October Events in Highland Perthshire

What's On in Highland Perthshire for October 2012

Visit Highland Perthshire's newest web site full of What's On information that you can add to your own Trip Planner basket.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre see website for details. www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com
A selection of 6 plays including;
Little Shop of Horrors
5th 8pm, 13th 8pm.
The 39 Steps
8th 8pm, 13th 2pm.
Rope by Patrick Hamilton
6th 2pm, 12th 8pm.
Communicating Doors by Alan Ayckbourne
4th 8pm, 11th 8pm.
Dear Brutus by J.M. Barrie
9th 8pm, 10th 2pm.
Arsenic and Old Lace by Joseph Kesselring
3rd 8pm, 4th 2pm, 6th 8pm, 10th 8pm, 11th 2pm, 16th 7.30pm 17th 2pm & 7.30pm,18th 2pm, 19th 7.30pm, 20th 2pn & 7.30pm, 23rd 2pm, 24th 2pm & 7.30pm, 25th 2pm & 7.30pm. 26th 2pm, 27th 2pm & 7.30pm, 30th 2pm, 31st 7.30pm.
Tel:Box Office: 01796 484 626 www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com

Sun 7th Oct 8.00pm
Ceilidh in the Foyer
Pitlochry Festival Theatre
A great night out for all the family, locals and visitors alike, join East Neuk ceilidh band Scotch In A Box and dance away the night!  Tickets: £7.50 or £10.00 with hot supper Tel: Box Office: 01796 484 626 www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com

10 October 2-3pm
Strutting Stags
Meet: Glen Tilt Car Park, by Blair Atholl
Fun with deer, antlers and maybe a wolf!
Children £2 Tel: 01796 481355 pf@atholl-estates.co.uk www.athollestatesrangerservice.co.uk

Sunday 14th October 11am - 3.30pm
Roaring Stags Walk
Atholl Estates Ranger Service, Blair Atholl
A walk amongst the hills to hear stags at their best. 6 miles. Some rough walking. BOOKING
ESSENTIAL. Adults £6 Tel: 01796 481355 pf@atholl-estates.co.uk www.athollestatesrangerservice.co.uk 

Wednesday 17th October 2.00pm - 3.30pm
Autumn Treasure Hunt
Meet: Glen Tilt Car Park Blair Atholl
A family event searching for clues and treasure. Children £2
Telephone 01796 481355 pf@atholl-estates.co.uk www.athollestatesrangerservice.co.uk

Saturday 20th October 2 - 3.30pm
Red Squirrel Walk
Meet: Glen Tilt Car Park Blair Atholl
Come and look for red squirrels and learn more about them. Adults £2 and Quiet Children £1 Tel: 01796 481355 pf@atholl-estates.co.uk www.athollestatesrangerservice.co.uk 
 

What's On in Highland Perthshire for October 2011

Visit Highland Perthshire's newest web site full of What's On information that you can add to your own Trip Planner basket.

To download your own Events programme as a PDF
Full info for October 2011 What's On for Highland Perthshire 

Pitlochry Festival Theatre see website for details. www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com  
A selection of 6 plays including;
My Fair Lady A perfectly 'loverly' musical 5th/10th/13th15th/
Henceforward - a comic tale of man, music and machines 3rd/8th/13th/
See How They Run!  - A classic, chaotic war-time farce 6th/8th/11th/12th/
Trelawny Of The Wells - a vivacious Victorian Comedy 1st/7th/15th
Privates On Parade - a bawdy musical memoir of National Service 1st/6th/14th/
Dr Angelus - a disturbing comedy-thriller 4th/5th/12th/
Whisky Galore-A Musical  21st October 7.30pm - 12th November
Tel:Box Office: 01796 484 626 www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com

1st October – 7th November
AUTUMN WATCH SAFARIS
Highland Safaris By Aberfeldy PH15 2JQ
Head high into the hills to see and hear the primal roar of the Red Deer Rut and the amazing Autumn colours at their most dramatic. Sights & sounds not to be missed!  Web or call 01887 820071 www.highlandsafaris.net

1 to 23 October
Daytime Safaris - Every Sunday, 2pm - 4.30pm
Dusk Safaris - Every Saturday, 3.30pm - 6pm
Atholl Estates, Blair Castle, Blair Atholl.PH18 5TL
The longer daylight hours allow more time to explore the breath-taking Atholl Estates landscape. Land Rover safaris are available during the daytime and at dusk.
Adults: £32 Children (3-17) £20 Tours are limited to 6 people and advance booking either online or by telephone is essential. Book online Tel 01796 481207 www.atholl-estates.co.uk

every Sunday 4th September 2pm - 30th October
Attics Tour
Blair Castle, Blair Atholl
Discover the secrets of Blair Castle’s attics. Hidden from view in the maze of attic rooms and corridors are many strange, wonderful and interesting artefacts. Uncover the strange and fascinating collection of objects in Baron Maule’s room, look through some of our historic estate records and marvel at the eclectic collections of family paintings, walking sticks, weaponry and period costume.
The tour culminates in a climb to the castle rooftops for breathtaking panoramic views of the castle grounds.
Please note: This tour involves several flights of spiral stairs, the occasional tight space and heights and is only suitable for the fully able.
Prices: £15 per person Booking: In advance on 01796 481207 or in person on the day (subject to availability). Numbers limited to 10 people per tour.
http://www.atholl-estates.co.uk/events_whatson_calendar.cfm 

April – October: Sundays, 11.30am Additionally, June-September: Wednesdays, 11.30am
Explorers Garden - Pitlochry Festival Theatre
Garden Tours
Led by experienced guides who bring Explorers to life! Lasting approximately one and a half hours, our guided tours provide insights into the plants, trees, wildlife, history, art and architecture contained in Explorers. Fun, fascinating and informative!  Price: £4, includes Garden entry Tel 01796 484626 www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com

Every Saturday 11 - 11.30am
Childrens’ story Telling,
The Watermill, Mill Street, Aberfeldy, Perthshire. PH15 2BG.
tel:01887 822896 email:info@aberfeldywatermill.com www.aberfeldywatermill.com

Sunday 2nd October 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm
Meet Dougie MacLean
Aberfeldy Information Centre 11.30am
Pitlochry Information Centre 1.30pm
Dunkeld Information Centre 3.30pm
Meet Dougie MacLean and purchase tickets for Perthshire's Jewel of a Festival! from Dougie himself, purchase Dougie's CDs 10% off and get a Caledonia Tea-towels signed by Dougie at 10% off.

