A partnership agreement to establish two ‘Green’ Freeports in Scotland has been reached between Scottish and UK Ministers.
Following ‘robust’ discussions in recent months, both governments have agreed:
to establish a joint applicant prospectus, with Ministers and officials from both the Scottish and UK Government having an equal say throughout the assessment and selection process
that applicants in Scotland are required to contribute towards a just transition to net-zero emissions by 2045, delivering net-zero benefits and creating new green jobs
that applicants in Scotland are required to set out how they will support high-quality employment opportunities that offer good salaries and conditions, and how fair work practices will be embedded in the green freeport area
Ministers have agreed that a joint offer set out in a prospectus offers the maximum benefits for the Scottish economy as both governments will be able to deliver tax reliefs and other incentives through a combination of devolved and reserved powers.
As a result of the recent negotiations, UK Ministers are expected to provide up to £52 million in seed funding to help establish Green Freeports in Scotland which is in line with funding offered to Freeports across England.
Economy Secretary Kate Forbes said: “I am pleased we have been able to reach an agreement on a joint approach that recognises the distinct needs of Scotland’s economy and enshrines the Scottish Government’s commitment to achieving net-zero and embedding fair work practices through public investment.
“The Scottish Government will have an equal say on all bids, and will expect bidders to adhere to fair work practices including payment of the Real Living Wage.
“Scotland has a rich history of innovative manufacturers and so as we look to grasp the many opportunities of achieving net-zero, the establishment of internationally competitive clusters of excellence will help us create new green jobs, deliver a just transition and support our economic transformation.
“We can only seize Scotland’s economic potential if we create secure, sustainable and satisfying jobs that also help build a fairer, more prosperous economy for everyone. That is my absolute priority and establishing Green Freeports will be integral to achieving this.”
Secretary of State Michael Gove said: “This is a truly exciting moment for Scotland, and I am delighted we will be working together with the Scottish Government to set up two new Green Freeports.
“Green Freeports help inject billions into the local economy, while levelling-up by creating jobs for local people, and opportunities for people all over the UK to flourish.
“By collaborating using opportunities like Green Freeports we can work to level-up the whole of the UK and bring benefits and opportunities to communities that need it most.”
The term ‘Green Freeports’ reflects the Scottish Government’s distinctive net zero aspirations. The UK Government will continue to use the term ‘Freeports’ for its programme in the rest of the UK.
Forth Ports – which owns and operates seven ports on Scotland’s East coast and the Port of Tilbury, which is part of the recently-announced Thames Freeport – has issued a statement following the announcement.
Stuart Wallace, Chief Operating Officer at Forth Ports, said:“We welcome the announcement by the UK and Scottish governments of the forthcoming bid process for two Green Freeports in Scotland and confirm that we plan to participate in this process.
“A Firth of Forth Green Freeport will catalyse the decarbonisation of Scotland’s major industrial cluster, creating 50,000 new, high-quality jobs in renewable energy, manufacturing, sustainable fuels and construction.
“Building on our first-hand experience of freeports, we plan to create an ambitious set of programmes to harness the regeneration benefits of this economic policy.
“The legacy of our green freeport will be the creation of large-scale green manufacturing industries with significant export potential and a sustainable fuel cluster, alongside major upgrades to infrastructure and skills development among young adults to ensure a Team Scotland approach as the UK transitions to a decarbonised future.”
‘Palm Springs’ is the UK’s favourite Romantic comedy
‘Juno’ and ‘Groundhog Day’ take second and third on the list
‘Amelie’ and ‘Love Actually’ also make the top ten
New research has revealed that 2020’s ‘Palm Springs’ is the UK’s favourite rom-com.
The research, conducted by PokerListings.com looked at the number of Google searches, review scores and Wikipedia page views of the most popular rom-coms, to determine which one came out on top.
It found that 2020’s ‘Palm Springs’, starring Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti, was the UK’s favourite. The film receives more than 193,000 searches a month, accompanied with a Rotten Tomatoes Audience score of 88%, which sees it sit at the top. Released digitally in 2020 in the US on Hulu where it broke the platform’s streaming records, it reached UK audiences via Prime Video in early 2021 to further appeal.
