter at Landmark Forest www.spiritofspeyside.com Adventure Park 27th April-1st May Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Carrbridge. 11am-3pm.

SOSWF: The Art of T: 01479 841613.

Distilling Tour Tromie Mills, Kingussie. Booking www.landmarkpark.co.uk Essential. T: 01540 661060.

10th-25th April www.spiritofspeyside.com F Lapwing’s Easter Trail, SOSWF: Glenlivet Smugglers’ l RSPB Insh Marshes One Life Livet Tour RSPB Insh Marshes Reserve, Kingussie. Glenlivet Hill Trek, Blairfindy Keepers T: 01540 661518. insh@rspb.org.uk Cottage, Glenlivet. 10am-4pm.

Booking Essential. T: 01807 590372.

14th-17th April www.spiritofspeyside.com Easter Trail at the 27th-29th April Highland Folk Museum Highland Folk Museum, Newtonmore. SOSWF: Whisky Dinners 10.30am-5.30pm. T: 01540 673551. Muckrach Lodge, Dulnain Bridge. www.highlandfolk.com 6.30-10pm. Booking Essential.

T: 01479 851227.

F Free Entry to Event l www.spiritofspeyside.com What’s On

Monday 3rd April Callanetics and Yin Yang Pagoda, Grantown on Spey. 6-8pm.

T: 07707 174314. www.thepagoda.scot F Evening Talk by l Stephen Moss Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk

Tuesday 4th April Callanetics with Julie The Pagoda, Grantown on Spey.

10-11am. T: 07707 174314. www.thepagoda.scot MAKE SURE

‘WHAT’S ON’ KNOWS

WHAT’S ON! Contact Jolene at info@visitcairngorms.com or register your event online at www.visitcairngorms.com/whatson to get your events in

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Copy deadline 5th of April for May 2017 edition.

Sunday 9th April The Glenlivet 10K Road Race The Glenlivet Distillery, Glenlivet.

11am-2pm. T: 01463 701198. www.theglenlivet10K.com

Wednesday 12th April

Zimbabwean Dancing for Children The Pagoda, Seafield Avenue, Grantown on Spey. 2-3pm.

T: 01479 873877. www.thepagoda.scot www.visitcairngorms.com

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Singing Workshop with Bruce Ncube The Pagoda, Seafield Avenue, Grantown on Spey. 7pm.

T: 01479 873877. www.thepagoda.scot F Evening Talk: Autumn l Birding in Taiwan by Mike Weedon Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk

Thursday 13th April F Opening Day of l

Draughts Season The Square, Grantown on Spey.

10am-6pm. T: 01479 873814. grantownenterprisesltd@live.co.uk

Friday 14th April Iona Fyfe Band Live Glenbuchat Hall, Strathdon. 8-11pm. www.facebook.com/GlenbuchatMusic

Saturday 15th April Strathspey Thistle v Deveronvale Seafield Park, Grantown on Spey.

3pm. www.strathspeythistlefc.co.uk Easter Funday at Invermark Estate Invermark Estate, Glenesk. 11.30am. www.facebook.com/AGMGuk/ Circus Workshop and Magic Show The Pagoda, Seafield Avenue, Grantown on Spey. 10am-12.30pm & 2-4.40pm. T: 01479 873877. www.thepagoda.scot Evening Talk with Mark Holling Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk F Free Entry to Event l

What’s On

what’s on april 2017

Easter Fun at Insh Marshes F Evening Talk by l RSPB Insh Marshes Car Park, Stephen Moss Kingussie. 11am-3pm.

Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. T: 01540 661518. insh@rspb.org.uk 8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526.

Aerial Yoga - Taster www.bwwc.co.uk Session The Pagoda, Seafield Avenue, Friday 7th April Grantown on Spey. 12-1pm.

Quiz Night at The Pagoda T: 07707 174314.

The Pagoda, Seafield Avenue, totalyoga@outlook.com Grantown on Spey. 7.15-10.30pm.

T: 01479 873877. www.thepagoda.scot Monday 10th April Film: Eddie The Eagle Callanetics and Yin Yang (PG) 2016 Pagoda, Grantown on Spey. 6-8pm.

