May Events - Highland Perthshire

May 2009 Events in Highland Perthshire

To download your own Events programme as a PDF
Full info for May 2009 What's On for Highland Perthshire 

 
Pitlochry Festival Theatre see website for details.
A selection of 3 plays including;
Whisky Galore - A Musical! (World Premiere starts 15th May) adapted from Compton Mackenzie's novel
What Every Woman Knows (Starts 21st May) by J.M. Barrie (A subversive Edwardian comedy)
Good Things by Liz Lochhead (Starts 28th May) (A modern romantic comedy)
call 01796 484 626 or book online www.pitlochry.org.uk 

May
Dawn Patrol Safari
Highland Safaris, The Safari Lodge, Aberfeldy, Perthshire. PH15 2JQ
Capture the magic of the Highland dawn chorus as the moors & glens come to life with this early morning Land Rover Safari. Delicious Farm Shop Café Breakfast included. For bookings and details contact Highland Safaris on 01887 820071 Email: info@highlandsafaris.net  www.highlandsafaris.net 

Saturday 2nd May 12noon
Behind Closed Doors (Blair Castle Attics)
Blair Castle Blair Atholl
A special interest tour of the attics of Blair Castle. This 90 minute tour starts at 12noon. Please note that this tour involves many flights of spiral stairs and is only suitable for the fully able. Spaces are very limited, so booking is essential by contacting the castle on 01796 481207. Tours take place on 4, 11, 18 and 25 April; 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 May; 6, 13, 20 and 27 June; 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 July; and 7, 14 and 21 August. Admission - £11 per person Tel: Tel 01796 481207 Email: rebeccam@atholl-estates.co.uk  Web www.atholl-estates.co.uk 

Saturday 2nd May - 27th May
Remarkable Encounters 3D Paintings & Drawings by Iain Brady (Exhibition)
The Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam Dunkeld.
Tel 01350 727674 www.birnamarts.com

Monday 4th May 11am-4pm
Fun with Fibres
Scottish Crannog Centre Kenmore
This spinning, weaving and dying gala day is inspired by underwater discoveries of ancient rope and textiles. Try your hand at rope making, stick-weaving, make a dye-bath, spin colourful yarns or grasp the nettle to make string. Hands-on fun for all ages.
Admission tbc Tel 01887 830583 Email:info@crannog.co.uk  Web www.crannog.co.uk 

Monday 4th May 10am - 5pm
Artwork for Sale!
Explorers Plant Hunters Garden (Pitlochry Festival Theatre)
Workshop artists' work alongside others will be available to admire and purchase throughout the day - sculpture, planters, baskets, willow hurdles and more. Tel 01796 484626 www.explorersgarden.com 

Monday 4th May 1.30pm
Rocket Building Ages 8 - 12 years
Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam, Dunkeld
Mission Control - Calling all rocket scientists! Pupils build their own rocket creations and learn about friction, forces and motion as they prepare for the final countdown. This is the appliance of science on a cosmic scale! Tickets: £5 Tel 01350 727674 www.birnamarts.com 

Sunday, 5th May 11am to 4pm.
Fun With Fibres
The Scottish Crannog Centre Kenmore.
This spinning, weaving, and dying gala day is inspired by underwater discoveries of ancient textiles. Try your hand at rope-making, simple weaving, make a dye-bath, spin colourful yarns or grasp the nettle to make string. Discovery & Hands-on fun for all ages. Normal admissions apply. Tel. 01887 830583. e.mail: info@crannog.co.uk    www.crannog.co.uk 

Tuesday 5th May 7pm
Race Night for Heartland FM
Craigvrack Hotel Pitlochry
Everyone welcome - come and support Heartland FM.

