weekend A fireball of a Hogmanay A bookclub with a difference Spotted! New restaurant on the block
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ew Years in Scotland is a celebration unlike no other - but is the feeling of ‘been there, done that’ wearing a little, well, thin? Perhaps its time to gather your usual suspects and delve a little deeper into Hogmanay tradition this year. Stonehaven offers a Hogmanay experience that only ancient arsonists could have come up with. The Ancient Fireballs Ceremony involves 50-60 fireball-swingers charging down the street at the stroke of midnight, whirling huge flaming cages around their heads as they make their way through the town to throw them into the sea. The spectacle is intense and energetic, with some of the fireballs being as wide as 3ft in diameter. Apparently the event predates christianity, and it is believed the burning spheres were supposed to scare away evil spirits. Mental. Following the fire comes a huge new years ceilidh, complete with much merry-ment and no doubt an overflowing of ‘firewater’, or whiskey for those of you with a taste for the stuff. Stonehaven will no doubt provide much banter and first-footing and a merry night with the locals up north, and no doubt a story or two for the next year. Try it out if your looking for a hogmanay with a traditional edge, rather than just the usual street party.
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aparazzi bistro is a nice, stylish and quiet place to eat and mingle in Central Scotland. The newly opened restaurant in the centre Bridge of Allan proudly offers fresh Italian themed meals. Guests can choose anything from a wide range of fresh salads, meats, fish and desserts, beautifully presented and served. On top of that you have a wide choice of cocktails and delicate wines from the extensive list. In comparison to bigger city restaurants, Paparazzi offers a great atmosphere coupled with friendly service which makes it the perfect place for a date. The huge portions make it great value for money, keeping everyone satisfied.
ooking for a new hangout in Glasgow’s hip West End? Within stumbling distance of the university and subway? Well The Gentleman team have found it for you. Hillhead Bookclub is a bar and restaurant with a special flair nestled right between Ashton Lane and the Botanic Gardens. Design genius combined with a highly appealing, extensive drinks list and a gastro-gasmic pub grub menu makes for the ultimate date à deux or in a group with your well-dressed chums. Yes, the right clothing is of essence, else you may risk losing out to the Urban Outfitters-clad young waiters in the competition for cool. Gift idea: If you are looking for a special treat for your loved one this Christmas, arrange for a cocktail masterclass. The Bookclub’s skillful bartenders will teach you exactly how to twist that lemon and shake that martini... to the beat of the exciting DJ-spun records. www.hillheadbookclub.com
www.paparazzibistros.com
www.stonehavenfireballs.co.uk
December | The Gentleman | 6