The Creative Place Awards celebrate and recognise the hard work and imagination that contribute to the rich cultural life of a community and its social and economic well-being, and rewards the efforts and imagination of such places.

The awards, were presented to communities of different sizes across three categories. The winners are:

• Wigtown, in Dumfries and Galloway, South West Scotland

In the category for ‘places with fewer than 2,500 residents’.

Each year over 15,000 people flock to Wigtown for its hugely successful Book Festival. The award will allow the festival to be developed into a year-round programme, including a residential creative writing course and a high-profile Wigtown Lecture. The annual festival is a celebration of the written word and features around 200 events over 10 days, with events including talks by authors, book signings, cinema, and events for children.

• West Kilbride, in North Ayrshire, West Coast of Scotland

In the category for ‘places with fewer than 10,000 residents’.

The award will allow Craft Town Scotland, a community initiative, to develop a new series of exhibitions and programmes in West Kilbride to involve younger and older members of the community. Situated on the rugged coastline overlooking the Isle of Arran, Craft Town Scotland is a picturesque haven for craft and design. The creation of Scotland’s first designated Craft Town has transformed West Kilbride and helped make it a better place to live, work and visit. The town currently boasts eight studios and an exhibition gallery and gift shop, creating various types of craft ware, from baskets and wood carvings to sculptures and stoneware.

• St Andrews, in Fife

In the category for ‘places with fewer than 100,000 residents’.

St Andrews will host its own Year of Celebration in 2012 and the award will allow the town to promote its already rich cultural programme to UK and international visitors and to support a new community musical theatre production. 2012 is already shaping up to be a memorable year for the town, with one-off occasions such as the University’s 600th Anniversary, the Olympic Torch Relay and the World Saxophone Congress bolstering the already-strong annual programme of festivals.

In addition, the judges made two special awards to Creetown and Huntly who impressed with their long-standing creative programmes which involve the whole community.

• Creetown in Dumfries and Galloway, South West Scotland

Won a Special Award for community engagement and high levels of participation in quality arts and creativity. In Dumfries and Galloway, Creetown is a thriving creative community. This special award will support the community to invite the National Symphony Orchestra to music workshops in the village as well as developing new projects for the younger residents.

• Huntly, in Aberdeenshire, North East Scotland

Received a Special Award for its creative use of artists. The town of Huntly has been re-branded through the use of the arts. Many of its projects have been led by top international artists, including Danish photographer, Elsebeth Jørgensen; India’s textile artist, Priya Ravish Mehra and performance artist, Umesh Maddanahalli; Austrian artist, Wilhelm Scherübl; Swiss artist Roman Signer; and Fabiana Galante, a pianist and composer from Argentina.

Andrew Dixon, Chief Executive of Creative Scotland and Chair of the Judging panel, said; “The Year of Creative Scotland and the Creative Place Awards provide a unique opportunity to celebrate and reward places across Scotland that contribute to a Scotland’s strength as a creative nation. From the Highlands to the Borders, Scotland is a rich tapestry of thriving and vibrant creative communities. The awards will allow these communities to enhance their creative programmes, which will in-turn raise their profile nationally and internationally and attract further visitors.”

Fiona Hyslop, Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Culture, said; “Scotland is a creative nation and I am hugely impressed by the wealth of creative communities we have in every corner of the country. To win a Creative Place Award, and in the Year of Creative Scotland 2012, is a great achievement which demonstrates the truly exceptional standard of the successful programmes.”

Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland Chief Executive, said: “Our culture is one of our greatest assets and this year offers a tremendous opportunity to harness local creativity from across every part of Scotland and show our visitors what we’re made of. It’s fantastic to see the winners in the spotlight today and exciting to see the wealth of creative talent demonstrated. Tourism is a hotbed for creativity but it’s only by working together and harnessing enthusiasm that we can truly make the most of the Year of Creative Scotland.

Please log on to www.cometoscotland.com/creative for more information about the Year of Creative Scotland.

As the start of the new season edges ever closer, VisitScotland’s Drive It Home promotion offers the perfect reminder to start planning a trip to Scotland and even the chance to play the PGA Centenary Course, the venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles, before the professionals.

To whet the appetite VisitScotland has produced a list of great stay and play packages at the country’s top courses and accommodation. For more information visit www.driveithomescotland.com .

Mar Hall, Glasgow

Located just ten minutes from Glasgow airport, Mar Hall is a five star hotel offering fine dining, spa treatments and the par 70 Earl of Mar golf course. Spectacular views over the River Clyde and a host of strategically placed bunkers make this a great course for all levels of golfer. From March until end of May stay and play Mar Hall for £120. This great value package includes, 1 night bed & breakfast at the Mar Hall Hotel and 2 rounds of golf on the Earl of Mar.

Other courses in the area to try include The Dundonald Links. Dundonald Golf Club, formerly Southern Gailes, is a proud member of the Loch Lomond Golf Club family. Recently redesigned by Kyle Philips, Dundonald is a challenging but extremely rewarding course often compared in style to Carnoustie.

