Tag: leisure

Prize money up and record attendances as Musselburgh Racecourse bucks national trend

Increased prize money, record attendances at its New Year’s Day and Edinburgh Cup meetings, and a boost in hospitality guests underlined a successful 2024 for Musselburgh Racecourse.

An annual report on the East Lothian track’s performance showed prize money at the East Lothian course totalled £2,429,600 – up by 6.3% on the previous year – and an 14.6% increase on prize money in 2022.

Musselburgh also attracted more hospitality guests – 3,938 last year compared to 3,587 in 2023 – and Annual Membership grew by 16% from 263 in 2023 to 306 in 2024.

The racecourse would have recorded an increase in total attendance for the year if it had not been forced to abandon its hugely popular Easter Saturday fixture due to weather and which usually attracts a 5,000 strong crowd.

With two less meetings run in 2024 (25) compared to 2023 (27), total attendance was a healthy 58,744, down from 60,294 in 2023, but average attendance at meetings run was up from 2,319 to 2,448.

Across its premium race days, Musselburgh enjoyed significant crowd increases with a 11.5% jump and an extra 653 racegoers on New Year’s Day (6,289 compared to 5,636 in 2023) and almost a 20% boost at the Edinburgh Cup fixture (5,966 compared to 5,048 in 2023).

Musselburgh’s annual Friday Night at the Races fixture in early August enjoyed it’s largest crowd to date of 4,375, while Ladies Day was an 8,000 capacity sell-out – an increase of almost 600 on the previous year – and the 20th year in succession that Ladies Day has sold out.

A new Oktoberfest themed race day in September was a huge hit with racegoers and compared to the 2023 meeting held on the same date there as a 1,600 bump in attendance.

Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “The figures show a strong performance with significant increases in attendance at our key meetings and it could have been even better if we had not lost our Easter Saturday meeting, which was very disappointing.

“Our ground staff worked exceptionally hard in 2024, often in adverse conditions, to keep the track and facilities in tip-top condition, and the commercial team achieved outstanding results by increasing like-for-like attendances, which bucked the national trend.

“With family budgets under pressure and lots of competing sporting and entertainment options, we are constantly upping our game to ensure that Musselburgh Racecourse remains a compelling offering for those looking for an exciting and enjoyable day, afternoon or evening out.”

Sketching at granton:hub

Landscape, Seascape & Urban Sketching: All Levels

10 weeks, April to June 2025

Capture the spirit of Granton’s waterfront, streets, and skyline in this exciting new sketching course. Open to all levels, this class is perfect for those inspired by the urban environment and natural surroundings.

You’ll explore the essentials of line, light, and perspective while sketching both on-site and in the studio. Expect friendly guidance, creative inspiration, and the chance to exhibit your work in our Summer Exhibition.

Book here or at our link in bio:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/landscape-seascape-urban…

Spaces are limited—book now to secure your place at the discounted rate!

We look forward to welcoming you—whether you’re joining us again or for the very first time—as we begin a new season of creativity and connection.

Warm regards,

On behalf of The Art School Team

Romain Viguier

Teeing up history at Silverknowes

Edinburgh Leisure scores Heritage Grant

Edinburgh Leisure has secured a £500 grant from the Sporting Heritage Grants Programme, made possible by the players of the National Lottery and Heritage Fund to celebrate the city’s remarkable golfing legacy. 

Working alongside their golf team, this exciting project will shine a spotlight on the rich history of Edinburgh’s six golf courses, tracing the sport’s roots from its 15th-century origins at Leith Links through to the prestigious Dispatch Trophy, which celebrates the 125th anniversary of being played. 

Silverknowes Golf Course will host an exhibition bringing together a fascinating collection of golfing treasures.

Visitors can expect to discover historical artifacts from local clubs, pore over archival photographs and documents, and dive into the personal stories of club members that have shaped the golfing community over the generations.

Rohan Craig, Golf Supervisor at Edinburgh Leisure said: “Our golf heritage exhibition will be looking to transcend traditional sporting narratives by uncovering overlooked community stories and creating inclusive pathways to engagement. By positioning golf as more than a sport – but a social and cultural touchstone – we’re hoping to attract non-traditional audiences.

“We’ll be reaching out to the various clubs that use our courses, in the hope that they can contribute physical memorabilia and archival materials, historical object and photographs and encourage anyone with interesting memorabilia to get in touch.”

This initiative, part of Sporting Heritage’s UK-wide programme celebrating local sporting history, promises to be a hole-in-one for golf enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The exhibition will complement Edinburgh Leisure’s Edinburgh 900 exhibition, coming soon, which will be displayed at the Braids Golf Course for the 125th year of the Dispatch Trophy in May 2025.