Tuesday 5th May 9pm - 11pm
Cabaret Duo
Fishers Hotel, Atholl Road, Pitlochry
Cabaret Duo playing a diverse amount of modern songs.  Free admission - Tel: 01796 472000

Wednesday 6th May 10am-12noon
Heather, Hills & Hamish
Blair Castle Trekking Centre Blair Atholl
Take a trek on the Atholl Ponies following old drover tracks. Spot wildlife and chat with Hamish an Estate Ghillie. Booking Essential. Treks take place on 15, 22, and 29 April; 6, 13, 20 and 27 May; 3, 10, 17 and 24 June; 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 July; and 5, 12 and 19 August. Admission - £39 Victoria Bogan Telephone - 01796 481568 Email: vicki@blaircastletrekking.co.uk 
Web www.blaircastletrekking.co.uk 

Thursday 7th May 8.00pm
On Our Way to Lisbon
Pitlochry Festival Theatre Ben-y-Vrackie Bar
It’s 1967. Dust off your passport and join us for this hilarious two man play - with a cast of thousands - as they recreate the story of the immortal Lisbon Lions, when Celtic steam-rolled over the best teams in Europe. Tickets £12.50
Tel Box Office 01796 484626 E/Mail boxoffice@pitlochry.org.uk  Web www.pitlochry.org.uk

Thursday 7th and Friday 8th May
JUNO - Heartland Film Society
The Locus Centre, Aberfeldy
One of the brightest, funniest comedies of 2007, Juno’s smart script and direction are matched by assured performances in a coming of age story with a 21st century twist. When Juno discovers she’s pregnant, she is forced to grow up fast as she tries to find adoptive parents for her quickly growing child. Juno has many strengths but it’s the screenwriting debut of writer Cody Diablo that makes this such a winning film for all ages. USA/Canada 2007 Certificate 15, 96 mins Tel:01887 830307 www.heartlandfilmsociety.org.uk 

Thursday 7th May 9pm - 11pm
Swing of the Kilts Scottish variety show/dance
Fishers Hotel, Atholl Rd, Pitlochry
Accordionist and compere Tommy Newcomen, with singers, dancers and musicians.  A full show with general dancing.  Free admission Tel 01796 472000 e.mail tommynewcomen@hotmail.com

Friday 8th May 7.30pm.
Molteno Hall, Fortingall
James MacLaren Society Annual Lecture 2009:
John McKean, Professor of Architecture at the University of Brighton on "Was Mackintosh Different?". All welcome.

Friday 8th May 8.00pm
Rab Noakes
Pitlochry Festival Theatre Ben-y-Vrackie Bar
Join singer songwriter Rab Noakes for an evening of catchy melodies, tight guitar and gritty lyrics. Rab has collaborated over the last thirty years with Stealers Wheel, Lindisfarne, Gerry Rafferty and Deacon Blue to name a few! Tickets £12.50
Tel Box Office 01796 484626 E/Mail boxoffice@pitlochry.org.uk  Web www.pitlochry.org.uk

Friday 8th - Sunday 10th May 7.30pm
Music in Blair Atholl
Lude House Blair Atholl Concerts
A series of delightful chamber concerts given in informal surroundings. Artists taking part: The John Tunnell Trust - Some of Britain's finest young professional chamber musicians with their Professors, William Bennett (flute), Neil Black (Oboe), Richard Deakin (Violin) & Clifford Benson (Piano) Tickets £15 Contact - Lavinia Gordon Telephone - 01796 481216
Email: info@musicinblairatholl.com  Web www.musicinblairatholl.com 

Saturday 9 May
Strathtay Ramblers
Amulree to Aberfeldy Distance: 9 miles Start grid ref: NN898365
Along Loch Freuchie then over moorland tracks to Loch Hoil, and through the forest tracks before descending to the Birks. Note: Dogs possible; consult with leader. Contact phone: 01887 840324
Meeting Info: OLD CHURCH CAR PARK, CRIEFF ROAD, ABERFELDY. at 9.30 a.m. or Amulree village hall CP at 10.00 a.m. Local grade: B

Saturday 9th May 10am to 4pm.
Braveheart – Conservation in Practice
Pitlochry Scout Hut, East Moulin Road, Pitlochry.
A Rocha, a Christian environmental organization is hosting a conference in Pitlochry Scout Hut on The day will explore the conservation challenges that we face today and how to respond.
Speakers will include Mark Adderley formerly CEO of NTS and Ewan Aitken, Council Secretary of the Church and Society Council. Lunch will be “bring-and-share” though tea and coffee will be provided. Admission is £5.00 . Please contact Victoria.deschampsneufs@arocha.org 
Tel: 07980 566448 if interested in attending.

