Latest news with #JulieFowlis
The National
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Musicians to hold tribute to victims of historic tragedy
More than a century after the shipwreck claimed the lives of 200 Lewis men, Gaelic singer Julie Fowlis and fiddler Duncan Chisholm (pictured) will pay them a moving tribute. The evening will be held during the Blas festival, the annual celebration of Gaelic culture. Fowlis (below) said: 'Working on creating a commemorative piece about the Iolaire tragedy has been the most profoundly moving project for both Duncan and me. 'Since the original commission of An Treas Suaile (The Third Wave) in 2018, ahead of the 100-year commemoration, we have continued to research the stories of the men who were on board the Iolaire, the ship which sank desperately close to Lewis shores in the early hours of January 1, 1919. This event will be an evening of conversation with music and song from our original production.' On December 31, 1918, the servicemen had arrived by rail at Kyle of Lochalsh, ready to board the ferry SS Sheila, owned by David MacBrayne Ltd. The HMY Iolaire (Gaelic for eagle) was then sent across the Minch to assist in taking the men home. In the early hours of New Year's Day 1919, the vessel ran aground on the Beasts of Holm, just 20 yards from the shore, less than a mile from Stornoway Harbour. More than 200 men lost their lives, with every village on the island losing loved ones. READ MORE: 'Absolutely crazy': Scottish jazz artist scores new film by Hollywood director The Isle of Lewis had already suffered greatly during the war with over 1000 men, of the 6712 who went to war, dying during the conflict. Calum Alex Macmillan, chief executive of Fèisean nan Gàidheal, said: 'More than a century later, the loss of the Iolaire remains one of Britain's worst maritime disasters. An Treas Suaile commemorates those who lost their lives and their families who were left behind. It is a privilege for Blas to host this special and moving musical work at this year's festival.' This year, Blas will host around 25 concerts and cèilidhs, with a strong focus on collaboration and partnerships with small arts organisations throughout the region. Since its modest beginnings with just three venues in Strontian, Clashmore, and Strathpeffer 21 years ago, Blas has delivered more than 1350 events featuring 5550 performers and welcoming an audience of more than 130,000. It has contributed at least £8.4 million to the local economy since it began. Other artists performing during the festival – from September 5 to September 13 at venues across the Highlands – include Dàimh, Lauren MacColl, Arthur Cormack, Ingrid Henderson, Ruairidh Gray, Flook, Norrie MacIver, Mischa Macpherson and Eabhal. An Treas Suaile will be performed in Kyle on September 8 and in Ullapool on September 9, as well as at the Nairn Book and Arts Festival on September 4
Daily Record
16-07-2025
- Daily Record
The 'magical' Scottish islands that were named best for summer getaway
Both of the isles can be easily reached from the mainland. When it comes to staycation destinations in Scotland, many of the most picturesque locations in the country are found off the mainland. The country's many islands offer magnificent vistas, far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern living. Two Scottish islands in particular have been named as the "best small island trips" in the country by VisitScotland. The tourist board described the pair of isles as "magical". In a roundup of Scotland's best islands for a holiday, Tiree and Coll placed at number one. Both situated in the Inner Hebrides, Tiree has a population of around 650 while Coll is home to approximately 160 people. VisitScotland wrote: "The isles of Tiree and Coll are magical spots on the map just off the west coast of Scotland. While Tiree is known for its surfing haven, flat landscapes and white sand beaches, Coll is known for its wide-open spaces, untouched nature and as a 'dark-sky community'." Tiree is the westernmost of the Inner Hebrides, and is just over 30 square miles in size. It is one of the sunniest destinations in Scotland, while temperatures are generally warmer than on the mainland, giving the island the nickname of 'Hawaii of the north'. Tiree is also a top water sports destinations, being particularly popular amongst windsurfers. Each year, the world-renowned Tiree Wave Classic windsurfing competition is held on the waters off the island. Another popular event on the island is the Tiree Music Festival, which takes place every summer and draws music fans from around the world. The most recent festival, which was held on the weekend of July 11, saw acts such as Skerryvore, Skipinnish, Julie Fowlis, and The Laurette take the stage. Meanwhile, Tiree features idyllic beaches including Balephuil Bay and Gott Bay. Visitors can also find fascinating historic spots such as the Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum and the Dun Mor Vaul Iron Age broch around the island. VisitScotland stated: "Across Tiree you can explore historic landmarks and attractions, try your hand at a range of watersports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, standup paddleboarding and kayaking, or stay on dry land and head on the hunt to spot some wildlife, including basking sharks, grey seals, and a variety of birdlife." Meanwhile, Coll is situated northeast of Tiree. The island is slightly smaller than its neighbour, with an area of around 29 square miles. Coll is perhaps best known for its picturesque sandy beaches. There are more than 20 bays dotted around its coastline, each being worth a visit. One of the island's top beaches is the crescent-shaped Feall Bay, where visitors can often see seals lounging on its rocks and a number of different seabird species. Elsewhere, Hogh Bay looks out towards the Outer Hebrides and is a popular surfing spot. Coll is also a Dark Sky Community, which refers to places that are especially good for stargazing. The island features dark skies free from light pollution, making it an ideal destination for astronomy enthusiasts. VisitScotland added: "Coll is the perfect location for relaxing and getting away from it all. This serene island is peppered with pristine beaches that are ideal for an afternoon of reading your favourite book surrounded by immense scenery and views. "At night, watch the skies come to life as the island boasts the perfect conditions for stargazing and even catching a glimpse of the elusive Aurora Borealis." For those looking to visit either Tiree or Coll, both islands can be reached via ferry. According to VisitScotland, holidaymakers can travel from Oban via CalMac ferries to Tiree and Coll. The full list of Scotland's 12 best small islands trips can be found on the VisitScotland website.
