Hi Everyone,
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
We had a tremendous start to 2015 with a Viking invasion taking over Pitlochry! A few hundred years ago that may have been a bit of a bleak beginning but for 21st century residents, Shetland’s Up Helly Aa Viking Fire Festival Jarl Squad bringing their show to the town meant a fantastic fun filled day. Pitlochry now hosts one of Scotland’s largest New Year’s Day events, with several thousand people gathering to dance and be entertained in the main street. All of our guests who were in the area for New Year thoroughly enjoyed themselves and if you fancy it for 2016 I’d suggest booking now as we already have bookings!
Taking of the best ever, I have it on good authority that the Winter Words Festival at Pitlochry Festival Theatre is set to be their most vibrant yet. This is one of my favourite Highland Perthshire events; I just love the amazing mix of authors, broadcasters, journalists and historians that come together to showcase our written word in all its glory.
This is the 11th Winter Words Festival and for me, I can’t wait to see The BBC’s Special Correspondent Allan Little. He’s talking about his time spent in war-torn countries and devastated villages and towns. The talk has been cited as “enthralling and compelling” and I for one will be booking up to find out more.
Our very own action man, Mark Beaumont is also on the bill and if you’re a fan of this incredible man and all that he has achieved then you’re in for a real treat. From documenting the Commonwealth to battling life and death in the Atlantic Ocean our favourite sportsman, TV Presenter, record breaking round-the-world cyclist and ultra-endurance adventurer is certain to have us on the edge of our seats.
If you’re a fan of the adventurers then look out for Banff Mountain Film Festival who are visiting Winter Words for the first time. They’re bringing with them a selection of new short films that capture the expeditions of some of today’s amazing adventurers. And for the full experience, join Alan Rowan on a journey into the mountains at night.
Novelists include James Naughtie who will read from his new spy thriller and Newsnight' Kirsty Wark, who will read from her multi-generational love story set on the island of Arran. I’m a big fan of Kirsty and have heard that this is a wonderful book so I reckon that’s also going on my list! I’ve saved the most exciting news until last though… The AMAZING Christopher Brookmyre will be in Pitlochry discussing his new novel, Dead Girl Walking and I can only imagine the ticket sales being fast furious on this one! Book now folks!
To book into any of these shows visit www.PitlochryFestivalTheatre.com or dial Box Office today on 01796 484626. We do find accommodation is busy during the festival period so remember to book up quickly.
See you at a reading!
Best wishes, Bea X
We stayed three nights in the farmhouse and loved the quiet and beautiful property. This is a guesthouse on a large working estate and the host family was very friendly and welcoming. We came and went without issue and really enjoyed the nearby town of Dunkeld for food and groceries. The house was very nicely decorated and was really comfortable.
Thank you for another amazing stay at Lettoch - this time in the Cow Shed. We now have the full set, including the campervan some years ago! The setting and the location are perfect but the accommodation which is so well equipped keeps drawing us back. Such a relaxing place to spend a week - wish we could stay for the whole summer!
The Cow Shed
“Weavers Cottage felt like a home with all the extra comforts you could want. Lovely attention to details such as the welcome pack of tea, milk, biscuits and a generous starter pack of logs for the stove. It was spotlessly clean, comfortably furnished and far more spacious than the photos suggest. The kitchen was very well equipped but it is the unexpected extras which make the difference; for example, hot water bottles, sandwich bags, foil etc. We had bought our own games but discovered even more in a cupboard, and there was a bookcase full of books to satisfy all tastes and interests. The location was perfect for us, with easy access to walking and climbing in Glen Lyon and Loch Tay. Aberfeldy is a short distance away for groceries from the Co-op, local butchers and bakery, as well as shops and cafes. We were a party of 5 adults (all happily retired) and Weavers Cottage was ideal for us, but I think it would be a fabulous place for families too. We loved it there and will definitely return for another visit.”