South
EXPLORE the South of Scotland Magazine
Explore the South of Scotland Magazine is produced bi-monthly with the twin objectives of promoting the tourism offer in the South of Scotland region - and the all important task of helping you plan ahead for your visit.
Your team
Editorial
David Pike
Yvonne Ridley
Maggie Elliot
Aline Varty
Meriem Yahiaoui
Photography
AUTUMN ESCAPES
Discover a place conveniently close, yet worlds away! Whether you’re hiking our magical countryside, reliving our his through ancient castles, or trying something new, you guaranteed to have a great time in the South of Scotland.
Steven Somerville
Ian Bell
Dennis Laing
Get in touch
Explore the South of Scotland Magazine is free of charge and e-mailed to desktops everywhere. Make sure of a regular copy by getting in touch at the editor’s e-mail below.
And if you have a story you would like to share or an event coming up we would love to hear from you. 07970 811 831 davidpike55@googlemail.com
www.ssdalliance.com
Welcome to the South of Scotland
The South of Scotland is without doubt a destination for all seasons... and autumn offers a particularly lively events calendar for visitors. Seasonal events and exhibitions are featured in this issue.
And, no doubt, there will be plenty of people toasting the arrival of the inaugural Borderlands Whisky Festival at Lockerbie Town Hall in October.
The exceptional tourism offer across Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders is once again demonstrated by the high quality businesses and attractions nominated for this year’s regional Thistle Awards.
We have included a special supplement on the Thistle qualifiers, and pass on our thanks to Peebles Hydro Hotel for hosting an exceptional awards night.
Detailed information about all that’s on offer for the visitor to the South of Scotland can be found at the South of Scotland Destination Alliance website - www.ssdalliance.com
Happy reading.
Keeping the eagles flying high - P33
Photograph: Phil Wilkinson
EXPLORE the South of Scotland Magazine
32-33 A region for all seasons
29
Whatever the season there’s always a warm welcome waiting for visitors in the South of Scotland.
In this issue we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the ever popular Southern Upland Way.
30-31 Outstanding Ceramic Skills
7 Jedburgh Abbey
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has announced that more areas at Jedburgh Abbey now open following high-level masonry inspections and essential conservation work.
We are here to help you plan ahead
Playing a trump card for tourism in the South of Scotland
Whether its a day trip, a weekend break or an extended stay the South of Scotland offers something for everyone. And it’s essential to plan ahead.
Explore the South of Scotland Magazine, produced in association with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance, is your perfect companion introducing you to places of interest, activity breaks and taking a look at what’s coming up for the two months ahead. It’s a promotional package delivered by experienced journalists, writers and photographers to help you make the most of your stay in a truly remarkable part of the world.
Halloween at Abbotsford
The Halloween Family Trail makes a welcome return to Abbotsford. Coming Up
Borderlands Whisky Festival
Lockerbie is set to host the inaugural Borderlands Whisky Festival in October welcoming 30 distilleries and independent bottlers.
Special skills that are producing eyecatching ranges in the ceramics sector.
Standing together for South of Scotland Tourism
The recent South of Scotland Thistle Awards gave us a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the many successes we’re seeing in our visitor economy.
Having our own regional awards allows us to inspire, support and celebrate success.
In the last year, the South won as many national Thistle Awards as it did the previous 17 years put together and, for the first time ever, we won more than any other part of Scotland.
These successes are matched by the economic data. The latest STEAM report shows that the economic impact of tourism in the South of Scotland grew by 20% last year, with almost £150m more going into local businesses and local communities, and a 14% increase in tourism jobs.
This is hugely encouraging and shows that we’re already seeing the impact
Scotland Starts Here
The future of tourism in the South of Scotland
of the increased energy, ambition and coordination invested in our visitor economy.
But, listening to businesses, we know it’s not all plain sailing. For too many businesses, profitability is a huge challenge, with real concerns about increasing regulation and taxation.
This is why it’s more important than ever to be UNITED. This is what the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) is all about: bringing together the 700 most important tourism businesses in the South to have one, strong voice: both representing
the sector to government agencies and selling our destination to visitors using our consumer-facing brand ‘Scotland Starts Here’.
We’re in the process of launching new promotional videos and website landing pages for all 14 parts of the South of Scotland. These have been designed around what local businesses told us they want to see. And in November we’re meeting with all 14 areas again, as part of our commitment to locally-led destination development.
