South of Scotland
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
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.
South of Scotland
Maggie Elliot
Aline Varty
Meriem Yahiaoui
Photography
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
Copyright All rights reserved.
Vertu Corporate Communications.
Welcome to the South of Scotland
... and the celebrations continue. Last issue we marked the magazine’s first anniversary.
From our August - September edition the Explore team will officially be working in partnership with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA).
It’s a collaboration that heralds significant changes including a new title - Explore the South of Scotland Magazine - new touches to presentation and a massive boost to circluation and readership.
The big winners from this important new tie-up will be those on tourism’s front line in the South of Scotland; businesses that offer accommodation, a decent place to get a meal, welcome visitors to top attractions, provide essential services and deliver innovation to the tourism sector.
Together they provide a boundless source of news, feature material and editorial inspiration from this very special region and, as a recipient of this letter, that includes you.
The team at Explore and SSDA is committed to taking your stories to a regional, national and international audience.
We look forward to working with you.
EXPLORE the South of Scotland
A weekend of fun, food and festivities at Stranraer.
We are here to help you plan ahead
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, in association with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance, is your perfect companion introducing you to places of interest, activity breaks and 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.
The global HQ for Clan Armstrong is a treasure trove, flying the flag for tribute and tradition spanning centuries of borderlands history. 18-19 Get marching with the legions Techno-tourism has added a new dimension to enjoying the Roman experience at the Trimontium museum.
Stranraer Oyster Festival
A family weekend at Drumlanrig
The Galloway Country Fair takes place at Drumlanrig Castle in August.
8-9 Gilnockie Tower
Scotland Starts Here.
It is an exciting time for tourism in the South of Scotland.
We have a new energy, a clear vision and a compelling plan as to how, by working together, we will grow our visitor economy.
For too long we have been too quiet about what our beautiful region offers visitors.
For too long we have played second-fiddle to the central belt and the Highlands when it comes to visitors’ sense of ‘destination Scotland’.
The South of Scotland’s new Responsible Tourism Strategy, which hundreds of businesses, communities and visitors fed into, sets out how we will increase our visitor economy by £1bn, supporting a further 6,000 jobs.
By thinking strategically, working collaboratively and acting decisively we will transform tourism in the South.
To this end, I am delighted to work in partnership with this fantastic publication, which helps tell the South of Scotland’s story to an ever-growing readership.
Together, we will amplify the South of Scotland’s consumer-facing brand, ‘Scotland Starts Here’.
Scotland Starts Here
The future of tourism in the South of Scotland
The ‘Scotland Starts Here’ app and website (www.scotlandstartshere.com) offers visitors information on hundreds of businesses across the South.
Through our collaborative marketing and PR work we are reaching tens of millions of people, inspiring them to come and visit our amazing destination.
Last month we collectively published the first quarterly update against our new Strategy.
To remain accountable, and ensure success, we will continue to share public updates every three months for the next ten years.
Bringing responsible, high-spending visitors into the South of Scotland really does drive community and economic prosperity.
It benefits all.
Tourism is everyone’s business, and it’s everyone’s job to sell our beautiful destination.
I therefore invite all readers to get involved: joining the SSDA, sharing ‘Scotland Starts Here’ content, and forwarding this wonderful digital magazine to as many as you can.
In this way, together, we can use responsible tourism to transform our communities for the better.
David Hope-Jones OBE CEO, South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA)
Gallery
A bold new canvas for arts and crafts
by Meriem Yahiaoui
Melrose is now the proud home to a new independent art gallery, Seaton’s of Scotland, which opened its doors a couple of months ago in the town centre.
The gallery owners Craig and Aimee SeatonGuy (right), have both long been art lovers and appreciators of the Borders’ artistic talents.
After Covid hit, they both reappraised their ambitions and decided to follow their passion of opening an art gallery to provide a platform for both established and emerging local artists.
They currently feature both local artists and craftspeople, in addition to some very successful and established Scottish artists, making talent their primary currency.
As you enter the light filled gallery, you are instantly immersed into the couple’s vision of artistry and imagination.
The artistic styles on offer are inspiring and broad, offering a visually poetic experience with epic landscapes, detailed animal studies and expressive portraits.
The gallery is fast building an international clientele with worldwide buyers securing the carefully selected artworks. Turnover is fast, so if you are keen on a work featured on their website, expressing interest quickly is advisable.