Sunday 2nd October 8pm
In Celebration of a Diamond Jubilee!
Pitlochry Festival Theatre
The fascinating history of Scotland’s Theatre in the Hills is told, with numerous illustrations (including many recently retrieved from archives), by local historian Colin Liddell, the third member of his family to be a Govenor of the Theatre. Free for Festival Circle and John Stewart Society members. Tickets £10 Tel:01796 484626 www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com

1st Sunday of the Month 8.30pm
Traditional Music Sessions
Ben Lawers Hotel Lawers Aberfeldy. PH15 2PA
Ben Lawers Hotel is proud to host a Tradtional Live Music Session on the first Sunday of every single month! Tel: 01567 820436 www.benlawershotel.co.uk

Sun 3rd Oct, 8.00pm
In Celebration of a Diamond Jubilee!
Pitlochry Festival Theatre
The fascinating history of Scotland's ‘Theatre in the Hills' is told, with numerous illustrations (including many recently retrieved from archives), by local historian Colin Liddell, the third member of his family to be a Governor of the Theatre. Free for Festival Circle and John Stewart Society members.   £10.00  Tel:01796 484626 www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com

Friday 7th October - Saturday 29th October
The Enchanted Forest 2011  - Theme Transitions
The Explorers Garden Port-na-Craig  Pitlochry.
This year's show, Transitions, is brought to you by the Highland Perthshire Community Interest Company.  The 2011 event takes place at The Explorer's Woodland Garden in Pitlochry and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the outdoors, at night and with spectacular imagery.
Using the forest as a natural backdrop, you will experience a lighting show that is out of this world. 
Tickets are available for purchase now. 2011 Ticket Prices  Weekends (Friday, Saturday & Sunday): Families (2 Adults, 2 Children) £40; Adults £15; Children £7.50
Midweek (Monday - Thursday): Families (2 Adults, 2 Children) £36; Adults £14; Children £6.50
Group Booking Discount: £1 per ticket for groups of 10 or over  Children Under 3: FREE  Wheelchair Users: FREE  To Purchase Tickets  You can buy tickets online at www.EnchantedForest.org.uk . If you wish to purchase tickets by phone or in person please use the following contact details: Call: 0871 288 7655* Visit: Just the Ticket, Atholl Road, Pitlochry To book Family Tickets or for Group Booking Discounts, please call: 0871 288 7655*

October 7th 7.30pm
Music in Rannoch
The Old Church of Rannoch
Trio Serenata (Soprano, Fluite and Piano) - Mozart, Puccini, Lehar, Gilbert and Sullivan, Gounod, Paderwski, Kreisler.  £7.50 at the door.  Children Free

Friday 7th October 8pm
Steve Kaufman (Bluegrass)
Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam by Dunkeld PH8 0DS
Also featuring Goldrush and Dapper McDans
The Scottish Bluegrass Association is delighted to present the world-famous, flat-picking guitarist, Steve Kaufman, in concert.  Kaufman’s also a well established, in-demand teacher - in both 2002 and 2004, he received the Gold Award from a reader’s poll in Acoustic Guitar Magazine for running the “Best Workshops, Seminars and Camps”.   Steve’s also the author of more than 80 instructional books, DVDs and CDs, and has released 12 recordings to date.
Tickets: £12 / £10 / £5 Tel 01350 727674 www.birnaminstitute.com

Friday 7th - Sunday 9th October
RAC Rally of Scotland
The Saturday Events start in Service Perth 8.19 and get to Craigvinean 9.20am Drummond Hill 10.45, Errochty 12.10 (Live TV) Service (Perth) 15.04, Craigvinean 2 16.15,Errochty 2 (Live TV|) 17.40, Drummond Hill 2 18.52, Service Perth 20.45
http://www.msaevents.co.uk/documents/2011_RoS_Overall_Map_(1.0)_24-5-11.pdf

Saturday 8th October 1pm
Pitlochry Youth Projects Recfest 2011
Pitlochry Recreation Ground
Stalls where young people can get information on a wide variety of topics.  Food and drink stalls will keep your energy levels up to enjoy a range of bands, workshops and activities throughout the day.

Saturday 8th October to Sunday 16th October 2011
Wild Connections
This Autumn, Go Wild in Highland Perthshire with Wild Connections, a unique wildlife festival taking place right at the heart of Perthshire Big Tree Country. Explore your wild senses, gather with other wildlife enthusiasts and let your wild side evolve with a series events, both indoors and outdoors, showing off our natural habitats and their creatures at their very best. Running from Saturday 8th October - Sunday 16th October 2011, you can take part in one or many of a host of wildlife events Tel: 0871 2883220 e-mail: info@wildconnections.org.uk   http://www.wildconnections.org.uk/events.aspx

Saturday 8th October 10am - 4pm
Creative Writing Workshop
Birks of Aberfeldy
Perth & Kinross Countryside Trust has joined forces iwth local writer Linda Cracknell to host a creative writing workshop in the Birks of Aberfeldy, to help writers draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape.  Suitable for new & established writers.  Workshop will take place outdoors and also inside a tipi £15 (includes Lunch)  to book a place call Kirst Scott 01738 475256 email kirstyscott@pkc.gov.uk