Saturday 9th May 10.30am - 12noon
Coffee Morning in aid of Pitlochry in Bloom
Strathgarry Restaurant, Pitlochry.
Admission £3 to include coffee/tea and cakes.

Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th May 10.30am - 4.30pm
Scottish Colourists Painting with Colin Christie Two Day Workshop, £88
Pitlochry Festival Theatre
A great chance to learn from accomplished Art Lecturer and artist Colin Christie. This workshop will focus on the style and techniques of The Scottish Colourists incorporating use of oils and acrylics, and developing methods to mix the colours that one sees – especially those tricky neutrals! Tel Box Office 01796 484626 E/Mail boxoffice@pitlochry.org.uk 
Web www.pitlochry.org.uk

Saturday 9th May 12noon
Behind Closed Doors (Blair Castle Attics)
Blair Castle Blair Atholl
A special interest tour of the attics of Blair Castle. This 90 minute tour starts at 12noon. Please note that this tour involves many flights of spiral stairs and is only suitable for the fully able. Spaces are very limited, so booking is essential by contacting the castle on 01796 481207. Tours take place on 4, 11, 18 and 25 April; 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 May; 6, 13, 20 and 27 June; 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 July; and 7, 14 and 21 August. Admission - £11 per person Tel: Tel 01796 481207 Email: rebeccam@atholl-estates.co.uk  Web www.atholl-estates.co.uk 

Sunday 10th May 11,30am
Christian Aid Service at Strathtay Church
followed by a Soup and Sandwich lunch in the John Kyd Hall.

Tuesday 12th May 9pm - 11pm
Cabaret Duo
Fishers Hotel, Atholl Road, Pitlochry
Cabaret Duo playing a diverse amount of modern songs.  Free admission - Tel: 01796 472000

Wednesday 13th May 10am-12noon
Heather, Hills & Hamish
Blair Castle Trekking Centre Blair Atholl
Take a trek on the Atholl Ponies following old drover tracks. Spot wildlife and chat with Hamish an Estate Ghillie. Booking Essential. Treks take place on 15, 22, and 29 April; 6, 13, 20 and 27 May; 3, 10, 17 and 24 June; 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 July; and 5, 12 and 19 August. Admission - £39 Victoria Bogan Telephone - 01796 481568 Email: vicki@blaircastletrekking.co.uk 
Web www.blaircastletrekking.co.uk 

Wednesday 13th May 2pm - 4pm
The Parish of Dunkeld Handbell Ringers - Dunkeld Handbell Harmony
Dunkeld Cathedral.
All are welcome to come and listen for a while.  Heather McLean and Margaret Davidson perform solo ringing. This is most intriguing to watch and lovely to hear. Occasionally, they will be joined by other members of the group for small ensemble ringing.  A freewill collection towards the Cathedral and the Handbell Group.  The TIC in Dunkeld is informed on the few occasions when there will be no ringing. Please check beforehand if travelling a distance. Tel: 01350 727688

Wednesday 13th May 7pm
Plant Sale
Aberfeldy Town Hall
Perthshire Highland Horticultural Society Plant Sale, plus Cake & Candy and Tombola.(Bring your own bags). In the refurbished Town Hall.

Thursday 14th May 11.00 to 1pm All ages
Spring Forth
Weem Woodland Car Park - Weem Forest Walk
Spring has sprung, enjoy this ancient woodland as the buds begin to burst.
Aberfeldy is the nearest town or village. Take Castle Menzies entrance then right to car park from B846, one mile west of Aberfeldy. Adults: £3.00, children: £1.00 Just turn up
Dogs Allowed: Peter Fullarton Recreation Forester Tel 01350 727284
e-mail: peter.fullarton@forestry.gsi.gov.uk  www.forestry.gov.uk 

Thursday 14th May 9pm - 11pm
Swing of the Kilts Scottish variety show/dance
Fishers Hotel, Atholl Rd, Pitlochry
Accordionist and compere Tommy Newcomen, with singers, dancers and musicians.  A full show with general dancing.  Free admission Tel 01796 472000 e.mail tommynewcomen@hotmail.com