Keep up with the project’s progress by following @sportinghistory.

Jason Connery invests £1 Million in Lost Shore Surf Resort

Significant Post-Launch Boost for Europe’s Largest Surf Park

Jason Connery, filmmaker and son of the legendary Sean Connery, has invested £1 million in Lost Shore Surf Resort, marking a significant post-launch boost for Europe’s largest surf park.

His investment reflects the growing momentum behind the world-class surf destination, which has already welcomed strong visitor numbers since opening a few months ago in Ratho.

Lost Shore Surf Resort, powered by cutting-edge Wavegarden Cove technology, generates up to 1,000 waves per hour and caters to everyone from first-time surfers to elite professionals. More than just a premier surf destination, the resort, with accommodation, restaurants, wellness treatments and sauna facilities is set to deliver a lasting economic impact, creating 130 jobs and contributing more than £20 million annually to the local economy.

Beyond Lost Shore, Jason Connery and Andy Hadden are also collaborating on an exciting new £25m commercial development in Edinburgh aimed at the creative sector. Connery, who co-owns First Stage Studios in Leith with business partner Bob Last, is committed to supporting Scottish enterprise, culture, and innovation through both investment and creative ventures.

Jason Connery said: “Lost Shore Surf Resort is an exciting and ambitious project that brings something truly special to Scotland. It offers incredible opportunities not only for sport and recreation but also for the local economy.

“Andy Hadden’s vision for the resort is inspiring, and I am pleased to support a business that aligns with my passion for Scottish enterprise, sport, and culture. The early success of Lost Shore is a testament to the demand for an attraction like this, and I look forward to seeing its continued impact.”

Lost Shore Surf Resort has been backed by institutional-grade investors, including the Scottish National Investment Bank and Oaknorth Bank, together with a global pension fund and a range of private investors. 

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Andy Hadden, Founder of Lost Shore Surf Resort, welcomed the investment, saying: “These funds will help us take the project to the next level.  We are thilled to have Jason Connery backing our vision for Lost Shore.

“This investment underlines the potential of inland surf parks not only as world-class sporting destinations but also as drivers of economic growth and community engagement.

“Lost Shore is designed to be more than just a surf park – it is a place where people can come together, experience the thrill of surfing, and enjoy top-tier amenities that make it a true resort experience.”

With surfers coming in their droves, at levels expected within the business plan and ahead of Lost Shore’s first peak Spring and Summer season, it gives great encouragement for the facility to become the UK’s premier sporting and leisure destination.

Lucky Local wins £10,000 at Buzz Bingo Meadowbank

A lucky local has won £10,000 at Buzz Bingo Meadowbank on Moray Park. The bingo-goer is planning to use the winnings to replace her greenhouse and treat her family to a holiday.

Louise, a regular bingo player, has been a regular at Buzz Bingo Meadowbank for the past five years. On the day of her big win, she called “house” on the lucky number 74 and was in complete disbelief she’d won the £10,000 jackpot. She plans to use her jackpot to replace her greenhouse, which was destroyed by recent storms, and also treat her family to a well-deserved holiday

Gordon Barr, General Manager at Buzz Bingo Meadowbank, said “We couldn’t be happier for Louise and her fantastic win. Everyone was cheering from their seats – it was such an exciting moment.

“We can’t wait to celebrate at our winner’s party on Wednesday 26th February, Evening Main Event, where we’ll be giving away a total of £10,000 in full-house prizes. It’ll be an unforgettable night of excitement with even more winners right here in our club!”

Chief Operating Officer at Buzz Bingo, Stevie Shaves, said “The atmosphere in club when there’s a win is always incredible, and we’re delighted to see one of our lucky members win £10,000 on the Party Time Special Jackpot Game at Buzz Bingo Meadowbank.

“Overall Buzz Bingo players win more than £2m per week in bingo prize money and we love to celebrate every one of them with our amazing community!”

For those looking to get in on the action, new members can play for free on their first visit. What’s more, Buzz Bingo clubs offer great value food and drink deals all day every day.

For further information on deals and promotions you can visit buzzbingo.com.  

The Party Time Special is played every afternoon and evening Main Event, for just £ 1 per ticket. Members who call a full house in 40 numbers or fewer will win the £10,000 jackpot! Every winner gets £10,000, guaranteed – it makes no difference if more than one players wins at the same time.

Learn more about Buzz Bingo and find your nearest club at buzzbingo.com/ComeOutToPlay.

Follow us on facebook.com/BuzzBingo and find us on Instagram and Twitter by searching @Buzz_Bingo.

You can also reach us at PR@buzzbingo.com.  