8 October 8:00pm
The Last Five Years
Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam by Dunkeld PH8 0DS
The show is Jason Robert Brown’s award winning musical about two New Yorkers in their twenties who fall in and out of love. Its unconventional structure has Jamie relating his story chronologically, while Cathy starts with their break-up and tells her story backwards: we only see their paths coincide once, on their wedding day. Drawing on Brown’s own experiences of a failed marriage, the result is an intimate and emotionally powerful portrayal of love fought for and ultimately lost.  Tickets: £12 / £10 / £5 Tel 01350 727674 www.birnaminstitute.com 

Saturday 8th October
Ceilidh Saturday with the Benachally Ceilidh Band
Atholl Palace Hotel Pitlochry
With their expert dance caller and top class musicians, the band are sure to make this a night to remember..Only £10 per person including a finger buffet at the interval.  or book dinner on the Verandah beforehand from 7pm. Must be booked in advance Tel 01796 472400 or email bookings@athollpalace.com 

Sunday 9th October, 9.30am
Red Squirrel Walk & Talk- Suitable for all ages.
Cluny House Gardens, Aberfeldy, Perthshire PH15 2JT
Take a walk around the stunning Cluny House Gardens watching and learn about our resident Red Squirrels. Enjoy the beautiful colours of autumn in this woodland garden with leaders Wendy and John Mattingley. Not suitable for disabled visitors. Places Available = 19 Adult : £7.00 Child: £4.00 Family (2+2): £15.00 book tickets online at www.wildconnections.org.uk

Sunday 9th October, 1.30pm
International Year of the Forest: Jackson Hole Film Festival,
Birnam Institute, Birnam by Dunkeld
In partnership with the United Nations Directorate of Forests, the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival has curated an International Forest Film Festival expected to screen at over 100 venues and special events around the world during 2011, the UN designated Year of the Forest. Premieried in New York, the film festival now makes its way to Highland Perthshire for a free screening in celebration of the world’s forests and forest cultures. book tickets online at www.wildconnections.org.uk

Sunday 9th October 1.30 and 3.30pm
ringing in The Cathedral - Handbell Soloist Heather McLean
Dunkeld Cathedral
There will be a retiring collection in aid of the new premises for the Dunkeld and Birnam Community Archives

Monday 10th October, 7pm
Wildcat Walk & Talk Not suitable for under 5s.
SWT centre, Loch of the Lowes, Dunkeld, Perthshire PH8 0HH
Discovering wildcats and pine martens - walk along the Loch of the Lowes exploring the woodlands and lochs in autumn.  All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Not suitable for disabled visitors. Places Available = 28 Adult : £8.00 Child: £6.00
Family (2+2): £20.00 - Book Tickets online www.wildconnections.org.uk

Tuesday 11th October, 10.30am-12noon
Autumn Woodland Hunt family event National Trust for Scotland
The Hermitage, by Dunkeld, meet in lower car park
Collect a trail paper from the ranger and hunt for clues and questions in the woods.
Suitable for families with 5 to 12 year olds Just turn up Children £2; accompanying adults £1 Tel 0844 4932194 http://www.nts.org.uk 

Tuesday 11th October, 1.30pm
Autumn Safari with Highland Safaris
Safari Lodge, Dull, Aberfeldy, Perthshire PH15 2JQ
Head high into the Highland Perthshire hills to see and hear the primal roar of the red deer rut and the amazing autumn colours at their most dramatic. Sights & sounds not to be missed!
Autumn Watch safaris include Tea, Coffee Shortbread and a dram of Dewars Whisky in Highland Safaris’ Mountain Bothy.  ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL Please wear warm clothes and sturdy footwear. Not suitable for disabled visitors. Places Available = 5 Adult : £25.00 Child: £15.00 Family (2+2): £60.00 - Book Tickets online www.wildconnections.org.uk

Tuesday 11th October, 7.30pm
Beavers on the Tay - A Serendipitous Restoration
Birnam Institute, Station Road, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0DS
Join our beaver expert, Paul Ramsay, who will talk about his project with beavers in enclosures at Bamff, near Alyth in Perthshire and also about his experiences as part of the Scottish Wild Beaver Group. He will talk about the concurrent spread of a wild population of beavers around the catchment of the River Tay.  Places Available = 39 Adult : £6.00 Child: £4.00 - Book Tickets online www.wildconnections.org.uk

Wednesday 12th October, 2pm – 3.30pm
Battle of Killiecrankie National Trust for Scotland
Killiecrankie Visitor Centre, meet in stone circle
Get to grips with the gory details of this gruesome battle. Interactive battle talk (1hr) in woods above Soldier’s Leap; followed by children’s craft activities and a display of weapons outside the visitor centre. Booking: Just turn up Cost: Adults £3.00; Children £2 Tel 0844 4932194 http://www.nts.org.uk

Wednesday 12th October, 7.30pm
Behaviour and Lifestyle of Badgers in Scotland
Birnam Institute, Station Road, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0DS
Join badger expert Eddie Palmer, chairman of Scottish Badgers, the charity for badger work in Scotland as he outlines the biology and ecology of the badger, and puts this in the framework of current knowledge in Scotland of their distribution and habitat.  He will also cover the law in Scotland concerning badgers and the nature of persecution of the species as well as practical hints on finding and observing badgers.  Advance booking essential. Places Available = 40 Adult : £8.00 Child: £4.00 - book tickets online at www.wildconnections.org.uk

Thursday 13th October 2011 at 9.30am
Nature Photography Masterclass (Beginners)
Birnam Institute, Station Road, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0DS
Professional nature photographer Peter Cairns will take you through some of the basic steps of successful wildlife and landscape photography. Peter will explain how very often the best pictures are in your own backyard – it’s just a question of seeing them and adopting a few basic techniques.   Suitable for beginners and those wishing to take their photography to a new level. The master class will involve a short talk and presentation and weather permitting you will then venture out into Birnam to try out your new found skills.
Each person should have a camera, warm clothes, boots and weatherproof clothing in case you are able to venture out.  Not suitable for under 5s. Suitable for disabled visitors. Places Available 15  Adult : £40.00 Child: £18.00 book tickets online at www.wildconnections.org.uk   