The coming-of-age movie ‘Juno’ sits in second place, with UK audiences searching the title more than 158,000 times a month. Starring Elliot Page and Michael Cera in leading roles, the film received praise from critics and audiences alike upon its release in 2007, also winning ‘Best Writing for an Original Screenplay’ at the 2008 Academy Awards. It arrived on Disney+ in December last year which introduced it to wider audiences nearly 15 years after its release.
The Bill Murray classic ‘Groundhog Day’ comes in third place, with more than 50,000 searches a month and with an 8/10 rating on IMDB, one of the highest on the list. It’s often spoken about as one of the most influential comedy movies of all time, with the common term ‘Groundhog Day’ referring to a day that keeps reoccurring, originating from the movie from its release in 1993.
Movie
RT Audience score
IMDB Rating
Number of monthly Google searches
Wiki Page daily average views
Palm Springs
88
7.4
193000
3,566
Juno
88
7.4
158600
3,369
Groundhog Day
88
8
50300
6,726
Love Actually
72
7.6
19200
10,068
Amelie
95
8.3
46300
4,507
Silver Linings Playbook
86
7.7
1550
8,123
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
91
7.6
5500
4,947
Some Like It Hot
94
8.2
2150
3,996
Notting Hill
79
7.1
28600
5,406
The Holiday
80
6.9
40100
4,897
‘Love Actually’ falls just outside the top three with the film not only being a popular rom-com but a fan favourite Christmas movie as well. The ensemble cast of stars like Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Colin Firth makes it one of the most rewatchable British films.
In fifth place is the French movie ‘Amelie’ which was released in 2001. It’s the best-rated film in the list, with a Rotten Tomatoes Audience score of 95% and an 8.3/10 on IMDB. In the year it was released, it won ‘Best Film’ at the European Film Awards and was even nominated for five Academy Awards.
Commenting on the findings, a spokesperson from PokerListings said: “With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, it’s often that romantic comedies are the films couples turn to for their perfect combination of laughter and intimacy, and this list will hopefully provide some viewing inspiration. It’s fascinating to see how timeless films like ‘Groundhog Day’ and ‘Some Like It Hot’ are, with the classics competing with newer titles like ‘Palm Springs’ in the list.”
PokerListings.com is the world’s largest and most trusted online poker guide, offering the best online poker bonus deals guaranteed.
Granton gasholder event: come along to see the council’s proposals to create public space at the iconic structure set in the heart of the Waterfront area.
Thursday, 17 February from 12pm – 6pm at Morrisons, 3 Waterfront Broadway.
granton:hub and Edinburgh College of Art invite the local community to discuss what could happen with local spaces, places and landscapes.
UPDATED PROGRAMME to include the history hub heritage exhibition
Granton:hub is taking part in an exciting European funded research project on the evolving heritages of Edinburgh’s shifting coastline.
The overall aim of the study is to document and understand different relationships to the heritage of this fluctuating landscape, to identify opportunities not just for institutional or governmental intervention, but also for Granton’s community to take action, and to explain what is expected from future plans.
A group of ECA academics and their students are interested in engaging with the local community, to reflect on the following themes/questions:
What is the wider geographical context of the Granton area?
How has this site evolved over time, physically, socially, and economically?
Who governs cultural heritage in Granton, and how?
How have local groups and stakeholders developed a sense of the heritage value of Granton?
For this workshop, the researchers will present a summary of their findings through posters and other materials to invite discussion on the future of heritage in Granton.
To complement the CUTE exhibition, the history hub will curate a set of exhibition boards presenting the history of Granton Gasworks Station, the Madelvic Car Factory, Caroline Park House, Granton Harbour and many other heritage features in the local area.
After the event, ECA will produce a document outlining their findings, for presentation at Una Europe, hosted by Universite Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne. Your input would therefore shape a collaborative generated dossier of information about Granton to be presented at European level.
