HES is urging the public to get submissions over the line before the survey closes on Thursday 20 August 2026
Cathkin Park, an early footbal ground in Glasgow.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is issuing a final call for submissions to its Scottish football heritage project before the final whistle sounds and the survey closes on Thursday 20 August 2026.
Members of the public, local communities, supporters and historians across the country are being encouraged to get their suggestions in before full time by submitting sites connected to the history of football in Scotland for further investigation and recording.
Submissions could include grounds, pavilions, parks, buildings or other locations with a strong connection to the history of the game in Scotland.
Scotland is recognised as a pioneering football nation, but many places linked to that story are not widely known or recorded. With the help of the public, the project aims to build a fuller picture of locations throughout the country that have helped shape the game.
The project will mainly look to focus on the development of Association Football from the 1860s onwards, a time when Scotland’s first teams and players played an important role in developing and popularising the version of the sport that is played worldwide today.
The information gathered through the survey will be used to help HES identify sites for further research, recording and possible recognition as Protected Historic Places, such as listed buildings and scheduled monuments.
Cathkin Park, an early footbal ground in Glasgow.
Victoria Murray, Head of Heritage Information, Recording and Business at HES, said: “With the deadline approaching, we’re asking anyone with knowledge of places connected to Scotland’s football heritage to make a submission before 20 August.
“Football is Scotland’s national sport and a key part of our history, and this project is helping us better understand the sites that are important to our football heritage. We want to hear from anyone who knows about the places that have played a part in the development of football in Scotland.
“These could be the remains of grounds themselves – such as recently scheduled Cathkin Park or the site of First Hampden – or more varied sites with football links – such as the listed Rose Reilly pub in Glasgow’s southside, where we recently updated our records to recognise the former Hampden Bar’s connection to Reilly, who is an icon of women’s football in Scotland.
“We know that there are many people right across the country who are keen to get involved in how the history and impact of football in Scotland is recorded and celebrated. This is the final opportunity to take part in the survey and help ensure these places are in the running for consideration.”
Members of the public can suggest sites they would like to be considered via the consultation page on the HES website before the survey closes on Thursday 20 August 2026.
Partners and wine experts Jonathan Heredia and Isla Mosquera have officially opened the doors to Chez Bernard, a new neighbourhood French wine bar and bistro located on the waterfront of The Shore in Leith.
As the first French wine bar in the area, it is set to become a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike, whether for a long lunch or evening drink.
Chez Bernard is more than just a name to Jonathan and Isla. The new bar is a tribute to Jonathan’s grandfather, Bernard, and to the simple moments that shaped his lifelong love for food, wine, and the table.
Jonathan spent many summers near the Atlantic coast of France, which is where his appreciation for a traditional ‘long lunch’ began. While these long French lunches are a huge inspiration behind the venue, the space is also a vibrant wine bar, making Chez Bernard the ideal place to visit in the evening for a bottle of wine, fresh oysters, cheese and charcuterie, or simply a relaxed glass at the bar.
Opening Chez Bernard is the couple’s way of keeping Jonathan’s grandfather’s memory alive. In a fitting tribute, the perfect waterfront space for their vision became available just off ‘Bernard Street’, a clear sign to Jonathan and Isla that they had found their home.
Drawing on 15 years of combined experience in hospitality between them, Jonathan and Isla who are engaged, are bringing that expert knowledge and passion for wine to Leith with Chez Bernard. The pair have curated an extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with the bistro’s authentic French and seafood offerings.
The menu at Chez Bernard caters to all occasions, offering great options whether diners are looking for a solo bite or food to share. Guests can expect classic French sharing plates, including a selection of artisanal French cheeses and charcuterie.
The bar also boasts an array of seafood dishes, featuring a salmon platter, dressed crab, and fresh oysters, alongside an assortment of hot dishes and additional sharing plates.
Co-owner Jonathan Heredia, said: “Chez Bernard is deeply personal for us. It’s a tribute to my grandfather and to the simple moments that shaped my love for food, wine, and the table.
“I spent many summers with my grandfather, which is where my love for a long, leisurely lunch began. When this beautiful space became available just off Bernard Street, it felt like absolute fate for both of us.
