Newhailes welcomes dogs for their very own festival

Doghailes guarantees to get tails wagging

The scruffiest pooch, the most precious pup and the best owner / dog lookalike are just some of the categories which will be judged  at Doghailes, a festival for dogs which will be held at the National Trust for Scotland’s Newhailes on Sunday 31 July.

The historic estate will be transformed into Doghailes as hounds from across the country descend on the stunning estate which is located on the edge of Musselburgh in East Lothian.

Canine companions can try their paw at a vast array of competitions, including best fancy dress, waggiest tail and the most golden oldie. 

Have-a-go activities especially for dogs will keep pups entertained, and delicious food and drink will be on offer at the day-long festival.  Tickets cost £2 per entry, making it a great value option for an excitement-filled day, all while contributing towards the conservation of Scottish heritage.

Claire Grant, Operations Manager for Edinburgh, said, “We are thrilled to once again welcome dogs and their owners  to Newhailes for our annual Doghailes festival. 

“Newhailes’ 34 acres of parkland and woodland is home to a wide range of Scottish wildlife and with unspoilt views across the River Forth, the Estate is very popular with dog walkers. 

“Doghailes provides us with a great opportunity to bring the community together and celebrate a fun day in our beautiful grounds.”

Established in 1931, the National Trust for Scotland is Scotland’s largest conservation charity and cares for, shares and speaks up for Scotland’s magnificent heritage. 

Membership, which provides funding for Scotland’s largest conservation charity, can be purchased online from just £9.80 per month for families, £5.25 for adults and £3 for children.

For more information on the National Trust for Scotland, Newhailes and to plan your summer itinerary, visit: www.nts.org.uk.

Pictures: Mike Wilkinson

Classic car fans flock to Newhailes to close summer of fun events

The National Trust for Scotland recently played host to a Classic Car and Transport Show – the first of its kind at Newhailes House & Gardens in Musselburgh.

Families and fans of classic cars flocked to the historic house and gardens to admire gleaming automobiles on Sunday 29 August. This is the latest stellar event hosted at Newhailes – from the adorable Doghailes, celebrating our best furry friends, and a concert by the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.

Claire Grant, Operations Manager Edinburgh, for the National Trust for Scotland, said: “We love Newhailes – it’s a special place for our community. We’ve been delighted to showcase the house and gardens by holding exciting events through the summer.

“From crowning the best dog lookalike, to poignant fiddle music, to the gorgeous vehicles on display at our latest event – Newhailes has played host to diverse events and audiences. We love welcoming visitors to Newhailes – look out for future fun family events!”

Newhailes House & Gardens is a stunning place which played a prominent role in the Scottish Enlightenment.

The estate is complete with a Palladian mansion, woodland walks and the recently renovated Stables Café, as well as Weehailes Adventure Playpark. Newhailes has something for all the family to enjoy.

Pictures: Mike Wilkinson

Perfect pooches on parade at Newhailes

Musselburgh’s Palladian mansion became Doghailes for a day of canine fun

The scruffiest dogs, most precious pups and waggiest tails were all on display on Saturday as the grand estate of Newhailes became Doghailes for the day.

The Palladian mansion in Musselburgh, which is cared for and run by Scotland’s conservation charity the National Trust for Scotland, welcomed dogs of all shapes and sizes for a day of events and activities celebrating man’s best friend.

Taking centre stage was a dog show with a difference, with prizes including Best Lookalike and Best Rescue. 

Claire Grant, the National Trust for Scotland’s Edinburgh Operations Manager, said: “It was great to welcome so many visitors and their four-legged friends to Newhailes at the weekend.

“Newhailes is a very dog-friendly property with lovely walks in our surrounding estate which we know our visitors love. After such a challenging past year and a half, it was great to see so many happy – and furry – faces, enjoying the day at our beautiful property!”

Among the winners was ‘hippy dog’ Rubin, a 13-month-old Poodle. Far out, man!

Pictures: Mike Wilkinson

Iconic palace and country house announce summer outdoor theatre shows

Two east of Scotland treasures will host a series of outdoor theatre performances, allowing visitors to enjoy both Shakespeare beneath the stars and the classic Treasure Island.

This summer, the National Trust for Scotland is hosting outdoor theatre and music shows at a number of their properties across the country, including Falkland Palace in Fife and Newhailes near Edinburgh.

Families and theatre lovers are invited to bring their blankets and chairs and enjoy the open air shows, set within the gardens and grounds of two of Scotland’s iconic properties.

Fans of Shakespeare can see Henry V at Falkland Palace on Sunday 15 August. Against the dramatic backdrop of one of the former homes of Mary Queen of Scots, the stirring tale of the charismatic king will be brought to life over a summer’s evening. 

The Palladian country house of Newhailes will host The Tempest on Saturday 17 July and a production of Treasure Island on 21 July, will see pirates descend on the Musselburgh estate.

Open-air theatre goers are encouraged to bring blankets, rugs and picnics along to enjoy the alfresco entertainment. 

All events can be booked through each of the individual properties on the National Trust for Scotland website at www.nts.org.uk

All events have been prepared to be as safe as possible and will follow COVID-19 guidelines and safety measures. The National Trust for Scotland is urging anyone planning to visit the events to check the latest government guidance around COVID-19 restrictions.

LISTINGS

Falkland Palace

Shakespeare’s Henry V at Falkland Palace & Garden
Date: Sunday 15 August

Time: 7pm

Festival Players International bring you Shakespeare’s most popular history play: Henry V.

After a rebellious and spirited youth, carousing in the taverns of London, Prince Hal takes on the responsibility of kingship and leads his troops across the Channel to do battle with the French at Agincourt. Follow the charismatic King Henry V in this stirring tale of leadership, bravery, humour and love; two hours of exhilarating entertainment for a summer’s evening!

Book your ticket now

Newhailes

The Tempest
Date: Saturday 17 July

Time: 7pm

Folksy’s wonderful production is filled with live music, colourful characters, enchantment and a little touch of magic.

Book your ticket now

Treasure Island
Date: Wednesday 21 July

Time: 6pm

Join plucky Jim Hawkins and his swashbuckling buccaneer crew in this exciting new adaptation of the classic pirate adventure.

Book your ticket now

New trampoline park opens in Musselburgh

The UK’s fastest growing trampoline park operator, Jump In, opened the doors of its latest £1.5m high-spec, eagerly anticipated arena on the outskirts of Edinburgh this weekend. Hundreds of excited families from across the central belt enjoyed a live demonstration by British Champion Gymnast, Lara Craig (22) from Musselburgh (above). Continue reading New trampoline park opens in Musselburgh