If you have any questions then please contact artingranton@grantonhub.org
92% of UK farmers under the age of 40 rank poor mental health as the biggest hidden problem facing farmers today, a recent study by the Farm Safety Foundation reveals.
· Mental wellbeing levels in the next generation of farmers have fallen over the past year, the study also finds.
· 36% of farmers in the UK admit to being “possibly” or “probably” depressed according to another industry survey.
· 44 suicides were registered in England and Wales in 2020 for those working in farming according to the Office of National Statistics.
· This week’s campaign from the Farm Safety Foundation will remind those living and working in the industry to Mind Your Head.
2020 and 2021 proved incredibly challenging for the UK’s farming industry. There were extreme weather conditions, poor harvests, supply chain shortages and a global pandemic to contend with but, through it all, farming endured as it always does.
Over the past two years, the UK’s farmers have been recognised as key workers. Their hard work puts food on our plates, produced to some of the highest standards in the world, and their careful stewardship knits together the environmental and social fabric of our iconic landscape.
The UK’s farmers are a remarkable breed; adaptable, resilient and incredibly hardworking but, the commitment of our farmers comes at a price.
In an industry that continues to have the poorest safety record of any occupation in the UK, making sure we are all looking after our physical and mental wellbeing has never been more relevant. So, from 14th – 18th February 2022, leading farm safety charity, the Farm Safety Foundation (also known as Yellow Wellies) will launch their fifth annual Mind Your Head campaign to illustrate actions being taken to break down mental health barriers in farming.
A recent study by the Foundation revealed that mental health issues among farmers and agricultural workers are of growing concern and are having a direct impact on safety on farms. With 92% of farmers under the age of 40 suggesting poor mental health is the biggest hidden problem facing farmers today (an increase from 82% in 2018).
Whether or not the number of suicides has increased as a result of the pandemic is a matter for experts and should not be speculated on.
According to Professor Louis Appleby, Professor of Psychiatry, University of Manchester and Chair of the national advisory group on suicide prevention at the Department of Health and Social Care: “Figures like these are important in understanding the tragedy of suicide.
“They are not dry data, they are real lives lost, real families devastated. No figure, whether high or low, is acceptable. We need to beware of alarming claims and predictions without evidence – misleading and potentially harmful to those in the industry who are already struggling.”
Stephanie Berkeley, Manager of the Farm Safety Foundationsaid: “As an industry, I think it is time we deal with the issue of poor mental health head on. We need to talk about our feelings and let everyone living and working in farming know that it’s completely ok to have feelings, good and bad, but it’s also important to let them out.
“Life isn’t always as it seems, we don’t post on social media about the days that we wished we didn’t get out of bed or the days we didn’t feel like it.
“Most people feel the pressure to keep up with everyone’s ‘perfect’ life. My father always advised me to never judge anyone unless you walked in their shoes, these are words that I live by, as it is important to know what is really going on behind the smile, or even their grumpy demeanour.
“Many living and working in rural communities are suffering and doing so in silence. As an industry, it’s time to ease the pressure, stop expecting people to be perfect and start talking openly about feelings with people you trust.”
Today is Valentine’s Day – a day when many show their affection by sending cards, flowers or chocolates with messages of love. This Valentine’s Day, the Farm Safety Foundation is reminding farmers that self-love is important too.
Stephanie added: “A day like Valentine’s Day which celebrates love and togetherness can often highlight how different, alone or low we feel so it is important to check in with yourself and others and reach out to those who may be feeling down, lonely or struggling.
“Whatever it is that you choose to do, just know that your mental health should never be ignored and you are not alone.”
The recent R.A.B.I Big Farming Survey revealed that 36% of the farming community in the UK are ‘probably’ or ‘possibly’ depressed and sadly, the stigma around mental health often prevents those who need help from seeking it.
So, for the next five days, key farming organisations from five countries will join forces to support the Foundation’s Mind Your Head campaign and try to dispel the myths and tackle the stigma around poor mental health in the industry and highlight the wealth of support available to those living and working in farming.
BBC’s Strictly winner, actor Kelvin Fletcher, who last year bought a 120-acre farm in the Peak District is supporting the 2022 Mind Your Head campaign.