Boat of Garten Community Hall.

T: 07707 174314. www.thepagoda.scot 7:30pm. T: 01479 831123.

F Evening Talk: The Birds l of the Falkland Islands by Saturday 8th April Matt Merritt Advie Hall Daffodil Tea Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

Advie Hall, Cromdale. 10am-12pm.

8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526.

T: 07930 841463. www.bwwc.co.uk F Alba Chocolate l Tuesday 11th April Open Day Alba Chocolate, Unit 2B2, Inverallan Old Time Dancing Industrial Est, Newtonmore.

Inverallan Church Hall, Grantown 1-4pm. T: 01540 673847. on Spey. 7.30-10pm. www.albachocolate.co.uk T: 01479 851353.

F Cake & Craft Fair l Callanetics with Julie in aid of Disability The Pagoda, Grantown on Spey.

Snowsport UK 10-11am. T: 07707 174314.

Boat of Garten Community Hall. www.thepagoda.scot 10am-2pm. T: 01479 861272.

Fundraising@disabilitysnowsport.org.uk l F Folk Sessions at the OBI Coffee Morning hosted The Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore.

by Strathspey Cancer Research UK Group 8.30pm-12am. T: 01479 811137.

Carrbridge Village Hall, Carrbridge. www.oldbridgeinn.co.uk 10am-12pm.

Wednesday 5th April

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what’s on april 2017

Please check the online calendar at www.visitcairngorms.com/whatson for further details and extra events Wild Willows Easter Craft Fayre & Egg Hunt Kincraig Church Hall, Kincraig.

11am-3pm.

Children’s Easter Party Royal British Legion Strathspey, Grantown on Spey. 2-4pm.

T: 01479 873690.

F Live Music with The l Bicycle Thieves Royal British Legion Strathspey, Grantown on Spey. 9pm.

T: 01479 873690.

Sunday 16th April Mar Lodge Open Day & Cadbury Egg Hunt Mar Lodge, Braemar. 10am-4pm.

T: 01339 720163. www.nts.org.uk/MarLodgeEstate Easter Egg Hunt Loch an Eilein, Aviemore.

10.30am-2pm. T: 01479 812345. www.rothiemurchus.net Easter Special on the Strathspey Railway Aviemore Station. 10.30am-2.30pm.

T: 01479 810725. www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk Easter Sunday Lunch Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

12-3pm. T: 01479 810233. www.cairngorm.com Shake Hands with the Past Braemar Castle, Braemar. 12-4pm.

T: 01339 741219. www.braemarcastle.co.uk F Free Entry to Event l

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Saturday 22nd April F Ballater Farmer’s l

Market Ballater Farmers Market, Ballater.

10am-2pm. www.facebook.com/ ballaterfarmersmarket Talk: WWII Belgian F Telescope Workshop l Refugees In Braemar Glenlivet Village Hall, Glenlivet.

Braemar Village Hall. 7.30-9pm.

6.30-8.30pm.

T: 01479 870070.

T: 01339 741511. www.braemarlhg.com www.glenlivetestate.co.uk Monday 17th April Live Music with Woody Pines F Evening Talk: A year l Glenbuchat Hall, Strathdon. 8-11pm. on Cape Clear Island by Tom Green www.facebook.com/GlenbuchatMusic Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. Galaxies Galore 8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526.

Glenlivet Village Hall, Glenlivet. www.bwwc.co.uk 9.30-11.30pm. T: 01479 870070. www.glenlivetestate.co.uk Wednesday 19th April F Karaoke Night l Spring Birds, RSPB Insh Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Marshes RSPB Insh Marshes Reserve, Kingussie. T: 01479 810233.

9.30am-1pm. T: 01540 661518.

Monday 24th April insh@rspb.org.uk F Evening Talk: More l Friday 21st April Welsh Wildlife by Iolo Williams Tex Mex Evening at The Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

Pagoda 8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526.

The Pagoda, Seafield Avenue, www.bwwc.co.uk Grantown on Spey. 7.30-10.30pm.

T: 01479 873877. www.thepagoda.scot Tuesday 25th April Stand Up Comedy: George F Dark Sky Discovery l Egg, Anarchist Cook Richmond Memorial Hall, Tomintoul.