Friday 15th May 8pm.
Fiddle Tree event: Hans Theesink plus Christian Johnstone in concert.
Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam by Dunkeld.
Hans Theessink has become one of the most sought-after artists of the international blues scene. He is more or less constantly "on tour" and plays an average of 200 concerts a year - a modern day troubadour and entertainer who keeps on spellbinding audiences all over the world with his rich and emotional sounds. Supported by young Dunkeld-based singer and songwriter Christian Johnstone. Tickets £10 (£8 in advance). Under 18s £3 or two for £5
Contact - Birnam CD Telephone - 01350 727158 Email: info@thefiddletree.com 
Web www.thefiddletree.com

Friday 15th May 7.30pm - 9pm
Cyclists talk, featuring top adventure cyclists,
Aberfeldy Watermill
Karen Darke – 'From Wheels to Wheels...'
An illustrated talk on the Friday eve of Etape Caledonia, by inspirational cyclist and adventurer Karen Darke. When she was 21, Karen was paralysed from the chest down in a climbing accident. Since then she has hand-cycled across the Karakoram mountains, traversed the Greenland ice-cap and kayaked in Patagonia. 'I’ve had to challenge my own physical and mental barriers, completing many trips that others, including myself, believed impossible; from marathons and triathlons, to kayaking, sit-skiing and hand-cycling in some of the most inhospitable places on the planet.' Karen will also be signing copies of her book 'If You Fall...'
Tickets £4 from The Watermill

Saturday 16th May Events
Perthshire Cycle Festival (11am - 4pm)
Victoria Park, Aberfeldy
Entry free to all.
Emma Birtles and Sally Murray from Aberfeldy have put a huge amount of effort in to organising this event, there is something there for everyone, cyclists, non cyclist, families and grannies too...Perthshire Cycle Festival details

Saturday 16th May evening
Cyclists Film
Aberfeldy Watermill
Details to follow.

Saturday 16th
Between Two Bridges Fun Run
This is a charity fun run, being run on the path network between Aberfeldy and Kenmore Bridges.
info@perthshirecyclingfestival.co.uk  www.perthshirecyclingfestival.co.uk 

Barbeque at Kenmore Courtyard
On the Saturday after all the runners have reached Kenmore there is a barbeque and other activities organised at the Courtyard.

Saturday 16th May
Castle Family Friendly Days
Blair Castle, Blair Atholl
Every Saturday throughout April, May (excluding 23rd) and June
Every Friday throughout July and August (excluding 28th August)
Tractor and trailer rides, storytelling, children’s tours of the castle and nature-themed treasure hunt in the castle grounds. Free to families as part of the standard castle admission price.
Tel 01796 481207 Email: rebeccam@atholl-estates.co.uk  Web www.atholl-estates.co.uk 

Saturday 16th May 10am - 2pm
Country Market
Mill of Logierait Farm beside the A827 just off the A9 at Ballinluig
Local produce, crafts, collectibles. Music, refreshments, free parking and toilet facilities.
For more info contact the project officer on 07958 531 980 or info@hpcp.co.uk 

Saturday 16th May 10.30am -4pm
Perthshire Cycling Festival
Victoria Park, Aberfeldy
FREE Event for all the family. It is great news that Perthshire Cycling Festival will this year be held in Aberfeldy on the weekend of Etape Caledonia – Saturday 16th May. The event is really aimed at families, new or rusty cyclists and people who want to find out more about cycling but there will be something for everyone! The event will be a really fun day with a stunt demonstration and competition, funny bikes to try, circus skills, obstacle courses, dress up your bike competition, science of bikes workshop, trade stands, information stands, kids races, climbing wall, music, food and lots more. For more information contact Emma Burtles on dashbash@freenetname.co.uk or Sally Murray on sm@lurganfarm.demon.co.uk

Drop at the Top – Highland Safaris can whisk you and your bike up the top of a nearby hill for you to whizz down. How perfect! Distances vary and pre-booking essential.
Hand powered guided bike rides – join a highly experienced hand cyclist for a guided ride (various distances)
Guided bike rides for 10 – 16 year olds. Join us for a fun hour long guided ride – mountain bikes preferred.
Cycle Treasure Hunt – get out on the lovely Highland Perthshire roads – stop in some local cafes and shops, pick up 5 cards, complete the word and a fabulous prize awaits you in Kenmore (distance about 7 miles one way on quiet roads). Self guided.
For more information contact Emma Burtles on Emma@perthshirecyclingfestival.co.uk 
or Sally Murray on Sally@Perthshirecyclingfestival.co.uk  .