As a new entrant to the industry, Kelvin appreciates the many challenges facing farmers at present and the importance of looking after your mental wellbeing at work.
Kevin says: “I feel really privileged to have been welcomed so warmly by the farming community, who have supported me so much since I started my farm last year. Before joining farming, I had no idea the community was so heavily impacted by bad mental health.
“Campaigns like Mind Your Head are so important if we’re going to chip away at the stigma that surrounds mental illness in the industry. If one person reads about Mind Your Head and decides to reach out or to check in on a loved one, that’s a step in the right direction.
“Please, be that person and start the conversation. You never know how much it could mean to someone struggling silently.”
For more information on the Mind Your Head campaign or to learn more about how the Farm Safety Foundation is tackling the issue of poor mental health in the agricultural industry please visit www.yellowwellies.org or follow them on social media – @yellowwelliesUK on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube using the hashtag #MindYourHead
A new national campaign is calling on those eligible not to ignore their invite, as data reveals nearly 1 in 3 don’t take up the offer of cervical screening.
A new survey released today shows embarrassment was the most common reason for not booking a screening appointment (42%) and almost two-thirds (63%) said they were nervous when they did attend
Celebrities including Linda Robson, Scarlett Moffatt, Louise Minchin, Victoria Scone and Sharon Gaffka are starring in a new campaign film which addresses concerns around screening and encourages those eligible to attend
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), with the support of the NHS, has today launched a major new national campaign to increase the number of those eligible attending their cervical screening in England.
The new Help Us Help You – Cervical Screening Saves Livescampaign urges women and those who may be eligible not to ignore their cervical screening invite, and if they missed their last one, to book an appointment with their GP practice or sexual health clinic now.
Latest figures from March 2021 show that nearly a third (30%) of eligible individuals – women and people with a cervix aged between 25 and 64 – were not screened.[1]
Around 2,700 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England each year and approximately 690 women die from the disease – around two deaths every day.[2] Previous estimates suggest screening prevents 70% of cervical cancer deaths, but 83% of deaths could be prevented if everyone attended regularly.[3]
As part of the campaign, a new survey of 3,000 women and people with a cervix commissioned by DHSC today reveals a number of concerns which prevent cervical screening.
Embarrassment was the most common reason for never having attended or missing an appointment (stated by 42% of respondents), followed by those who “kept putting it off” (34%) and “being worried it would be painful” (28%). 15% of lesbian or bisexual women over 25 had never had a smear test, compared to 7% of women over 25 in general.[4]
To tackle these barriers and help drive uptake, a new film has been released featuring Loose Women panellist Linda Robson, TV personality Scarlett Moffatt, broadcaster Louise Minchin, Drag Queen Victoria Scone and female rights activist Sharon Gaffka, alongside GP and media medic, Dr Zoe Williams.
Through life saving conversations, they tackle the barriers to attending cervical screening and encourage those eligible to book their appointment when invited.
Maria Caulfield, Minister for Patient Safety and Primary Care, said: “Around two women die every day from cervical cancer, but screening takes just a few minutes and can stop the disease before it starts.
“Through our new campaign we’re calling on all women and people with a cervix to get screened to help save hundreds of lives. Even if you’re feeling embarrassed or nervous, please don’t ignore your invitation.”
The full findings from the new survey reveal:
When asked about what their experience was like at their most recent test, over three in five (63%) said they were nervous and more than two out of five (43%) said they were embarrassed
The majority of women and people with a cervix (81%) said the nurse or doctor put them at ease during a cervical screening
Positively, over half of respondents (58%) were surprised about how quick the test was, and 89% would encourage others who are worried to go for a test
Around one in 10 (12%) don’t feel comfortable discussing a cervical screening with anyone, but just under half would talk to their friend (48%) or their partner (46%) and two in five would talk to their mother (39%)
The majority (89%) said they were glad they attended a cervical screening
Dr Nikki Kanani, GP and Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS England, said: “There is no doubt about it – cervical screening saves lives. By screening for risk signs at an early stage, it means that any abnormal cells can be treated quickly before they potentially develop into cancer.
