Latest news with #EdenCourtTheatre
The Herald Scotland
5 days ago
- The Herald Scotland
Is Calgary Beach on Mull really Scotland's best beach?
I could pick probably any beach on the West Coast, even though I'm an East Coast man myself. It really is difficult to choose but my mind keeps going back to Calgary Bay on Mull. It's been a while since I've been there. I think it was even pre-Covid I was there with the family, but it is absolutely stunning. Best Building I really like the history of the country so I love the likes of Eilean Donan Castle and I always enjoy going up the Wallace Monument. But do you know what I really like? Some of the hydro electric power stations. There are a few around the country, of course, and there has been a clever way of trying to blend them in rather than have huge industrial buildings ruining the landscape. Best Street I do like the Highlands and I've done a few gigs at the Eden Court Theatre in Inverness. The street that lines the banks of the Ness there, Bishop's Road, is one of my favourites. It's lovely to walk along towards the theatre and there are some lovely wee cafes and restaurants on both sides of the river too. Best Walk My other favourite childhood memory was the time spent up with my cousins in Elgin and this links into that. There's a walk off the Speyside Way, which follows the old railway track from Garmouth over the River Spey viaduct. It's a pretty easy walk but with amazing views. We used to always do that on our bikes as kids so it has great memories for me too. When I get the time, I'd love to do the Lairig Ghru from Braemar to Aviemore. It is a wee bit more challenging and time-consuming but it really is a spectacular cross-country walk. Best Childhood Memory I've loads of amazing childhood memories. The one I'm going to go for maybe isn't much of a surprise but it really is the memory of being up in the combine harvester alongside my dad. This might not come as much of a surprise but it really is what made me become a farmer. (Image: Jim Smith) Best View I have to say that we have some pretty amazing views from the farm and I also like to stop at the parking at the Cairn O Mount to take in the view here. But my favourite I think is the panorama from the top of the Hill of Gourdie. It takes in so much: Loch Ordie, across to Blair and Glenshee. It's the contrasts you can see from the top of that hill. Best Shop Easy one: the John Deere garage! I don't go as often as I'd like to – or can afford to. I have fond memories of going to Whitton and Brown back in the 80s. We went there every few years to change the tractor and that was exciting! Best Scottish Delicacy A Scotch pie is pretty hard to beat but, when it comes to it, I would have to go to Forfar for this one and choose a bridie. I'm not going to come down on the side of either Saddler's or McLaren's but I'll always get a bridie when I'm in the town and one of the huge ones as well. The size of your head. Best Place For Some Alone Time I started to do a few Munros but then the kids came along so I've managed to do six so far, but that's the place for an escape – up the side of any Munro. I get some peace when I'm out doing the fencing and work around the farm, but the mobile phone is always on. Here, though, is no reception so you get perfect quiet. You can see Jim at Netherton Equestrian Centre (Jim Smith & Friends) for the Perth Show, Friday June 6, headlining the first night of Patter at the Palace at Scone, June 27 to 29. The Corn Exchange, Haddington (Jim Smith and Friends) Sunday, June 29, Find him on Instagram @standupfarmer
Press and Journal
22-04-2025
- Automotive
- Press and Journal
All you need to know as Etape Loch Ness returns this weekend
Cyclists from all walks of life will put their stamina to the test as they take on Etape Loch Ness this weekend. Thousands of participants will descend on the Highlands to beat their personal best and help raise thousands for good causes. Entering its 11th year, the event challenges riders to tackle a 66-mile route along the banks of Loch Ness, before crossing the finish line in Inverness. The Etape Loch Ness course also includes the King of the Mountain, which is located after Fort Augustus at mile 34, and consists of a 4.8-mile climb to the top of the Glencoe summit. With just four days to go until the event gets underway, we have put together a handy guide to help keep you moving. Highland motorists are being advised of potential delays on both Saturday and Sunday as roads are closed to make way for the event. Here's a rundown of the road closures and all the relevant times. Inverness has a range of pay and display car parks in the heart of the town centre. Located 1.3 miles away, Old Town Rose Street Multi-Storey Car Park has ample parking to accommodate a range of needs. Prices start from £2.00, with 24-hour parking also available. Alternative options can be found at both the Falcon Gallery car park and the Eastgate Shopping Centre car park. Pay and display parking can also be located at The Club on Michell's Lane, with 12-hours of parking priced at £4. If you're looking to park closer to the event, parking is available at both the Eden Court Theatre and the Highland Council car park. Participants must register at the event hub at the Eden Court Theatre between 10am and 7pm the day before the event. Riders will set off from Bught Park between 6am and 6.50am, with the first finishers expected back from 8.45am. The main presentation will take place at 10.30am at the events hub.