Thursday, 13th October 11am-4:30pm.
Cran-apple and Cider Festival
Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore
Bring in your apples to press and a container to collect your juice; taste Scottish cider and learn about Scottish apples. Tickets £3.00 over normal admission or £5 if event only. Call 01887830583 or email info@crannog.co.uk to book. See also www.wildconnections.org.uk
www.crannog.co.uk

Thursday 13th October 7pm
Tractor Spooktacular
from Blair Castle's car park.
A chilling vintage tractor and trailer ride through the grounds of Blair Castle followed by a visit to the night-time castle and a scary story in the ballroom.
Take a spooky tractor ride and listen for the eerie wildlife noises of the night. Then step inside the dimly-lit night-time castle for stories that will make your hair stand on end!
Fantastic Halloween fun for all the family but specifically aimed at children aged 6 to 12 years.
Please note: Please wear sensible shoes, warm clothing and bring a torch.
Duration: about 1 hour http://www.atholl-estates.co.uk/events_whatson_calendar.cfm

Thursday 13th October 7.30pm
Conservation of Red Squirrels in Scotland
Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam by Dunkeld PH8 0DSIllustrated talk by Ken Neil (Tayside Project Officer) on work carried out by the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels Partnership to halt the loss of red squirrels from Scotland. Suitable for all ages and disabled visitors. Places Available = 39 Adult : £6.00 Child: £4.00 Book online www.wildconnections.org.uk

Thursday 13th October 8:00pm
I, Elizabeth
Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam by Dunkeld PH8 0DS
At a vital crossroads in history a young queen steps from the shadows to unburden herself of her many troubles and reveal her innermost thoughts on marriage, succession, religion, war, and the challenges to her throne.
Elizabeth I: Queen at 25, political phoenix and famously unmarried, she was the most educated woman of her Age - but who was the woman beneath the crown? Traitor, bastard ,heretic or prisoner?  Tickets: £10 / £8 Tel 01350 727674 www.birnaminstitute.com 

Friday 14th October 6pm - 8pm
The Parish of Dunkeld Handbell Ringers
Pitlochry High Street.
The ringers will be ringing in Pitlochry High Street.

15th October-23nd October
BIRD FEST
Highland Safaris By Aberfeldy PH15 2JQ
Celebrate Feed the Birds Week in conjunction with the RSPB on 22nd October Bird Deli – bird food, feeders & accessories ‘Make a bird cake’ demos Binoculars for sale Plants for the garden Great range of wildlife books Free entry www.highlandsafaris.net

Saturday 15th October10am - 2pm
Summer Market
Mill of Logierait, Ballinluig, Perthshire, PH9 0LH
local traders offering lots of produce,crafts,plants,wines and even collectables that range from vintage kitchenware to agricultural curiosities. Plenty of free car parking, catering on the field,tables and chairs, and nice loos. Phone 01796 482222, www.highlandlightrailway.co.uk 

Tuesday 16th October, 11am-3.30pm
Roaring Stags
Atholl Estates Ranger Service, Blair Atholl
Come on a walk amongst the hills to hear the stags at their best. 6 miles, some rough walking.
Booking: Essential please call 01796 481355 or 481646. Cost: £6 Tel:01796 481355
pf@atholl-estates.co.uk www.athollestatesrangerservice.co.uk

Sunday 16th October 11-4:30pm.
Fire and Food - Primitive Pyrotechnia and Fungi Fun.
Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore
Strike a spark and discover the many methods of fire-making without matches, the best tinder, and wild cooking with fungi Bring mushrooms for identification to learn what is safe and what is not. Part of the Highland Perthshire Wild Connections Festival www.wildconnections.org.uk  Tickets £3.00 over normal admission or £5 if event only. Call 01887830583 or email info@crannog.co.uk to book.  www.crannog.co.uk 

Sunday 16th October 1.30 and 3.30pm
ringing in The Cathedral - Handbell Soloist Heather McLean
Dunkeld Cathedral
There will be a retiring collection in aid of the new premises for the Dunkeld and Birnam Community Archives

Sunday 16th October 2pm
Cloud Man Recommended (Puppets/Visuals) age 4+
Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam by Dunkeld PH8 0DS
Cloud Man features a blend of puppetry, storytelling and sumptuous visuals.
Cloudia has always had her head in the clouds. She is a cloud expert and all her life has dreamt of seeing a Cloud Man. Cloud Men are extremely rare creatures who live a quiet life high up in the sky. Follow the clues to the very top of Cloud Mountain where the views are always surprising, and if you are lucky, you may see something very special indeed.
£6/£20 (2 adults 2 kids) Tel 01350 727674 www.birnaminstitute.com 

Tuesday 18th October 3pm
Holiday Storytime for 4-7 year olds.
The Watermill, Mill Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2BG
Free - just come along tel: 01887 822896 www.aberfeldywatermill.com

Wednesday 19th October, 10.30am - 12noon
Autumn Safari children’s event National Trust for Scotland
Killiecrankie Visitor Centre, meet in stone circle
A walk in the woods - collecting nuts and seeds and looking at autumn leaves and fungi.
Suitable for families with 5 to 12 year olds Just turn up Children £2; accompanying adults £1
Tel 0844 4932194 http://www.nts.org.uk

Wednesday 19th October, 2 – 3.30pm
Autumn Treasure Hunt family event
Atholl Estates Ranger Service, Blair Atholl
Glen Tilt Car Park, by Blair Atholl
A family event searching for clues and treasure in the woods. Booking: Just turn up  Cost: Children £2 Tel:01796 481355 pf@atholl-estates.co.uk www.athollestatesrangerservice.co.uk