If you are involved in South of Scotland tourism, in any form, and you’re not already an SSDA Member, please take a moment to join what is now the largest destination management and marketing organisation in Scotland.
David Hope-Jones OBE, CEO SSDA Scotland Starts Here
Places to visit
Further visitor access at Jedburgh Abbey
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has announced that there will be further access to Jedburgh Abbey with more areas of the site now open following high-level masonry inspections and essential conservation work.
The Abbey Church is once again open to visitors, who can enter through the east processional door to explore this iconic abbey established in the Scottish Borders in the 1100s. Visitors can once again walk down the Lothian Aisle and Nave, taking in the unique mix of Romanesque and early Gothic architecture of the building. The Stone Museum, which houses artefacts from the site’s past, has also re-opened its doors.
The grounds remain open to explore, allowing visitors to see the remains of ancillary buildings where the brethren ate and slept, and the vast kitchen and cellar ranges. There is also the opportunity to walk in the recreated cloister garden and reflect on life in the medieval abbey. Some exceptional early Christian artefacts, which pre-date the abbey by several centuries, are on display in the visitor centre.
Stuart Holmes, Regional Visitor and Community Manager for South Region at Historic Environment Scotland, who operate the Abbey, said: “The abbey has played a key role in Scotland’s history and that of the Borders for over 900 years. Its intricate stonework has faced many aggressors with its most recent challenges, being accelerated by climate change. "Following a programme of inspections and essential conservation work, we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors from the local community and beyond back into the heart of the Abbey to explore even more of its fascinating history.”
Some restrictions remain in place with the viewing gallery remaining closed whilst further high-level masonry inspections are carried out.
The High-Level Masonry Programme is the result of ongoing risk assessment and sample surveys and assesses the impact of climate change on sites as well as the scale of deterioration caused by a number of other factors, including the materials used in the building’s construction, its age and physical location. Whilst this is not an issue unique to Scotland, HES is believed to be amongst the first heritage managers to approach it in this way, with the results shared with peer organisations.
For opening times and to book tickets, visit the Historic Environment Scotland website.
Jedburgh Abbey
Abbey Bridge End, Jedburgh, TD8 6JQ
tel: 01835 863925
w: www.historicenvironment.scot
Make mine a double! Whisky fans make tracks for Lockerbie
by David Pike
It's a double act that has gone down brilliantly in the world of whisky.
Meet Karen Somerville and Justine Hazelhurst, co-founders of the award winning Fife Whisky Festival who are now bringing their successful formula to the South of Scotland.
Lockerbie is set to host the inaugural Borderlands Whisky Festival in October when 30 distilleries and independent bottlers, from Scotland and England, will gather to showcase a diverse range of whisky from the border regions and beyond.
The event, taking place at the historic Lockerbie Town Hall, will include a programe of masterclasses led by industry experts from Moffat, Glasgow, the Borders and Ad Gefrin distilleries.
"We have enjoyed seven years of success with the Fife festival and decided to look at adding a new event to our whisky calendar.
distilleries including Bladnock (the most southerly distillery in Scotland) and Annandale, festival goers will have the opportunity to sample a diverse range of drams from further afield.
There's been a lot of distilling activity in the Borderlands region in recent years and Lockerbie, with excellent transport links, was a perfect choice for the first festival," said Karen.
As well as shining a spotlight on local
Renowned distilleries such as Ardnamurchan and White Peak will be among the many exhibitors on the day.
Matured over seven years at Fife, Karen and Justine will bring their festival ethos of giving something back to the local community in Lockerbie.
Karen explained: "Some of the proceeds of the new Borderlands Whisky Festival will be donated to two local charities - Lockerbie Men's Shed and Dumfriesshire & Stewarty Women's Aid. It's important to us to support worthwile causes."
Justine added: "We are not only showcasing great whisky but also celebrating Lockerbie's hospitality, creating a win-win for whisky enthusiasts and local businesses alike."
Lockerbie has excellent train and bus connections as well as first class road links, making it easy for getting to the event.
Our festival organisers
Karen Somerville
A former director of Angel's Share Glass, an award winning glass manufacturing company in Scotland. Karen now operates Young Glass - a business consultancy specialising in small business growth and development.
Karen is also a Business Judge of Scottish Whisky Awards and Spirit of Speyside Awards and sits as Vice Chair of the British Association of Women Entrepreneurs Scotland.
More at www.youngglass. co.uk
The founder of Kask Whisky, an events company based in Edinburgh.
