Scotland’s summer weather is expected to boost the attendance at Musselburgh’s popular Friday night meeting on 23 June.
The Construction & Property Recruitment Friday 90’s Race Night kickstarts the weekend for many racegoers who flock to the East Lothian track.
And with its 90’s theme and post racing After Party hosted by Forth One’s leading presenter Boogie in the Morning, it’s a big draw for racing fans keen to let their hair down and make the most of the summer sun.
The 5-star racing venue is making it easier for guests to get to and from Edinburgh city centre with ticketed bus services, while those taking the train can make use of a courtesy bus service from Wallyford and Newcraighall stations.
To further whet the appetite, some of Scotland’s leading street food vendors are on-site, including Slum Dog, Dog n Bon and Bonnie Burrito, while the racecourse’s own Pinkies Deli offers dishes which appeal to all.
Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Aisling Johnston, said: “With seven thrilling Flat races, followed by an exciting 90’s After Party, where else is better to make the most of these fantastic summer evenings we’ve been enjoying.
“Dressing up is not essential but we hope many will throw on their favourite 90’s outfit and if race goers are too young to have experienced the 90’s first time around, now is their chance to see what all the fuss was about.”
Racegoers who book tickets before 22 June will save £2 per person on the £25 admission fee.
Gates open at 4pm on 23 June, the first race is off at 5.30pm and the last race is scheduled for 9pm, with the After Party lasting approximately one hour after the final race.
As with all Musselburgh race meetings, children aged 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.
Shortening the distance of the £40,000 Edinburgh Cup at Musselburgh today (Sat 3 June) seems to have appealed to Middleham trainer Charlie Johnston who is triple-handed in the nine furlong handicap.
Musselburgh Racecourse general manager Bill Farnsworth revealed earlier that trimming the race from 12 furlongs (1 ½ miles) to just 1⅛ mile was done to attract a larger quality field of three year olds.
Farnsworth said: “At this time of year the pool of three year old horses who can run 12 furlongs is quite small so by reducing The Edinburgh Cup to nine furlongs, that little drop in distance could lead to a bigger quality field.
“By changing the distance the race now provides the ideal steppingstone to the Britannia Handicap for 3 year olds over 8f (1 mile) or the Golden Gates Handicap for 3 year olds over 10f (1 ¼m) at Royal Ascot in mid-June.”
Johnston, now operating with his sole name on the license, will be represented by Venetian, Lion Of War and Gareeb, who is partnered by stable jockey Joe Fanning.
Top-weight, under 9st 9lb, is Coco Jack from the Newmarket stable of George Scott, who has only had one previous runner – without success – at Musselburgh, while Ian Williams-trained Dancing In Paris arrives in great heart having already won at Haydock and finished a close second at Sandown this spring.
Lightly-raced Old Smoke, from the Richard Fahey camp, wasn’t beaten far in the London Gold Cup at Newbury recently while Keith Dalgleish’s Iato’s Angel was only just pipped over course and distance in a fillies’ handicap in April.
The second £40,000 race, The Queen of Scots Fillies’ Stakes, is Musselburgh’s only Class 1 Listed Flat race of the season and the Musselburgh boss reckons this is probably the best race in Scotland for fillies and mares.
Heredia is the likely market-leader and trained in Wiltshire by Richard Hannon, she beat 27 rivals in last year’s Buckingham Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.
White Moonlight, representing Saeed bin Suroor, was a close runner-up in Group 2 company during the winter in Dubai, and Basil Martini, just the third runner at the track for Irish handler Joseph O’Brien, won a Group 3 contest at the Curragh last autumn.
The Edinburgh Cup Raceday, sponsored by Edinburgh Gin, is also Derby Day and Musselburgh’s first race has been brought forward to the slightly earlier 1.15pm slot in support of the main Epsom classic, which is off at 1.30pm and will be shown throughout the East Lothian track.
“Derby Day is a huge day for racing and it adds an extra dimension to our own fixture, with an extra buzz around the place and everyone gathered in front of our big screens,” added Farnsworth.
“For those unable to be at Epsom itself, Musselburgh offers a great experience to soak up the unique atmosphere that turf racing creates and we expect a big crowd today.”
Gates open at 11.30am, the first race is at 1.15pm and the last race at 4.50pm. Tickets will cost £40 on the day for adults, while children aged 17 and under go for free. Concession tickets will cost £25 on the day for those who are eligible.