Fairmont St Andrews, Fife

Situated on the Fife coastline, Fairmont St Andrews offers panoramic views across the Tay and the surrounding golf courses. The spa facilities and regular shuttle bus to the centre of town make this an ideal golf break. Two championship courses are available, the Sam Torrance designed Torrance Course and the Kittocks. During March, April, October, November and December enjoy 1 night B&B and 1 round of golf for two for £199. From May to September the cost is £399.

In addition to the wealth of golf at the Fairmont why not try one of the other famous links, including The Castle Course. The seventh course at the Home of Golf is set on a rugged cliffline overlooking the ancient town of St Andrews and combines breathtaking views with a memorable challenge.

Meldrum House Hotel, Aberdeenshire

Set amidst beautiful countryside only a few miles from Aberdeen, the 4 Star Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course offers unrivalled quality and is one of the finest luxury hotels Scotland has to offer. Meldrum boasts a world-class golf academy and teaching centre and the course is one of only a few in Scotland measuring over 7,000 yards. Throughout the year, based on two people sharing a twin or double room, 2 nights in an Executive Room, including dinner and breakfast, a round of golf at Cruden Bay, Murcar Links and Meldrum House will cost £295pp.

Just a short distance away is the now renowned Castle Stuart course, the current home of the Scottish Open. Castle Stuart Golf Links, a championship links course overlooking the Moray Firth and well-known landmarks that are synonymous with Inverness and the Black Isle – Kessock bridge and Chanonry Lighthouse. What Turnberry is to Ayrshire and Gleneagles is to Perthshire, Castle Stuart has been conceived to be for the Highlands.

Macdonald Marine Hotel, Scottish Borders

The Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa in North Berwick is renowned for its beautiful coastal location and glorious 19th century Victorian architecture. Located at the heart of East Lothian’s golfing coast, the hotel features 83 rooms, superb dining and a state of the art spa. On offer for £199pp, one night’s B&B and 2 rounds of golf on the West Links (North Berwick) and Gullane No. 1

Gleneagles, Perthshire

Gleneagles, set in 850 acres at the foot of the Scottish highlands, is a world class resort offering guests an unrivalled choice of sports and leisure facilities. Gleneagles is the host to three championship courses, including the home of the Ryder Cup 2014. The courses were the inspiration of two of the world’s most famous golfers: James Braid, five times winner of the Open, designed the King’s and Queen’s and Jack Nicklaus created The PGA Centenary Course. During March, one night’s bed & breakfast at Gleneagles and a round of golf (PGA Centenary, King’s Course or The Queen’s) will cost £173.

For a chance to enter the Drive It Home competition or for further information on these great offers, visit www.driveithomescotland.com

Please note that these listings are not comprehensive and that there are other golf competitions and events taking place in Scotland throughout the year. This copy was correct at the time of going to press. Events can be subject to change. VisitScotland cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information and accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by the reliance on the information contained herewith, or in the event of any company, individual or firm ceasing to trade, is hereby excluded.

Robert Burns is Scotland’s best-loved son. His legacy contains over 550 poems and songs, including Auld Lang Syne. Translated into almost every written language, his best-loved works include Tam o’ Shanter and A Man’s A Man for A’ That and Address to a Haggis.

1. Scotland’s Bard

Although he was only 37 years of age when he died, Robert Burns produced more than 550 songs and poems. That’s around 25 works for each year of his adult creative life. Today, he is known as The Bard, Scotland’s National Poet.

http://burns.visitscotland.com

2. Romance

Burns was the acknowledged father of 14 children! His romancing is well documented in his works such as, ‘My Love is Like a Red Red Rose’ and ‘Ae Fond Kiss’. He was only 15 years of age when he penned his first poem, Handsome Nell.

3. Dumfries and Galloway

The beautiful landscapes of Southwest Scotland inspired Burns’ work and continue to spark creativity in new generations, such as artist Hazel Campbell and sculptor Trevor Leat. Dumfries & Galloway is also home to Wigtown, known as the Scotland’s National book town and Kirkcudbright, known as ‘the artists’ town’ because of its beautiful light.

www.leatrigg.co.uk

4. Haggis

Haggis became well-known, and is now considered Scotland’s National dish, thanks to Roberts Burns’ poem ‘Address to a Haggis’. However, haggis was also referred to in the works of Scottish poets Dunbar and Kennedy prior to 1520, some 240 years before Burns was born.

