December 2015 What's on in the Cairngorms National Park

What’s On DECEMBER | FREE

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Local Story: Christmas Celebrations Special Offers!

Events: Over 150 this month

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1 What’s On. . . . . . . . . . . . .

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1 Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 1 Local Stories. . . . . . . . . . . . 14

What’s On in december

1 To Do. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 1 Accommodation. . . . . . . . . . 19 1 Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 1 Eat and Drink . . . . . . . . . . . 20 The What’s On guide is also available online at www.visitcairngorms.com

Published by and all advertising sales Cairngorms Business Partnership Tel: 01479 810200. info@visitcairngorms.com www.visitcairngorms.com Event calendar on your smartphone at m.visitcairngorms.com

To help you make the most of your time here we’ve put together an essential guide packed with what’s happening in the area. We’ve got some great ideas for things to do, places to see, where to eat and drink, and places to stay.

December brings a festive feel to the air in the Cairngorms National Park. Shop local and do your Christmas Shopping at one of the many Christmas Fair’s. Take the little ones along to the Reindeer Centre to see the magic at work. Enjoy a Highland Hospice Hooley on the 11th at Carrbridge or a Santa Run for Disability Snowsport on the 19th both raising money for very good causes. Don’t miss one of the magical Christmas Parades in Grantown, Ballater, Aviemore, Kingussie or Newtonmore as Santa and the reindeer drop in for carols and good cheer. Finally see the New Year in with torchlight processions in Nethy Bridge, Kingussie and Newtonmore or take in a Highland Hogmanay Ceilidh in Grantown, Kincraig, Aviemore or Boat of Garten. If you are lucky catch some fireworks as they light up the sky to welcome in 2016.

The What’s On Team would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Produced by Landmark Press Carrbridge www.landmark-press.com Tel: 01479 841900.

Photo credits: Front cover image: Alex Smith, Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.

Photography: Atholl Estates & Blair Castle, Fergus Thom Wee Epics, Robin McConnell, Cairngorm Hotel & Strathspey Steam Railway.

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elcome to the Cairngorms National Park and the December edition of What’s On, the free monthly events guide.

december 2015

Contents

*Smartphone users*: Put The Park In Your Pocket: Download the Cairngorms National Park App for FREE today!

Visit www.visitcairngorms.com/app for more details.

The Cairngorms National Park has something for everyone.

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what’s on in december

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ou are in an all year round destination with lots going on.

Use the listings to plan your fun! The Events list outlines exhibitions and events of interest over more than one day, the Calendar section gives you a day by day list of events and Day

by Day shows regular events. For more information on all the events below please refer to www.visitcairngorms.com/whatson

Calendar of Events

Events of Interest

what’s on december 2015

5th-6th, 12th-13th, 18th-24th December

Sunday 29th November

Ballater Winter Festival with Ice Rink, Santa’s Grotto, Bouncy Castle & more Church Green, Ballater. 11am-9pm.

T: 01339 755018.

Ballater Farmers Market 5th-6th, 12th-13th, 19th-20th, & Christmas Market 24th, 26th, 29th December Church Green, Ballater.

11am-4pm.

Pantomime Aladdin Macdonald Aviemore Resort. 2-4pm.

Pantomime Aladdin T: 01479 815205.

Macdonald Aviemore Resort. 2-4pm. www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk T: 01479 815205. www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk 26th-27th, 30th-31st A history of the Braemar December, 1-3rd January Mountain Rescue Team Mince Pie Specials Braemar Village Hall. 7.30-9pm.

Strathspey Railway, Aviemore Station.

T: 01339 741511.

11am & 2pm. T: 01479 810 725. www.braemarlhg.com www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk Christmas Fun Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, Glenmore, Aviemore. 10am-5pm.

T: 01479 861228. www.cairngormreindeer.co.uk

17th-19th & 26th December Jack & the Beanstalk Panto Braemar Village Hall, 7.30pm.

(Also 2.30pm on 19th & 26th) T: 01339 741439. broombank@btconnect.com

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Monday 30th November Make Music Together (5 Week Course) Kingussie High School. 7-9pm.

T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net Winter Cookery Mondays (5 Week Course) Kingussie High School.

6.30-9.30pm. T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net

What’s On

Tuesday 1st December Winter Cookery Tuesdays (5 Week Course) Kingussie High School.