Gallery owner, Craig explained that: ‘UK art is very much undervalued compared to France and Germany, for example, and our aim is to help raise the profile of Scottish art.’
The gallery is offering regular workshops and meet the artist events. There is also an option for private viewings on request. A new picture framing service has just been established, also. If you are interested in starting your own art-investment portfolio, Seaton’s offers a consultation service where their art experts advise and hand pick a personalized and tailored selection of artworks based on needs and preferences.
An invitation to step back in time at Gilnockie
by David Pike
As international status symbols go, first impressions as you approach Gilnockie Tower are of an exercise in modesty.
Appearances, though, can be deceiving - and that’s undeniably true in this case.
Gilnockie, global HQ for Clan Armstrong, is a treasure trove, flying the flag* for tribute and tradition spanning centuries of Borders history - not to mention a unique connection to man’s first steps on the moon.
Standing 44ft in height the building, originally known as Hollows Tower, was built around 1520 by Johnnie Armstrong, who rose to fame as a notorious Borders outlaw.
He and a number of his followers were hanged by James V in 1530 after being tricked into joining a hunting party - immortalised in the ballad ‘Johnnie Armstrong.’
The tower was on the wrong end of several English incursions during the reivers era, and was a roofless ruin when it was bought by Major Roy Armstrong Wilson who carried out major repairs and restoration work.
Waiting to welcome you is Tower manager and curator Ian Martin who said: “We have four floors celebrating Borders history and the Clan Armstrong. Each have been carefully designed and themed and we welcome people from all over the UK and around the world” he said.
Clan members record their visits with a numbered button pinned on maps of the world and names are kept in an official register.
The most famous Armstrong to cross the door at Gilnockie (before restoration) is Neil Armstrong, the man who took “one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
It changed hands again when businessman Colin Armstrong bought the building and opened Gilnockie Tower to the public, as the Historic Home of Clan Armstrong.
Further work to meet visitor centre safety standards and in 2018 Gilnockie Tower opened to the public.
It now houses the Clan Armstrong Museum and many artefacts relating to the clan are on display.
From the moment you step inside to a ground floor reception area you know you have arrived at a very special place.
He came to the tower with his wife Janet in March 1972 (right) while visiting nearby Langholm, where he had been conferred the Freedom of the Burgh of Langholm.
A specially designed and locally made ‘Lunar Tartan’ to commemorate Neil’s moon landing was presented to him and now hangs in the Armstrong Room at the tower.
Gilnockie, a popular venue for special events, social occasions and school visits.
It is currently working on three long-term projects to enhance visitor appeal.
“We want to carry out a detailed archaeological dig around the tower to find out more about what was here, to digitise the Clan Armstrong Archive and to renovate the Anglo-Scottish Reiver Trail taking in 20 different sites. The history on offer in this region is amazing and we want to share it,” said Ian.
*Throughout the year flags from 18 countries including the United States of America, South Africa, Australia and Brazil, are raised to mark the worldwide spread of the Armstrong Clan.
Weaving a magical tale of tartan at Lochcarron
For centuries Scotland and tartan have been weaving a tradition like no other.
A ban, following the 1745 Jacobite rebellion led by Bonnie Prince Charlie, was swept aside thanks to the efforts of best selling author and Borders champion Sir Walter Scott. He organised an official welcome to Edinburgh for George IV in 1822 that included a tartan outfit fit for a king.
Tartan has been in fashion ever since and the Borders region is famous for meeting international demand for the material.
And when it comes to tartan one name stands out - Lochcarron of Scotland - the world's leading manufacturer of tartan.
Based at Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, Lochcarron has kilted numerous celebrities over the years, from Shrek to Sean Connery and has woven fabrics for some of the world’s top fashion houses, including Vivienne Westwood, Ralph Lauren, Paul Smith, Burberry and Victoria Beckham to name but a few.
“We also provide a bespoke service that helps people to design their own kilts choosing from our vast range of authentic tartans.
“For those looking for something more personal we can help you design and register your own family, corporate or personal tartan, with our skilled team here to help you all the way,” said Lochcarron’s Marketing and e-commerce Manager Leah Robertson.
Lochcarron
King Charles III sported a newly designed tartan at the Braemar Gathering, woven using 100% Scottish wool at Lochcarron.
The fascinating story of tartan is captured in the outstanding new visitor centre at Lochcarron and production skills demonstrated during special tours of the factory.