Thursday, 20th October 10.30am - 12 noon
FORESTRY COMMISSION WALKS - Trail Blaze
Faskally Car Park
The wood is ablaze with autumn colour. Enjoy Perthshire's golds, reds and yellows in Faskally Wood, by Pitlochry. Adults: £3.50 Children £2.00 Contact John Fyfe on 07801 827986

Thursday 20th October 7.30pm
Jim Crumley talks about and signs his new book
The Watermill, Mill Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2BG
'The Great Wood'. Tickets (include a glassof wine) £4 from The Watermill 018878 822896
www.aberfeldywatermill.com

Thursday 20th October - Monday 24th October
McKays Beer Festival
McKays Bar/Restaurant Atholl Road Pitlochry
Forward-thinking Pitlochry bar and restaurant McKays has launched an international boutique beer festival which combines tasting with excellent food and live music.
From October 20th to 24th, visitors can try the world’s oldest beer, Weihenstephan from Bavaria, as well as oak-aged gourmet beer, Innis and Gunn.  Inspired by the world famous Munich Oktoberfest, there will be live music twice daily from acts such as Bowfain, Macpolvo and Whistleblowers. 
Chefs will be preparing German, Czech, Spanish and Swedish dishes as well as traditional Scottish cuisine.  See more at http://www.mckayshotel.co.uk

Friday 21st October 7.30pm
Talk on 'The Reborn Canals'
Kinloch Rannoch Village Hall
Talk and slide show by Hamish Brown, well known Scottish writer and photographer.  Exploring the Union Canal and the Forth and Clyde Canal linking Edinburgh and Glasgow.  Admission £2.50

Friday 21st October
Ghost Tours
Pitlochry
Suitable for scaredy cats of all ages, the Ghosts are back in town! Creep around Pitlochry’s dark and spooky corners and hear their spine tingling stories of heinous deeds from the past. Departing from the war memorial every 30 min 6:30 - 9:00* Adults: £5, Concessions & Children: £3 Tickets available from: Just The Ticket! on the High Street or from the head ghost on the night.  *the 9:00 tour will only be running for Halloween (28th & 29th). www.HighlandPerthshireAutumnFestival.co.uk

Friday 21st October to Sunday 12th November
Whisky Galore the musical
Pitlochry Festival Theatre
1943: the curse of rationing has visited the remote Hebridean islands of Little Todday and Great Todday and the thirsty islanders have all but run out of uisge beatha - the water of life.
And it’s not just the whisky drought causing problems, either. Good Catholic girl Peggy Macroon has fallen for one of the soldiers stationed on the islands, Sergeant Odd, who’s not just English, but Protestant to boot! Catriona MacLeod is having trouble prising meek schoolmaster George Campbell away from his Wee Free dragon of a mother. And the dragon herself seems too much in sympathy with the army authorities for some people's liking . .
When the S.S. Cabinet Minister runs aground with fifty thousand cases of whisky aboard, the islanders rush to take advantage of the unexpected bounty. But then the officious Captain Waggett, the English commander of the Home Guard, learns of the illicit salvage operation – and is ordered to confiscate the liquor!
As a 60th Anniversary treat, we've chosen to revive the most popular show in PFT's history as our first ever Autumn repertory production. With a score that conjures up both the 1940s and the unmistakable sounds of the Western Isles, performed by a highly talented cast of actor-musicians, this critically acclaimed and universally loved 2009 production went on to become the best selling show in our 60 year history! Tickets £15 - £22 (concessions available) Tel 01796 484626 www.PitlochrtyFestvalTheatre.com

Saturday 22nd October 9am - 4pm
Tay Decent
River Tay Dunkeld - Perth
A very warm welcome to prospective Tay Descent participants Entries will close at the end of September Space allocated on first come first served basis.  There is a limit on the number of ceilidh tickets - they will run out... 
The Event has two starts:
■Dunkeld (Long Course), which is 23 miles and
■Stanley Mills, (Short Course), 7 miles downriver to Perth
Short Course - Stanley Mills start - from 11am
Long Course - Dunkeld start - from 9am
The start at Dunkeld  just above the main road bridge on river left, but the vehicle parking will be at a new site on the other (west) bank, with participants paddling across to the start on the east side Finish - Perth.  The finish will be at the Queen’s Bridge, Perth, in the middle of the city and egress for paddlers will again be a kilometre downstream of this at Perth Water-ski Club. Vehicle parking will also be in this area
http://www.canoescotland.org/events/TayDescent/GeneralInformation.aspx

Saturday 22nd October
Feed The Birds Day
Highland Safaris Aberfeldy PH15 2JQ
Hear hints and tips first hand from RSPB Expert.  Coffe and Cake offer - £1 from every sale goes to RSPB, buy Cake and get Free coffee or tea!  Tel 01887 820071 www.highlandsafaris.net
 

Saturday 22nd October & Sunday 23rd October
Annual Food Festival
Taymouth Courtyard Shop Mains of Taymouth Kenmore PH15 2HN
Tel 01887 830756 www.taymouthcourtyard.com

Saturday 22nd October
Ghost Tours
Pitlochry
Suitable for scaredy cats of all ages, the Ghosts are back in town! Creep around Pitlochry’s dark and spooky corners and hear their spine tingling stories of heinous deeds from the past. Departing from the war memorial every 30 min 6:30 - 9:00* Adults: £5, Concessions & Children: £3 Tickets available from: Just The Ticket! on the High Street or from the head ghost on the night.  *the 9:00 tour will only be running for Halloween (28th & 29th). www.HighlandPerthshireAutumnFestival.co.uk

Sunday 23rd October 12pm - 1pm entry
Club Shoot 50
Fortingall Gun Club Chesthill Shooting Ground - Glenlyon
3 .5miles up Glenlyon from Fortingall/Fearnan road junction DTL: Pool Trap Visitors Welcome at all shoots - For information phone Sandy Argo 01887 829412 or 07979594575