6.30-9.30pm. T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net Introduction to Conversational Gaelic (5 week course) Badenoch Library, Kingussie.

7-9pm. T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net Live Music with Fred Morrison Winter Tour The Badenoch Centre, Kingussie.

7.30pm. www.kingussie.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd December F Service of l

Remembering St Columba’s Church, Boat of Garten.

7-7.30pm. T: 01479 831548.

F Live Entertainment l with Davy Holt, Singer Guitarist Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

9.30pm.

Thursday 3rd December Christmas Shopping Evening Braemar Gallery. 5-8pm. www.braemargallery.co.uk F Service of l Remembering Duthil Church, Carrbridge.

7-7.30pm. T: 01479 831548. sheilad.wallace@gmail.com

Friday 4th December Community Cafe Grantown Community Centre.

10am-2pm. T: 01479 872262. grantowncommunitycentre@gmail. com

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with Anne Dickson & Calum Beange Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

9.30pm.

Live Music with Clype Glenbuchat Hall, Strathdon. 7.30pm.

T: 01975 641303. www.facebook.com/glenbuchathall

Saturday 5th December Christmas Coffee Morning Laggan Village Hall. 10am-12pm.

T: 01528 544366.

Aviemore Primary School Winter Craft Fair Aviemore Community Centre, 10am-12pm.

Winter Guided Tour Balmoral Castle, Crathie. Tours from 11am. T: 01339 742534. www.balmoralcastle.com Aviemore Tiny Tots Pre-Loved Sale Aviemore British Legion. 1-3pm.

T: 07766 666933. aviemoretinytots@hotmail.co.uk

Newtonmore Shinty Club Lunch & Sale Newtonmore Village Hall. 1pm. iangibson12@btinternet.com Christmas Party Night with the Jersey Tones Aviemore Macdonald Resort.

7.30pm. Booking essential.

T: 01479 815196. www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk F Bicyle Thieves l Royal British Legion, Grantown on Spey. 9pm. T: 01479 820690.

Sunday 6th December F Hands On Conservation l

Ranger Event Glen Tanar Visitor Centre, Ballater.

10am-4pm. T: 01339 886072. ranger@glentanar.co.uk F Newtonmore & District l Floral Art Club Christmas Show Talla Nan Ros, Kingussie.

10am-5pm. T: 07926 728186.

Big Tree Walk Details on booking, Nethy Bridge.

10am-12pm. T: 07710 387510. alison.greggans@rspb.org.uk

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F Ballater Boules l

Challenge Monaltrie Park, Ballater. 10.30am. www.ballaterboules.weebly.com F Kingussie Christmas l Funday Throughout Kingussie. 12-5pm.

T: 01540 661506. www.kingussie.co.uk F The Wildlife of the l Angus Glens & the Ranger’s Role Talk Glen Doll Ranger Base, By Kirriemuir.

2-3.30pm. T: 01575 550233.

GlenDollRanger@angus.gov.uk

Monday 7th December Winter Cookery Mondays (5 Week Course) Kingussie High School.

6.30-9.30pm. T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net Illustrated Talk: The Highland Wildlife Park ‘Outside the Fence’ Boat of Garten Community Hall, F Free Entry to Event l

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F Live Entertainment l

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7.30pm. T: 01479 831123. www.facebook.com/ BoatofGartenCommunityHall

what’s on december 2015

Tuesday 8th December Winter Cookery Tuesdays (5 Week Course) Kingussie High School.

6.30-9.30pm. T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net Inverallan Old Time Dancing Inverallan Church Hall, Grantown on Spey. 7.30-10pm.

T: 01479 851353.

Saturday 12th December

Wednesday 9th December F Live Entertainment l

Highland Hospice Hooley & Dinner Carrbridge Hotel, 8pm. Tickets from Hotel, The Wishing Well, Grantown or Boat of Garten P.O. T: 01479 841202.

F Iain Morrison Band l The Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore.

8.30pm. T: 01479 811137.

F Live Entertainment l with George Gordon Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

9.30pm.

Party Night Glen Clova Hotel. T: 01575 550350.

F Make your own l

Christmas decorations Spittal of Glen Muick Visitor Centre, Ballater. 10am-12pm.

T: 01339 755059.