"We can take parties of eight people at a time and these are available from Monday to Thursday. Our trained tour guide will take you around the whole process of how tartan is produced.
Visitor Centre
Roger Road, Selkirk, TD7 5DX
Opening times and more information about the Lochcarron experience at www.lochcarron.co.uk
Tel: 01750 726 100 e: visit@lochcarron.com
Paxton House Antique Fair
A successful launch at the beautiful Borders venue in June saw up to 70 dealers showcase antiques and collectibles.
The event attracted over 2,000 visitors.
The next fair will be held on August 16-18 from 10am to 5pm.
More information from Glam Racket Events at info@glamracketevents.co.uk or on 07881491951.
The Tweed Foundation is a charitable trust working to protect, improve and enhance the stocks of all native freshwater fish species within the River Tweed system. We are at the forefront in bringing a professional, scientific approach to fisheries management and are engaged in an extensive programme of biological monitoring, habitat enhancement and education
Tweed Foundation, Drygrange Steading, Melrose, Roxburghshire TD6 9DJ
Fun for all the family at Drumlanrig
There’s a fabulous feast of family fun on offer at this year’s Galloway County Fair.
Held at Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate in Thornhill, the two-day weekend event takes place on August 10 and 11 and has something for everyone.
Visitors can look forward to a top class entertainment, including skilled equestrian displays, thrilling two-wheel BMX performances, music acts, and a special appearance by an inspiring TV personality.
Chloe Fuller and her Super Spaniels, known from Crufts, This Morning, The One Show, and BBC Morning Live, will join the crowds at Galloway Country Fair.
After becoming disabled at 13, Chloe (right) trained her pet dog to be a canine carer, gaining a new sense of independence and a passion that evolved into a career.
She now presents TV shows and performs at events across the country.
The fun family show Drakes of Hazard will also be in the main ring. This hilarious show features skilled dogs and tenacious Indian Runner Ducks, with opportunities for children to participate.
The 2024 fair will also see the return of Birds of Prey to the main ring, with Falconry Days providing informative and entertaining falconry displays.
Her Super Spaniel Show features her spaniels in charming costumes, demonstrating the incredible abilities of assistance dogs.
In addition the main ring, sponsored by Lloyd Ltd, will also feature Ollie’s Equestrian - Oliver Phillips and his team of specialist riders and horses demonstrating their skills at trick riding and dressage.
A highlight of Saturday will be the Buccleuch & Queensberry Pipe Band starting proceedings, with the much-loved Drums N Roses performing later with an explosive close to the first day of the event.
On Sunday dog lovers will enjoy the dog show where four-legged friends can win a coveted rosette.
In addition to the main ring entertainment, Galloway Country Fair has a gundog scurry, stalls, food and craft marquee, delicious food stalls and demo kitchen, free Clydesdale carriage rides, a free family entertainment area, come and try fishing and clay pigeon shooting, 4x4 driving and more.
Defender Jam, the Land Rover lover’s festival, also returns for the third year bringing with them an outstanding display of Land Rovers, stalls, green-laning opportunities and more.
Ticket prices have been held since 2022 and include free car parking.
It’s a great family weekend with a fabulous line-up for 2024, with events that promise thrills, laughs and loads of fun.
“As ever there will be a huge amount to see and do in this big annual celebration of country and family life.
Anna Fergusson, Drumlanrig Country Estate Director
To make the most of the event visitors can incorporate it into a short break.
Drumlanrig offers deluxe self-catering properties, or there is the option of camping with pitches available for a one, two or three-night stay. Water, portable toilets and showers are all available on-site and dogs are welcome.
Discover the self-catering accommodation at www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk book online for camping at gallowaycountryfair.co.uk
Galloway County Fair
Drumlanrig Castle and County Estate, Thornhill Dumfries & Galloway, DG3
Tickets:
Adult £15 Children (6-16) £5
Family (two adults - two children) £35
Over 60 £10 Children under 5 FREE
Book in advance and save 10%
Times: Saturday, August 10 from 10am to 6pm Sunday, August 11 from 10am to 5pm
Ticket link: Ticket and Visitor Information at gallowaycountryfair.co.uk
There is no ATM at the fair and we cannot guarantee that vendors will accept cards. Tickets bought in advance can be used either day.
Pedal power on KC2C delivers tourism boost
It has become an inspirational challenge for the cycling world at large.