She established the Fife Whisky Trail and the Leith Whisky Trail. She works alongside numerous distilleries and producers, researching their Scotch Whisky heritage.
More at www.kaskwisky.com
Cheers - a bonus for our readers
When booking your ticket quote SSDA10 to get a £10 ticket discount.
Borderlands Whisky Festival
Where: Lockerbie Town Hall When: October 12, 2024
More: www.borderlandswhiskyfestival.com/tickets
Tickets for the festival are now on sale - price £25.
Travelling by train? Show your train ticket to receive a £5 voucher for the festival shop.
Justine Hazelhurst
National Park news
Important first steps for National Park engagement
The launch of the first stage in NatureScot’s public engagement process for a new National Park in Galloway has been warmly welcomed by the teams behind the bid.
An online portal is now open, giving clear, factual information about the process, the timetable and how the community across the region can get involved.
Galloway was chosen from among five competing areas as the preferred location for what would be the third National Park in Scotland.
The National Park bid has been made jointly by the Galloway National Park Association (GNPA) and the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership.
They are urging the public, and organisations across the area to take part in the consultation and ensure the fullest possible range of voices is heard.
Sandra Mcdowall, Vice Chair of GNPA (right), said: “This is a really exciting moment – a oneoff chance to get large-scale ongoing investment for our areawe - and we warmly welcome the start of the formal process and the plans that NatureScot have outlined to consult as widely as possible on the project.
“It’s especially welcome that they are going to great lengths to ensure people can easily find out exactly what the proposals would mean.
“Local democracy is hugely important and we want everyone to get involved and have their say. And it’s vital for people to get the facts. Our ambition is not just to have a National Park, but for it to be shaped by the needs and interests of the people and the place.”
The proposal has the potential to bring significant investment from Scottish Government, increasing prosperity and helping to secure a sustainable future.
During the public consultation NatureScot will host platforms for digital engagement as well as meetings and drop-in sessions at community hubs across Dumfries & Galloway, East Ayrshire and South Ayrshire.
This will give all residents, organisations, businesses and other interested groups the opportunity to participate in shaping how a Galloway National Park would function and the powers it would have. The public consultation will run through November to the end of January and NatureScot, as Reporter, will submit their findings to Ministers at the end of April next year.
National Park in Galloway
The NatureScot portal is at https://www.nature.scot/professionaladvice/protected-areas-and-species/protected-areas/nationaldesignations/national-parks
Information about the reporting process can be seen here. It explains:
• the plan • the different phases of work
• how and when to find out more •the process
• how and when they can take part in the consultation.
Anyone wishing to contact NatureScot directly with regard to the Galloway National Park proposal, including to request a meeting for a local community group or other organisation, is invited to email directly to nationalparkreporter@nature.scot
The South of Scotland celebrates another Thistle Awards triumph
Tops for tourism
Tourism and hospitality businesses from across the South of Scotland celebrated their victories at the South of Scotland’s second annual Thistle Awards ceremony.
The sell-out event took place at the Peebles Hydro where finalists enjoyed a night of live music, fine dining and ceilidh dancing.
With 12 categories and 30 finalists from a pool of over 100 entries from across the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway, the South of Scotland Thistle Awards showcase the impressive scope and quality of the region’s burgeoning visitor economy.
STORIES AND LEG START
HERE
From natural splendour to the resting places of literary giants. Whether you’re visiting the South of Scotland for its history, landscapes, food or culture, discover everything there is to see and more on the Scotland Starts Here app and website.
The South of Scotland Thistle Awards is delivered by the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise and VisitScotland, with returning headline sponsor Caledonia Park Designer Outlet.
This year saw the introduction of a brand-new award category, the Rising Star Award, recognising emerging talent shaping the future of tourism and hospitality in the region - a prestigious honour carried off by Thania Meneses Flores for Trimontium Museum.
South of Scotland Thistle Awardwinners were unveiled in 12 separate categories. The winners, who will now go on to represent the South of Scotland at the national Scottish Thistle Awards finals in November, were:
Best B&B or Guest House Experience – Queensberry House B&B, Moffat
Best Self-Catering or Unique Stay –The Outdoor Hotel, Auldgirth
Best Bar or Pub – Cross Keys Inn, Ettrickbridge
Best Hotel Experience – The Ship Inn Hotel, Gatehouse of Fleet
Best Eating Experience – The Globe Inn, Dumfries
Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival – Wigtown Festival Company, Wigtown
Celebrating Thriving Communities – All Roads Lead to Whithorn, Whithorn
Best Visitor Attraction – Famous Blacksmiths Shop Visitor Attraction, Gretna Green
Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience – Mostly Ghostly, Dumfries & Galloway
Tourism Individual of the Year – Kirsty ArcherThompson, FSAScot, Abbotsford Trust
Inclusive Tourism Award – Trimontium Museum, Melrose
Rising Star Award – Thania Meneses Flores, Trimontium Museum
Following the resounding success of last year’s inaugural South of Scotland Thistle Awards, which saw our thirteen finalists go on to compete at the national awards, this year’s regional Thistle Awards has demonstrated that there is no limit to the quality and excellence of tourism talent in the region.