Boat of Garten Community Hall.

9.30-11.30pm. T: 01479 870070.

Booking Essential. 7:30pm. www.glenlivetestate.co.uk T: 01479 831123. www.georgeegg.eventbrite.com Wednesday 26th April And Then Come the F Mikes Bikes, Weekday l Nightjars Women’s Ride Blair Atholl Village Hall. 8-10pm.

Mikes Bikes, Aviemore. 9.15-11am.

T: 01738 621031. www.facebook.com/mikesbikesscot www.blairathollvillagehall.co.uk F Evening Talk by Neil l F Evening Talk: The l Glenn Solway by John Miles Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526.

8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk www.bwwc.co.uk

What’s On

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F SOSWF: Open Whisky l

Tasting - Tomintoul Distillery The Whisky Castle, Tomintoul.

11am-4pm. T: 01807 580213. www.spiritofspeyside.com SOSWF: Angels’ Nectar Whisky Tasting Deli Mair, Grampian Road, Aviemore.

12-3pm. T: 07811 640778. www.angelsnectar.co.uk SOSWF: Malt & Barley Medicine Show The Richmond Memorial Hall, Tomintoul. 2-3pm. Booking Essential.

T: 01807 580213. www.spiritofspeyside.com SOSWF: Discover Speyside’s Diverse Single Malts Glenlivet Distillery, Ballindalloch.

2-3.30pm. Booking Essential.

T: 01340 821720. www.spiritofspeyside.com SOSWF: SPEY on the Strathspey Steam Train The Strathspey Railway, Aviemore Station. 2.30pm-4.30pm. Booking Essential. T: 01479 810725. www.spiritofspeyside.com SOSWF: Whisky Master Class - Tomintoul Distillery The Richmond Memorial Hall, Tomintoul. 6-9pm. Booking Essential.

T: 01807 580213. www.spiritofspeyside.com SOSWF: Whisky Themed Pub Quiz The Glen Avon Hotel, Tomintoul.

9.30-10pm. T: 01807 580358. www.spiritofspeyside.com

what’s on april 2017

SOSWF: The Art of Distilling Tour’ Managers F SOSWF: Open Whisky l Special Tasting - Hugh Muir, Old Tromie Mills, Kingussie. Various Times.

Malt Cask Booking Essential. T: 01540 661060.

Whisky Castle, Tomintoul. www.spiritofspeyside.com 11am-4pm. T: 01807 580213.

SOSWF: The Gintastic Club www.spiritofspeyside.com The Richmond Memorial Hall, SOSWF: Whisky Master Tomintoul. 2-3pm. Booking Essential.

Class – Hugh Muir, Old T: 01807 580213.

Malt Cask The Whisky Castle, Tomintoul. 6pm. www.spiritofspeyside.com Booking Essential. T: 01807 580213. SOSWF: Alchemy & the Angels at The Glenlivet www.spiritofspeyside.com Glenlivet Distillery, Ballindalloch.

F Evening Talk: l 2-3pm. Booking Essential.

Moroccan Spice by Neil T: 01340 821720.

Glenn Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. www.spiritofspeyside.com 8.30-10pm. T: 01479 872526.

SOSWF: Grantown’s Kilted Dramble www.bwwc.co.uk Rosehall Guest House, Grantown on Spey. 7-9.30pm. Booking Essential.

Friday 28th April T: 07545 399160.

F SOSWF: Angels’ Nectar l www.spiritofspeyside.com Whisky Caching A secret location in Grantown on SOSWF: SPEY Whisky Spey. 9am-9pm. T: 07811 640778.

Tasting & Haggis Supper www.spiritofspeyside.com Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

7-10.30pm. Booking Essential.

F l SOSWF: Open Whisky T: 01540 661060.

Tasting - Peter MacKay, www.spiritofspeyside.com Carn Mor Whisky Castle, Tomintoul.

Skerryvore Concert at 11am-4pm. T: 01807 580213.

The Glenlivet www.spiritofspeyside.com Glenlivet Distillery, Ballindalloch.