For more information and to book tickets please visit:
Prestigious event calls on racegoers to get suited and booted for dancing
A TRIO of popular bands will ensure excitement levels at one of Scotland’s most anticipated racedays are kept high once on-track competition comes to a close.
Musselburgh Racecourse has unveiled the musical line-up set to get the Edinburgh Cup crowd jumping, featuring popular local and Scottish talent.
Taking to the stage will be Edinburgh-based bands The Zebra Three and Chameleon Lady, who will help get racegoers moving and singing along at the After-Race Party. Completing the line-up will be The Soundtrax, one of Scotland’s most popular party bands.
Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “This year’s Edinburgh Cup is a real celebration of all things Edinburgh.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the racecourse, and with such great musical talent on display, The Edinburgh Cup promises to be full of entertainment and one not to miss.
“The bands offer a wide and entertaining range of music that we think those attending will love. We can’t wait to see the performers take to the stage for an hour after the last race takes place and provide some excellent music.”
Edinburgh Gin’s long-term partnership with the East Lothian course features again this year – with the upcoming 2023 event providing many an experience for gin and cocktail fans to match the high-quality racing on display.
Along with tasty refreshments, those attending can expect a celebration of Edinburgh’s best culinary delights to go with the 7 thrilling races, with a total of £139,000 up for grabs in prize money.
Revellers are also being encouraged to dress to impress as a host of photo opportunities are located around the racecourse, with prizes up for grabs for people who share their images on social media.
Headlining the after-party will be folk rock band, Chameleon Lady, who is fronted by singer Cameron Middlemass.
Speaking on playing at the event, Cameron said: “To be asked to headline the After-Racing Party is a privilege, we’re excited and looking forward to performing.
“It’s our first proper headline gig at Musselburgh Racecourse and we’re excited, the punters are great so it will be a good Saturday.
Speaking on why people should come to the raceday, Cameron added: “Musselburgh Racecourse has more of a community vibe, so much is going on with food and bars, if you’re someone who isn’t that big on racing there is so much there anyway for you to be excited by.”
High-energy band The Soundtrax band members have also spoken about their excitement to play at The Edinburgh Cup. The band’s singer, Angus Johnston, said: “We are super excited to be performing for the Musselburgh crowd.
“Getting to perform for big crowds on big occasions is what every musician aspires to achieve. Couple that with what we are sure will be an electric atmosphere, thanks to some top-class racing, and it should be an amazing day.
“Our music is all energy, we are an out and out party band, and our goal is always to get people dancing. If you fancy a boogie today, then come and boogie with us!”
The Soundtrax guitarist Jim O’Neil added: “We’re going to get off the stage into the crowd, onto the dance floor and dance with people, we’ll get conga lines on the go, and it will be maximum party mode.
“Days like this at the races are the best kind of gigs, they are just the most fun.”
Returning to the stage will be Dalkeith based The Zebra Three, who will kick up some nostalgia as they play pop rock and rare cheese from the 60’s and 70’s.
Singer and guitarist James Mackintosh said: “We’re delighted to be performing at such a great scene, it’s always a great atmosphere, especially if the weather is good, which makes for a great day.
“It’s all about the atmosphere, when people come to the races, everyone is in a good mood.
The band also comprises of Kenny Hutchison on bass and vocals, along with his son Robbie Hutchison who plays on drums.
Speaking on the father-son duo playing together, James said: “Robbie is a very accomplished drummer, it’s just great that he wants to play with two older guys!”
The Zebra Three will be kicking off the day between 11:30 to 13:05, followed by The Soundtrax between races from 13:20 to 16:40 and Chameleon Lady headlining the After-Party following the last race, from between 16:55-18:00.
Revellers can benefit from £5 saving per person when tickets are purchased before 12pm on 2nd June, with gate admission costing £40 for adults and £25 for concessions. Children aged 17 and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult.
Gates open at 11.30am, with provisional times for the first race at 1.15pm and the last race at 4:50pm.
Musselburgh Racecourse provides year-round racing action, with 27 race days across the flat and jump racing seasons, including weekend, midweek, and evening.
For further information on the Edinburgh Cup and to book tickets now, visit:
This summer, let curiosity and a sense of adventure drive you to discover the best-kept secrets across Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland with a Rabbie’s small-group tour (www.rabbies.com).