The South of Scotland Thistle Awards is a celebration of the stars of the tourism and hospitality industry in the region and I’d like to extend a huge congratulations not only to this year’s winners, but to all of our fantastic finalists, as well as thanks to our brilliant sponsors.
Tourism is a vital part of our local economy and the businesses and individuals who participated in this year’s regional Thistle Awards encapsulate exactly what makes the South of Scotland such an unforgettable place to visit.
To our winners: good luck at the finals!
Chief Executive of the South of Scotland Destination
David Hope-Jones
Alliance (SSDA)
Queensberry House B&B
The latest Thistle Award makes it a hat-trick of wins for Caroline and Miles and the Queensberry House B&B in Moffat.
GET IN TOUCH
Queensbury House, Beechgrove, Moffat, DG10 9RS
e stay@queensberryhouse.com
t +44 (0)1683 478341 w www.queensberryhouse.com
Inglestone House B&B
An imposing six-bedroom B-listed Georgian house, in the centre of historic Kelso, run by Colin and Lisa Secombe.
GET IN TOUCH
Abbey Row, Kelso, TD5 7JF
t 01573 225800
e info@inglestonehouse.co.uk
w www.inglestonehouse.co.uk
Cross Keys Inn
Last year's national winner of the Best Bar or Pub category is on the trail of a remarkable double this time round for Rory and Vicki Steele.
GET IN TOUCH
Main Street, Etrrickbridge, Selkirkshire, Ettrickbridge, TD7 5JN
t +44 (0)1750 52224 e hello@crosskeysinnettrickbridge.com
w www.www.crosskeysinnettrickbridge.com
F @CrossKeysInnEttrick I @CrossKeysInnEttrickbridge
The Beagle Country Pub
Named after owners Duncan and Sarah's mischievous pets, The Beagle Country Pub enjoys an envious reputation for food and hospitality, catering for guests at the nearby Barend Holiday Lodges and local trade.
GET IN TOUCH
Sandy Hills, Dalbeattie, DG5 4NU
t 01387 733632
e info@thebeaglecountrypub.co.uk
w www.thebeaglecountrypub.co.uk
The Globe Inn
The Globe's unique and illustrious reputation - as the local of the Bard, Rabbie Burns - makes it a firm favourite locally and for visitors from around the world.
Dropping in at The Globe will not disappoint.
GET IN TOUCH
56 High Street, Dumfries
t +44 (0) 1387 323 010
e mail@globeinndumfries.co.uk
w www.globeinndumfries.co.uk
Gather, Laggan
GET IN TOUCH
Laggan, Gatehouse of Fleet, DG7 2ES
t 01557 840206
e enquiries@lagganlife.co.uk
w www.lagganlife.co.uk
Knockinhaam
Lodge Hotel
GET IN TOUCH
Portpatrick, Wigtownshire, DG9 9AD
t 01776 810471
e reservations@knockinhaamlodge.com
w www.knockinhaamlodge.com
The Ship Inn
GET IN TOUCH
1 Fleet Street, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas, DG7 2HU
t 01557 814217 (restaurant) 0771 341 2030 (accommodation)
e reservations@theshipinngatehouse.com
w www.theshipinngatehouse.com
Cairndale Hotel and Spa
Gretna Hall Hotel
GET IN TOUCH
English Street, Dumfries, DG1 2DF
t 01387 254 111
e hello@cairndalehotel.co.uk
w www.cairndalehotel.co.uk
GET IN TOUCH
Gretna Loaning, Gretna Green, DG16 5DY
t 01461 338257
e info@gretnahallhotel.com
w www.gretnahallhotel.com
Mostly Ghostly Tours
IN TOUCH
Mostly Ghostly - Thornhill
t 07791 047 835
e mostlyghostly@hotmail.co.uk
Beirhope Alpacas
GET IN TOUCH
Beirhope Farm, Hownam, Kelso, TD5 8AP
t 01573 440 631
e hello@beirhope.co.uk
w www.beirhope.co.uk
IN TOUCH
Auldgirth, Dumfries and Galloway, DG2 0XJ
t 07507510263
e hello@outdoorhotel.co.uk
Glentress - Peebles
IN TOUCH
Glentress and 7 Stanes EH45 8NB, Peebles
TOUCH
Ettrick Terrace, Selkirk, TD7 4LE
t 01750 21349
e stay@fiveturrets.com
w www.fiveturrets.com
Castle Douglas, Grobdale of Girthon, DG7 2PZ
t 07771 742 766 & 07391 054 388
e hello@grobdale.co.uk
w www.grobdale.co.uk
Photography: Phil Wilkinson
GET IN TOUCH
Market Square, Melrose
t 01835 342 788