Stay active this January at Gravity Active Edinburgh

Don’t let the shorter days and chilly weather get you down this January.  Stay active and experience boundless fun at Gravity Active Edinburgh. With wall-to-wall trampolines and climbing walls galore, there’s plenty to entertain all the family, whatever the weather!

After the indulgences of Christmas, January is a traditional time to think about wellbeing and fitness for the year ahead.  At Gravity Active this is easy, as bouncing around on a plethora of trampolines makes physical activity fun, all while improving heart health and cholesterol levels. 

For kids who have been cooped up over the festive period, unleash them at Gravity Active to use up that excess energy in a safe and entertaining environment. 

From the trampolines to the climbing walls, which are great for developing stamina and muscle strength, kids and adults alike will love the challenge and the satisfaction of reaching the top!

Harvey Jenkinson, co-founder and CEO of Gravity, commented: “January is a tricky time when the excitement of Christmas is over and the weather outside is still generally frightful!

“Gravity Active offers an escape from the January blues, with a bright, fun atmosphere and plenty to keep the whole family entertained. 

“For anyone looking for a great family day out in the new year, a session at Gravity Active will keep spirits high and energy levels met.”

Book your session at Gravity Active Edinburgh today at https://gravity-global.com/active/edinburgh

Quality assured for race goers at Musselburgh with new AA grading

Musselburgh Racecourse underlined its position as one of Scotland’s leading racecourses with an “exemplary” rating in four categories of a leading quality assurance scheme.

The East Lothian track received top tier rankings in the AA’s Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme, with an impressive overall score of 94.03% across all judged categories.

The AA’s Quality Assured Scheme has replaced the previous VisitScotland Quality Assured Scheme in which Musselburgh consistently achieved five star status each year.

The AA assessor found Musselburgh to be “exemplary” in four categories – Spotless and Sparkling, Staff Customer Services, Warmest Welcome and Taste of the Racecourses – Food.

The report said: “Musselburgh Racecourse is an appealing venue that offers regular racegoers, families, and casual visitors an excellent day out. The course is immaculately maintained, with a stunning coastal and countryside backdrop that creates an excellent first impression.”

The racecourse achieved a score of 94.4% in the general Racecourse assessment, 94.6% for its Catering, 95.2% for Bars, and an outstanding 98.8% for its Staff, which included customer care, efficiency and knowledge of the racecourse. In all other categories – Pre Arrival, Arrival & Departure, Cleanliness and Toilets, it was given a 90% approval rating.

The AA assessor said: “The staff at Musselburgh Racecourse play a significant role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for visitors.

“From the moment visitors arrive, they are met with friendly and professional team members eager to assist and ensure everything runs smoothly throughout the visit. The level of customer service is impressive.

“The staff are approachable, polite, and well-informed about the races and the venue. Their warm and approachable nature makes visitors feel comfortable and well looked after. The hospitality staff, including those at the bars and restaurants, provide excellent service. They are attentive and ensure that food and drinks are served quickly and to a high standard.”

Musselburgh Racecourse Commercial & Operations Director, Sarah Montgomery, said: “The consistently high scoring across key categories underlines our commitment to giving race goers, owners and regular and casual visitors alike, an experience to remember when enjoying a day at the races at Musselburgh.

“The overall rating of 94% and 90% plus ratings across all categories in the AA’s Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme is the icing on the cake of another successful year for the racecourse.

“These ratings speak to the wonderful efforts of racecourse staff at all levels who pull together each and every race day to provide excellent service, value for money, and an enthusiasm which translates into a hard-to-beat visitor experience.

“We, of course, will take on board all of the AA’s recommendations and pointers to ensure we improve year on year and continue to perform at the highest level.”

Musselburgh Racecourse has consistently been recognised for the high standards it sets and in 2023 was named the UK’s Champion Racecourse in the industry-wide Racecourse Association’s Showcase Awards.

Snooker’s biggest stars heading for Edinburgh

Snooker’s all-time greats head for the Meadowbank Sports Centre in Edinburgh next month for the BetVictor Scottish Open, with the star-studded line up and first round match schedule now confirmed.

Gary Wilson will be aiming to win the title for a third consecutive year, in a fantastic field which includes Scotland’s top player John Higgins, world number one Judd Trump, World Champion Kyren Wilson and many more green baize giants. The event runs from December 9th to 15th at the superb Meadowbank Sports Centre venue in the heart of Edinburgh.