“This is our way of keeping his memory alive, and Isla and I want to bring a little of that continental warmth to The Shore. We want this to be a welcoming place to share good food, enjoy wine, and spend time around the table with the people you love.”
Chez Bernard promises an inviting, relaxed atmosphere perfect for afternoon grazing, evening drinks, or celebratory dinners with loved ones.
For more information, to view the menus, and to book a table, please visit:
Harry Potter fans will have the chance to step into the wizarding world at Vue Edinburgh Omni this summer, with an exclusive recreation of the iconic Platform 9¾ arriving as part of special 25th anniversary celebrations.
From the 29 August to 1 September, the installation will offer guests a magical photo opportunity before they revisit Harry Potter’s adventures on the big screen, with all eight films in the beloved series returning to Vue from 28 August.
The anniversary season commemorates 25 years since Harry made his big-screen debut in 2001 and will give Potterheads and film fans the perfect opportunity to experience Hogwarts and the wizarding world’s other memorable locations as they were meant to be seen.
Based on the book series that captured the imaginations of a generation, the celebrations will begin with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, introducing The Boy Who Lived, his best friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, and the remarkable professors and pupils of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The series will conclude in early October with the epic two-part showdown of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2. Harry, Ron and Hermione must leave the familiar surroundings of Hogwarts behind as they prepare for a final confrontation with Lord Voldemort, whose plans threaten both the wizarding and Muggle worlds.
Alongside the exclusive Platform 9¾ photo opportunity, Vue is offering fans the chance to enjoy the films with brand-new merchandise. This includes a collectible popcorn tin with a wand stirrer and a premium Harry Potter-themed cup.
Film lovers in Edinburgh can also enjoy the screenings from Vue’s biggest and comfiest seats, Ultra Lux. Strategically positioned to provide the best possible view of the big screen, Ultra Lux seating features an extra-wide armrest, a personal table for snacks and beverages, and a state-of-the-art wine cooler, offering a luxurious way to become immersed in a great story.
Ian Chester, General Manager at Vue in Edinburgh, said: “Since 2001, the Harry Potter films have become some of the most enjoyable, memorable and beloved big-screen adventures of all time.
“To mark this special anniversary, we’re thrilled to give fans the chance to step into the wizarding world at our exclusive Platform 9¾ installation before welcoming them back to Hogwarts on the big screen.
“Whether they have enjoyed the films many times before or are experiencing them for the first time, this anniversary season is guaranteed to provide plenty of magical moments and memories for film fans to treasure.”
Petition launched for an official Sir Harry Lauder Day
A Greenock-born musician, now living in the US, is on a mission to mark the life and legacy of a legendary Scottish entertainer.
Carl Peterson has started a petition to create an official Sir Harry Lauder Day from August 4th 2027 onwards and it is already garnering thousands of signatures.
Harry Lauder was a pioneering Scottish singer, comedian, and global music hall superstar recognized for his signature kilt and crooked walking stick. Rising from humble beginnings as a coal miner, he became the world’s highest-paid entertainer and first million-selling recording artist.
He was born in 1870 in Portobello near Edinburgh, spent much of his life in Dunoon and was laid to rest in Hamilton in 1950. His showmanship won him millions of fans around the world.
Carl explained: “Harry Lauder was the world’s first ‘pop star’ and he was loved wherever he performed. Indeed, tens of thousands of folk in Australia and north America lined the dockside whenever his boat arrived or left as part of his regular international tours.
“We will be looking to organise musical performances and talks about his life in various locations around Scotland and further afield but, first off, we want to get an idea of the sort of appetite there might be for such an initiative. Early signs are very positive!” added Carl who is a regular visitor to Dunoon where he performs live at various venues in the town.
Jamie MacDougall, a leading Scottish tenor and broadcaster who has performed globally in opera, classical and folk music is fully behind the bid: “I’ve loved Sir Harry Lauder’s songs and the story of his life since I was 10 years old, when I was taken to Glasgow’s King’s Theatre to see Jimmy Logan’s one-man production, Lauder.
“It charted Sir Harry’s extraordinary journey from singing as a boy in Arbroath and working in the pits of Lanarkshire to becoming the first music hall performer to be knighted. That honour recognised his tireless efforts to raise over £1 million for wounded servicemen returning from the First World War.