The UK is rich in popular tourist spots and famous city landmarks. But there are also hidden gems aplenty. Spend this summer exploring Route 66 in Scotland or England’s most beautiful lake, Ullswater, before marvelling at the ancient standing stones of Castlerigg or the Scottish castle with a history as dramatic as its cliff-perched ruins. Small-group tour specialist, Rabbie’s, takes its guests off the beaten track to explore the best that the UK has to offer.
Three-Day The North Coast 500 Tour
The North Coast 500 is a winding, rollercoaster of a road, racing past ruined castles, picturesque beaches, stunning cliffs and charming, remote villages. Departing from Inverness, this epic drive passes over towering mountains and by stunning lochs to arrive at the scenic port town of Ullapool.
Journeying north, the scenery grows rocky, mountainous, and more beautiful, but wonders await. Venture into the deep Smoo Cave and walk the wrecks of Ardvreck Castle before concluding the day in Thurso, the most northerly town on the British mainland.
Reach the northernmost point of mainland Great Britain before travelling to Girnigoe Castle – a mighty ruin with a dramatic history, precariously perched on the edge of a cliff.
Prices for the Three-Day The North Coast 500 Tour start from £249 per person based on 24th July departure.
Three-Day Lake District Explorer
The Lake District boasts the 10 tallest mountains in England, 1,779 listed buildings and a staggering 16,510 archaeological sites Departing from Manchester, guests will drive high to Kirkstone Pass for some amazing views, before driving down to the shores of Ullswater and taking a short forest walk to see the scenic Aira Force waterfall.
Witness the spectacular sight of the mysterious, 5,000 year-old Castlerigg standing stones, which used to be home to ancient pagan rituals. before diving into poetic heritage, Grasmere which William Wordsworth described as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath found’. Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Windermere, admire the prehistoric rock art at Langdale Boulders and visit Moss Force Waterfall.
Round off the tour with a stop at the enormous, 2,000 tonne, 9 metre high and 15-metre-wide Bowder Stone, which fell from the Bowder Crag more than 10,000 years ago.
Prices for the Three-Day Lake District Explorer start from £239 per person based on 27th July departure.
Rabbie’s UK and Ireland tours depart from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen, London, Manchester, Bristol, Belfast and Dublin.
For more information about Rabbie’s and to book, visit www.rabbies.com.
No long faces at Musselburgh Racecourse ahead of sensational raceday
THE COUNTDOWN is on to one of the most prestigious events in the Scottish racing calendar which promises a bumper offering for revellers both on and off the track.
With over £135,000 in the prize pot, The Edinburgh Cup Raceday sponsored by Edinburgh Gin, will take place on Derby Day on 3 June and will feature two of the most valuable races staged at Musselburgh Racecourse.
The event commonly referred to as ‘Edinburgh’s raceday’ is a dedicated celebration of the vibrant capital city with attendees getting an opportunity to enjoy a day packed full of entertainment and an array of Scotland’s best street food offerings to indulge in.
Edinburgh Gin’s long-term partnership with the East Lothian course has seen activities build year on year – with the upcoming 2023 event providing many an experience for gin and cocktail-fans to match the high-quality racing on display.
As well as eight-person gin domes and specially created drinks at bars around the course, the Edinburgh Gin tipple trailer will debut slushies alongside more traditional drinks and botanical-inspired cocktails.
Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “Edinburgh Gin is a fitting partner to make one of the summer season’s social and sporting highlights.
“Revellers will be able to try the very best gin the capital has to offer while enjoying the racing and day’s festivities – which includes the Epsom Derby.
“The partnership matches Edinburgh Gin’s innovative and creative approach to gin production with our ambition to continually break down barriers, and we’re excited to showcase the best Musselburgh Racecourse and Edinburgh Gin have to offer on this exciting date in the summer Flat season.”
With the sought-after Edinburgh Gin domes already sold out for the Edinburgh Cup racegoers, visitors are being urged to book tickets now, with those booking before midnight on the 2 June saving £5 per person.
Aisling Johnston added: “Edinburgh Gin is a well-loved brand, and we believe its presence will bring an even greater sense of fun to events for guests by incorporating competitions and novelty features into the raceday.
“We look forward to welcoming the crowds to Musselburgh Racecourse on 3 June to enjoy what promises to be a spectacular day with a G&T in hand.”