e info@trimontium.co.uk
w www.trimontium.co.uk
Alchemy Film and Arts
GET IN TOUCH
Room 305, Heart of Hawick, Kirkstile, Hawick, TD9 0AE
t 01450 367 352
e info@alchemyfilmandarts.org.uk
w www.alchemyfilmandarts.org.uk
Borders Book Festival
GET IN TOUCH
Harmony House, St Mary's Road, Melrose, TD86 9LJ t 01896 822 644
w www.bordersbookfestival.org
GET IN TOUCH
Gracefield Arts Centre, 28 Edinburgh Road, Dumfries, DG1 1JQ
e hello@weareupland
w www.weareupland.com
Wigtown Book Festival
Wigtown was officially designated as Scotland's National Book Town in 1998 and now enjoys an international reputation for booklovers who flock to the annual book festival.
GET IN TOUCH
Wigtown Festival Company
11 North Main Street, Wigtown, DG8 9HN
e mail@wigtownbookfestival.com
w www.wigtownbookfestival.com
Festival Office: 01988 402 036
Thania Flores - Trimontium Museum
“What an absolute honour to win this award. I was delighted to have been shortlisted for the Rising Star category in the South of Scotland Thistle Awards, and it’s a privilege to be a winner.
“Trimontium is an amazing place to work and thrive, and this would not be possible without the support of trustees, staff and volunteers who have all believed in me since the beginning.
"They took a chance on me and gave me the opportunity to join their team at the very start of my museum and tourism career.
I look forward to keeping contributing to our thriving community and sharing the fascinating story of the Roman Iron Age in Scotland.”
Thania Meneses Flores, Trimontium Museum
Kylah Anderson
Lizzie Koronka
Barend Holiday Lodges
GET IN TOUCH
Barend Holiday Village, Sandyhills, Dalbeattie, Dumfries & Galloway, DG5 4NU
t 01387 780663
e info@barendholidaylodges.uk w www.barendholidaylodges.uk
Thistle Awards 2024
On the trail for more national success
Following a hugely successful inaugural event last year, the South of Scotland regional award-winners went on to win more national Thistle Awards than any other part of Scotland at the 2023 Scottish Thistle Awards national finals in Glasgow. The finals take place in November and we wish the South of Scotland nominees the very best of luck on the night.
New Town Hall Bunk House
GET IN TOUCH
53 St Hohn's Street, Whithorn, DG8 8PN w www.allroadsleadtowhithorn.com
“Congratulations to all the winners at the South of Scotland Thistle Awards.
"It is fantastic to see such recognition for the region’s diverse and vibrant tourism offering, as well as the passionate and dedicated individuals who work within it.
“The regional final for the South of Scotland builds on the success of last year's inaugural regional Thistle Awards and, as part of the Scottish Thistle Awards, marks an important celebration of the very best of our tourism and events industry.
“A special thanks to all the finalists for the part they play in making Scotland a must-visit, must-return destination.
“To our regional winners, I wish you all the very best of luck at the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final in November.”
Steven Walker, VisitScotland Board member Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards Industry Panel
"We are very proud to have sponsored and supported the South of Scotland Thistle Awards again this year.
It has been fantastic to recognise and celebrate the excellence and success of outstanding individuals, businesses, and partnerships within our tourism, hospitality, and events industry.
We would like to congratulate all the winners, who champion the very best that the South of Scotland has to offer and wish them luck for the national final in November.”
“I am delighted to see the South of Scotland Thistle Awards returning for its second year, after the success of its inaugural year in 2023.