5. Auld Scots

Burns’ poetry is written in Auld Scots, the language prevalent in the Scottish lowlands until English was adopted in around 1700. You can test your understanding of Scots language on the ‘Aye Can Speak Scots’ site.

www.ayecan.com

6. Burns Festival

The ‘Burns an’ a’ That’ Festival is now recognised as the largest arts and cultural festival in South West Scotland, attracting audiences from throughout the UK and beyond. Featuring four nights of headline live music acts at Ayr’s iconic Town Hall and an eclectic fringe programme running throughout Ayrshire.

www.burnsfestival.com

7. Burns and the 21st Century

An app’s an app for a’ that. An iPhone app has been developed to allow enthusiasts around the world to download and instantly access Burns’ poetry. The app includes a searchable database of every poem written by Burns, a summary of facts about the poet’s life, a guide to hosting a Burns Supper.

www.scotland.org/robert-burns-app/

8. Butler is Burns?

Scots Movie Star Gerard Butler is rumoured to take the leading role in a forthcoming adaption of the life of Robert Burns. Brian Cox and John Hannah are also rumoured to star in film.

9. Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Robert Burns Birthplace Museum offers a truly unique encounter with Scotland’s favourite son. The museum comprises the famous Burns Cottage where the poet was born, the historic landmarks where he set his greatest work, the elegant monument and gardens created in his honour and a modern museum housing the world’s most important collection of his life and works.

www.burnsmuseum.org.uk

10. Auld Lang Syne

Perhaps Burns most famous work, Auld Lang Syne, was in fact only part written by Burns. The Bard apparently restored the piece based on fragments of an old ballad dating from before his time. Burns probably only added a few verses to the song. It is perhaps this coming together of the work of Burns and his contemporaries that makes any rendition of Auld Lang Syne so poignant when sung together on celebratory events such as Burns Night.

www.burns.visitscotland.com

Follow travel writer Robin McKelvie’s inspirational travel diary at www.visitscotland.com/grabaglen as he grabs the glens, hikes the hills and experiences the very best of Active Scotland in 2011.

Robin will post two travel diaries a week, along with his own photos and video content, offering a unique new way of seeing and showcasing Scotland, and inspiring visitors to experience it for themselves.

Travelling around Scotland from August to November, Robin will experience Scotland’s stunning landscapes and take part in many fantastic adventures throughout the country, from kayaking the coastal wilds of Scotland’s islands, and visiting the iconic shores of Loch Ness, to mountain biking some of Europe’s best forest trails and walking the many unique and inspiring glens throughout the country.

Robin said, “I am really excited to be heading off to check out my native land over the next few months. This is the year of Active Scotland and there is nowhere better to get active with over 700 islands, a myriad of mountains and hills, as well as our mighty rivers and countless lochs.”

“I’ll be doing everything from taking my kids out walking in the great outdoors through to land yachting, whitewater rafting, sampling a few drams amongst the glens, and getting active around Scotland’s gorges, so I hope you can join me as I go.”

Grab a Glen was launched by VisitScotland as part of the year of Active Scotland – a year of celebration showcasing Scotland as a must visit active adventure destination.

www.visitscotland.com/grabaglen

Harry Potter’s Scotland hot spots

Steeped in history and intrigue it is no surprise that J K Rowling took inspiration from her surroundings in Edinburgh and beyond to create the stunning novel series following the adventures of boy wizard Harry Potter.

The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh

One of Edinburgh’s most prestigious five-star hotels, The Balmoral is where J K Rowling made the finishing touches to her final Harry Potter novel – Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The author commemorated this moment by inscribing a note on one of the sculptures in the room, complete with a signature and date.

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

The impressive Edinburgh Castle dominates the city’s skyline. Sitting atop an extinct volcano, the similarities with Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry are striking. Wizards and muggles alike can gaze in wonder at the city below and on to the Kingdom of Fife beyond. The castle was used for the launch of the sixth book in the series – Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

Spoon Cafe Bistro and The Elephant House, Edinburgh

Two cosy cafes in Edinburgh that were frequented by J K Rowling while penning the early Potter novels and first scribbled her tales of wizardry and wonder are – the Spoon Cafe Bistro, which was previously Nicholson’s Cafe when JK Rowling was visiting, and The Elephant House.

Dalhousie Castle, Midlothian

Take a trip out to Midlothian and visit Dalhousie Castle where you can stay in your very own castle! During the day take some time to watch the falconry displays where you will see some of the owls that were trained for the Harry Potter movies. Watch their aerobatic displays and imagine the despair at being delivered that dreaded ‘howler’ – as many Harry Potter fans will know about.

Hagrid’s Hut, Highlands

Filming for the third Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, took place on location in Glencoe in May and June 2003. The sets have now been removed and the hillsides returned to their natural state. Visitors to Clachaig Gully will see the familiar looking backdrop in the film which takes in the fantastic scenery overlooking the Torren Lochan and Signal Rock forest to the rugged hills of the Glen.

Jacobite Steam Train, Highlands

Described as one of the great railway journeys of the world, The Jacobite Steam Train runs through the majestic Highlands from Fort William to Mallaig. The train provided the steam engine and carriages for the ‘Hogwarts Express’ as seen in The Philosopher’s Stone. Part of the route was also featured in Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets. The scene of “Hogwarts Express” travelling across a viaduct with a blue Ford Anglia flying around the train was filmed on the Glenfinnan Viaduct, west of Fort William.