The Kirkpatrick C2C - a 250-mile route across the south of Scotland from Stranraer to Eyemouth - has become a national and international draw for cyclists since it opened last year.
Named after Kirkpatrick Macmillan, the 19th-Century Dumfriesshire blacksmith who invented the first pedal-driven velocipede, it is one of the longest coast to coast cycle routes in the UK.
The now fully signposted route celebrated an official launch in July at Langholm – a popular half-way stopping off point for cyclists.
Cyclists, business owners and tourism leaders from the local region joined David Hope-Jones, chief executive of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and John Galloway of Eskdale Hotel and Langholm Explore And Discover to mark the occasion.
It came hard on the heels of the new that the Scottish Borders will host the opening stage of this year’s Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men. The 20th edition of the modern race will get underway in Kelso on Tuesday, September 3.
In the year since the first cyclists started tackling the KC2C ride, the scenic route has seen businesses from across the region welcoming an influx of visitors seeking to explore the landscape of the South of Scotland on two wheels.
Kirkcudbright-based business
Trailbrakes Biking Holidays, which specialises in providing bespoke cycling tour adventures registered a significant rise in business.
Trailbrakes offers tours of the entire route or parts of the route, including accommodation, transport, maps, GPS and phone support.
Co-founders Pete Corson and Christine Finlay describe the route as “a great ride with very little traffic and great scenery,”
and report good reviews from customers.
Another business reporting increased cycle tourism since the first cyclists started attempting the route last summer is Ernespie Farm at Castle Douglas.
David McMiken, who runs the farm, cites the launch of the Kirkpatrick C2C route, as well as the increased popularity of cycling post-covid, as reasons for the rise in visitors arriving on bike.
Last year Ernespie Farm – which includes a farmhouse kitchen, garden centre, gift shop and soft play facilities –received support from South of Scotland Enterprise’s Cycling Infrastructure Fund to create a repair station with washing facilities and lockers for the increasing number of visiting cyclists.
“We want to shine a spotlight on the KC2C as a must-do challenge for road cyclists and on the South of Scotland as the place to be for cyclists across the UK and beyond,” said David.
Other businesses who have benefitted from the launch of the Kirkpatrick C2C route include the Eskdale Hotel in Langholm and Shepherd’s Rest campsite, where 30-50% of the guests are cyclists in an average week.
For adventurers looking to challenge themselves, the Kirkpatrick C2C can be tackled over four days, while the slower Explorer Route allows riders to immerse themselves in the beauty, heritage and charm of the South of Scotland, spending eight days completing the route.
Early projections prior to its July 2023 soft launch suggested the Kirkpatrick Coast 2 Coast could attract up to 175,000 new visitors to the region, with a direct spend of £13.7m per year.
The development of the route has been led by South of Scotland Enterprise alongside Dumfries and Galloway and Scottish Borders councils, South of Scotland Destination Alliance, VisitScotland and Sustrans.
It’s fantastic to hear such positive feedback, with businesses from Stranraer to Eyemouth benefitting from the increase in cycle visitors as a result of the new Kirkpatrick Coast 2 Coast route. Cycling is popular among some of our major European markets and is an important part of our national sustainable tourism ambitions.
We encourage visitors to choose active and greener travel options while planning a trip to Scotland and offer support and advice to businesses on how best to engage with this valuable market.
David Hope-Jones OBE Chief Executive of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance
We know a key factor in choosing Scotland as a holiday destination is our scenery and landscape, while around a third of visitors want to take part in outdoor activities. Cycling offers the best of both worlds. Visitors to the South of Scotland can take in the beautiful scenery along the many cycle routes or, for the more adventurous, at our world class mountain biking venues.
The 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships shone a spotlight on the South of Scotland as a leading global destination made for cycling, and new routes, such as the Kirkpatrick C2C, only serve to strengthen that position.
Gordon Smith Destination Development Director VisitScotland
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Way to go: (l-r): Julie Edwards a champion of the Breeze women’s cycling group, Christine Finlay from Trailbrakes Biking Holidays, Angela and George Crow from Hike & Bike Hub in Galashiels, and David Killean from Hawick Cycling Club.
Just the ticket for families catching a train for the Borders
Families in search of a fun and fascinating day out that won’t cost the earth are being urged to hop on board the Borders Railway for a time travelling adventure this summer.