Sunday 23rd October 1.30 and 3.30pm
ringing in The Cathedral - Handbell Soloist Heather McLean
Dunkeld Cathedral
There will be a retiring collection in aid of the new premises for the Dunkeld and Birnam Community Archives

Sunday 23rd October, 2-3.30pm
Red Squirrel Walk
Atholl Estates Ranger Service, Blair Atholl
Glen Tilt Car Park, by Blair Atholl
Come and look for our red squirrels and learn more about them. Booking: Just turn up.
Cost: Adults £2, Children £1. Tel:01796 481355 pf@atholl-estates.co.uk www.athollestatesrangerservice.co.uk 

Tuesday 25th October 3pm
Holiday Storytime for 4-7 year olds.
The Watermill, Mill Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2BG
Free - just come along tel: 01887 822896 www.aberfeldywatermill.com

Wednesday 26th October, 2pm – 3.30pm
Battle of Killiecrankie National Trust for Scotland
Killiecrankie Visitor Centre, meet in stone circle
Get to grips with the gory details of this gruesome battle. Interactive battle talk (1hr) in woods above Soldier’s Leap; followed by children’s craft activities and a display of weapons outside the visitor centre. Just turn up Adults £3.00; Children £2 Tel 0844 4932194 http://www.nts.org.uk
 
Wednesday 26th October, 2-3.30pm
Autumn Tree-mendous family event
Atholl Estates Ranger Service, Blair Atholl
Glen Tilt Car Park, by Blair Atholl
Get up close and personal to our tree giants. Booking: Just turn up. Cost: Children £1 Tel:01796 481355 pf@atholl-estates.co.uk www.athollestatesrangerservice.co.uk  

Thursday, 27th October 11.00am – 1.00pm
FORESTRY COMMISSION WALKS - Trail Blaze
Faskally Car Park
The wood is ablaze with autumn colour. Enjoy Perthshire's golds, reds and yellows in Faskally Wood, by Pitlochry. Adults: £3.50 Children £2.00 Contact John Fyfe on 07801 827986

Thursday 27th October 11am
Lochside Walk
Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre Dunkeld.
Meet at Dunkeld TIC, Discover wildlife you can see on the way to the Loch of the Lowes.  Some parts of the walk involve steep slopes.  Adult $6 Coc £5 Members £2 contact 01350 727337

Thursday 27th October 6.30pm – 9.30pm
`An Evening with Venison` -A venison - themed networking event for tourism businesses- FREE
Birnam Institute, Birnam, by Dunkeld
Perth & Kinross Council invites you to a celebration of venison, one of Scotland’s great natural products. Learn more about the fascinating story from `hill to plate` and get some hints and tips on how to cook this iconic meat as well as where to source it. Research shows that today’s visitors want authentic `food experiences`, where they can really sample a local culture through its food and drink – so putting Scottish venison on your menu makes both business and culinary sense.
Dick Playfair - The Scottish Venison Partnership (SVP). SVP is the public/private sector initiative behind the generic promotion of Scottish venison, wild and farmed, the website www.scottish-venison.info  and the introduction of 4 September as `Eat Scottish Venison Day`
George MacDonald - `A Deer Stalker Day`
George worked on an estate on Rannoch Moor for 23 years as both a deer stalker and Estate Manager.
John Fletcher - `Venison then and now: the history of deer and deer parks in Scotland with an overview of the venison industry in the 21st century`
John is a polymath of the deer world – as a specialist deer vet he has travelled the world......... www.deervet.com 
Nichola Fletcher - `Cookery Demonstration `Scotland’s iconic meat…zap up your profile with venison!`
www.nicholafletcher.com
Sarah Troughton - Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group. Sarah is also a director and part owner of Atholl Estates.
The evening begins, with refreshments, at 6.30pm. Following the speakers Perthshire venison burgers will be served (vegetarian option available – please advise at the time of booking).
The evening will finish around 9.30pm.  The event is free and any tourism business in Perthshire, Kinross-shire and Angus is most welcome but places must be reserved in advance.  Please book your place by contacting Sarah Melville smelville@pkc.gov.uk or 01738 475731 by Wednesday 19th October at the latest.

Thursday 27th October 7pm
Tractor Spooktacular
from Blair Castle's car park.
A chilling vintage tractor and trailer ride through the grounds of Blair Castle followed by a visit to the night-time castle and a scary story in the ballroom.
Take a spooky tractor ride and listen for the eerie wildlife noises of the night. Then step inside the dimly-lit night-time castle for stories that will make your hair stand on end!
Fantastic Halloween fun for all the family but specifically aimed at children aged 6 to 12 years.
Please note: Please wear sensible shoes, warm clothing and bring a torch.
Duration: about 1 hour Advance booking strongly recommended on 01796 421207, 01796 481263 or 01796 481355.  http://www.atholl-estates.co.uk/events_whatson_calendar.cfm

Thursday 27th October
Exhibition of Entries of the Postcard Auction Entries
Birks Cinema Aberfeldy
at the exhibition, donated works will be displayed anonymously, and people will put in written bids for the pieces, ahead of the high profile, glitzy auction. Will winning bidders find they have acquired a valuable work by a professional, or one by a talented amateur? Either way the money raised goes towards the re-building of the Birks Cinema in Aberfeldy's central Square.

Friday 28th October 7.30pm,
Auction of Entries of the Postcard Auction
Birks Cinema Aberfeldy
'Friday 28 October, 7.30pm, Postcard Auction at the old Birks Cinema, Aberfeldy.  Donated A5 size artworks by professionals and amateurs up for sale anonymously in aid of the Friends of the Birks Cinema charity.  Bring along your wallet and cheque book and help get the cinema rebuilt.'