F Grantown Primary l Christmas Fayre with Santa’s Grotto Grantown Primary School.

11am-2pm. T: 01479 872525.

Balmoral Christmas Sale Thursday 10th December Balmoral Castle, Crathie. 11am.

Boathouse Winter T: 01339 742534.

Sessions: Illustrated Talk www.balmoralcastle.com with Roy Henderson Boathouse Restaurant, BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Nominees ‘RANT’ Loch Insh, Kincraig. 7.30-9pm.

T: 01540 651272. www.lochinsh.com Accoustic Winter Concert Talla nan Ròs, Kingussie. 3-5pm.

Friday 11th December www.rantfiddles.com Community Cafe Christmas Party Night: Movie Mania Grantown Community Centre.

Aviemore Macdonald Resort. 7.30pm.

10am-2pm. T: 01479 872262. grantowncommunitycentre@gmail.com Booking essential. T: 01479 815196. www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk Festive Party Night F The Banana Sessions Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. l The Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore.

7/7.30pm. www.cairngorm.com 8.30pm. T: 01479 811137.

F Free Entry to Event l www.oldbridgeinn.co.uk with Davy Holt, Singer Guitarist Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Live Music with Fred Morrison Deeside Inn, Ballater. 7.30pm.

T: 01339 755413. www.visitroyaldeeside.com

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What’s On

F Disco with DJ Paul l

Mackay Royal British Legion Strathspey, Grantown on Spey. 9pm.

T: 01479 820690.

F Live Entertainment l with Davy Holt Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

T: 01479 810233.

F Live Music with ‘Gilly’ l The Winking Owl, Aviemore. 10pm.

T: 01479 812368. www.thewinkingowl.co

Sunday 13th December Christingle Service St Columba’s Church, Boat of Garten.

10-11am. T: 01479 831252.

Christmas at the Castle & Step into Santa’s Grotto Blair Castle, Blair Atholl.

10am-3pm. T: 01796 481207. www.blair-castle.co.uk Christmas Sunday Lunches in the Ballroom with Roaring Fires Blair Castle, Blair Atholl.

12-3pm. T: 01796 481207. www.blair-castle.co.uk Christmas Carol Concert Blair Castle, Blair Atholl. 7-8pm.

T: 01796 481207. www.blair-castle.co.uk F l

Monday 14th December Winter Cookery Mondays (5 Week Course) Kingussie High School.

6.30-9.30pm. T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net Ballater & Crathie Community Council Mike Sheridan Room in the Victoria & Albert Halls, Ballater. 7-10pm.

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Tuesday 15th December Christmas Community Lunch Boat of Garten Community Hall.

12.30-1.30pm. T: 01479 831123. www.facebook.com/ BoatofGartenCommunityHall The Boat Reel Neighbourhood Cinema: It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) | 125 min Boat of Garten Community Hall.

2/2.30pm. T: 01479 831123. www.facebook.com/ BoatofGartenCommunityHall Winter Cookery Tuesdays (5 Week Course) Kingussie High School.

6.30-9.30pm. T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net

F Live Entertainment l

with Anne Dickson & Calum Beange Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Saturday 19th December

Pine Cone Christmas Crafts Loch Garten Osprey Centre, Boat of Garten. 10am-3pm.

T: 07710 387510.

Aviemore Santa Run for Disability Snowsport Aviemore Macdonald Resort, Aviemore.

10.30am-1pm. T: 01479 861272. www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk F Christmas Fayre l Grantown Community Centre.

11am-3pm. T: 01479 872262. grantowncommunitycentre@gmail. com Strathspey Thistle v Inverurie Loco Works Highland League Football Match Wednesday 16th December Seafield Park, Grantown on Spey.

F Live Entertainment 3pm. www.strathspeythistlefc.co.uk l with Davy Holt, Singer F Boathouse Winter l Guitarist Sessions: Live Music with Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm. Ailsa Villegas Boathouse Restaurant, Friday 18th December Loch Insh, Kincraig. 7-10pm.

Community Cafe T: 01540 651272. www.lochinsh.com Grantown Community Centre.

Festive Party Night 10am-2pm. T: 01479 872262.

Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. grantowncommunitycentre@gmail.com 7/7.30pm. www.cairngorm.com F Boat of Garten l Christmas Party Night: Christmas Market 70s Disco Fever Boat of Garten Community Hall.