“We know that it can feel embarrassing or feel like something that you can easily put off, but accepting your invite and getting checked could save your life.
“And please do speak to your GP practice about any concerns you might have – we are here to help you.”
In England, NHS cervical screening is offered to women and people with a cervix between the ages of 24.5 and 49 every three years. For those between the ages of 50 and 64, screening is offered every five years.
Cervical screening is routinely offered to anyone with a cervix in Scotland between the ages of 25 and 64 every 5 years.
The campaign will emphasise that screening, which only takes a few minutes, can help stop cervical cancer before it starts, and is being supported by charities, including Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust.
Cervical screening checks for high-risk types of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a common virus that most people will get at some point.
While for people with high-risk HPV the risk of getting cancer is low, any abnormal changes can be identified early. Cell changes are easily treated, and this prevents cervical cancer. That is why attending screening appointments is so important.
Running throughout England from 14th February to 14th March, the campaign will include TV advertising, video on demand and social media, partnerships, together with national and regional PR activity.
It also includes activity targeted to ethnic minority (Black and South Asian) and LGBTQ+ communities, as data shows these groups can experience specific barriers to taking up screening.
https://youtu.be/wEPnwgXT2A8
GP Dr Zoe Williams, who features in the campaign, said: “The symptoms of cervical cancer are not always obvious, and there may not be any symptoms at all until the cancer has reached an advanced stage.
“That’s why it’s important that you attend all your cervical screening appointments.
“If you are feeling nervous or embarrassed, then I cannot encourage you enough to talk to your nurse during the test and remember you are in control and can stop the test whenever you want to. If you’re worried about feeling exposed, I would suggest wearing a skirt, dress or long jumper when you go for your screening.
“Screening can stop cancer before it starts and saves thousands of lives every year. If you missed your last cervical screening, book an appointment with your GP practice or sexual health clinic now.”
Scarlett Moffatt said: “A few years ago, my cervical screening may have saved my life. The screening detected HPV and abnormal cells linked to the development of cervical cancer, and I underwent treatment to have the cells removed.
“If I hadn’t been to that appointment, I don’t know what situation I would have been in now. That’s why I’m so passionate about and proud to be supporting the new Cervical Screening campaign from the Department for Health & Social Care.
“To understand more about the role of screening and discuss why people may be reluctant to attend their appointment, I had an informative conversation with Dr. Zoe Williams.”
“I cannot urge people enough to talk to their doctor or nurse about cervical screening if they’re feeling embarrassed or nervous. Please attend your appointment when you are invited – it’s a few minutes that could save your life.”
Sharon Gaffka, female rights activist, 25, said: “You’re always a bit worried because you hear misconceptions from other people about cervical screening so you can think it’s going to be really embarrassing or you wonder if it’s going to hurt.
“Being part of these life saving conversations can really help put your mind at ease, and I find being open with my friends and family, just talking about the topic, can make a huge difference.”
Victoria Scone, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK contestant and TV Personality, commented: “Initially I was uncertain as to whether a cervical screening was imperative for me as a queer woman.
“However, this new campaign has clarified that all women and people with a cervix, including those in the LGBTQ+ community like myself are eligible for a screening, so I booked myself in. I think it’s so important to openly talk about cervical screenings and encourage each other to attend theirs.”
Louise Minchin, broadcaster and journalist, 53, who usually feels nervous when she attends her cervical screening, said: “Next time I get invited to my screening, I’m going to remember that it’s going to be ok and over in a few minutes.
“From my discussion with Dr Zoe Williams, there are many barriers which deter some women and people with a cervix from taking up the offer of a screening – from the worry it might hurt or embarrassment.
“I want to help break down these barriers and empower women to be confident to go to their cervical screening, and ask their doctor or nurse any questions on their mind.”
TV Personality and Loose Women Panellist, Linda Robson, 63, said: “I think it’s so important to talk about cervical screening – I talk to my daughters about it regularly, and always encourage them to book if they are due.