As well as taking advantage of ScotRail’s popular Kids For A Quid offer, rail day-trippers can enjoy free child places at five fascinating major attractions in the Scottish Borders and Midlothian over the school summer holidays.
Check out the unmissable new virtual reality experience taking visitors 2000 years back in time to Roman Iron Age Scotland at Trimontium, or discover the Story of Coal right back to the Carboniferous period 360 million years ago at the National Mining Museum Scotland.
in tapestry form by 1,000 stitchers at The Great Tapestry of Scotland in Galashiels, featuring everything from Vikings, royalty, sport and innovation to religion, castles, abbeys and comedy.
Or take a guided tour to experience the splendour of the Georgian Arniston House and estate near Gorebridge, home to the Dundas family since 1571 and brimming with history, art and architectural highlights.
Wander the halls of Sir Walter Scott’s extraordinary Abbotsford estate near Tweedbank – and, while you are there, why not summon your courage to explore further at Witch Corner, a supernatural sculpture trail based on the Scottish legends and folklore which inspired the world famous 19th century novelist.
Feast your eyes on 420 million years of Scottish history and culture immortalised
Those taking advantage of the offer must simply show their rail tickets on arrival at the attraction – one child gets free entry for each paying adult.
ScotRail Tourism Manager, Alasdair Smart, said: “ScotRail is delighted to support the South of Scotland Destination Alliance to promote familyfriendly local attractions along the Borders Railway.
"Families looking for a great-value day out during the summer holidays can now combine ScotRail’s popular Kids for a Quid ticket promotion with free child entry to these attractions. All participating attractions are within easy reach of ScotRail stations on the Borders Railway, and families are reminded to keep hold their train ticket to claim free entry.”
“Midlothian Tourism Forum is thrilled to be working collaboratively with the SSDA and Scotrail to promote Midlothian's fantastic attractions to families visiting our region by public transport this summer.
We believe this joined-up approach will be a great success in encouraging more people to explore Midlothian using sustainable travel options.”
Liz Young Midlothian Tourism Forum
“The long summer holidays can be an expensive time for families, so it’s brilliant to work with some of Scotland’s best attractions offering the ‘Kids go free’ in addition to ScotRail’s ‘Kids for a Quid’ deal.
There’s never been a better time to explore the South of Scotland for a time-travelling experience! There’s something for everyone to experience and enjoy this summer.”
David Hope-Jones OBE, Chief Executive of the SSDA
National Park celebrations in Galloway
Campaigners have thanked the people of Galloway for the huge support they say has helped secure its selection as the preferred choice for Scotland’s new National Park.
The Scottish Government has announced that Galloway’s bid has been chosen from a shortlist of five locations across the country.
NatureScot will now carry out a consultation exercise across the region.
Rob Lucas, Chair of the Galloway National Park Association (above), said: “This is superb news for Galloway, its people, its environment and its economy. We have been campaigning for almost eight years for Galloway to be designated as a National Park for Scotland and this is a huge step forward.
“Today’s announcement is the result of the strong support we have received from thousands of members of the public along with businesses and from the local councils. We very much hope to see a new Galloway National Park come into being in 2026.
“Galloway has fantastic hills, mountains, moors and coastlines. What we don’t have have is the means to make the most of these fabulous assets and to reverse our economic decline by building a sustainable future which
generates jobs, tourism and business opportunities.
“A National Park would bring major investment and boost Galloway’s international profile as a wonderful place to live, work and visit,” he said.
Stranraer serves up a feast of fun for everyone
The full programme and celebrity chef line up for Stranraer Oyster Festival has been announced with Scotland’s wild, native oysters taking centre stage in a packed programme that celebrates regeneration and connection.
The much-loved festival, which takes just a short distance from the native oyster bed that inspired it, marks the start of the UK’s native oyster season. It has fast become one of the south of Scotland’s most successful events, attracting thousands of visitors to Stranraer each September.
The 2024 festival programme reunites two TV chef double acts – BBC’s Spice Kings Tony Singh and Cyrus Todiwala, and STV’s Hot Wok stars Julie Lin and Jimmy Lee.
Ecosystem and community regeneration are strong themes in this year’s festival. Loch Ryan’s native oyster beds are an ecological treasure and one of the most important oyster beds in Europe.
The Galloway bid was made in partnership with the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere(GSAB).