The 84 mile Jacobite Steam Train round trip takes in a list of impressive extremes. It starts near the highest mountain in Britain (Ben Nevis), visits Britain’s most westerly mainland railway station (Arisaig), then passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain (Loch Morar), and the shortest river in Britain (River Morar) and finally arrives next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe – Loch Nevis.

For more information for things to see and do

www.visitscotland.com

AncestralScotland.com is now offering you too the chance to research your Scottish roots for free until 14th July, with credits then valid for 12 months. Simply enter your details at www.ancestralscotland.com/scotlandspeople to claim your free credits and trace your Scottish lineage.

Millions of people all over the world claim Scottish roots. Scots, like many from small nations, have settled throughout the globe, and an estimated 50m people worldwide now claim Scottish ancestry.

Gillian Swan, VisitScotland’s Ancestral Marketing Manager, said, “Tracing your family history is a great way to help you answer these questions and to allow yourself to connect with your own personal history. The research you do will take you on a journey of discovery that leads you to explore the lives and times of ancestors who lived hundreds of years ago – and perhaps even thousands of miles away – in circumstances which are all but unimaginable today.

“Retracing the footsteps of your ancestors will not only bring the past to life, it will also make your home coming the most dynamic and exciting experience of your life. From the meaning of surnames to the jobs our ancestors did, ancestralscotland.com will help you explore your Scottish roots. Then it is a small step to making your own ancestral journey home to Scotland.

ScotlandsPeople is also one of the largest online sources of original genealogical information; with almost 80 million records to access there is every chance that you will be able to connect with your own Scottish ancestry. www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk

From visiting the home of the infamous Loch Ness Monster in Inverness to touring Edinburgh Castle, and seeing the internationally acclaimed museums, architecture, and shopping of Glasgow, this is the perfect introductory visit to Scotland.

The Explore Scotland in Spring package includes the following:

2 nights at the Holiday Inn Express – Waterfront in Edinburgh;

2 nights at the Royal Highland Hotel in Inverness;

2 nights at the Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow;

Breakfast daily;

Round-trip trans-Atlantic airfare to Scotland;

Standard manual shift car rental

This package is priced from $699 from New York and Boston, $799 from Chicago, and $849 from Los Angeles for travel March 1 to March 31, 2011. This package is available through June 15, 2011 at slightly higher rates. All prices quoted are per person, based on double occupancy, applicable to Monday and Tuesday departures, and exclude government taxes/fees/facility charges between $228 – $325 per person depending on departure gateway and carrier plus the September 11th Security Fee of $2.50 for US enplanements. A road fee paid locally of €1.60 – €2.60 per day is also additional. Other days of the week and departure cities are available at slightly higher rates. This package is subject to availability and blackout dates apply. For additional information and to book the 6-Night Explore Scotland in Spring call 1-800-221-0924, or click here.

Available Upgrade Options:

Scottish Heritage 7-day Pass from $61 per person: Receive access to over 120 attractions all over Scotland including Edinburgh Castle, Culzean Castle, Traquair House, Stirling Castle, and many more. The Scottish Heritage Pass is an easy and money saving way to see many of the country’s top historic attractions. Adults ages 16 and over from $61, children ages 5-15 from $36, children under 5 are free.

The Historic Scotland Explorer Pass from $40 per person: Includes access to 78 sites all over Scotland. Attractions include; Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, the Border Abbey’s, Fort George, Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery, and many more. 3-day adult passes are available from $40, with children from $24. 7-day adult passes are available from $55, with children from $33. A 3-day family pass (2 adults and up to 6 children) is available from $80, 7-day family pass from $109. Children under the age of 5 are free.

Add a 7th Night from $75 per person: Spend an additional night at Holiday Inn Express with extended car rental for only $75 per person.

Automatic Car Upgrade from $50 per person: Upgrade to an automatic car with unlimited mileage for only $50 per person additional.

Collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft from $89 per person: Save yourself money and peace-of-mind by booking car insurance prior to traveling.

Automatic Car Upgrade plus CDW and theft from $139 per person: Upgrade to an automatic car with unlimited mileage, plus save yourself money and peace-of-mind by adding CDW and theft.

ABOUT SCEPTRE TOURS

Based in Lynbrook, New York and founded in 1981, Sceptre Tours is a family-owned and operated company with a philosophy of providing travelers an incredible experience to Ireland, Britain, Italy, as well as River Cruising, at the best value and with the best customer service. Sceptre specializes in offering completely customizable vacations which are bookable online in real time and offers escorted tours to Ireland, Britain, and Italy as well as river cruises, plus golf tours, walking tours, activities and group programs.

For more information call 1-800-221-0924 or visit: www.sceptretours.com

Active Scotland builds upon on the success of Homecoming 2009 and the Year of Food and Drink – which runs until May 2011, in showcasing Scotland around a common theme.