F l SOSWF: Angels’ Nectar 7.30-11.59pm. T: 01340 821720. www.spiritofspeyside.com Whisky Tasting Elephants in the Pantry, High Street, Saturday 29th April Grantown on Spey. 12-4pm.

F Bird Watching: Lords T: 07811 640778. l www.angelsnectar.co.uk of the Dance Glen Feshie, Kincraig. 5am-7am.

SOSWF: The Glenlivet T: 01479 873914.

Manager’s Inspiration Tour & Tasting F SOSWF: Angels’ Nectar l Glenlivet Distillery, Ballindalloch.

Whisky Caching, Aviemore Various Times. Booking Essential.

A secret location in Aviemore.

T: 01340 821720.

9am-9pm. T: 07811 640778. www.spiritofspeyside.com www.spiritofspeyside.com

Thursday 27th April

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What’s On

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what’s on april 2017 things to do

Sunday 30th April

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F Braemar Health Walk l

SOSWF: Open Day at The Group Under the Mews, Braemar.

Glenlivet Distillery 10-11am. T: 01339 741426.

Glenlivet Distillery, Ballindalloch.

10.30am-4.30pm. T: 01340 821720. Cash Bingo (18+) Royal British Legion, Grantown on www.spiritofspeyside.com Spey. 7.50pm. T: 01479 873690.

The Fitnessat58degrees F Live Music Fun Run! l Craigellachie Nature Reserve, Aviemore. Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 8.3011am-1pm. T: 07478 553334.

10.30pm. www.hiltonaviemore.com www.fitnessat58.co.uk F Live Music & Dancing l SOSWF: The Glenlivet - Off with George Gordon Road Smugglers’ Trails Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

The Glenlivet Distillery, Ballindalloch. Live Music. 8.30-10.30pm.

Booking Essential. T: 01340 821720. l F Graeme Mackay in the www.spiritofspeyside.com Cairn Bar F SOSWF: Open Whisky l Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Tasting - Gordon & T: 01479 810233.

MacPhail Whisky Castle, Tomintoul. 12-4pm.

Every Tuesday T: 01807 580213.

F Grantown Health Walk l www.spiritofspeyside.com Group SOSWF: Angel’s Share Curling Rink Car Park, Anagach Wood.

Glass ‘A Great Glass, 10.30-11.30am. T: 01479 872142.

A Great Dram’ F Ballater Health Walk l The Balfour Manor, The Square, Group Tomintoul. 2-3pm. T: 01807 580454.

Glenmuick Church Hall. 1-2pm. www.spiritofspeyside.com T: 01339 755634.

SOSWF: Whisky Master F Nethy Bridge Health l Class - Mike, Gordon & Walk Group MacPhail Meet by Community Centre, Dell The Richmond Memorial Hall, The Road.

1-2pm.

T: 07519 569005.

Square, Tomintoul. 6-9pm.

Grantown-on-Spey T: 01807 580213.

Slimming World www.spiritofspeyside.com Royal British Legion, Grantown on Spey. 3:30-9pm. T: 07545 399160.

Every Day in April Senior Youth Club Every Monday Grantown YMCA Community Centre, Grantown on Spey. 6:45-8:45pm.

F Glenlivet Health Walk l T: 01479 872262.

Glenlivet Public Hall, Bridgend www.grantowncommunitycentre.org of Glenlivet. 9.45-10.45am.

T: 01807 590689 (evenings).

F Braemar Local History l Walks F Free Entry to Event l Invercauld Arms Hotel, Braemar.

What’s On

8pm. (not the 4th or 11th) T: 01339 741985.

F Live Music & Dancing l with Kenny Nairn Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 8.30pm.

Quiz Night Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

T: 01479 810233.

Every Wednesday Community Cafe St Andrews Church Hall, Aviemore.

10am-4pm.

Newtonmore Health Walk Wildcat Centre, Newtonmore. 10.3011.30am. T: 01540 673172.

F Boat of Garten Health l Walk Group Boat Hotel. 1.30-2.30pm.

T: 01479 831562.

F Braemar Local History l Group Guided Walks Invercauld Arms Hotel, Braemar.