Tickets are STILL AVAILABLE but must be booked fast now that the draw is out. They start at just £15 for one session, or £25 for an all-day ticket which gives fans the chance to watch a wide range of the world’s top stars. For all ticket details visit www.wst.tv/tickets

Gary Wilson, who beat Joe O’Connor in the 2022 final and Noppon Saengkham to retain the title in 2023, starts his defence against China’s Long Zehuang on the opening morning of the tournament on Monday December 9th.

Huge first round clashes over the first two days include:

Gary Wilson v Long Zehuang – – Monday December 9th at 10am

John Higgins v Ian Burns – Monday December 9th at 1pm

Mark Allen v He Guoqiang – Monday December 9th afternoon

Judd Trump v Ishpreet Singh Chadha – Monday December 9th at 7pm

Mark Williams v David Lilley – Monday December 9th evening

Kyren Wilson v David Grace – Tuesday December 10th at 1pm

Mark Selby v Stuart Carrington – Tuesday December 10th afternoon

Luca Brecel v Julien Leclercq – Tuesday December 10th afternoon

Shaun Murphy v Daniel Wells – Tuesday December 10th at 7pm

Ronnie O’Sullivan v Xing Zihao – Tuesday December 10th at 7pm

Neil Robertson v Fan Zhengyi – Tuesday December 10th evening

WST’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Tom Rowell said: “Edinburgh has proved a fantastic location for this event and the players have enjoyed packed crowds and a sensational atmosphere over the past two years.

“So we’re delighted to return to the Meadowbank Sports Centre especially with an incredibly strong line-up of our sport’s leading players. Tickets are already selling fast as this is the opportunity to watch world class sport from as little as £15. With such a high standard on the tour and so many epic matches already this season, there has never been a better time to watch snooker live.”

This is the third of four events in the BetVictor Home Nations Series, with the leading money winner across the series to bank an extra £150,000 bonus. Neil Robertson currently leads the way, just ahead of Kyren Wilson, with Judd Trump third. So there’s plenty at stake aside from the battle for the Stephen Hendry Trophy in Edinburgh.

The BetVictor Scottish Open is televised by Eurosport, discovery+, DMAX and many other broadcasters worldwide.

Lost Shore Surf Resort makes waves with Grand Opening

Scotland’s first inland surf resort, Lost Shore Surf Resort, officially opened with an exciting ribbon-cutting ceremony at its £60m site in Ratho, near Edinburgh, marking a new era for the nation’s adventure tourism.

Founder Andy Hadden, joined by Ratho Primary P7 House Captains, Scottish Junior Series Champion Robyn Larg, and professional surfer Ben Larg, proudly cut the ribbon at Europe’s largest and most advanced wave pool.

Andy Hadden said: “This is a dream come true. We’re thrilled to welcome visitors to experience Scotland’s new hub for world-class surfing, hospitality, and wellness.”

The resort, powered by Wavegarden technology, generates up to 1,000 customisable waves per hour and features luxury lodges, the Spear Sauna, and top Scottish eateries like Civerinos and Five March. 

The Wavegarden Cove is the most energy-efficient technology in the sector, consuming just 250-450 kilowatts per hour (kWh), or less energy than a single chair lift at a ski resort. 

With over 130 jobs created and a projected £11m annual boost to the local economy, Lost Shore Surf Resort is set to become a Scottish icon.

Edinburgh: ASICS Running Moves Your Mind City Tour

THE ASICS Running Moves Your Mind City Tour is coming to Edinburgh on Saturday 9th November.

ASICS is bringing the Running Moves Your Mind City Tour to a number of locations across the UK, offering consumers a unique experience that combines music with exercise and allows people to move their mind with ASICS.

Taking place in Castle Street, Edinburgh, consumers will be able to get involved in an immersive silent disco product trial experience, gait analysis and product consultation.

Full details of the event can be found below:

ASICS Running Moves Your Mind City Tour event details:

When is ASICS Running Moves Your Mind City Tour?

Saturday 9TH November, 9am – 4.30pm

Who can attend?

ASICS Running Moves Your Mind is a free-to-attend event for anyone, however spaces are limited so please sign up HERE.

What is ASICS Running Moves Your Mind City Tour?:

ASICS are bringing the Running Moves Your Mind City Tour to several locations across the UK, offering consumers a unique experience that combines music with exercise and allows people to experience ASICS superior comfort and move their minds.

What can consumers expect from the ASICS Running Moves Your Mind City Tour?:

Consumers can participate in a guided Silent Disco run around the city, soundtracked by a dedicated uplifting soundtrack.

In addition, consumers will be able to participate in a product discovery session with ASICS brand ambassadors and a free 10-minute gait analysis session.

How to find out more details about Running Moves Your Mind City Tour:

To find out more about Running Moves Your Mind City Tour in Edinburgh, visit:

Register on Eventbrite