On January 1, visitors and Scots came together to signal the start of Active Scotland at the Scottish capital’s famous One o’ Clock run – a fun run or walk from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Park and part of Edinburgh’s famous Hogmanay celebrations.

Jim Mather, Scottish Government Tourism Minister, said: “Our diverse and beautiful landscape makes Scotland a fantastic destination to be active, whether you are visiting or you live here – and spotlighting this incredible selling point makes perfect sense.

“Through the Year of Active Scotland in 2011, the tourism industry will work together to promote the vast range of activities Scotland has to offer. From gentle coastal walks to long-distance treks through challenging terrain, open canoeing on a tranquil loch to the thrill of white-water rafting down a fast flowing river, or the fun of a family bike ride to the rush of mountain biking through forests – Active Scotland has something to offer those of all ages and abilities.

“Through Active Scotland we are aiming to sustain the momentum of the Year of Food and Drink. There are obvious links between eating delicious, healthy food and drink and being active – and we intend to exploit these opportunities as these two focus years overlap.”

Active Scotland appeals to everyone, from gentle walkers to adrenaline junkies. Moreover, Scotland’s diverse landscapes and cities make a fantastic destination in which to be active, while a growing reputation for adventure sports has put Scotland on the map as Europe’s Adventure Capital.

Scotland offer endless opportunities for adventure, from snowboarding and ice climbing in the mountains to canyoning in the water, and from skiing in the Cairngorms to mountain biking in the Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, and Fort William, visitors are spoilt for choice. Not forgetting that visitors can get out and about in the Home of Golf, with over 550 golf courses throughout the country.

Whatever your choice of activity, Scotland is a fantastic visitor destination all year round, with activity experiences for all levels of ability, all within easy reach of major hubs and cities.

Scotland has a wide range of active and adventure-based activities taking place throughout 2011, the Year of Active Scotland, from much watched spectator events such as St. Andrews Golf Week and the Johnnie Walker Golf Championship, to Rugby events, the Mountain Bike World Cup, and Highland Games throughout the length and breadth of the country. Here are just some of Scotland’s active and adventure events for 2011.

MELROSE SEVENS

April 9

Scottish Borders

Rugby 7s was founded in Melrose in 1883. The game of rugby 7s is now played on an international stage from Hong Kong to Scotland and is testimony to its founder in the Scottish Borders town, Ned Haig. 2011 is the 128th playing of the Melrose Sevens and it is proposed to continue an extended tournament with guest teams coming from far and near.

Tel: +44 (0)1896 822993

http://www.melrose7s.com

ST. ANDREWS GOLF WEEK

April 10 – 16

St. Andrews

The St. Andrews Golf Week is an annual event for amateur golfers and is held in St. Andrews – The Home of Golf. The St. Andrews Golf Week was established in 1974 and continues to attract golfers from all over the world. In 2010, there were golfers from fourteen different countries including USA, Japan, Switzerland, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Netherlands, Scotland, Germany, Norway, India, Ireland, Singapore, France, and England.

http://www.standrewsgolfweek.com

O’NEILL COLD WATER CLASSIC SCOTLAND

April 29 – May 6

Thurso, Northern Highlands

Lying at 59 degrees north, Thurso is the most northern wave spot on the planet to host a professional surfing event, with waves which on their day can rival the north shore of Hawaii. With its inspired mobile format, the Coldwater Classic Scotland is free to choose between Scotland’s prime surfing venue and the fast reef break of Thurso East, the shallow hollow at The Bowl of Brim’s Ness, and the classic beach break of Strathy.

http://www.ONeill.com

THE SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL

May 1 – 10

Speyside, Aberdeenshire

The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2009. Held each year during the first long weekend in May, the festival creates an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a visit to Speyside before the start of the main tourism season. The festival invites visitors to celebrate Scotland’s national drink through an inventive and wide-ranging program of whisky-inspired events, some educational, all of them fun. There are unique tours and tastings, many at distilleries not normally open to visitors, opportunities to meet whisky experts, matching food and whisky events, a local food fair, master classes and lectures, wildlife walks with whisky treats, art and craft, mountain biking tours, family fun days, and many more entertaining events.

http://www.spiritofspeyside.co.uk

THE DRAMBUIE PURSUIT

May

Highlands

The Drambuie Pursuit has always been an amazing experience. An epic journey for strong minds, wills and bodies. Just as Bonnie Prince Charlie inspired an army, changed history, and nailed the impossible because of something he truly believed in – we now want you to run in his footsteps for a cause that you hold dear. The Drambuie Pursuit is a once-in-a-lifetime, energy-charged adventure challenge across the Scottish Highlands, starting on the Isle of Skye and ending in Inverness. En route, you’ll compete in an array of exciting mental and physical challenges, including white-water rafting, abseiling, mountain biking, and kayaking.