3pm. (Not the 5th or the 12th) T: 01339 741985. dougbruce_2000@yahoo.com Rotary Club of Spey Valley Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

6-8.15pm. T: 01479 810233. www.speyvalley.rotary1010.org The Killiecrankies Cabaret Band Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

8.30-10.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

F Live Music with Davy l Holt Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

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F George Gordon l

F Kingussie Health Walk l

Group Badenoch Centre. 10.30-11.30am.

T: 01540 661878.

F Carrbridge Health l Walk Group Meet by the Old Bridge, Carrbridge.

11am-12pm. T: 01479 841749.

F Aviemore Health Walk l Group Myrtlefield Car Park, near Mike’s Bikes. 1.30-2.30pm. T: 01479 810519.

Junior Youth Club Grantown YMCA Community Centre, Grantown on Spey.

6:30-8pm. T: 01479 872262. www.grantowncommunitycentre.org F Live Music & Dancing l with Ronnie Douglas Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie. 8.30-10.30pm. www.dukeofgordonhotel.co.uk F Live Music with Tweed l Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Entertains Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

(Not the 7th) T: 01479 810233.

Every Saturday

Saturday 15th April

F Live Music l

Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

Live Music with Nigel Dyson Singer & Guitarist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Live Music l Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Every Sunday F Sunday Sesh Live l

Music with Accordionist Ruairidh Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 6pm-8pm.

T: 01479 810233.

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

F Scottish Night with l Ceilidh Dancing Every Friday Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, F l Glen Tanar Health Walk 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

Glen Tanar Visitor Centre.

10-11.30am. T: 01339 886072.

Shinty F Tomintoul Health Walk l www.shinty.com Tomnabat Court. 10-11am.

T: 01807 590689 (evenings).

Saturday 1st April Y-Engage Newtonmore 2nds v YMCA Community Centre, Grantown Kinlochshiel on Spey. 7-9pm. T: 01479 872262. The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm. www.grantowncommunitycentre.org Kingussie 2nds v F Live Music l Glenurquart Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 8.30pm. The Dell, Kingussie. 2.30pm.

Live Music with Carl Saturday 8th April Wilson Singer & Guitarist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

Kingussie 2nds v Skye 8.30pm-10.30pm. T: 01540 661302. The Dell, Kingussie. 12pm. www.visitcairngorms.com

Kingussie 1sts v Lovat The Dell, Kingussie. 3pm.

Newtonmore 2nds v Kilmallie The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

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Newtonmore 2nds v Skye The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

Kingussie 2nds v Beauly The Dell, Kingussie. 2.30pm.

Strathspey v Inverness Grammar School, Grantown on Spey.

1.30pm.

Friday 21st April Kingussie 2nds v Newtonmore The Dell, Kingussie. 7pm.

Saturday 22nd April Newtonmore 1sts v Lochaber The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

Saturday 29th April Kingussie 1sts v Lochaber The Dell, Kingussie. 2.30pm.

Newtonmore 2nds v Locharraon/Glasgow The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

what’s on april 2017

Every Thursday

Golf www.visitcairngorms.com/onthetee

Saturday 8th April Open Mixed Texas Scramble Ballater Golf Course, Ballater. www.ballatergolfclub.co.uk

Details correct at time of going to press - please note events may change.

What’s On

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What’s On

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map

See www.visitcairngorms.com for more information on each of the villages in the area.

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What’s On

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Bridging rivers, spanning centuries

local stories things to do

rom simple wooden crossings to solid stone structures, bridges effortlessly cross streams and rivers, linking our communities. But that wasn’t always the case. In this, VisitScotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, we dip into the social history, legend and architectural legacy of just some of the many bridges and water crossings in the National Park.

A very distinctive and recognisable bridge spans the River Dulnain at Carrbridge. The Old Packhorse Bridge, which has the accolade of being the oldest stone bridge in the Highlands, celebrates its 300th anniversary this year. Until its construction in 1717, it was not possible to cross the River Dulnain when it was in spate and this meant that burials at nearby Duthil Church Packhorse Bridge, Carrbridge were often delayed! Not a pleasant prospect back in those days!