John Thomson, Acting Chair of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership, said: “For more than a decade now, the magic of this wonderfully diverse region has been recognised internationally through its designation as a UNESCO Biosphere.
“We are delighted that this global appreciation of its qualities is now being matched closer to home through Galloway’s selection as Scotland’s proposed third National Park.
“We are convinced that in combination, the two accolades can not only put the area firmly ‘on the map’ but also enable it to demonstrate even more effectively how people and nature can thrive together and model the sustainable future that must be the goal for us all."
Throughout the weekend people can enjoy water sports taster sessions.
Romano Petrucci, Chair of Stranraer Development Trust, the community organisation that organises the oyster festival, said: “We are so excited about the programme for Stranraer Oyster Festival this year. It’s immensely rich in talent, passion and inspiration, and strongly rooted in local place and local produce."
Stranraer Oyster Festival takes place from Friday 13th to Sunday 15th September 2024. Early Bird Weekend tickets cost £15, and Day Tickets cost from £6, with concessions available.
More information at ... www.stranraeroysterfestival.com
History trails
Join the legions and take a trip back in time at Trimontium
Ave! Techno-tourism has added a new dimension to enjoying the Roman experience at the Trimontium museum.
The fort and settlements established at the foothills of the Eildon Hills near Melrose (three of them, hence Trimontium) have been brought to life through a new virtual reality experience. Built around 79AD, Trimontium was the largest and longest occupied Roman fort in Scotland.
Living side-by-side with the troops were civilian settlements serving several thousands until the fort was abandoned around 180AD.
Today, the museum and local assets are kept alive and managed by a dedicated group of people brought together by the Trimontium Trust.
Their efforts have made the museum a popular destination for visitors to the Scottish Borders and last year it attracted over 10,000 visitors.
The new virtual reality centre, opened in June in a new Heritage Archaeology Landscape Observatory (HALO) lab, is receiving rave reviews.
The journey back in time starts with a breathtaking bird's eye view of the Eildon Hills - a 360 degree look at the surrounding countryside and communities as you have never seen them before.
Guiding you through the legion's march north into Scotland and the the strategic importance Trimontium established is your VR host, Centurion Lucius Maximus Gaetulicus (centre right) who was actually stationed at the fort.
lesson you'll not want to miss.
The museum itself, packed with artefacts and borders Roman history, is at the centre of regular events that include walks around the site.
Plans are being made to carry out further archaeological digs at the site - who knows what secrets are waiting to be discovered.
Turning the pages
Book Festival
The 2024 Wigtown Book Festival will open with an appearance by the legendary performance poet Pam Ayres and wind up by two of Scotland’s best-known actors, Alan Cumming and Forbes Masson.
The 10-day annual literary celebration, in Scotland's National Book Town (27 September to 6 October), will feature more than 250 events for all ages, with a host of well-known faces.
Among them are naturalist Kate Humble, comedian Janey Godley (right) singer and songwriter Cerys Matthews, novelist Irvine Welsh, Channel 4 International Editor Lyndsey Hilsum and Danny Robins (centre), host of the BBC's blockbuster paranormal podcast and TV series Uncanny.
The Coastal Fringe will invite visitors to experience beautiful Solway shoreline.
He takes viewers around the barracks, describing what life was like for the rank and file as well as the officer class, what was on the menu and essential facilities such as the baths and steam room.
The Trimontium Experience is a history
Market Square, Melrose
MUSEUM: For museum opening times and walks schedule please go to www.trimontium.co.uk MORE: info@trimontium.co.uk tel: 01835 342788
Children’s authors include Frank Cottrell Boyce, Strictly Come Dancing champion Hamza Yassin, and the winner of the Waterstones Childrens Book Award 2024, Pari Thomson.
New this year will be the introduction of a "festivalwithin-a-festival" dedicated to food, featuring three days of talks, interviews and demonstrations (4-6 October).
Guest programmer Coinneach MacLeod (aka the The Hebridean Baker) will be joined by
WBF artistic director, Adrian Turpin (below), said: “In an unprecedentedly challenging year for book festivals, we’re proud to present a programme that we hope will surprise, amuse and inspire audiences new and old.”
The festival will also be launching a new s ustainable transport initiative.
The programme also features music, theatre, debates, workshops and walks, including a tour of the dozen and more bookshops, led by Diary of a Bookseller author Shaun Bythell and Ben Please of The Bookshop Band. More information at www. wigtownbookfestival.com www.ssdalliance.com
Trimontium Museum
Masterchef finalist Sarah Rankin and Great British Bake Off winner Peter Sawkins.