http://www.drambuie.co.uk

HIGHLAND GAMES

May – September

Throughout Scotland

Around 100 Highland games and gatherings take place in Scotland each year. Each one has a mix of piping, athletic events, and Highland dancing.

http://www.visitscotland.com

EMIRATES AIRLINES EDINBURGH RUGBY SEVENS

May 28 – 29

Murrayfield, Edinburgh

The Emirates Airline Edinburgh Sevens is a rugby union sevens tournament, part of the IRB Sevens World Series, held at Murrayfield in Edinburgh. It has the honour of being the last event in each season’s IRB Sevens.

http://www.edinburgh7s.com

ANGUS GLENS WALKING FESTIVAL

June 2 – 5

Angus

The Angus Glens Walking Festival is a walking opportunity which will open your eyes, stimulate your senses, and reveal to you many of the hidden treasures of this enigmatic part of Scotland. The award winning 4-day festival is now engraved in the very fabric of Scotland’s outdoor activities calendar. Each year the festival includes evening entertainment, as well as walks to suit all tastes and abilities. Experienced mountain leaders, guide groups, countryside rangers, and estate managers support the walkers’ experience with their knowledge of local history, wildlife and farming.

Tel: +44 (0)1307 473168

http://www.angusahead.com/walkingfestival

UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD CUP

June 4 – 5

Fort William

A stunning celebration of two-wheeled action in the Highlands. The Fort William World Cup is one of 9 events taking place in Europe, Canada, and USA, from April to September. At a World Cup, riders can compete as individuals, for factory teams or for their National Teams, and there are few restrictions on entry other than a minimum standard of UCI points. Although the Olympics (XCO only) and the World Championships medals are the best recognized titles in mountain biking, they are both one-off competitions, whereas the World Cup overall title is the best reflection of performance over a range of different courses through the season.

T: +44 (0)131 555 3820

http://www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk

ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW

June 23 – 26

Edinburgh

The Royal Highland Show is held by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, founded in 1784 to promote the regeneration of rural Scotland. Occupying almost a three-hundred-acre site right next to Edinburgh Airport on the western fringe of Scotland’s Capital City, the event is an annual “must” for the major herds, flocks, and studs across the UK, as well as being firmly in the calendar of a huge variety of businesses, which take trade stands to promote and sell their products. The 170th Royal Highland Show in 2010 attracted 187,600 visitors over 4 days making it an all time record for the event and ensuring it continues to be one of the UK’s top agricultural shows and Scotland’s leading international agricultural event.

T: +44 (0)131 335 6200

http://www.royalhighlandshow.org

BARCLAYS SCOTTISH OPEN

July 7 – 10

Loch Lomond

The Scottish Open has been played at Loch Lomond since 1996, just two years after the course was opened. In that short time, the tournament and the venue have grown in stature, with brilliant notices from the world’s best golfers, to become a highlight of the European Tour. The course nestles in 660 acres of the Clan Colquhoun Estate and is surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the mountains and loch. The course is criss-crossed by streams, awash with marshes and cloaked in fabulous mature trees.

T: +44 (0)141 887 2992

http://www.barclaysscottishopen.co.uk

JOHNNIE WALKER CHAMPIONSHIP 2011

August

Gleneagles, Perthshire

Diageo is proud to be the host and sponsor of the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles on its 11th anniversary. Held over The PGA Centenary Course, venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup, this is one of the leading events on The PGA European Tour International Schedule of Events and will welcome some of the best golfers in the world to one of the most beautiful places in the world.

http://www.johnniewalkerchampionship.com

COWAL HIGHLAND GATHERING

August 25 – 27

Dunoon, Argyll

The biggest highland games in the world, the Cowal Highland Gathering has all the traditional elements of a highland games. The Highland dancing competitions and the heavy events are always the crowd pleasers, especially tossing the caber! But is also a great family day out with lots of other entertainment on offer, including a food fair, with a focus on Argyll speciality produce.

Tel: +44 (0)1369 703206

http://www.cowalgathering.com

BRAEMAR GATHERING

September 3

Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire

Each year the village of Braemar in Royal Deeside, Scotland, invites people from all over the world “to come over the hills” to attend the Braemar Gathering and Highland Games. The gathering is always held on the first Saturday in September, and it is perhaps the most famous Highland Games anywhere. It features the finest Pipe Bands, pipers, Highland dancers, and athletes in a beautiful setting surrounded by hills. The patron of the gathering is Her Majesty the Queen. The Braemar Gathering has been regularly attended by members of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria first attended in 1848. Indeed, King Malcolm Canmore held games nearby almost 1,000 years ago so there is a long “pedigree.”

Tel: +44 (0)1339 755377

http://www.braemargathering.org

TIREE WAVE CLASSIC

October

Inner Hebrides

2010 marks the 24th anniversary of the Tiree Wave Classic – a festival which attracts top windsurfers from all over the world. The backdrop on the remote island of Tiree also pulls in photographers and film crews to capture stunning shots. The festival also incorporates an Event Village giving visitors the chance to try out new activities and hone their skills.

http://www.tireewaveclassic.org

http://www.visitscotland.com

The partnership between one of Scotland’s premier single malts and the national tourism organisation comes during Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink where VisitScotland is using its worldwide marketing campaigns to inspire visitors to come to Scotland to experience our food and drink.