Aviemore Macdonald Resort.

4-7pm. T: 01479 831123.

7.30pm. Booking essential. www.facebook.com/ T: 01479 815196.

BoatofGartenCommunityHall www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk Festive Party Night F Live Entertainment l Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. with Davy Holt Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

7/7.30pm. www.cairngorm.com www.visitcairngorms.com

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F Live Music with ‘Gilly’ l

The Winking Owl, Aviemore.

10pm. T: 01479 812368. www.thewinkingowl.co Party Night Glen Clova Hotel.

T: 01575 550350.

Christmas Party Night with ABBA Carrbridge Hotel.

T: 01479 841202.

Sunday 20th December F Christingle Service l

St Kentigerns, Ballater. 9.30am.

T: 01339 755726. www.stkentigernsballater.aodiocese. org.uk Christmas at the Castle & Step into Santa’s Grotto Blair Castle, Blair Atholl.

10am-3pm. T: 01796 481207. www.blair-castle.co.uk Christmas Sunday Lunches in the Ballroom with Roaring Fires Blair Castle, Blair Atholl. 12-3pm.

T: 01796 481207. www.blair-castle.co.uk F Ballater Churches Nine l Lessons & Carols Golf Road, Ballater. 4pm.

T: 01330 822835.

F Service of Carols l & Lessons Kincardine Church, By Auchgourish, Boat of Garten.

6-7pm. T: 01479 831252.

Shooglenifty The Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore.

8.30pm. T: 01479 811137. www.oldbridgeinn.co.uk

what’s on december 2015

T: 01339 755345. www.ballaterandcrathie.org.uk

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F Christmas Parade l

Monday 21st December F Carol Singing & l

Christingle Service Duthil Church, Carrbridge. 6.30pm Carols outside & 7-8pm Service.

T: 01479 841525.

Tuesday 22nd December

what’sthings on december to do 2015

Christmas Carols around the tree followed by mince pies and mulled wine Opposite Nethy Bridge Stores, Nethy Bridge. 6.30pm. nethybridge.com@gmail.com

Wednesday 23rd December Reindeer Torchlight Procession Craiglynne Hotel to The Square, Grantown on Spey. 7pm.

Thursday 24th December F Father Christmas l

& Reindeer Visit Glenmuick Church Green, Ballater.

11am-12pm. T: 01339 755345. www.visitballater.com Mulled Wine & Mince Pie Stall Aviemore Christmas Parade, Winking Owl Car Park, Aviemore. 6pm.

F Aviemore Christmas l Parade featuring Santa & Reindeer Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

Parade leaves Medical Centre 6pm.

T: 01479 810233.

F Carols & Fireworks l after Parade Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

6.30pm.

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featuring Santa & Reindeer The Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie. From 6.30pm. www.kingussie.co.uk F Newtonmore Christmas l Parade featuring Santa & Reindeer Newtonmore Main Street. 8.30pm.

Live Band ‘Tweed’ Cairn Hotel, Carrbridge. 9.30pm.

T: 01479 841362. www.cairnhotel.co.uk F Christmas Watch Night l Service St Columba’s Church, Boat of Garten. 9.45-10.30pm.

T: 01479 831252.

F Christmas Eve Watch l Night Service Duthil Church, Carrbridge.

11pm-12am. T: 01479 831252.

F Watch Night Service l

by Candlelight Abernethy Parish Church.

11.15pm.

Christmas Eve Mass St Nathalan’s Roman Catholic Church.

7.30pm. T: 01330 822835.

Saturday 26th December Live Entertainment with Keith Mair Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

9.30pm.

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Sunday 27th December F Ballater Boules l

Challenge Monaltrie Park, Ballater. 10.30am www.ballaterboules.weebly.com

Monday 28th December Skimo Scotland Ski Mountaineering Event Lecht 2090 Ski Centre, Strathdon.

3pm. www.skimoscotland.co.uk F Cairngorms Cèilidh Trail l The Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore.

8.30pm. T: 01479 811137. www.oldbridgeinn.co.uk

Tuesday 29th December Big Quiz £300 Prize Money Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

8.30pm. www.cairngorm.com

Friday 25th December F Christmas Day Family l

Service St Columba’s Church, Boat of Garten.

10-11am.