Saturday 16th May 12noon
Behind Closed Doors (Blair Castle Attics)
Blair Castle Blair Atholl
A special interest tour of the attics of Blair Castle. This 90 minute tour starts at 12noon. Please note that this tour involves many flights of spiral stairs and is only suitable for the fully able. Spaces are very limited, so booking is essential by contacting the castle on 01796 481207. Tours take place on 4, 11, 18 and 25 April; 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 May; 6, 13, 20 and 27 June; 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 July; and 7, 14 and 21 August. Admission - £11 per person Tel: Tel 01796 481207 Email: rebeccam@atholl-estates.co.uk  Web www.atholl-estates.co.uk

Sunday, 17th May 11am to 4pm.
Annual Festival of Nettles
The Scottish Crannog Centre Kenmore.
Special range of exhibits, hands'-on crafts, and foods celebrating the multi-talented nettle plant. Learn how to process nettles to spin the fibres. Waste not, want not! From string to soup, soap and shampoo, free facts and recipes, this event offers something for everyone. Normal admissions apply. Tel. 01887 830583. e.mail: info@crannog.co.uk  www.crannog.co.uk 

Sunday 17th May
Etape Caledonia starts at 7am from Pitlochry.
Pipers have been organised to play at various vantage points around the route. Those of you who have not witness the race it is well worth while seeing it. Get to your local vantage point and enjoy Britain's only closed road cycle event.

Sunday 17th May 7am-5pm
Etape Caledonia Pitlochry approximately
The Etape Caledonia is an 81 mile cycle challenge taking place on traffic-free roads in the stunning scenery of Highland Perthshire. The event on 17th May 2009 is open to individuals between the ages of 18 and 80. To ensure that the roads are reopened to the schedule agreed with the authorities, participants will need to maintain an average speed of 13-14mph around the course. This gives at least 6h 15mins to reach the finishing line within the closure window. Even if you are unable to meet this average you can continue on open roads and complete the full circuit. Spectators are welcome to come along and join in the fun and celebrations at the finish line. Spectators free, Participants £54 Registration Contact - Etape Caledonia Tel: 0871 384 9920
Email: info@etapecaledonia.co.uk  Web www.etapecaledonia.co.uk 

Monday 18th May
Pitlochry School mini Etape
where pupils will cycle a quarter of the Etape route – still no mean feat! A new bike club will be set up in the school too. Breadalbane Academy are currently looking at ways they can promote cycling in the school.

Tuesday 19th May 8.00pm
Maggie MacInnes Trio
Pitlochry Festival Theatre - Ben-y-Vrackie Bar
An acclaimed singer and clarsach player, Maggie will perform alongside Brian McAlpine Session A9 (keyboards & accordian) and Anna Massie Capercaillie and Kate Rusby Band (guitar & fiddle). Together they give Maggie's haunting, expressive singing a sympathetic and exciting edge. Tickets £12.50 Tel Box Office 01796 484626 E/Mail boxoffice@pitlochry.org.uk 
Web www.pitlochry.org.uk

Tuesday 19th May 9pm - 11pm
Cabaret Duo
Fishers Hotel, Atholl Road, Pitlochry
Cabaret Duo playing a diverse amount of modern songs.  Free admission - Tel: 01796 472000

Wednesday 20th May 10am-12noon
Heather, Hills & Hamish
Blair Castle Trekking Centre Blair Atholl
Take a trek on the Atholl Ponies following old drover tracks. Spot wildlife and chat with Hamish an Estate Ghillie. Booking Essential. Treks take place on 15, 22, and 29 April; 6, 13, 20 and 27 May; 3, 10, 17 and 24 June; 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 July; and 5, 12 and 19 August. Admission - £39 Victoria Bogan Telephone - 01796 481568 Email: vicki@blaircastletrekking.co.uk 
Web www.blaircastletrekking.co.uk 

Wednesday 20 May 11am-1pm
Bluebell Woods
Craigvinean Car Park by Dunkeld
Come and see the bluebell woods of Criagvinean. A relaxed stroll for young and old.
Adults £3, Children £1 Contact - Forestry Commission Telephone - 01738 710399
Email: chris.ford@forestry.gsi.gov.uk  Web www.forestry.gov.uk 