Friday 28th October - Sunday 6th November
Perthshire Amber - The Dougie MacLean Festival
Highland Perthshire.
Exciting changes for this year's festival! The base of operations will be in the historic and picturesque town of Dunkeld in Perthshire.
This year all our venues throughout Perthshire (from iron age crannog, village halls and town halls to castles, cathedral and concert hall!) will be Special Venues and we have found a welcoming new home for our 'base' in the Royal Dunkeld Hotel.  see www.perthshireamaber.com  for details

Friday 28th October
Ghost Tours
Pitlochry
Suitable for scaredy cats of all ages, the Ghosts are back in town! Creep around Pitlochry’s dark and spooky corners and hear their spine tingling stories of heinous deeds from the past. Departing from the war memorial every 30 min 6:30 - 9:00* Adults: £5, Concessions & Children: £3 Tickets available from: Just The Ticket! on the High Street or from the head ghost on the night.  *the 9:00 tour will only be running for Halloween (28th & 29th). www.HighlandPerthshireAutumnFestival.co.uk

Friday 28th October 8pm
Opening Concert - Perthshire Amber Festival
Caledonia Hall, Edradour Distillery Pitlochry
Dougie Mac|Lean Solo, Emily Smith Band Tel 01350 724281 www.perthshireamaber.com

Saturday 29th October 10am
Glenfiddich Piping Championships
Blair Castle, Blair Atholl
The Glenfiddich Piping Championship was established in 1974 to inspire and stimulate the world’s finest pipers, and to seek the best overall exponents of ceol mor or piobaireachd (the great music) and ceol beag (the little music). Blair castle provides a spectacular backdrop for this thrilling musical event.
Blair Castle’s Tullibardine Restaurant will be open for lunches, light snacks and teas and coffees throughout the competition weekend.
Times: The competition commences at 10am. (TBC) Prices: TBC Booking: Tickets are available on the door or in advance from Liz Maxwell on 0845 602 1974.

Saturday 29th October 11am
Decorated Wheelbarrow Procession with Pipe Band
from Tay Terrace car park, Dunkeld (Perthshire Amber Outdoors)
The Event: This will be the Opening Event of our brand new Perthshire Amber Outdoors and will be a way of welcoming locals and visitors alike to our new home base in the picturesque town of Dunkeld. This is a fun event ... an old fashioned parade! We thought that decorated wheelbarrows could be more suitable for 'guiding' around the narrow streets than large decorated trucks and that most businesses, community groups, schools, groups of friends or even individuals can easily get hold of a wheelbarrow! It's a competition as well with the first prize being the coveted 'Duncan Maclean Memorial Golden Wheelbarrow' To enter your wheelbarrow Tel 01350 724281 or email admin@butterstone.com   www.perthshireamber.com

Saturday 29th October 1.00pm - 4.00pm
Open Mic: Perthshire Amber Festival (Free Event)
"Wee Festival Hall" The Royal Dunkeld Hotel, Dunkeld
Hosted by Ewen Sutherland Tel 01350 724281 www.perthshireamaber.com

Saturday 29th October
Ghost Tours
Pitlochry
Suitable for scaredy cats of all ages, the Ghosts are back in town! Creep around Pitlochry’s dark and spooky corners and hear their spine tingling stories of heinous deeds from the past. Departing from the war memorial every 30 min 6:30 - 9:00* Adults: £5, Concessions & Children: £3 Tickets available from: Just The Ticket! on the High Street or from the head ghost on the night.  *the 9:00 tour will only be running for Halloween (28th & 29th). www.HighlandPerthshireAutumnFestival.co.uk

Saturday 29th October 7pm
Fabulous Fireworks
Atholl Road Pitlochry
Highland Perthshire Community Interest Company's stunning firework display right at the heart of Pitlochry, marks the end to this year's Enchanted Forest and a start to the Hallowe'n weekend Information see www.HighlandPerthshireAutumnFestival.co.uk

Saturday 29th October 3-4pm
Street Jammin
Atholl Road Pitlochry
Learn some really cool moves and dance steps at our Street Jam workshops. Suitable for all the family, wear comfortable clothes, sensible shoes and bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated! The workshop is at the Baptist Church on Atholl Rd. It runs from 3pm to 4pm and culminates in a public display at 4.30pm. There will also be a 30 minute show at the Local Community Ceilidh at the Pitlochry Town Hall, West Moulin Road at 8pm.  Workshop Price: £3.50. www.HighlandPerthshireAutumnFestival.co.uk

Saturday 29th October 6.15pm
Hallowe'en Fancy Dress Street Parade
Atholl Road Pitlochry
It’s Hallowe’en and Pitlochry is swarming with witches, warlocks, devils and demons. We need you to join the fancy dress parade at 6.15pm from the Baptist Church Car Park, culminating in our Kids Fancy Dress Competition at Fishers Hotel at 6.30pm.  Two winners (Boys and Girls) will be selected from three age categories: Under 5s, 5-8 Yrs, 9-11 Yrs. www.HighlandPerthshireAutumnFestival.co.uk

Saturday 29th October 7pm for 8.30pm
Hoo Haa Comedy Club
McKays Bar & Rest, Atholl Road Pitlochry
1 host
3 stand up comedians
Lots of Laughs
£7 includes admission to late night disco Doors open 7pm Show starts 8.30pm
www.mckayshotel.co.uk

Saturday 29th October 7.30pm to midnight
Community Halloween Ceilidh
Pitlochry Town Hall
Optional fancy dress! Scotch in a Box - ceilidh and dance music, Street Jammin display (8-8.30pm) Pumpkin Competition, Great Raffle Prizes, BYO drinks BYO food! £3.50 per person. Tickets available from Just The Ticket! Atholl Road

Saturday 29th October 9.00pm
Ceilidh - Perthshire Amber Festival
Baronial Hall, Birnam Hotel
Ceilidh With The Benachally Ceilidh Band  Dougie will perform a full set to open the concert and then Beoga will take to the stage after the interval with Dougie joining them for a couple of closing numbers. Be ready for a very energetic night with this wonderful band…Dougie might even get his fiddle out for a tune or two…so bring voices ready for joining in and hands ready for clapping along! Tickets £22 Tel 01350 724281 www.perthshireamber.com