F Christmas Day Family l Service Abernethy Parish Church. 11am.

F Christmas Day Family l Service Duthil Church, Carrbridge.

11.30am-12.30pm.

T: 01479 831252.

What’s On

MAKE SURE

‘WHAT’S ON’ KNOWS

WHAT’S ON! Contact Sarah at info@visitcairngorms.com or register your event online at www.visitcairngorms.com/ whatson to get your events in Copy deadline 8th of December for January 2016 edition.

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Hogmanany Torch Light Procession, Ceilidh & Fireworks Lynstock Crescent 6.30pm to Community Centre, Nethy Bridge.

7pm for Ceilidh. Fireworks 9.30pm.

Tickets (limited so buy in advance) T: 07753 362352.

Hogmanay Banquet Gathering The Boathouse Restaurant, Loch Insh, Kincraig. 7pm-1am.

T: 01540 651272. www.lochinsh.com Hogmanay Dinner Dance with Ceilidh Band & Late Night Disco Macdonald Aviemore Resort. 7.30pm.

Booking essential. T: 01479 815196.

Kincraig Shinty Club’s Hogmanay Ceilidh with Jim Mackay Ceilidh Band Kincraig Community Hall. 9pm-1am.

Doors open 8pm. T: 01540 651325.

Hogmanay Ceilidh with Eabhal Boat of Garten Community Hall.

8pm-12.30am. T: 01479 831123. www.facebook.com/ BoatofGartenCommunityHall Hogmanay Dance Royal British Legion, Grantown on Spey. 9pm-2am. Tickets T: 01479 820690. rblsstrathspey@btconnect.com Live Ceilidh with ‘Ceilidh Clarkson’ Glen Clova Hotel. 9pm.

T: 01575 550350.

F Hogmanay Celebrations l with Shetland Ceilidh Band, Pipers & Fireworks The Square, Grantown on Spey.

11pm-1am.

Torchlight Parade, Music & Fireworks Glen Hotel, Balavil Hotel to Golf Course, Newtonmore. 11.30pm.

F Kingussie Hogmanay l Parade & Fireworks Parade from Railway Station to Ardvonie Park. 11.30pm.

Fireworks 12am.

T: 01540 660506.

F Festive Fireworks l Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

12am.

Friday 1st January F New Year’s Day l

Walk: Wildcat Trail, Newtonmore The Wildcat Centre, Main Street, Newtonmore. Register between 10am-12pm. 10am-3pm.

T: 01540 673131. wildcatnewtonmore@btinternet.com Kingussie Shinty Festival Veterans Match The Market Stance, Kingussie. 1pm. www.kingussie.co.uk The New Distillery Ceilidh Band Victoria & Albert Halls, Ballater. 7.30pm. www.victoriaandalberthalls.co.uk Live Band ‘Heidrum’ Glen Clova Hotel. 9pm.

T: 01575 550350

Saturday 2nd January Strathspey Thistle v Deveronvale Highland League Football Match Seafield Park, Grantown on Spey.

3pm. www.strathspeythistlefc.co.uk

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Every Day in December Every Monday F Braemar Health Walk l

Group Under the Mews, Braemar. 10-11am.

T: 013397 41426.

Grantown Bridge Club Wheatley Hall, Grantown on Spey.

6.50-10pm. T: 01479 873113. www.bridgewebs.com/grantownonspey Cash Bingo Royal British Legion, Grantown on Spey. 7.50pm.

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

F Live Music with l Raymond Chuchuk Ballroom & Latin Dancing Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Live Music with l Graeme Mackay on Accordion Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

9.30pm.

Every Tuesday

what’s on december 2015

F New Year’s Eve l

Thursday 31st December

Grantown on Spey Health Walk Curling Rink Car Park, Anagach Woods. 10.30am-11.30am.

T: 01479 841233.

F Nethy Bridge Health l Walk Group Meet by Community Centre, Dell Road, Nethy Bridge.

1-2pm. T: 07519 569005. www.cairngormsoutdooraccess.org.uk F Ballater Health Walk l Group Glenmuick Church Hall, Ballater.

1-2pm. T: 01339 755634.

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what’sthings on december to do 2015

Cairngorm Bridge Club St John’s Church Hall, Rothiemurchus.

6.45pm. T: 01479 821435.