Neil Boyd, Managing Director at Edinburgh Gin said: “Edinburgh Gin is delighted to once again sponsor the esteemed Edinburgh Cup at Musselburgh Racecourse, a wonder-filled day out for all concerned.
“We are very proud of our Edinburgh roots; our distillery lies in the heart of this great city and we continue to support local events that bring people together in the spirit of good fun and friendly competition.
“We will be raising a glass on 3June to the Edinburgh Cup and an exciting raceday ahead.”
Bill Farnsworth, Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse said: “The Edinburgh Cup is always a fantastic day of celebrations for everyone.
“The partnership between Edinburgh Gin and the Edinburgh Cup brings together the finest spirits and the finest horses for an unparalleled racing experience.
“We look forward to working with Edinburgh Gin to make it a day to remember for racing fans and Gin fans alike.”
Racegoers don’t need to worry about on-the-day transport as tickets are available on the Musselburgh Racecourse website for return tickets to Edinburgh. Buses will leave Waterloo Place in the city centre at 11:15 and return at 18:00, helping to provide a seamless experience. All return tickets are only £10 per person.
Edinburgh Cup Raceday gate admission is £40 for adults and £25 for concessions. Children aged 17 years and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult.
Gates open at 11.30am, with provisional times for the first race at 1.15pm and the last race at 4:50pm.
Musselburgh Racecourse provides year-round racing action, with 27 race days across the flat and jump racing seasons including weekend, midweek, and evening.
Maker’s Mark, the handmade bourbon from Kentucky, has teamed up with Edinburgh’s finest bars and artisan producer Scottish Bee Company, to celebrate Maker’s Remarkable Neighbourhood Initiative for the first time in Scotland.
You can enjoy limited edition drinks on a new bourbon cocktail trail across Leith until May 31st.
Three Edinburgh bars, Nauticus, Mother Superior and Innis and Gunn, have created their twist on a Maker’s Mark’s ‘Gold Rush’ cocktail made with honey syrup, lemon, and Maker’s Mark bourbon.
The brand’s signature serve has been chosen for cocktail lovers to enjoy and, as a delicious option for those who might not have tried bourbon before, for its smooth and well–balanced flavours.
Imaginative drinks from Edinburgh’s top bartenders are available exclusively on curated menus in each bar until the end of the month and feature homegrown honey by Scottish Bee Company to enhance the bold flavours of Maker’s Mark bourbon.
Menu highlights in venues include a refreshing Fools Gold at Nauticus with Maker’s Mark, Edinburgh Honey Co, ginger, rooibos tea, fresh grapefruit and lime. Or try a smoky Maker Break cocktail at Mother Superior, expertly mixed with Maker’s Mark, Laphroaig 10yr Old, lemon and honey syrup.
The Remarkable Neighbourhood Initiative takes place in May throughout the UK across Bristol, Manchester and Edinburgh, with 18 of the UK’s best bars and restaurants part of the exciting programme of craft cocktails and events.
All are designed to explore iconic bourbon cocktails whilst celebrating local communities and neighbourhoods. Bars have been selected for their superior quality and sustainable practice, and partnerships with local, artisan honey producers will occur in each city, paying homage to Maker’s Mark recent B – Corp certification.
Handcrafted in small batches, Maker’s Mark bourbon is crafted with precision and care to create a smooth yet full flavoured bourbon whiskey. Their production process includes rotating each barrel by hand and hand dipping each bottle at their distillery in Loretto, Kentucky in order to create the best-tasting Bourbon whiskey.
Edinburgh: Remarkable Neighbourhood – Edinburgh: Leith
Mother Superior Book your table by calling 0131 554 5280
Celebrate your local neighbourhood in style this May. MAKER’S MARK Remarkable Neighbourhood runs until May 31st across Leith in Edinburgh. For more information, visit https://www.makersmark.com/uk
David Lloyd Leisure has appointed its senior management team in anticipation of opening its new Edinburgh Shawfair club.
Michael Lindores joins the team as General Manager from David Lloyd Aberdeen and will oversee preparations for the 2023 summer opening. The Edinburgh Shawfair team has launched its local recruitment drive this month, with management interviewing candidates for key hospitality, spa, and fitness roles.
David Lloyd Leisure expects that the new club will generate up to 75 jobs when operational. Construction began in October 2022, and the development phase is expected to generate more than £4 million for local subcontractors and companies and involve 50-60 construction jobs.