“Last year, a number of local winners went on to achieve national Thistle Award titles, generating more visibility for the fantastic tourism sector we have in the South of Scotland.
“I am sure this year’s South of Scotland Thistle Award winners will again do our region proud on the national stage.”
Russel Griggs OBE Chair of South of Scotland Enterprise
Scott Wells, Caledonia Park Designer Outlet Centre Director
In the footsteps of a magnificent literary tradition
Abbotsford’s Collections and Interpretations
Manager, Kirsty Archer-Thompson has been chosen as the South of Scotland’s Tourism Individual of the Year.
The award recognises her dedication to bringing Sir Walter Scott's genius to a worldwide audience and comes as she marks the 10th anniversary of starting work at his home of Abbotsford near Melrose.
"Few things leave me speechless, but finding out I had been nominated for this award did just that. We have an incredible team of people here at Abbotsford, full of talent and passion.
"There's a real culture of collaboration and that's just the environment you need for creative projects of the kind I develop and deliver. I find my work completely addictive - how lucky am I?" she said.
It is her second major accolade this year, having earlier received an Honorary Fellowship from the Association for Scottish Literature - recognising a distinctive contribution to the Scottish literary tradition.
Kirsty received the award for her achievements at Abbotsford which have brought Sir Walter Scott’s writing to new audiences using new mediums.
They include storyboarding a lightshow at Smailholm Tower to celebrate Scott’s 250th anniversary in 2021 and designing and teaching an online course on Scott accessed by 7000 learners in 120 countries.
The journey at Abbotsford is constantly unfolding and Kirsty recently launched a plethora of new content and audio features on the Bloomsbery Connects app for people to enjoy around the world.
She is currently developing new estate interpretations, including a Story Tree Trail highlighting veteran trees planted by Scott that will unlock stories about events on the estate.
"I also have aspirations for developing new ways for visitors to experience the house, drawing upon some of the other voices and perspectives in the historical record," she added.
We await those developments with interest.
Halloween at Abbotsford
After a successful first year in 2023, a second Halloween family trail event is coming to Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott, near Melrose.
Running from October 1 to November 3, the Halloween trail will be held in Abbotsford’s supernatural sculpture trail, Witch Corner.
It will feature Halloween décor and light and sound installations alongside Witch Corner’s existing folklore themed sculptures.
The trail also includes a children’s Halloween activity sheet which can be handed in at the end of the trail in exchange for an edible prize.
Witch Corner first opened in April 2023 and is themed around Scottish legends and folklore from the writings and research of Sir Walter Scott.
Scott was fascinated by folklore and the trail is named after the nickname he gave to the section of his world-famous library housing a collection of books on witchcraft and demonology.
The permanent sculpture trail, open all year round, features twelve story stops, play areas,
an activity booklet and a ‘Curator’s Cauldron’ audio guide for adults and older children.
The trail offers seasonal additions at Christmas and Easter as well as this popular Halloween event.
Annual passes, which include free parking at Abbotsford, allow visitors to return to Witch Corner year round to enjoy these seasonal experiences.
Julie Merrilees, Commercial Manager at Abbotsford, said: ‘We’re delighted to be bringing our family Halloween trail back to Witch Corner after the success of our first event in 2023. This year’s trail will feature new sound and decorative installations. We can’t wait to welcome visitors from across the Borders and further afield to enjoy this fantastic family activity.’
Where: Melrose, Roxburghshire, TD6 9BQ
More
t +44(0) 1896 752043 e enquiries@scottsabbotsford.co.uk w www.scottabbotsford.com
Halloween at Witch Corner is on 10am- 5pm, 1st October- 3rd November. Tickets for Halloween at Witch Corner are available to book now at family.scottsabbotsford.com
Scotland's coastlines inspire superb ceramics
by Meriem Yahiaoui
Mimicking the landscape and coastline of the Isle of Harris’ rugged rocks and turquoise waters are the uncanny ceramic “sea pods” that have appeared in exhibitions across the Scottish Borders.
These “sea pods” with their complex textures resembling barnacle encrustations wrapped in ribbons of seaweed, add an authentic yet rustic aesthetic appeal to any space.
Ranging in size and shape, along with other ceramic designs including vases, are the creations of ceramicist, Belinda Glennon, who works from her studio in quaint Stow.
Using white stoneware and porcelain to make decorative and functional ceramics, Belinda’s creations are principally inspired by her childhood visits to her grandparents’ home on the Isle of Harris during the summer holidays.