“I want to do the same for everyone, as it’s a test that can save your life. Don’t put off your cervical screenings and if you have any worries, don’t sit there in silence, please talk to your friends or family.
“The screening itself is so quick, and doctors and nurses can talk to you about the process and what it entails.”
Eligible parents are being urged to apply for Scottish Child Payment on the first anniversary of its roll out.
The payment of £10 per week, unique to Scotland, began in February 2021 as a direct measure to tackle poverty. It provides regular, additional financial support to parents and carers to help with the costs of caring for a child.
Since launch, the families of around 106,000 children have benefited from £520 a year and the payment will double to £20 per week from April.
By the end of this year – subject to data being made available by the DWP – the payment will extend to include all eligible children under the age of 16.
In 2019-20 the Scottish Government invested nearly £2 billion in support for low income households, including over £672 million targeted specifically at children.
Shona Robison, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Housing and Local Government said: “The Scottish Government is determined to deliver on our ambition to eradicate child poverty in Scotland. So this year we will be even bolder with the ambitious and transformational measures we will take.
“From April, our Scottish Child Payment will double to £20 a week – four times the amount anti-poverty campaigners originally asked for. Together with our Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods payments, this will provide a package of financial support worth £8,400 by the time an eligible family’s first child turns 6.
“The extension to 16 year olds will continue this progress with the number of eligible children increasing to 430,000. In 2023-24 we estimate the Scottish Child Payment could lift 40,000 children out of poverty.
“This is part of the national mission we have set ourselves and society to tackle child poverty and our focus must be relentless and constant.
“Because many people learn about Scottish Child Payment through word of mouth, if you think a friend or family member might qualify, please encourage them to find out more and to help to ensure that everyone eligible gets the support they are entitled too.
“This way, we can all play a part in ensuring the continued success of Scottish Child Payment, advancing our fight to eradicate child poverty and building an equal and fairer country.”
The Scottish Government committed to introducing the Scottish Child Payment in June 2019 as part of the Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan.
John Dickie, the Director of the Child Poverty Action Group, said: “The Scottish Child Payment is already providing vital financial support to families, helping parents give the best possible start in life to their children.
“Doubling its value from April comes at a critical time, helping families stay afloat as food and energy prices soar. The roll out to eligible children over five is now eagerly anticipated and really can’t come soon enough.”
Valentine’s Day is almost here! If you’re thinking of going for the easy option with a trip to the pub this February 14th, the love of your life may be a little downhearted.
Make a promise to think about your heart this Valentine’s Day with just a few healthier choices that can also be romantic too. Here are a few tips from us:
Massage
A relaxing spa day or couples massage is always a romantic option for Valentine’s Day. Massage has shown to improve blood flow and has shown promise as an adjunctive treatment for prehypertension and hypertension. Not to mention massage has shown to reduce stress levels and improve quality of life.
A Cheeky Dance
Dancing with someone special on your arm is sure to get your heart pumping, whether it’s a disco down at your local club or a spontaneous TikTok in the living room. A good boogie lifts your mood, makes you smile and gets the cheeks flushed. So, dim down the lights, set the tone and get your groove on.
Weekend Away
February is officially the last of the winter months so get out there and make the most of the fresh crisp air. Many parts of the UK have a frosty dusting on the rolling hills of the beautiful British countryside. Strap up your hiking boots, grab your partner’s hand and take your hearts to new heights.
Serve Oysters
Oysters have a historical reputation for being eaten in romantic situations. Though scientific evidence cannot prove eating them will improve your sex drive, it is known that oysters contain all 9 essential amino acids; they’re rich in protein, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids.
The love of your life might be priceless to you, but remember your heart is priceless too.
POLICE are urging you to look out for friends and family this Valentine’s Day to help them stay safe from romance fraud.
Criminals go to great lengths to use fake profiles in an attempt to build seemingly genuine relationships, before appealing to your compassionate side to ask for money.
Your friend or family member may be involved in a romance scam if they express very strong emotions and commitment to someone they have only just met.