“Years later, I had the privilege of reviving Jimmy’s show with Scottish Opera, and it has been a dream come true to introduce Sir Harry’s remarkable story to new audiences. Most recently, we spent four weeks off-Broadway in New York, where the response from people who had never heard of him or his extraordinary achievements was overwhelming.
“What many people don’t realise is that Sir Harry’s legacy continues today, with royalties from his work still supporting the wonderful work of Erskine Veterans Charity. His kindness and generosity have never stopped making a difference.
“A Harry Lauder Day would be a fitting and lasting tribute to a man who gave Scotland so much and whose influence reached every corner of the world. More than seventy-five years after his passing, he is still bringing joy through his music, inspiring audiences with his remarkable story, and helping veterans through his enduring legacy. That’s surely something worth celebrating every year.”
Anyone wanting to sign the petition can do so by visiting:
As the Union Canal’s summer cruising season nears its end, Seagull Trust Cruises is reminding boat owners, clubs and charities that its fully enclosed dry dock at Ratho is available for their own use when it is not being used by the charity’s own fleet.
The dry dock, the only facility of its kind on the Union Canal, sits at the charity’s Baird Road base and provides a roofed, protected environment ideal for autumn and winter maintenance. With the main cruising season finishing at the end of October, boat owners are encouraged to book early to secure a slot before Seagull Trust’s three passenger boats enter the dock for their annual overhaul.
The dock is made available from Saturday to Saturday for other canal charities, boat clubs and private owners. Its impressive size means draining down or refilling the dock typically takes between two and three hours.
The facility supports a wide range of essential maintenance tasks that can be carried out by the owners, including full hull inspections, out-of-water surveys, hull scraping and antifouling, below-waterline repairs, repainting with marine-grade coatings, engine servicing, propeller and rudder work, and general pre-winter preparation.
In response to increasing demand for above-waterline maintenance, the Trust has recently installed new fall-restraint systems, ‘Safe-Hold’ HLLR 31604 tension rope system to meet current working-at-height regulations.
Training will be available to ensure users have a safe experience while undertaking their vessel maintenance while in the dock facility. The equipment was very generously provided by an anonymous donor
Donations play an important role in supporting Seagull Trust Cruises’ free cruising programme, which carries thousands of passengers each year along the Union Canal. Boat owners wishing to secure time in the dock are advised to book early.
Landmark report evidences the profound impacts of the Edinburgh Festivals, confirming them as one of the most remarkable demonstrations of cultural power in the world
Picture by JANE BARLOW
In the latest of a long line of internationally acclaimed impact studies, the Edinburgh Festivals have published their most recent research across a series of cultural, social and economic indicators – which shows that at a fundamental level the festivals make life better – for residents, artists, visitors, and businesses.
The research identifies the Edinburgh Festivals as a unique civic asset that enhances wellbeing through creative and community engagement, an unrivalled international springboard for Scottish artists and companies, and a major attraction for those choosing to live, work, visit and invest in Edinburgh. The findings clearly indicate that the Festivals define Scotland’s cultural identity on the global stage.
Introducing the latest Impact Study on 29 June, Professor Daisy Fancourt, Director of WHO Collaborating Centre on Arts and Health and UNESCO Chair in Arts & Global Health as well as author of Art Cure: How the Arts Can Transform Your Health and Help You Live Longer said: “The Edinburgh Festivals have long stood as one of the world’s most remarkable demonstrations of the power of arts and culture.
“Shared cultural experiences create opportunities for dialogue, build understanding and challenge ideas. They bring people together across generations, backgrounds and perspectives, helping to build trust and social cohesion. At a time when many communities are grappling with social fragmentation and unrest, cultural participation offers powerful opportunities to strengthen civic life and nurture a sense of common purpose.
“The Festivals show what is possible when culture is placed at the heart of civic life, and this report provides a powerful case for the importance ofsustaining and investing in their future for generations to come.”
The research affirms that while the individual festivals are powerful brands in their respective fields, collectively they are both a unique national asset and a global phenomenon. They are an integral part of the cultural and social fabric of the country and provide an opportunity to showcase a 21st century nation.