Sunday 30th October 10am
Guided Walk to the Summit of Schiehallion (Perthshire Amber Outdoors)
Starting from the Braes of Foss car park (NN754 557)
Walk to the summit of Schiehallion with the Schiehallion Conservation Manager of the John Muir Trust, Sandy Maxwell.  Book your Place: Pre-booking essential. Please contact Sandy Maxwell Tel: 0141 576 6663 or Email: sandy.maxwell@jmt.org   Cost: Free of charge but donations to the John Muir Trust from non-members would be appreciated www.perthshireamber.com

Sunday 30th October 12.00pm
Wee Festival Hall The Royal Dunkeld Hotel, Dunkeld
Perthshire Amber Festival
Demo/Performance Handbell Ringing Tel 01350 724281 www.perthshireamber.com 

Sunday 30th October 1pm - 3.30pm
Tattie Fest! (Perthshire Amber Outdoors)
Top of Brae Street Dunkeld
in association with At The Field (Dunkeld & Birnam Community Growing)
This should be a great afternoon of fun for all! ... with stalls, buskers, Barrow Boot sale, potato printing, crazy competitions ... tattie juggling, Get the Tattie in the Welly, Best Potato Soup, Longest Potato Peel...games and races with prizes. Just head up the hill for an hour or two and join with At the Field, local Community Growing Project. All welcome!   For more information about this great project visit www.thefield.uk.com

Sunday 30th October 1.00pm - 4.00pm
Open Mic: Perthshire Amber Festival
"Wee Festival Hall" The Royal Dunkeld Hotel, Dunkeld
Hosted by Ewen Sutherland Tel 01350 724281 www.perthshireamaber.com 

Glenfiddich Fiddling Championships
Sunday 30th October 2pm
Blair Castle, Blair Atholl
The world’s finest fiddlers will gather at Blair Castle for the Glenfiddich Fiddling Championship which reaches its 21st anniversary this year.
Blair Castle’s Tullibardine Restaurant will be open for lunches, light snacks and teas and coffees throughout the competition weekend.
Times: The competition commences at 2pm. (TBC) Prices: TBC Booking: Tickets are available on the door or in advance from Liz Maxwell on 0845 602 1974.

Sunday 30th October, 2pm – 3.30pm
Wild Hallowe’en children’s event National Trust for Scotland
Killiecrankie Visitor Centre, meet in stone circle
Discover what the woodland animals associated with Hallowe’en are doing at this time of year. Fancy dress welcome!  Suitable for families with 5 to 12 year olds Just turn up Cost: Children £2; accompanying adults £1 Tel 0844 4932194 http://www.nts.org.uk

Monday 31st October 10.00am
The SongBus Musical Bus Trip The SongBus (1)
Leaving From Dunkeld
The SongBus is a musical journey which travels through beautiful parts of Perthshire that are of special musical importance... The passengers are looked after and entertained along the way by some fine musicians brought together by festival favourite Ewen Sutherland. There will be lots of singing on the bus, a little walking and a picnic lunch.  Tickets £22 Tel 01350 724281 www.perthshireamber.com

Monday 31st October 11am or 2pm
1 hr Highland Horse Trek (Perthshire Amber Outdoors)
Mains of Taymouth Kenmore PH15 2HN
We are really excited about being able to offer this outdoor experience! This is a real opportunity to enjoy horse riding, with great scenery, good company and expert guidance! So come and join the Perthshire Amber Happy Hackers!!  Pre-booking essential. Contact Katy Bennett. Tel: 07809 659577 Email: Pauline.McLaren@taymouth.co.uk Cost: £30 per person. www.perthshireamaber.com

Monday 31st October 11am (3-4hrs)
Ultimate Nature Walk in association with Wildoutdoors Ltd (Perthshire Amber Outdoors)
Starts Birnam Guest House Birnam PH8 0BG
A half day tour of Birnam and the Hermitage via Inchewan Burn and the River Braan. You should see the salmon during their annual migration to spawn on the Braan, a spectacular sight as they launch themselves up the rocks and waterfalls. There are also dippers hunting for stoneflies and mayflies on the river. If you get really lucky you may see otters but you may have to come back for them at night. We also see lots of birds ... usually curlew, and redwing and fieldfare are frequent on the upper slopes along Inchewan.  Pre-booking essential from Festival Office BOOK ONLINE or Tel: 01350 724261 Cost: £9 per person www.perthshireamber.com 

Monday 31st October 5pm - 7pm
Cabaret Amber - Wee Festival Hall The Royal Dunkeld Hotel, Dunkeld
Perthshire Amber Festival
Cabaret Amber: Hosted by Gina MacLeod & Alan Jordan with guest TBA Tel 01350 724281 www.perthshireamber.com 

Mon 31st October, 6-8pm.
Spooks and Sacrifice - Annual Celtic Samhain Festival
Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore
Come dressed in costume and help us celebrate this ancient Celtic Halloween festival. Bring a lantern; join our torch lit procession through loch-side woods. Watch our wicker ram burn in ceremonial sacrifice and enjoy storytelling, apple-ducking, hot soup and fire shows. Pre-Booking essential.tel: 01887 830583 or email: info@crannog.co.uk Tickets: £6.50 adults and £4.00 children.  www.crannog.co.uk

Monday 31st October 8pm
Dougie MacLean in concert plus Archie Fisher - Perthshire Amber Festival
Blair Castle, Blair Atholl
The acclaimed Perthshire singer, songwriter and composer appears in concert at Blair Castle as part of the annual Perthshire Amber Festival.
Prices: Tickets: £22.00 Booking: Tickets will be on sale from Tuesday 26 April, and can be bought either via the website www.perthshireamber.com  or the office 01350 724281.  For further information about other events in the Perthshire Amber Festival please visit www.perthshireamber.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

NB We try to make sure all the information we post is accurate, but please check directly with the venue concerned before committing yourself.

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