Ballater Bridge Club Mike Sheridan Room in the Victoria & Albert Halls, Ballater. 7-10pm.

T: 01339 755308.

F Live Music with l Kenny Nairn Singer & Accordionist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

Quiz Night Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

9.30-11pm.

Every Wednesday F Boat of Garten Health l

Walk Boat Hotel. 1.30-2.30pm.

T: 01479 831562.

Rotary Club of Spey Valley Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

6-8.15pm. T: 01479 810233. www.speyvalley.rotary1010.org Let’s Linedance Inverallan Church Hall, Grantown on Spey. 7-9pm. T: 07541 372524.

F Live Music with George l Gordon Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

8pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Live Entertainment l with Davy Holt Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

9.30pm.

F Woodshed Wednesday l Woodshed Bar, Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

T: 01479 810661.

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Every Thursday F Kingussie Health Walk l

Badenoch Centre. 10.30-11.30am.

T: 01540 661878.

F Carrbridge Health Walk l The Old Bridge. 11am-12pm.

T: 01479 841749.

Improvers Duplicate Bridge Afternoon Wheatley Hall, Grantown on Spey.

1.30-4.30pm. T: 01479 873113. www.bridgewebs.com/grantownonspey F Aviemore Health Walk l Papa Rock, Aviemore. 1.30-2.30pm.

T: 01479 810519.

The Killiecrankies Cabaret Band Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

8.30-11pm. T: 01540 661302. (not 31st) F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

F Jammin Night l Ghillies Lounge Bar, Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie. 9pm-12am.

T: 01540 661302. (not 31st) F Live Music with Band l ‘Tweed’ Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm. (not 31st)

Every Friday Glen Tanar Health Walk Glen Tanar Visitor Centre Car Park, Dinnet. 10-11.30am.

T: 013398 86072. (not 25th).

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

Live Music with Carl Wilson Singer & Guitarist F l

What’s On

Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

8.30-11pm. T: 01540 661302. (not 25th Dec or 1st Jan) F Live Music l The Woodshed Bar, Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 9pm.

Every Saturday F Music in the Forest l

Pine Marten Bar, Glenmore, Aviemore. 7.30pm.

T: 01479 861253.

F Live Music with George l Gordon Macdonald Spey Valley Golf & Country Club, Aviemore. 8-11pm.

T: 01479 811244.

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

Live Music with Nigel Dyson Singer & Guitarist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302. (not 26th Dec or 2nd Jan) F Live Music l Woodshed Bar, Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 9pm.

Every Sunday Live Music Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

8.30pm.

F Live Music with Ronnie l Douglas Accordionist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

F l

Details correct at time of going to press - please note events may change.

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The Cairngorms National Park means so many things to so many people.

If you have a good story or would like to tell us why you love the Park, let us know so we can share it!

Email Sarah info@visitcairngorms.com

map

See www.visitcairngorms.com for more information on each of the villages in the area.

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December Celebrations

local stories things to do

he days are shorter, the nights darker and the weather colder; attributes that give December its own appeal. Think cosying up in front of a roaring fire, looking upwards at an inky sky glittering with twinkling stars or feeling childish excitement as the first snowflakes fall from the heavens. We can’t guarantee you perfect winter conditions but the Cairngorms National Park has a wealth of things to experience, both indoors and out, during the last month of the year.

Winter is a time to appreciate new aspects of the great outdoors. Take part in a Big Tree Walk (6th) in Nethy Bridge (The Forest Village) to celebrate National Tree Week. For the more adventurous, why not join John Muir Trust members and the Rangers (6th) at Glen Tanar Visitor Centre, Ballater and try some practical, hands-on conservation work. If you prefer to learn about the work of a ranger from the comfort of indoors you may be interested in a talk on ‘The Wildlife of the Angus Glens and the Ranger’s Role’ which takes place that afternoon at Glen Doll Ranger Base, by Kirriemuir.

Muick Visitor Centre, Ballater (12th) or the following Saturday (19th) join in Christmas craft making fun, featuring pine cones, at Loch Garten Osprey Centre, Boat of Garten.