Wednesday 20th May 2pm - 4pm
The Parish of Dunkeld Handbell Ringers - Dunkeld Handbell Harmony
Dunkeld Cathedral.
All are welcome to come and listen for a while.  Heather McLean and Margaret Davidson perform solo ringing. This is most intriguing to watch and lovely to hear. Occasionally, they will be joined by other members of the group for small ensemble ringing.  A freewill collection towards the Cathedral and the Handbell Group.  The TIC in Dunkeld is informed on the few occasions when there will be no ringing. Please check beforehand if travelling a distance. Tel: 01350 727688

Wednesday 20th May 8.00pm
Southpaw
Pitlochry Festival Theatre - Ben-y-Vrackie Bar
From the Highlands of Scotland to the Prairies of Americana. If you like Creedence Clearwater Revival, Steve Earle and Reckless Kelly then Southpaw are for you. A guaranteed evening of feel-good country rock music and guitar mastery. Yeehaw for Southpaw! Tickets £12.50 Tel Box Office 01796 484626 E/Mail boxoffice@pitlochry.org.uk Web www.pitlochry.org.uk

Thursday 21st May 9pm - 11pm
Swing of the Kilts Scottish variety show/dance
Fishers Hotel, Atholl Rd, Pitlochry
Accordionist and compere Tommy Newcomen, with singers, dancers and musicians.  A full show with general dancing.  Free admission Tel 01796 472000 e.mail tommynewcomen@hotmail.com

Friday 22nd May 9.00pm
Old Blind Dogs
Live @ McKays, Pitlochry
"A major force to be reckoned with...a source of continual surprises...firmly establishes their position as one of the most exciting Scottish bands around, bar none." - folk roots UK
www.myspace.com/oldblinddogs Tickets £10. Booking highly recommended. Live @ Mckays, Mckays Hotel, 138 Atholl Rd, Pitlochry. 01796 473888 www.McKaysHotel.co.uk

Saturday 23rd - Friday 29th May
Pitlochry Golf Course - Pitlochry Golf Week
Pitlochry Golf Club Pitlochry
Pitlochry Golf Week was established in 1979 and includes various organised competitions, tuition and evening entertainment throughout the week. Participation conditional on staying at a tournament hotel. Admission - Prices on application Contact - Derek Smail Tel: 01796 472862
Email:pro@pitlochrygolf.co.uk  Web www.pitlochrygolf.co.uk 

Saturday 23rd May 12noon
Behind Closed Doors (Blair Castle Attics)
Blair Castle Blair Atholl
A special interest tour of the attics of Blair Castle. This 90 minute tour starts at 12noon. Please note that this tour involves many flights of spiral stairs and is only suitable for the fully able. Spaces are very limited, so booking is essential by contacting the castle on 01796 481207. Tours take place on 4, 11, 18 and 25 April; 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 May; 6, 13, 20 and 27 June; 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 July; and 7, 14 and 21 August. Admission - £11 per person Tel: Tel 01796 481207 Email: rebeccam@atholl-estates.co.uk  Web www.atholl-estates.co.uk 

Saturday 23 May 2009 2.30pm
ATHOLL HIGHLANDER'S PARADE
Blair Castle Blair Atholl.
Annual parade and inspection of the Atholl Highlanders and their pipe band by the Duke of Atholl.
Adults £2.70, Senior Citizens £2.70 & Children £1.40 Tel: Blair Castle Telephone - 01796 481207
Email: office@blair-castle.co.uk  Web www.blair-castle.co.uk 

Saturday 23rd May 7.30pm
May Bank Holiday Madness Ceilidh
The Birnam Arts Centre Birnam Dunkeld.
with the Kinnaird Ceilidh Band. Come in your posh shoes or your old boots, but come to party! Stovies included in price, £8 Adults, £4 Kids Tel 01350 727674 www.birnamarts.com 