Each one of the three winners and their partners will enjoy a week’s stay in the exclusive Jura lodge, a VIP tour of the Jura distillery and island and a two day photography master-class from National Geographic’s Jim Richardson. All travel arrangements will be paid for and the winners will also receive an Olympus E-PL1 camera to capture images from their visit.

Willie Cochrane, Distillery Manager, said:

“On an island where deer outnumber people by more than 30 to 1, we truly believe that Jura is one of the most beautiful and inspirational destinations in the world. Its remoteness is one of its greatest assets, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a place for visitors to wallow in the peace and tranquillity of island life, whilst of course savouring a dram or two of our world famous whisky! Our winners will have the chance to enjoy all of this and more and hopefully return home with a photo album brimming full of many happy memories.”

To enter, applicants must upload a photo that they’ve taken of an inspiring destination onto an e-postcard template and describe on the back of that e-postcard what makes it so inspirational. A panel of judges including National Geographic’s Jim Richardson will assess a shortlist of the very best ‘postcards’ and pick three lucky winners – one from North America, one from the UK and a third from Europe.

The competition, which can be found by visiting www.isleofjura.com/wishyouwerehere, opens today (Monday 29th November 2010) and will run for eight weeks, closing on Friday 21st January 2011.

Every week for the duration of the competition, Jura and VisitScotland will also pick a Postcard of the Week with an Olympus FE-5050 camera to be won each week. Entrants are also encouraged to share their e-postcards with friends and family who will be able to vote for their favourite and automatically be entered into a prize draw to win bottles of Jura 10 year old single malt and other Jura goodies.

Ewan Colville, North American Marketing Manager, VisitScotland said:

“The Isle of Jura has a unique landscape and setting, especially for those visitors who wish to sample Scottish island life. Known for its landscape, wildlife and whisky, Jura is also a recognised writers’ retreat made famous by George Orwell. With great transport links to the Scottish islands, visitors from around the world can be immersed in island life with ease. This is Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink, where we are celebrating our wonderful food and drink produce, providers and experiences. There has never been a better time to visit.”

Jim Richardson, who has travelled the world taking photographs for the National Geographic Society, said:

“The Isle of Jura offers so much in way of inspiration and source material for photographers and artists. The sweeping landscapes, diverse wildlife, and dramatic seasonal weather provide a sensational backdrop for any photographers looking to develop their skills. I’m really looking forward to sharing some of my tips and techniques with the winners and helping them push their photography on to the next level. Needless to say, I’m also keen to get my hands on some of Jura’s finest whisky, direct from the distillery!”

Ends

29 November 2010

About Jura

Off the west coast of Scotland lies one of nature’s best kept secrets, the Isle of Jura. Populated by a community of less than 200 known as Diurachs (the Gaelic name for the people of Jura), it is a place of myth, legend and intrigue – and an award winning range of single malt whiskies, which hold the promise of good fortune for all those that believe.

There are four classic bottling in the Jura Collection: Origin 10, Superstition, Diurach’s Own and Prophecy. Many of the Jura whiskies have their own distinctive drinking rituals but one cuts across the range. Islanders believe that it brings good fortune to you knock on wood before they drink a dram.

For those who love the great outdoors, Jura is an idyllic place. Its three ‘Paps’ – or mountains – dominate the skyline, distinguishable from miles around and the focus for the tough Jura Fells Race which takes place every May. For those who like to explore, whether by foot, bike, or yacht, there is a wealth of historical sites and natural phenomena to discover; from stone circles and standing stones to ruined castles and iron age forts: from sandy beaches and secluded coves to stacks, pinnacles and caves, as well as raised beaches from the ice age. Golden eagles, sea eagles, otters, seals and not forgetting the 5,000 red deer which inhabit the island are all a common sight, and carry on about their business uninhibited by humans.

To find out more visit www.isleofjura.com

About VisitScotland

• VisitScotland is Scotland’s national tourism organisation. Its core purpose is to maximise the economic benefit of tourism to Scotland.

• The organisation has three key roles:

1. To market Scotland to all parts of the world to attract visitors

2. To provide information – and inspiration – to visitors and potential visitors so they get the best out of a visit to Scotland

3. To provide quality assurance to visitors and quality advice to the industry and partners to help the industry meet and strive to exceed customer expectations

• VisitScotland works together with tourism businesses to make tourism a success for everyone and ensure the industry continues to grow.

• The organisation employs over 1,000 people and has offices and tourist information centres across Scotland.

• Tourism employs 200,000 people in Scotland in 20,000 diverse businesses. Almost 16 million tourists take overnight trips to Scotland. The industry generates over £4 billion revenue annually. Tourism supports around 9 per cent of employment in Scotland.