At this time of year we are reminded of causes that rely on donations and fund raising activities. A fund raising Christmas Coffee Morning in Laggan (5th) is an opportunity to buy some original crafts and festive fare while helping to raise funds for Laggan Forest Trust. And what about a Fun Run with a festive twist? Take part in or support the Aviemore Santa Run on 19th Dec. This is a 1 mile or 5k run in aid of Disability Snowsport UK; the only Naturally a focus of December is the run up stipulation for entry is that you run dressed to Christmas and one annual landmark is the as Santa! switching on of festive lights in towns and Of course this is a time when the ‘real’ villages. There are always craft events too Santa is very busy indeed although he is where you can have a go at making your always happy for you to visit him in his own Christmas decorations. You can try Grotto. Surely one with the most dramatic your hand at doing just that at Spittal of Glen of settings is Blair Castle, Blair Atholl. The castle in winter is decorated for Christmas as it would have been in Victorian times and you may even witness Santa playing the pipes - yes a bagpipe playing Santa! Of course Santa will be making an appearance at many spots across the Cairngorms National Park. Wherever there is a Christmas Parade you are likely to find him - and his reindeer.

Santa’s diary usually includes Grantown’s Street Parade (23rd) and despite a busy night ahead he finds time to be part of Aviemore’s Parade on Christmas Eve.

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There will be appearances in Kingussie and Newtonmore too that evening. In the East of the Park embrace the seasonal atmosphere with a visit to Balmoral Castle’s winter sale (12th) ahead of Santa’s visit to Ballater on Christmas Eve. The star of the show however is not always Santa! His sleigh is drawn by his four legged friends from the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.

There are particular characters in the herd that are comfortable appearing in public; indeed they love being the centre of attention and are quite happy to be fussed over.

And that takes us to Hogmanay. Every town and village has its own gathering points and ways of celebrating the end of one year and welcoming in the new.

Private and organised parties, neighbourly get-togethers, and community celebrations go hand-in-hand and illustrate the diversity of Hogmanay. You may encounter and enjoy any or all of these; a ceilidh, live music, piping, dancing, fireworks at the bells, a rendition of Auld Lang Syne, a dram or two and First Footers. One of the area’s highlights and which draws one of the largest Hogmanay crowds in the Highlands is the Party in the Square in Grantown-onSpey where locals and visitors mingle to see in the New Year. Earlier in the evening you could be part of a Torchlight Procession in Nethy Bridge being led by a piper round the village before enjoying music and mulled wine.

Wherever you are this December, whatever your plans, the What’s On team wish you an entertaining month, a cheerful Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

local stories

the National Park, there are Watchnight Services that offer a warm welcome to residents and visitors alike.

For details and timings of the events mentioned, as well as many others, see page 4, local press and visit the events Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without pages at www.visitcairngorms.com music. Yes there are parties aplenty with dancefloor favourites and live music in bars and hotels but it is also a time for seasonal, traditional music and carols. An evening of Christmas Carols in the Ballroom of Blair Castle (13th & 20th) sounds inviting.

There is the intriguingly named ‘Christingle’ Service of Carols and Candles at St Columba’s Church Boat of Garten 10am (13th) and for a truly atmospheric setting, come along to the Service of Carols and Lessons at historic Kincardine Church (20th).

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to do

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here’s a whole host of things to do in the Cairngorms National Park and more and more people are discovering just how special this place is.

There are so many ways to make the most of our beautiful surroundings so what are you waiting for?

See www.visitcairngorms.com for more ideas and offers.

Aviemore | Boat of Garten | Broomhill

Experience a scenic vintage trip in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park Christmas Dining Specials 9-18 December Mince Pie Specials 26 December-2 January

to do

Gift Shops

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Book online: www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk or 01479 810725

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Ski & Snowboard Lessons from £50 Email us at: enquiries@free-ski.co.uk Tel: 07495 028 578

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Free-Ski

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to do

accommodation

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e have a superb choice of quality accommodation in the area. Use the accommodation finder on www.visitcairngorms.com to help plan your trip and keep an eye on the special offers page for last minute deals and great savings.

Great North Lodges

silverglades

holiday homes

Group of luxury self catering lodges. Set in fantastic locations, throughout the Spey Valley, within the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland. We cater for all tastes, budgets and party sizes from 1 guest up to 23 guests. (Pets Welcome). Most of our lodges have log fires and wonderful outside Hot Tubs, many have luxury extras, including Saunas, Sky TV, Wi-Fi Internet access and much, much more.

tel: 01479 810165 email: info@silverglades.co.uk web: www.silverglades.co.uk

Up to 20% off festive breaks Stylish self-catering bungalows in Aviemore. 3 & 4 star available. From 1-4 bedrooms.