Historic library writes its own success story
by David Pike
We don't know what the best sellers were in 1793 - the year Westerkirk Parish Library first opened it doors - but the headline literary names of the day included Rabbie Burns, William Wordsworth and William Blake.
They had picked up the torch from the likes of Samuel Johnson, Jonathan Swift and Alexander Pope and, no doubt, their books would have found their way to stand on the shelves at Westerkirk. But there was no way of knowing that Westerkirk itself had started the first chapter of an inspiring story that continues to unfold.
Today, some 231 years later, Westerkirk is thought to be the oldest library in Scotland still lending books.
It stands amid the rolling hills and valleys of Eskdalemuir a few miles north of Langholm, and is home to two centuries of literary and local history and parish records.
matched by admiration for the miners appetite for reading in those tough and distant times.
One of the library's most famous associations is with the world reknowned civil engineer Thomas Telford (below) who was born at Westerkirk in 1757.
He would go on to leave his mark on major developments in the world of civil engineering, building bridges, canals, roads and harbours.
The library began when the owners of the nearby Louisa antimony (a silvery, semi-metal) mine presented a collection of 23 books to the miners; a gesture that was recipricated with a donation of five shillings from each man to buy more. As an example in benevolence and community spirit Westerkirk stands tall,
He was also a great lover of books and on his death in 1834 Telford left £1,000 to Westerkirk Library, a donation topped up in 1851 by a further £1,700 from the residue of his estate.
The books bought with Telford's bequest were bound in leather and tooled in gold.
They now form part of a magnificent collection that pack the shelves at Westerkirk.
The current library building was built in 1863 at a cost of £600 from funds raised by public subscription.
The library records, going back to the first set of minutes, cover over 200 years of local life.
It makes Westerkirk a magnet for visitors from home and abroad seeking information about their forebears and piecing together family histories....but that's a story for another day.
Westerkirk Parish Library presents:
Alistair Moffat
Award winning Writer, Historian and former Director of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Director of Programmes at Scottish Television. He is the founder of Borders Book Festival. Alistair has written more than 30 books on the history of Scotland.
Join us at Westerkirk Parish Church to hear about his latest book Between Britain: Walking the History of England and Scotland
Saturday 17th August 6:30pm
Westerkirk Parish Church
Clockwise from top: The Westerkirk Parish Library building, an evening with novelist Alistair Moffat, leather bound tomes, and (left) library volunteers Jacqueline Little and Rowan Philips.
Reserve your seat by emailing: westerkirkparishlibrary@gmail.com or leave a VM on 01387370221. Books will be available to buy on the evening, but we can only accept cash due to poor WIFI and reception.
Refreshments provided. All Welcome. Whilst this is a free event a suggested donation of £5 would be greatly appreciated. Scottish Charity SC020308.
Thistle Awards
South of Scotland’s tourism ambassadors
Tourism providers throughout the south of Scotland are back on the awards trail.
After a highly successful inaugural event for Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders last year the region went on to scoop six national Thistle awards, smashing the previous regional record of three and making the South of Scotland the most successful on the night.
The shortlist for the South of Scotland’s dedicated regional Thistle AwardsScotland’s leading tourism and events industry accolades - has been unveiled alongside a brand-new award category.
The announcement, from the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) today announced a list of 30 tourism businesses, events and individuals –including over 20 new entrants – in the running for the prestigious awards.
They were selected from a pool of over 100 entries from across the region.
Of the finalists, three have been shortlisted for the Rising Star Award, a brand-new award category for 2024, that aims to recognise the emerging talent shaping the future of tourism and hospitality in the region.
category as well as the Celebrating Thriving Communities category, going head-to-head with All Roads Lead to Whithorn in Whithorn.
Meanwhile, Gather near Gatehouse of Fleet is once again shortlisted for the Best Eating Experience accolade, alongside The Globe Inn in Dumfries and Knockinaam Lodge Hotel in Portpatrick.
In the running for the Best Visitor Attraction category are Gretna Green Ltd in Gretna Green; Robert Smail’s Printing Works in Innerleithen; The Whithorn Trust in Whithorn, all new entrants to this year’s South of Scotland Thistles Awards.