The site recently opened a dedicated marketing suite staffed by a full-time membership team. There has been intense interest from locals who have registered for updates in recent months, and early-bird discounts still operate for those registering online for a little while longer.
The club is committed to exploring opportunities to develop local community partnerships over the coming months, most notably as a sponsor and participant at the Midlothian Gala in May.
The centrepiece of David Lloyd Edinburgh Shawfair will be the 100+ station gym, which will house David Lloyd Clubs’ cutting-edge gym concept with an unrivalled array of best-in-class equipment.
Four bespoke designed studios will offer high-octane High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) classes, such as Blaze, group cycling with Cyclone and mind and body classes, such as SPIRIT.
A 20m indoor and a 25m heated outdoor swimming pool will offer a range of activities, including aqua aerobics, family splash time as well as quiet adult swim sessions for a more relaxing way to enjoy lengths. The new Club will also feature three outdoor padel courts plus four tennis courts inside an aerodome.
There will also be a Clubroomwhich will be carefully zoned to meet member needs, including a dining area with freshly cooked meals and a business area to catch up with work in peaceful surroundings. Families can enjoy a dedicated zone with eating areas and an indoor playframe. An outdoor patio area will offer a space for outdoor dining and socialising on warmer days and evenings, with playground facilities for the children.
The club will have a 250-space car park and is well-connected to Edinburgh and surrounding towns in Midlothian and East Lothian by nearby bus, rail, and cycle links. The development was granted planning approval in April 2021 following extensive consultation with the local community in 2020.
Michael Lindores, General Manager at David Lloyd Shawfair, said:“I am delighted to be appointed General Manager to oversee the process of building our new community at David Lloyd Edinburgh Shawfair.It is a privilege to lead the new team welcoming our members in summer 2023.
“David Lloyd Edinburgh Shawfair will be an amazing place. Our members will enjoy new and unrivalled facilities, ranging from incredible outdoor spaces to an extensive suite of group exercise studios, with Signature classes exclusive to David Lloyd Clubs.
“We are committed to the Midlothian area, and our recruitment drive is a fantastic opportunity for those with the drive and passion to thrive in a fast-paced fitness environment.
“Many of our senior team have transferred from across the United Kingdom, and we are steadfastly committed to seeing Shawfair become a premium destination that locals can be proud of.”
Don’t get yourself in a pickle! Invented in the USA over 50 years ago by a family who named it after their dog Pickles, Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the world.
Played on a court very similar to badminton but with a lower net, it is played with a ball and a paddle, and uses racket skills from tennis, squash, badminton and table tennis. The rules and scoring system mean that pickleball is very accessible for the young and not so young, making it a family activity for everyone to enjoy.
Pickleball is available at the new Meadowbank Sports Centre and Gracemount Leisure Centre. Book your place online or via the App under ‘Social Sport Class”
Volunteering
Have time on your hands? Perhaps, you could consider volunteering for Edinburgh Leisure?AtEdinburgh Leisure, their wonderful volunteers play a vital role in supporting people in our Active Communities programme.
They make an enormous difference to people’s lives and, quite simply, many of Edinburgh Leisure’s projects couldn’t exist without them. No matter which role you undertake as a volunteer, training and support will be provided.
Most people are familiar with Aquafit, but Hydrospin takes working out in water to a whole new level. If you’ve tried spinning, then try cycling underwater for an hour to get a whole new perspective on a workout.
Hydrospin is a water-based fitness class combining the dynamism of indoor studio cycling with the benefits of water-based exercise.Available at the Royal Commonwealth Pool only.
Hone your skills in the water with Edinburgh Leisure’s 1-2-1 swim and dive lessons.
Whether you are looking to build confidence in the pool or perfect your technique Edinburgh Leisure’s enthusiastic team will help guide, support and encourage you to achieve your goals – fast. Their lessons are open to all ages and abilities, although the swim 1-2-1 session times are more suitable for adults.
Prices are £22 for a 25-minute session or £44 for 50 minutes. Bookings can be made up to a week in advance (or 8 days in advance if you have a membership card).
And if squash isn’t your bag, then there’s always tennis, badminton, Pickleball or table tennis.