All have TV, DVD, free view channels & Wi-Fi. BBQ, own garden & drive. Some with sauna, wood burner, designer kitchen & flat screen TV. Pets welcome in allocated properties. Guests discounted golf & leisure nearby.

STB HHH & HHHH. Colour brochure & Virtual Tours.

www.greatnorthlodges.co.uk gnl@greatnorthlodges.co.uk “Book Online” or call our Aviemore Office on 01479 812266

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Beautifully furnished and equipped 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroomed bungalows sleeping 2 - 8. Open fires.

Mountain views, pets welcome, Leisure Club/Golf facilities available. Easy walking distance to Aviemore.

S.T.B. HHHH Contact Linda Murray Tel: 01479 810653 www.cairngorm-bungalows.co.uk

accommodation

Cairngorm Highland Bungalows

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shopping & crafts

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here are lots of specialist shops throughout the area where you can find everything you need from outdoor kit to gifts for friends, or even a treat for yourself!

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eat & drink

ook out for local produce & help reduce food miles within the Cairngorms National Park. We really are spoilt for choice. If you’re still stuck for ideas have a look at the next few pages and you’ll soon be inspired!

THE CROSS AT KINGUSSIE RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS

Fine Dining in the Cairngorms Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner AA Two Red Rosette Good Food & Michelin Guides 2015 www.thecross.co.uk 01540 661166

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Dows Store & The Osprey Café

Boat of Garten - Tel: 01479 831 466 Local, Seasonal, Creative Food, Relaxed & Informal Dining Experience.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT PIE NIGHT ~ A Delicious pie with mash or chips, and a beer or wine for only £12 CELLAR SUNDAY NIGHT ~ Traditional Sunday Roast £11.95. Bring your own wine. (Normal menu also available) T: 01479 831 466 or E: info@andersonsrestaurant.co.uk

THE

ROWAN TRE E

COUNTRY HOTEL & RESTAURANT

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Fresh Food & Groceries Firewood & Kindling Serving homemade and locally sourced produce daily Open 7 days a week Home Delivery Available

Boat of Garten 01479 831225

What’s On

M Family run hotel with a warm and friendly atmosphere M Modern Scottish Cuisine using local produce created by Award-winning team M Good Selection of Wines and Local Beers M Over 70 malt Whiskies M Childrens Menu Restaurant open Tues-Sun 6-8.30pm Reservations Recommended Loch Alvie, by Aviemore - 2 miles S. on B9152 T: 01479 810 207 www.rowantreehotel.com

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LATAVERNA

Pizzeria, Bar & Takeaway Italian all you can eat buffet Served all day Original Stone-Baked Pizza New takeaway menu available Tel: 01479 810 683 High Range, Grampian Rd Aviemore PH22 1PT www.highrange.co.uk

Royal Tandoori Restaurant and Take-away OPEN 7 DAYS

Evening 5-10.30pm

Authentic Indian Cuisines Three Course Business Lunch ~ £7.95 10% Discount on Take-away Meals A La Carte Menu Freshly Prepared Coffees Private Function Room ~ Ideal For Stag, Hen Or Birthday Parties

Tel: 01479 811199 or 01479 811118

43 Grampian Road, Aviemore PH22 1RH www.royaltandoori.uk.com

Cairngorm Hotel

eat & drink

Lunch 12noon-2pm

THE Place to Eat and Meet Opposite Aviemore Railway Station

Great Freshly Prepared Food All Day Beers, Wines, Spirits & Malts In the lively Lounge, All Day ‘til Late with Regular Entertainment + Live TV Sports

Bed & Highland Breakfast from £40 per person, per night

Grampian Road n Aviemore 01479 810 233 n www.cairngorm.com www.visitcairngorms.com

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Garth Hotel

& Restaurant

Lunch served Monday-Sunday 12-2pm, Evening meals served 5.30-9pm

eat & drink

Early Bird Voucher - Sun-Fri until 6.30pm.

25% discount based on pre-booking & taking 2 Courses - booking essential.

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The Square (Castle Rd) n Grantown 01479 872 836 n www.garthhotel.com

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