The headline findings in this publication show the Edinburgh Festivals as:
cultural adventurers, with 90% of audiences acclaiming the festivals as unique places of cultural discovery
civic drivers, that enhance community well-being with 79% of local audiences stating that the festivals make Edinburgh a special place to live
national investors, spending more than £10m annually with event production companies and creative talent based in Scotland
economic powerhouses, calculated to have a gross economic impact of £4.26 billion over the next five years in Scotland.
Commenting on the publication of the Impact Study, the Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic, Màiri McAllan MSP said: “The Edinburgh Festivals are truly world class — and this research confirms their extraordinary cultural, social and economic value to Scotland.
“A projected national economic impact of £4.26 billion over the coming five years, 90% of audiences describing them as unique places of cultural discovery, and 79% of Edinburgh residents saying they make the city a special place to live — these are remarkable findings.
“As we approach the 80th anniversary of Edinburgh’s status as a festival city, the Scottish Government is proud to champion the festivals and committed to ensuring they continue to thrive for the benefit of people across Scotland and on the global stage.”
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener at City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Edinburgh’s festivals are at the heart of what makes our city so special, bringing together residents and visitors to enjoy thousands of shows and events throughout the year.
“This research highlights that these celebrations deliver significant cultural, social, and economic benefits, supporting local communities and businesses while enhancing the city’s global reputation.
“As we approach the 80th anniversary of our festivals, we remain committed to supporting their future while balancing the needs of residents, visitors, and business, ensuring Edinburgh continues to thrive as a world-leading festival city.”
Vicki Miller, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, said: “Edinburgh’s festivals are world renowned, and a key part of what makes Scotland a must-visit destination, drawing thousands of international visitors to the country each year.
FURTHER FINDINGS INCLUDE:
The Edinburgh Festivals have seen a major expansion in their community reach
Alongside its global scale, the report identifies a major expansion in the Festivals’ community footprint. They offer residents of the city and substantial audiences of all ages throughout Scotland, opportunities that support creative expression, social connection and wellbeing, while breaking down barriers, enhancing community cohesion and civic pride.
These core principles were fundamental building blocks of the PlaCE [Partnerships for Creative Excellence] programme, a pioneering three-way partnership between Edinburgh Festivals, Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council. Almost 76,000 community participants took part across the life of the programme.
Over the five years spanning 2018 to 2023, the Festivals delivered a 489% increase in engagement with community groups, a 39% increase in schools participation (from 497 to 694) and a 245% increase in partnership activity.
This growth reflects a significant development of year-round activity and more equitable access, with programmes increasingly reaching communities less likely to have engaged with the Festivals in the past.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a civic asset as well as a global platform
The report reinforces the Festivals’ role within the city itself. Edinburgh residents account for around one third of all attendances, with 79% of local audiences identifying the Festivals as central to the city’s identity and sense of place, making it a special place to live. And 89.9% of audiences say that the Festivals create a welcoming environment in the city.
This dual role – as both a global cultural gathering and a locally rooted civic asset – is identified as a defining feature of the Edinburgh Festivals.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a key investor in Scotland’s creative economy
Beyond audience impact, the Festivals continue to act as a major investor in Scotland’s cultural sector, supporting artists, production companies and creative organisations across the country.
Annual spend with Scottish-based creative talent and production companies exceeds £10 million, helping to sustain jobs, develop skills and build international connections across the sector.
The Edinburgh Festivals provide a platform for Scotland on the world stage
With participants from over 80 countries and audiences from more than 100 countries, the Festivals play a central role in projecting Scotland internationally, showcasing a 21st century nation
The report affirms the Edinburgh Festivals as a globally significant cultural marketplace, while remaining deeply embedded within Scotland’s communities and creative industries. Both a unique national asset, part of the cultural and social fabric of the country, and a global phenomenon making up part of the appeal that will drive Scotland forward.
The Edinburgh Festivals are economic powerhouses
The Edinburgh Festivals delivered an estimated £558 million in net economic impact for Edinburgh and £852 million across Scotland in 2025.