Edinburgh Leisure run a series of Adult social sport classes across their venues. These are regular social and fun classes designed for all ages and abilities:
Badminton – Instructor led adult social classes available at Craiglockhart Tennis Centre, Gracemount Leisure Centre, Meadowbank Sports Centre and Wester Hailes High School. More information on these sessions can be found here
Pickleball – Gracemount Leisure Centre and Meadowbank Sports Centre. Book your place in the class online or via the App under ‘Social Sport Class” Take a dip in a Victorian pool
Edinburgh Leisure boasts not one but five Victorian pools!
At Glenogle, Portobello, Dalry, Leith Victoria and Warrender, which over the years have received substantial refurbishment and TLC. To swim in a Victorian pool with the natural light that floods in through their glass roofs is a relaxing experience like no other.
Turkish Baths, steam rooms and saunas
And chill! Looking for something a little less strenuous or to soothe your muscles after a workout? Or just a place to unwind?
Taking some regular time out can improve your mental and physical wellbeing. The gentle moist heat in Edinburgh Leisure’s spa facilities will relax your mind and body which can have a beneficial effect on your sleep and help to alleviate any aches and pains. There are lots of options across Edinburgh!
And for the ultimate in relaxation therapy, look no further than Edinburgh Leisure’s authentic, original Victorian-designed Turkish Baths at Portobello Swim Centre, the last of their kind in Edinburgh.
With 50+ venues across the city, which includes 1 world-class climbing centre;11 superb swimming pools, including 5 Victorian ones; 15 state-of-the-art gyms; 32 tennis courts; 141 sports pitches; and 750+ fitness classes per week, wherever you’re at on the map or in life, Edinburgh Leisure is right up your street and has a flexible and affordable membership option to suit most budgets.
Those joining in May will pay no joining fee*. There are also additional member benefits, including priority bookings, free gym induction and discounts on a range of activities. There is no contract and membership can be frozen or cancelled at any time.
For more information and to join Edinburgh Leisure:
Award winning, small tour company Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com) has announced two new departure points in the cities of Bristol and Belfast.
From these cites, new tours will explore all West England, Wales, and Northern Ireland has to offer, providing the opportunity for both the cities’ natives and visitors from the world over to explore the regions. The new tours start from April 2023 and are available to book now.
In their luxury mini-coaches, all Rabbie’s tours venture off-the-beaten path to show guests hidden gems, like Carreg Cennen Castle in Wales and Northern Ireland’s beautiful Lough Erne, without missing out on much-loved sights like Stonehenge and or Giant’s Causeway.
By venturing beyond the guidebook, Rabbie’s tours support the local economies of the places they visit, supporting family-owned restaurants, attractions, giftshops, hotels, and more.
Bristol provides the perfect point to set off and explore the far reaches of the Southwest and the unspoilt terrain of Wales. Natural wonders like Dartmoor National Park and the Wye Valley, as well as man-made sensations like Tintern Abbey await.
The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, is a vibrant and historically resonant city, and offers the perfect introduction to the stunning sights of the rich and diverse region, like the gorgeous Causeway Coastal Route and the hilltop fort Grianan of Aileach.
Tours departing from Bristol and Belfast start from April 2023 and include:
Four-day Cornwall, Devon & Stonehenge tour from Bristol
A drive through Exmoor, a National Park which offers a mix of moorland, woodland, coast, and rivers is the perfect tour introduction. The road will take you to the clifftops of North Cornwall and the ruins of Tintagel Castle, famed for its links to King Arthur. The castle is a unique mix of fact, myth and natural beauty.
Explore Cornwall’s beloved St. Ives and walk along the cobbled streets of the idyllic fishing town before hitting the road and arriving at Land’s End.
Walk the rugged landscape of Dartmoor National Park and visit the rocky granite outcrops before enjoying the lively city of Exeter. Witness one of the UK’s most remarkable national landmarks, Durdle Door and visit Shaftesbury, a quaint English village over 1000 years old. Conclude this adventure at Stonehenge, one of the world’s most iconic sights and most puzzling mysteries.
Join Rabbie’s four-day Cornwall, Devon & Stonehenge tour from Bristol from £325 per person based on a 23 April 2023 departure.
Three-day Causeway Coast, Derry & Fermanagh Lakelands tour from Belfast
History, legend, culture, and nature all unite on this stunning tour that celebrates the very best of Northern Ireland. The Causeway Coastal Route is the perfect beginning to the tour. Driving from Belfast, the road winds past steep cliffs, ancient castle ruins and the magnificent Glens of Antrim.