The beauty of the Isle left a lasting impression and inspired her when she took evening art classes whilst working as a nurse in Edinburgh.
In 2013, Belinda graduated from Newcastle College with a Foundation Degree in Contemporary Ceramics in Practice. Two years later, she set up her own business, Belinda Glennon Ceramics, and has been going strong ever since recreating the lasting impression the Isle of Harris has had on her in her childhood.
Technically, she loved throwing from the very beginning, and was a natural with the feel of clay in her hands. She then began studying the chemistry of glazes and create her own, experimenting with the process until she developed a pallet of glazes where she could begin to express her love and connection to the Isle of Harris.
Belinda, however, successfully challenges the idea of pottery being merely decorative or utilitarian, by creating art that conveys complex ideas, elicits warm reactions and encourages reflection.
In being inspired by the landscapes of her childhood, she selects distinct colour palettes and textures that explore her feelings and deep links to the majestic and wild Harris.
Her ceramics are unique works of art that successfully bridge the connection between inner self, memories and the outer world.
Blinda explains that she wants ‘people to find comfort in handling the more utilitarian items such as cups and mugs, whilst the more decorative ceramics evoke soothing feelings’, she is often told.
Belinda Glennon Ceramics
Where: Stow
More: Belinda’s studio is open to visitors by appointment only. Get in touch: Website: https://belindaglennon.co.uk Tel: 07896555595 e: belinda@glennons.co.uk
Swan Lake glides into Kelso
Crown Ballet and Live Borders Arts & Creativity have teamed up to present Swan Lake – the greatest of all romantic ballets. The performance takes place at the Tait Hall on October 12.
Swan Lake is the most famous ballet of all time and one of Tchaikovsky’s best works.
It features some of ballet’s most memorable music and breath-taking dance performances.
Book tickets at https://bit.ly/ Swan_Lake_Kelso or through the Live Borders website at www. liveborders.org.uk
Revolutionary Energy Saving at Twists Glass
by Maggie Elliot
In July 2022 Michael Hunter turned off the glass making furnace at Twists Glass Studios in Selkirk. Remarkably, with the assistance of his wife Sue, he has been producing many of their luxury glass objects ‘cold’ since then.
This means that they only turn on the gas for glass blowing when it is needed and the result is quite phenomenal.
Their annual CO2 emissions have dropped from 98 tons a year to just four.
This transition is gaining recognition in the highly competitive glassmaking world and ality Twists Glass were finalists in the Energy Transition Category of the prestigious VIBES Awards for 2023.
“We have worked extremely hard since 2010 to make the hot glass workshop environmentally friendly. As an amateur entomologist I have noticed the decline in nature over the years and I realise the importance of cutting CO2 emissions.
So climate change is crucially important to me.” said Michael (right with wife Sue).
“We challenged ourselves to Reduce, Diversify and Reinvent in 2002 and eight years later we produced of our top pieces The Lizard Paperweight using recycled glass.
Sue who has successfully steered the company’s marketing programme to give the company the world recognition it deserves based on the quality of its luxury glassware is also a firm believer in recycling and saving energy. She is learning new skills every day working with Mike and consequently has helped to find ways to make the glass making process more efficient.
She explained:”The way we work now is very technical and our method is globally unique and of course it’s highly confidential. The saving of energy is not just helping the planet but of course it is making our business more financially viable. It’s quite a story from the young lad who looked into a marble and wondered how the twist was formed and from his wife who left hairdressing to become a marketeer for a company that"s won international awards such as the Moser International Tableware Award.
Twist Glass Studio
Where: 4, Weavers Court, Forest Mill, Selkirk, TD7 5NY
Get in touch: Website: twistsglassstudion.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1750 723 195 e: twists400@gamil.com
The wonderful world awaiting walkers in the South of Scotland
by David Pike
Wide open spaces and sensational scenery make the South of Scotland a perfect place for walkers all year round – whether it’s a gentle stroll or something more demanding.
The region is home to nationally recognised walks including St Cuthbert's Way, John Buchan Way, Borders Abbey Way, the Loch Trool Circular and White Coomb Ridge.
The list also includes the spectacular Southern Upland Way that is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
Running across 214 miles of superb and varied country the Southern Upland Way is still undiscovered by many.
It starts from Portpatrick on the south west coast and finishes at Cockburnspath on the east.
There are no summits above 3000ft, but over 80 rise above 2000ft.
The Way provides a real challenge for experienced walkers.
On the other hand, some sections are ideal for families and the less ambitious.