Sunday 24 May
Strathtay Ramblers
Dunkeld Hermitage Circular Distance: 7 miles Start gridref: NO015422
An easy ramble through the Hermitage along the river Braan crossing at Rumbling Bridge, and returning via Dundonacchie. Note: Dogs possible; consult with leader. Contact phone: 01887 840324 Meeting Info: OLD CHURCH CAR PARK, CRIEFF ROAD, ABERFELDY. at 9.30 a.m. or Hermitage CP at 10.00 a.m. Local grade: C

Sunday 24 May 2009 1.15pm
Atholl Gathering and Highland Games
Blair Castle Blair Atholl
The Atholl Gathering and Highland Games will take place at Target Park, Blair Castle, Blair Atholl, on Sunday, 24th. May 2009 commencing at approximately 1.15 pm. The games will be opened by John Murray, 11th. Duke of Atholl, in the time honoured way by beating his sword four times on his shield. There will then followed an afternoon of traditional heavyweight competitions and races including the Atholl Highlander's Race, run in full regimental regalia. Admission :- Adults £5.00; Seniors £3.00; Children £2.00. Contact : bookings@blair-castle.co.uk
Tel. No. 01796 481 207.

Sunday 24th May 12 noon-5.00pm
Atholl Highland Games
Meet the NTS Rangers
Join the Countryside Rangers for some children’s activities at the National Trust for Scotland stall.
Free after entry to games Tel 0844 493 2192 www.nts.org.uk

Every Monday from 25th May to 7th September 7.45pm gates open 7pm
Highland Nights
Recreation Ground Pitlochry
(Robert Wiseman Dairies Vale of Atholl Pipe band). Follow the parade from Fishers Hotel at 7.30p, to the Recreation Ground. Highland and Scottish dancing, songs and music. Venue - Drive into recreation ground, watch from your car or from the terracing. If wet, venue - Pitlochry Town Hall, Adults $5, Concessions £4. Children free.
Tel: - G McNab 0773 315 2223 e.mail  gmcnab00@aol.com  Web www.highlandnight.com

Tuesday 26th May 8.00pm
Daniel Smith
Pitlochry Festival Theatre - Ben-y-Vrackie Bar
A huge welcome back to Scotland’s answer to Jools Holland. Daniel can boogie, swing and slam out slow blues like an old master. Always crisp and note perfect, his adventurous approach makes him one of the best blues pianists on the circuit today. Tickets £12.50
Tel Box Office 01796 484626 E/Mail boxoffice@pitlochry.org.uk  Web www.pitlochry.org.uk

Tuesday 26th & Wednesday 27th May 10.30am - 4.30pm
Watercolours with James Murdoch Two Day Workshop, £88
Pitlochry Festival Theatre
Whether you’re just starting out or want to improve existing skills, experienced teacher and regular exhibitor at PFT, James Murdoch, will lead you through a variety of watercolour techniques in this popular workshop. capacity: 20 Tel Box Office 01796 484626
E/Mail boxoffice@pitlochry.org.uk  Web www.pitlochry.org.uk

Tuesday 26th May 9pm - 11pm
Cabaret Duo
Fishers Hotel, Atholl Road, Pitlochry
Cabaret Duo playing a diverse amount of modern songs.  Free admission - Tel: 01796 472000

Wednesday 27th May 10am-12noon
Heather, Hills & Hamish
Blair Castle Trekking Centre Blair Atholl
Take a trek on the Atholl Ponies following old drover tracks. Spot wildlife and chat with Hamish an Estate Ghillie. Booking Essential. Treks take place on 15, 22, and 29 April; 6, 13, 20 and 27 May; 3, 10, 17 and 24 June; 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 July; and 5, 12 and 19 August. Admission - £39 Victoria Bogan Telephone - 01796 481568 Email: vicki@blaircastletrekking.co.uk 
Web www.blaircastletrekking.co.uk 

Wednesday 27th May 2pm - 4pm
The Parish of Dunkeld Handbell Ringers - Dunkeld Handbell Harmony
Dunkeld Cathedral.
All are welcome to come and listen for a while.  Heather McLean and Margaret Davidson perform solo ringing. This is most intriguing to watch and lovely to hear. Occasionally, they will be joined by other members of the group for small ensemble ringing.  A freewill collection towards the Cathedral and the Handbell Group.  The TIC in Dunkeld is informed on the few occasions when there will be no ringing. Please check beforehand if travelling a distance. Tel: 01350 727688