Bridge building in the mid-18th Floods were common in the area; century was part of an ambitious Dulnain Bridge for example literally military road programme that means ‘Bridge of the Floody River’. crisscrossed the Highlands. One Unfortunately, one great flood or major engineering project, a route ‘Muckle Spate’ in 1829 affected from Braemar to Fort George and bridges across the region and it constructed by General Caulfield, is left the Carrbridge ‘Coffin Bridge’ evidenced by the many stone arched severely damaged. With its unique bridges still to be seen around us. silhouette and backdrop, the old These range from the impressive bridge is today a popular subject for Invercauld Bridge or Bridge of Dee between Balmoral and Braemar - and photographers and artists. possibly built by the same architect who worked on Balmoral Castle - to the very basic single arch of Gairnshiel Bridge over the River Gairn, still in use, but only wide enough for one-way traffic.

One striking twin arch example dating back to 1754, is the Bridge of Avon, or the Bridge of A’an just outside Tomintoul. Legend has it

Brig O’Dee 12 12

What’s On

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that the River Avon, which means Water of the Very Bright One, is named after Athfhinn, the wife of the legendary Celtic warrior Fionn; she allegedly drowned while trying to cross the river.

The Corrieyairack Pass, to the south west of the Monadhliath Mountains, is a favourite route of many walkers.

If caught out by poor visibility and bad weather, then assistance may just arrive in the form of the ‘Highlander with Hounds’! In misty weather the helpful ghost figure is said to guide people to the bridge.

The position and design of bridges can tell us much about the life of the people at the time. For example, the original Broomhill Bridge over the River Spey, just north of Nethy Bridge, was built to transport logs from the once burgeoning timber industry, floating wood over the Spey to the Highland Railway line nearby. The distances between the bridge supports suggest that it was constructed to accommodate timber rafts that were up to 30ft wide.

Bridge over the River Nethy

river. It is believed to be cursed and anyone who interferes with it is fated. Adding to the danger of the waters, a white horse is said to patrol the river, looking for people to drown!

local stories

of water. At Boat of Garten, until the river was bridged in 1898, the only way to cross the fast-flowing Spey was by a ferry boat, as the name of the village suggests. And did something happen on those ferry crossings, as far back as 1662, that led A few miles to the west of Tomintoul, to the story of a curse? According to amid gripping scenery, the Bridge of folklore, when the waters are low, Brown crosses the Burn of Lochy. an inscribed stone can be seen in the The bridge is actually called the ‘Brig o’ Broon’ in Scots but the name has been anglicised to Bridge of Brown.

Its meaning ‘Bridge of Boiling Water’ fits the dramatic location, with the road veering steeply down around sharp bends, to reach the bottom of a narrow valley.

Until a triple arch bridge was built in 1754, there was no way to cross the river at Grantown-on-Spey either, unless you attempted to wade or had a boat. The fine granite Old Spey Bridge, still stands but no longer carries the road.

Many bridge structures, whether in use or not, stand as timeless testament to the skills of architects and stone masons of long ago. And of course, their creations make a As late as the 19th century it was not picturesque and characterful addition always easy to cross wide stretches to our landscape. www.visitcairngorms.com

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to do

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Easter Family Special 16th April www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk Telephone: 01479 810725

to do

here’s a whole host of things to do in the Cairngorms National Park and more and more people are discovering just how special this place is. There are so many ways to make the most of our beautiful surroundings so what are you waiting for? See www.visitcairngorms.com for more ideas and offers.

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to do www.visitcairngorms.com

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to do

Strathspey Highland Ponies Rothiemurchus Aviemore

All levels of rider welcome w Rides organised according to ability w Exhilarating hacks over varied terrain w Spectacular scenery and wildlife All on fit, fun, active and good mannered mounts Book at Rothiemurchus Visitor Centre T: 01479 812345 (daytime) M: 07884 276368 www.rothiemurchus.net w

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eat & drink

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ook out for local produce & help reduce food miles within the Cairngorms National Park. We really are spoilt for choice.

If you’re still stuck for ideas have a look at the next few pages and you’ll soon be inspired!