Journey through the Dark Hedges, the haunting beech avenue that is over 300 years old and explore the wonders of Derry’s growing cultural and artistic scene. Take in the charming island town of Enniskillen and cruise on its beautiful Lough Erne.
Travel inland to the ecclesiastical city of Armagh to explore the two cathedrals dedicated to St. Patrick and taste the local ciders and legendary Irish Black Butter. Finally, walk the ornamental grounds, tranquil woodlands and charming glens of the Hillsborough Castle.
Join Rabbie’s three-day Causeway Coast, Derry & Fermanagh Lakelands from Belfast from £299 per person based on a 1 May 2023 departure.
Other tours departing Bristol include:
The one-day Stonehenge & Cotswold Villages tour. A day out exploring myths, history, and the quintessential villages of the Cotswolds.
The one-day Flavours of Somerset & Glastonbury tour. Explore the flavours of Somerset, renowned for its cheddar cheese and cider, and marvel at the history and legends of Glastonbury.
The two-day Stratford–upon–Avon, Oxford & the Cotswoldstour. Discover Great Britain’s history as you explore the world-famous Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
The four-day South Wales, Cotswolds & Oxford tour. A coastal drive in the south of Wales. A medieval town with an interesting past. A photo-worthy mountain range. A book-lovers paradise. And much, much more.
Other tours departing Belfast include:
The four-day Donegal & the Wild Atlantic Way. An escape to county Donegal famed for its wild, rugged coast and warm welcomes.
The six-day The Wild Coasts of the North. A combination of both of Rabbie’s Northern Ireland tours provide the ultimate Northern Ireland experience.
From April 2023, Bristol and Belfast expand Rabbie’s departure city options. UK and Ireland tours also depart from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen, London, Manchester and Dublin.
For more information about Rabbie’s and to book, visit www.rabbies.com.
Scotland’s largest conservation charity welcomed 23,822 children to take part in its Easter Egg Trails
Events took place across 32 Trust places throughout the country, with Crathes Castle welcoming 3,363 children, Newhailes 3,251 and Brodie Castle 2,261
The National Trust for Scotland welcomed 23,822 children to its places over Easter weekend, as people flocked to sites such as Crathes Castle, Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Glencoe National Nature Reserve, to take part in its Easter Egg Trails and enjoy the country’s nature, beauty and heritage.
Following the popularity of last year’s Easter Egg Trails, which saw nearly 20,000 children take part in activities at 21 National Trust for Scotland places between Good Friday and Easter Monday, this year even more events took place across Scotland to encourage more families to get outdoors and enjoy some fun-filled activities in the beautiful surrounds of the Trust’s properties. This resulted in an increase in participants of almost 20%.
This year’s Easter trails took place across 32 Trust properties, from Friday 7 to Monday 10 April, where the family-friendly events tasked visitors with collecting clues dotted around the gardens, grounds, hills and woodland owned and cared for by the conservation charity, before solving the puzzle and winning some tasty chocolate prizes.
Certain places across the country saw a remarkable increase in participants this year, with figures at Hill of Tarvit up 155% to 846 children, meanwhile Crathes Castle welcomed 3,363 children (up 51% on last year), Newhailes 3,251 and Brodie Castle 2,261. House of the Binns, which recently re-opened its doors to the public on 1 April, participated for the first year and sold out in advance, with 478 children taking part.
Philip Long OBE, Chief Executive of National Trust for Scotland, said: “Easter is one of the highlights of the National Trust for Scotland’s calendar, giving people and especially families the chance to enjoy nature, beauty and heritage at our fantastic places.
“All over the country, our places were alive with people from across generations spending time together outdoors, while the sun mostly shone. What a great start to spring for everyone who loves Scotland’s special places. This support means so much to our charity and allows us to continue our vital work to care for and protect Scotland’s rich heritage, now and in the future.”
The Easter Egg Trails are just one example of the events and activities the National Trust for Scotland has made available this year, as part of its commitment to making Scotland’s heritage more accessible, as outlined in the charity’s 10-year strategy, Nature, Beauty & Heritage for Everyone.
Focused on caring for, sharing, and speaking up for Scotland’s heritage which doesn’t have a voice, the Trust offers its members and visitors the opportunity to explore over 100 sites, while learning about some of the most magnificent buildings, collections and landscapes in the country.
For more information on the National Trust for Scotland visit www.nts.org.uk.