Experienced walkers consider the route to be one of the most challenging of Scotland’s Great Trails.
Travelling the entire 214 miles of the Southern Upland Way introduces walkers to an amazing variety of scenery.
move your luggage to your next night’s accommodation.
Most people take about 12 to 16 days to complete the route in one go.
Whatever the pace you set yourself you are in for a real treat, becoming part of exceptional countryside and stunning backdrops.
Many of the longer sections are very arduous and would be difficult for some to manage in a single day.
To avoid this some accommodation providers provide a pick-up service at points along the route and drop you off again the next morning.
Transfer services are also available to
One special service for Southern Upland Way walkers is offered by Foot Luce Walking Tours.
Set up by two former Southern Upland Way volunteers, Ken and Leah, they offer day tours for small groups looking at the history of region.
Highlights include the Caves of Kilhern, Water of Minnoch and the Laggangarn Standing Stones.
Make tracks for their website at www. footluce.co.uk or on facebook at facebook.com/footlucewalking tours for more information.
Dumfries and Galloway and Scottish Borders councils both have detailed information on the Southern Upland Way (and other walks in their areas) on their websites.
Keeping the eagles flying high
An award-winning pioneering charity initiative, which has successfully restored a previously low population of golden eagles in the south of Scotland to record numbers, has launched an urgent public appeal to help secure its long-term future and put plans in place to reintroduce golden eagles to other areas of the UK where golden eagles are currently extinct.
The South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project was initially due to conclude this year, but the project team and its long-standing partners have developed bold new plans to harness their unprecedented success to address the nature-climate crisis facing the UK.
However, as the Project’s current funding runs out at the end of this year, the initiative faces the imminent threat of needing to wind down unless £400k can be raised.
The project team revealed plans to launch as a standalone charity named RUN (Restoring Upland Nature) in 2025, so that other areas of the UK where the vitally important species has been missing for generations can benefit from their groundbreaking experiences.
The appeal was launched at the Moffat Golden Eagle Festival (Europe’s only golden eagle festival).
Launching the appeal, Project Chair Michael Clarke said: "The UK is facing an unprecedented nature-climate crisis, and restoration projects like ours are now more important than ever to reverse biodiversity decline. We have had incredible success in the south of Scotland thanks to the support of community, partners and funders. With enough new public donations, we can take these learnings to restore this iconic species to other areas of the UK."
To help secure the future of the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project as it becomes RUN (Restoring Upland Nature), you can donate, or register your interest in becoming a supporting partner, at goldeneaglessouthofscotland.co.uk (if donating, please specify that you would like your donation to go to RUN).
Landmarks and Legends
A growing reputation for Jedburgh's Capon tree
As local landmarks go Jedburgh’s Capon Tree stands tall, a survivor from ancient woodland that plays an integral part in the annual Callant’s Festival ceremony...part of a borderswide tradition of horseback rideouts linked to historic occasions.
For hundreds of years this venerable oak has paid silent witness to the ebb and flow of Borders history.
It has seen armies marching north, attacking the town, destroying the Abbey and laying waste in the region on orders from Henry VIII; and then south, 200 years later as part of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s ill- fated uprising in 1745.
The Capon Tree has watched as Jedburgh grew and prospered, experienced good times and bad.
And it’s fair to say that the Capon Tree itself has seen better days, with ancient branches now supported for preservation.
It was badly damaged in 2021 when a supporting limb collapsed, raising doubts about its future survival; an episode that prompted the Jedburgh Community Trust to set-up the Capon Tree Preservation Project - which has raised the £15,000 to ensure it remains firmly rooted in the town's future. Conservation contributions were further boosted by a donation of £7,000 from the Fallago Environment Fund.
It roots, however stand firm, and the Capon Tree is one of 12 "magnificent oaks" shortlisted by experts for the title of the Woodland Trust's Tree of the Year competition.
Dr Kate Lewthwaite, citizen science manager at the Woodland Trust, said: "They chose the iconic oak because it captured people's imaginations. It is humbling to to think how many events these trees have lived through."
The Trust is campaigning for the country's most valuable trees to have better legal protections.
Voters are being asked to support the Woodland Trusts's 'living legends' petition, calling for more regulation relating to cutting down valuable trees.
VOTE
You can view the full list of trees nominated for this year’s Tree of the Year at the Woodland Trust website using the link below...
www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-andwildlife/british-trees/tree-of-the-year/ Voting is open until 11.59pm on October 24. The winner will be announceed on October 29.