• For holiday information on Scotland go to www.visitscotland.co

Jim Richardson

Jim Richardson travels the world making photographs for the National Geographic Society. He has photographed a combined 45 stories for National Geographic magazine and for National Geographic Traveler, where he is a contributing editor. Richardson has been called “perhaps the most prolific photographer for one of the world’s most prestigious magazines.” Among his recognized areas of expertise are the British Isles and Celtic culture, as well as a range of scientific and conservation subjects such as grasslands and water. ABC News Nightline, The Martha Stewart Show, and CBS News Sunday Morning have featured his work. Time, LIFE, The New York Times, and other worldwide publications have relied on his photographs. Richardson has photographed several books and his audiovisual presentation based on his noted documentary photography projects about small-town life won the Crystal AMI Award for international excellence.

Richardson teaches workshops and seminars in the US and abroad. He also accompanies small groups organized by National Geographic Expeditions. He is a seasoned public speaker, delivering insights about travel locations and environmental issues, as well as about making graphically compelling images that also convey information in a complex world. Jim lives in the small Kansas town of Lindsborg, where he owns a Main Street gallery and studio called Small World. His work is at www.jimrichardsonphotography.com, and his ideas about photographs can be found at www.jimrichardson.blogspot.com and on www.facebook.com/people/Jim-Richardson/1024136166.

Fiona Stewart, Senior International PR Manager for VisitScotland, said, “St Andrews is already known throughout the world as a must-visit destination for golfers but could also now be tipped as both a wedding and honeymoon destination.”

“We hope now to see an even greater increase in visitors coming to this magical coastal town for its many other great attributes, from the first class accommodation available to the romantic backdrops of St Andrews castle, cathedral and beautiful beaches.”

“We also hope that William and Kate have a magical and memorable time when the big day arrives, while we can certainly recommend a romantic Scottish getaway to visit some of their old haunts.”

William and Kate met while studying at St Andrews University, Scotland’s oldest university, which attracts students from all over the globe. Yet St Andrews already boasts a sizeable worldwide reputation, not least due to its enviable title as the Home of Golf.

The St Andrews Royal and Ancient Golf Club first met here in the spiritual home of golf in 1754, though it was first played here as early as the 15th century. The Old Course, most famous of the town’s seven courses, is redolent of images of the world’s greatest golfers at the British Open Championship down the years, while visitors can even play on the hallowed turf.

St Andrews University, founded in 1410, dominates the centre of town. The elegant, ivy-clad buildings and delightful quadrangles and gardens have seen a procession of famous graduates, including, of course, Prince William. The future king may have graduated, but St Andrews is still one of the top universities in Britain, often compared to Oxford and Cambridge for its defining presence and the feel it gives the town.

The medieval centre of St Andrews, with its narrow alleys and cobbled streets, leads to the now ruined cathedral (once the largest in Scotland) and the adjacent church of St Regulus, where climbing the spiral staircase to the top of a 108-foot tower leads to magnificent views of the town and its surroundings.

St Andrews has many great visitor attractions and two fantastic great beaches. While living in St Andrews, Prince William and Kate Middleton were known to have:

Walked along St Andrews stunning West Sands.

The West Sands has gained world fame from the movie “Chariots of Fire”. In the opening scene, as the British Olympic team is training, they run along the West Sands. The West Sands beach is one of the top rated beaches in Scotland. At its northern end lies the estuary of the river Eden, which was at one time a shipping port. At the southern end lies the town.

Taken time out from studies to relax in Ma Bell’s Bar

St Andrews Golf Hotel

40 The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, Scotland

Chic and stylish boutique town house hotel, featuring a variety of room types commanding spectacular views over St Andrews bay and links. Featuring award winning ‘number forty’ restaurant serving the finest local produce, and William’s favourite haunt, the famous Ma Bells Bar.

www.standrews-golf.co.uk

Regularly taken time to view the stunning architecture of the old town at St Andrews Castle and Cathedral

St Andrews Castle

The Scores, St Andrews, Fife

The ruins of the castle of the Archbishops of St Andrews, dating in part from the 13th century. Notable features include the ‘bottle-dungeon’ and mine and counter-mine tunnelled during the siege in 1546. These siege works are the finest of their kind in Europe. A fascinating exhibition in the visitor centre brings the history of the castle and cathedral to life.

T: +44 (1334) 477196

www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

St Andrews Cathedral

The Pends, St Andrews, Fife

The remains of the largest cathedral in Scotland. The precinct walls are particularly well preserved. The Cathedral Museum houses an outstanding collection of early and later medieval sculpture and other relics found on the site, including the magnificent St Andrews Sarcophagus of Pictish date. St Rule’s Tower, in the precinct, is part of the first church of the Augustinian canons at St Andrews built in the early 12th century.

T: +44 (1334) 472563

www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

For more information on Scotland visit www.cometoscotland.com