A central finding of the research is that this economic impact is driven by the quality and innovation within the Festivals’ cultural programmes which drive attendances, with 90% of audiences acclaiming the festivals as unique places of cultural discovery
The report concludes that investment in programming is the primary factor that attracts global audiences and generates wider economic activity across tourism, hospitality and the creative industries. With the right investment the future impact is expected to reach £4.26 billion over the next five years.
The findings underline the Festivals’ position as a major national asset, operating at a scale rarely seen in global cultural events. With over 4 million attendances drawn from more than 100 countries last year, Edinburgh hosts one of the largest ticketed event programmes in the world every year, on a scale equivalent with less frequent major events such as the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup.
Cultural events like these provide authentic and immersive experiences for people across Scotland and from around the world and are vital in strengthening our international profile and supporting local businesses, artists, and performers.”
Lori Anderson, Director of Festivals Edinburgh stated:
‘We are facing challenging times which call for boldness, direction, and vision – and the Edinburgh Festivals, through their pioneering collaborative work, focused strategic thinking, and hugely praised programmes, have these qualities in abundance. They have a powerful role to play in increasing the creative capacity, economic strength, and international reputation of Scotland. Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the birth of our world leading festival city, now is the time to champion and invest in the Festivals’ success.’
Further findings in the Impact Study include:
The Edinburgh Festivals have seen a major expansion in their community reach
Alongside its global scale, the report identifies a major expansion in the Festivals’ community footprint. They offer residents of the city and substantial audiences of all ages throughout Scotland, opportunities that support creative expression, social connection and wellbeing, while breaking down barriers, enhancing community cohesion and civic pride.
These core principles were fundamental building blocks of the PlaCE [Partnerships for Creative Excellence] programme, a pioneering three-way partnership between Edinburgh Festivals, Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council. Almost 76,000 community participants took part across the life of the programme.
Over the five years spanning 2018 to 2023, the Festivals delivered a 489% increase in engagement with community groups, a 39% increase in schools participation (from 497 to 694) anda 245% increase in partnership activity.
This growth reflects a significant development of year-round activity and more equitable access, with programmes increasingly reaching communities less likely to have engaged with the Festivals in the past.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a civic asset as well as a global platform
The report reinforces the Festivals’ role within the city itself. Edinburgh residents account for around one third of all attendances, with 79% of local audiences identifying the Festivals as central to the city’s identity and sense of place, making it a special place to live. And 89.9% of audiences say that the Festivals create a welcoming environment in the city.
This dual role – as both a global cultural gathering and a locally rooted civic asset – is identified as a defining feature of the Edinburgh Festivals.
The Edinburgh Festivals are a key investor in Scotland’s creative economy
Beyond audience impact, the Festivals continue to act as a major investor in Scotland’s cultural sector, supporting artists, production companies and creative organisations across the country.
Annual spend with Scottish-based creative talent and production companies exceeds £10 million, helping to sustain jobs, develop skills and build international connections across the sector.
The Edinburgh Festivals provide a platform for Scotland on the world stage
With participants from over80 countries and audiences from more than 100 countries, the Festivals play a central role in projecting Scotland internationally, showcasing a 21st century nation.
The report affirms the Edinburgh Festivals as a globally significant cultural marketplace, while remaining deeply embedded within Scotland’s communities and creative industries. Both a unique national asset, part of the cultural and social fabric of the country, and a global phenomenon making up part of the appeal that will drive Scotland forward.
The Edinburgh Festivals are economic powerhouses
The Edinburgh Festivals delivered an estimated £558 million in net economic impact for Edinburgh and £852 million across Scotland in 2025.
A central finding of the research is that this economic impact is driven by the quality and innovation within the Festivals’ cultural programmes which drive attendances. 90% of audiences acclaimed the festivals as unique places of cultural discovery.
The report concludes that investment in programming is the primary factor that attracts global audiences and generates wider economic activity across tourism, hospitality and the creative industries. With the right investment the future impact is expected to reach £4.26 billion over the next five years.
The findings underline the Festivals’ position as a major national asset, operating at a scale rarely seen in global cultural events. With over 4 million attendances drawn from more than 100 countries last year, Edinburgh hosts one of the largest ticketed event programmes in the world every year, on a scale equivalent with less frequent major events such as the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup.