Another sign may be if they have sent, or are planning to send, money to someone they have not met face-to-face.
If you think someone you know has fallen for a romance scam they should contact their bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud.
Rabbie’s Get Out & Help Out Scheme offers a 20 per cent discount on all UK and Ireland tours departing in February
Who says Valentine’s Day has to fit the same boring routine, who even says you have to bring your romantic partner along?! Book a weekend away with friends and upgrade the predictable Valentine’s obligations to a memorable ‘Galentine’s Day’. Plus, this February enjoy 20 per cent off all Rabbie’s UK and Ireland tours.
Rabbie’s boozy breaks take guests to state-of-the-art award-winning distilleries to learn how delicious whiskies and gins are created. These trips are perfect for groups, but you don’t need a special excuse to book! Other popular days out include visits to cosy Cotswold villages and charming coastal communities. Great group days out include:
Bombay Sapphire Gin & Winchester
Laverstoke Distillery, home of world-famous Bombay Sapphire Gin, is an old paper mill which combines Victorian and ultra-modern architecture to create a suitably stunning place to learn about and sample award-winning gin.
Bombay Sapphire has been recognised for its ethically minded production, not to mention its delicious taste. On a tour of the distillery, guests learn about the history of the wonderous drink and the hard work that goes into creating its beautiful botanical flavour.
After the tour and sampling session, guests are encouraged to visit The Mill Café, serving delicious local produce, and the Mill Bar, a glamorous spot to enjoy a cocktail alongside the River Test.
Guests on this tour will also visit the beautiful city of Winchester. Dive into the history of England’s ancient capital by exploring its glorious cathedral, ancient mill, cute cafes and plentiful museums.
Prices for this one-day tour departing from London start from £56 per person based on February and March 2022 departures.
Loch Lomond, Cruise & Whisky
Scotland takes its Whisky seriously, it’s the country’s national drink and takes skill and patience to create.
This tour departing from Glasgow mixes Whisky with Scotland’s other famous speciality, breath-taking views. The first stop is the southern shore of Loch Lomond, where a one-hour long boat cruise offers dramatic sights of castles and surrounding mountains.
The cruise visits Inchmurrin Island, the largest of Loch Lomond’s 33 islands and home to the ancient remains of Lennox Castle, a hiding spot once used by Robert the Bruce. Be sure to visit the picturesque village of Luss, complete with quaint cottages.
Return to Glasgow to visit to the renowned Clydeside Whisky Distillery. Proud to bring distilling back to the city, this state-of-the-art site can be found at the historic Queen’s Dock. Learn the secrets of Scotland’s national drink from an expert guide before visiting the tasting room; knowledge of the traditional methods makes the taste of single malt even more special.
Take some time to explore Glasgow’s vibrant bars and music venues to make this a Valentine’s to remember. Prices for this one-day tour start at £35 per person based on February and March 2022 departures.
Oxford & Traditional Cotswold Villages
After visiting Oxford’s historical colleges and delightful cafes, get ready for a whirlwind exploration of some the most quaint and beautiful villages in England. Begin at the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’ – Burford.
A small market town which boasts enormous character and depth. Take time to visit the many independent shopping outlets on its famous steep high street, if you’re feeling peckish there’s plenty of spots for a traditional afternoon tea.
Make the short journey to Bibury, dubbed the prettiest village in England by William Morris, to stroll its charming streets and fairy-tale-like Arlington Row before embarking on the comfortable journey back to London.
Prices for the one-day tour start from £62 per person based on February and March 2022 departures.
As with all Rabbie’s tours, guests are transported in luxury 16-person mini-coaches and treated to the stories and services of a friendly-driver guide. The mini-coaches mean Rabbie’s tours can reach the smaller, independent destinations, ensuring your trips supports local communities and independent businesses.
Destinations in the UK and Ireland have seen reduced visitor numbers for the past two winters. To help make 2022 the winter of recovery, Rabbie’s is running a Get Out to Help Out Scheme, offering 20 per cent off trips departing in February.
Simply use the GETOUT20 discount code when booking at www.rabbies.com.