Garth Hotel

& Restaurant

THE CROSS AT KINGUSSIE

Fine Dining in the Cairngorms Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner AA Three Red Rosettes Good Food & Michelin Guides 2017 www.thecross.co.uk 01540 661166

& RESTAURANT

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Restaurant open 7.30am-9.30pm Lunch served Monday-Sunday 12-5pm Evening meals served 5-9:30pm Early Bird Voucher - Sun-Fri until 6.30pm 15% discount based on pre-booking & taking 2 Courses - booking essential

The Square (Castle Rd) Grantown 01479 872 836 n www.garthhotel.com

eat & drink

RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS

Boat of Garten - Tel: 01479 831 466

Restaurant Open Tues - Sun 6 - 8:30pm Reservations recommended

Family Run hotel with a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Freshly prepared food using local and seasonal produce.

Large selection of Wines, Malts and Gins.

Now serving coffee, scones and cakes.

Loch Alvie, by Aviemore - 2 miles south on B9152

T: 01479 810 207

www.rowantreehotel.com

Royal Tandoori Restaurant and Take-away OPEN 7 DAYS

Lunch 12noon-2pm

Evening 5-10.30pm

Authentic Indian Cuisines Three Course Business Lunch ~ £7.95 10% Discount on Take-away Meals A La Carte Menu Freshly Prepared Coffees Private Function Room ~ Ideal For Stag, Hen Or Birthday Parties

Tel: 01479 811199 or 01479 811118

43 Grampian Road, Aviemore PH22 1RH www.royaltandoori.uk.com

Local, Seasonal, Creative Food, Relaxed & Informal Dining Experience. * WEDNESDAY NIGHT PIE NIGHT ~ A Delicious pie with mash or chips, and a beer or wine for only £13 * CELLAR SUNDAY NIGHT ~ Traditional Sunday Roast £12.95.

Bring your own wine. * LUNCH SPECIAL ~ Monday to Saturday, daily changing blackboard menu, 2 courses £11.99, 3 courses £14.99 (Normal menu also available. Closed Tuesdays.)

T: 01479 831 466 or E: info@andersonsrestaurant.co.uk

www.andersonsrestaurant.co.uk

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eat & drink

Cairngorm Hotel The Place to Eat and Meet Opposite Aviemore Railway Station

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Great Freshly Prepared Food All Day Beers, Wines, Spirits & Malts In the lively Lounge, All Day ‘til Late with Regular Entertainment + Live TV Sports

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Bed & Highland Breakfast from £52 per person, per night

shopping and crafts accommodation

Grampian Road Aviemore 01479 810 23 n www.cairngorm.com

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silverglades

accommodation

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e have a superb choice of quality accommodation in the area. Use the accommodation finder on www. visitcairngorms.com to help plan your trip and keep an eye on the special offers page for last minute deals and great savings.

holiday homes

tel: 01479 810165 email: info@silverglades.co.uk web: www.silverglades.co.uk

Cairngorm Highland Bungalows Beautifully furnished and equipped 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroomed bungalows sleeping 2 - 8. Open fires.

Mountain views, pets welcome, Leisure Club/Golf facilities available.

Easy walking distance to Aviemore.

S.T.B. 3H - 4H Contact Linda Murray Tel: 01479 810653 www.cairngorm-bungalows.co.uk

Rothiemurchus, Aviemore PH22 1QP

here are lots of specialist shops throughout the area where you can find everything you need from outdoor kit to gifts for friends, or even a treat for yourself!

What’s On

STB HHH & HHHH. Colour brochure & Virtual Tours.

LOCH-AN-EILEIN POTTERY

shopping and crafts

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2 nights from £195 Stylish self-catering bungalows in Aviemore. 3 & 4 star available. From 1-4 bedrooms.

All have TV, DVD, free view channels & Wi-Fi. BBQ, own garden & drive. Some with sauna, wood burner, designer kitchen & flat screen TV. Pets welcome in allocated properties. Guests discounted golf & leisure nearby.

Hand thrown terracotta pottery by Penny Weir.

Open by appointment ‘Throw Your Own’ on Thursdays, £15 a shot.

Open Daily - Please phone Penny for opening times & workshop details.

01479 810837 info@penspots.co.uk www.penspots.co.uk

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