Wednesday 27th May 8.00pm
Tam White
Pitlochry Festival Theatre - Ben-y-Vrackie Bar
Tam is the godfather of blues in the UK. Described as a blues singer, rock, R+B, funk, country and jazz all play a part in the totality of his style. Tam’s other credits include being the voice behind Robbie Coltrane's Big Jazza in Tutti Frutti and playing Clan Chief MacGregor in Braveheart! Tickets £12.50 Tel Box Office 01796 484626 E/Mail boxoffice@pitlochry.org.uk 
Web www.pitlochry.org.uk

Thursday 28th May 11am
Ranger lead walks
Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre 2mls from Dunkeld on A923
“Join one of our rangers as they lead you on a guided walk from the historic village of Dunkeld
to Loch of the Lowes.” £5 for non-members and £2.50 for SWT members. Booking is essential. Contact the Visitor Centre on Tel: 01350727337 or lochofthelowes@swt.org.uk 

Thursday 28 May 11am - 1pm
Bud Busting
Weem Woodland car park
Spring has sprung, enjoy this ancient woodland as the buds begin to burst Adults: £3, children £1 For events information contact 07801 827986. No booking required

Thursday 28th May 9pm - 11pm
Swing of the Kilts Scottish variety show/dance
Fishers Hotel, Atholl Rd, Pitlochry
Accordionist and compere Tommy Newcomen, with singers, dancers and musicians.  A full show with general dancing.  Free admission Tel 01796 472000 e.mail tommynewcomen@hotmail.com

Saturday, May 30th 9am
Amnesty Plant Sale-
offices of J & H Mitchell- opposite Robertson`s shop, Atholl Road, Pitlochry.
An annual event, this is always a great sale of a wide variety of garden shrubs and plants, veg. plants, bedding plants etc etc etc All proceeds go to Amnesty International.

 Saturday 30th May
Castle Family Friendly Days
Blair Castle, Blair Atholl
Every Saturday throughout April, May (excluding 23rd) and June
Every Friday throughout July and August (excluding 28th August)
Tractor and trailer rides, storytelling, children’s tours of the castle and nature-themed treasure hunt in the castle grounds. Free to families as part of the standard castle admission price.
Tel 01796 481207 Email: rebeccam@atholl-estates.co.uk  Web www.atholl-estates.co.uk 

Saturday 30th May 12noon
Behind Closed Doors (Blair Castle Attics)
Blair Castle Blair Atholl
A special interest tour of the attics of Blair Castle. This 90 minute tour starts at 12noon. Please note that this tour involves many flights of spiral stairs and is only suitable for the fully able. Spaces are very limited, so booking is essential by contacting the castle on 01796 481207. Tours take place on 4, 11, 18 and 25 April; 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 May; 6, 13, 20 and 27 June; 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 July; and 7, 14 and 21 August. Admission - £11 per person Tel: Tel 01796 481207 Email: rebeccam@atholl-estates.co.uk  Web www.atholl-estates.co.uk

Saturday 30th May
Sponsored Vintage Tractor Road-Run - John O'Groats to Lands End
Travelling to Aberfeldy Sat PM
John Bishop & Tony Swire are doing the run in aid of Diabetes UK.  Aberfeldy Rotary Club & Grieve Groundworks will be hosting a BBQ reception at the Ailean Chraggan Hotel.  Tickets £10 each all proceeds donated to Diabetes UK.  Tel 01887 820495  www.thetractorguys.co.uk

Sunday 31st May 2pm
The Weatherman an interactive music concert for all children aged 6-11yrs and their families
Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam, Dunkeld
Sunshine, Rain, Snow - you name it, there's music for it! The Weatherman is in charge of the music for the weather... everywhere. His job is getting increasingly difficult, what with global warming and everything…
Developed by Giant’s Musician in Residence Dave Boyd, The Weatherman concert uses live musicians, dance, and video to explore a wide range of musical genres and exotic instruments. The concert is interactive and fully participatory with a ‘Recycled Rhythm’ section finale that has the entire audience playing! Music making, earth caring fun! Tickets £5. Tel 01350 727674 www.birnamarts.com

If you have an Event you would like to advertise Free of Charge
e.mail eileen@explorescotland.net with Date/Time/Event/Venue/Price

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