The South of Scotland Thistle Awards, delivered by the South of Scotland
In the running for the new award category are Kylah Anderson from Barend Holiday Lodges in Dalbeattie, Lizzie Koronka from New Town Hall Bunk House in Wigtown and Thania Meneses Flores from Trimontium Museum in Melrose.
Trimontium Museum also features in the shortlist for the Inclusive Tourism Award
On the trophy trail ...the Thistle Awards shortlist
Best B&B or Guest House Experience
Inglestone House Guest House, Kelso
Queensberry House B&B, Moffat
Best Bar or Pub
The Beagle Country Pub, Dalbeattie Cross Keys Inn, Ettrickbridge
Best Eating Experience
Gather, Laggan, Gatehouse of Fleet
The Globe Inn, Dumfries
Knockinaam Lodge Hotel, Portpatrick
Best Hotel Experience
The Cairndale Hotel & Spa, Dumfries
Gretna Hall Hotel, Gretna Green
The Ship Inn, Gatehouse of Fleet
Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience
Beirhope Alpacas, Hownam near Kelso Glentress, by Peebles
Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise and VisitScotland, with headline sponsor Caledonia Park Designer Outlet, will take place at the Peebles Hydro on the 3rd of October later this year.
Spearheaded at national level by VisitScotland, in collaboration with regional partners, the 2024 Thistle Awards commemorate the 30th anniversary of the esteemed Scottish Thistle Awards Programme.
Mostly Ghostly Tours, Thornhill
Best Self-Catering or Unique Stay
Five Turrets, Selkirk
Grobdale of Girthon, Laurieston
The Outdoor Hotel, Dumfries
Best Visitor Attraction
Gretna Green Ltd, Gretna Green
Robert Smail’s Printing Works, Innerleithen
The Whithorn Trust, Whithorn
Celebrating Thriving Communities
All Roads Lead to Whithorn, Whithorn
Trimontium Museum, Melrose
Inclusive Tourism Award
Trimontium Museum, Melrose
Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival
Alchemy Film and Arts, Hawick
Borders Book Festival, Melrose
Upland Arts Development CIC (Spring Fling), Dumfries and Galloway
Wigtown Book Festival, Wigtown
Rising Star Award
Kylah Anderson - Barend Holiday Lodges, Dalbeattie
Lizzie Koronka - New Town Hall Bunk House, Whithorn
Thania Meneses Flores – Trimontium Museum, Melrose
Tourism Individual of the Year
Kirsty Archer-Thompson - Abbotsford, Melrose
Monteviot prepares
Prepare to be enchanted once again this winter as Monteviot Lights returns to Monteviot House & Gardens.
Illuminating the natural beauty of the Scottish Borders the event is to take place on nine dates between December 6th to December 22nd, 2024.
This captivating spectacle promises to be even bigger and better than last year, creating an even more magical experience for families and visitors of all ages.
Monteviot Lights is not just another light show; it's a unique opportunity to witness a lighting and audio spectacle in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Unlike traditional light installations, Monteviot Lights embraces the natural backdrop of Monteviot Gardens, accentuating the beauty of nature itself.
Visitors are in for a treat, with an unforgettable evening of wonder and enchantment.
The outdoor illuminated journey unfolds within Monteviot House's spectacular gardens as dusk settles over the historic grounds.
Once again, starting at Harestanes Visitor Centre, visitors will follow a 1.5km route through beautifully lit gardens and woods.
Creative lighting brings nature to life, complemented by breathtaking soundscapes.
Pass through the magic doorway to encounter a symphony of twinkling lights, casting a spellbinding glow. Each step reveals a new spectacle, inviting you to immerse yourself in the ethereal ambience.
Follow the illuminated pathway winding through the grounds, leading to a captivating winter fairytale. Visitors are invited to take their time and to enjoy locally sourced food and drink also available at the event.
Monteath Mausoleum
Public Open Days
Guided tours of this hidden gem in the Scottish Borders are to take place from 10am to 4pm on the following days ...
Sunday 4th August
Sunday 25th August
Monday 26th August
Sunday 8th September
The mausoleum is just off the A68, 3 miles north of Ancrum. The site is open for cyclists and walkers.
A key to the crypt is available from Ancrum Pantry, Ancrum, Jedburgh or the Lilliardsedge Holiday Park, Jedburgh, for a small fee.
More information at our website www.friendsofthemonteathmausoleum.org.uk