Sunday Post
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sunday Post
My Scotland: Coll, cafes and the Cairngorms with singer Julie Fowlis
Get a weekly round-up of stories from The Sunday Post: Thank you for signing up to our Sunday Post newsletter. Something went wrong - please try again later. Sign Up Hailing from the Outer Hebrides, Julie Fowlis is a multi-award winning singer whose music is deeply influenced by the Hebridean islands where she grew up and by the Highland landscapes where she now resides. With a career spanning several studio albums and numerous high profile collaborations, her 'crystalline' and 'intoxicating' vocals have enchanted audiences around the world. But if she could only choose three places to visit in Scotland, where would they be? Coll © Supplied by Julie Fowlis The Isle of Coll is a hidden gem in the Inner Hebrides. Although it's a small island, there are lots of beautiful spots to explore, including miles of stunning white-sand beaches with glorious turquoise seawater. Perfect for walks, sea-swimming and biking. I spent a week there on holiday camping with friends and family a few years back, and it was one of the best holidays I've ever had. Make sure and stop into the Coll Hotel for great food (local seafood and gluten free options are fab), interesting local history and a fantastic welcome. Sùgh Ùr © Supplied by Julie Fowlis Sùgh Ùr is a juice bar and café in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Situated in the Crown area of Inverness, it's just a short walk from the High Street and always has a great range of fresh juices, smoothies and lovely food options. It usually offers vegan and gluten-free options. It's just across the road from the Wasps Inverness Creative Academy – the Highlands' first major creative hub. It offers working accommodation for artists and makers, creative industries, social enterprises and charities and there will often be an exhibition or event going on. Remember if you are visiting the city to check out our new Gaelic centre too – Culturlann Inbhir Nis. There are regular events there including Gaelic conversation classes, music-fuelled community gatherings and sometimes pop markets where local creatives and artists can sell their crafts. The Cairngorms © Supplied by Julie Fowlis I spent much of my youth up the hills – especially, during winter, skiing. This range in Gaelic is known as Am Monadh Ruadh or the red/russet coloured mountain range, but they are known in English as the Cairngorms – so named after one of the most prominent hills 'An Càrn Gorm' or 'The Blue/Green Hill'. I spent a beautiful Monday in January this year cross-country skiing around the Glenmore loop, which is groomed and kept by the amazing volunteers at the Cairngorm Biathlon and Ski Club. There's nothing like a crisp, blue-sky winter day in Scotland with perfect snow! Julie Fowlis plays Tiree Music Festival, taking place from July 11-13. Find out more at
Scotsman
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
'It's distressing': Folk singer's heartfelt message about net-zero impact on Scottish Highlands
The folk singer warned of the distress felt among multiple communities across the Highlands with landscape-scale changes to come. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... A Scottish folk singer has shared a heartfelt message on social media showing her concern about the impact of net zero-related developments across a place she calls home and sings about - the Highlands. Julie Fowlis, who sings in Gaelic and is a multi-instrumentalist, said there was a feeling of 'overwhelm and distress' among a number of communities stretching across the northern region. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The proposed 190km overhead line from Peterhead to Beauly has been redivided from five sections to 11 sections. The singer said she was not against decarbonisation, but rather wanted to highlight the plight of some rural areas in the race for net zero. Scottish singer Kate Victoria, aka KT Tunstall, showed her support for Ms Fowlis's message by commenting with hearts on the social media post. It comes after the annual All Energy conference last month where energy bosses spoke about the need to double the level of grid transmission infrastructure in just the next five years. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Ms Fowlis shared the message ahead of a community council convention taking place near Inverness over the weekend. Julie Fowlis, a Scottish folk singer, has published a message online showing solidarity with communities in the Highlands impacted by energy infrastructure Some 45 community councils from across the Highlands are due to meet to discuss the impact of renewable energy infrastructure on the area both now and in the future. The musician called on others to join in the event, which is open to the public, to raise help awareness of the changes happening in the landscape. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Ms Fowlis said: 'This event is happening such is the depth of feeling regarding the industrialisation of the Highlands in the name of green energy. 'Everyone that I know who is involved in this campaign believes so strongly in the need to decarbonise and to tackle the very real threat of climate change. However, there is a great feeling of overwhelm and distress right across the Highlands. 'Such is the sheer scale of projects that are being foisted upon our communities with no proper consultation and no proper communication. We are being badly let down by our representatives from Highland level up to national government level.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The singer added: 'As someone who lives, works and who is inspired and sings about these landscapes, it's really distressing to see what is to come, what has been planned. Our communities need a voice. 'By gathering together and working together, we hope we can raise awareness about what is happening and how it will impact people's lives, their wellbeing, their work. We all care deeply for this environment and we want to do the right thing by our communities.' The convention takes place in Beauly on Saturday. The Highland village has been divided over Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks plans for a substation to accompany a new 400 kV overhead line between Spittal, Beauly, and Peterhead.
Yahoo
20-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
The immersive spa experience created by Lush with themed music, scents and drinks
If you're looking for a spa treatment with a difference, Lush's spa in Covent Garden takes you on a complete sensory experience. You may not already know this, but Lush (the brand famous for its bath bombs and Sleepy Lotion) also have a number of spas where you can have an immersive treatment like no other. Complete with music created by Lush's in-house musicians and choreographed with the spa treatments, each of their 13 treatments are designed to take you on a journey and care for your mind as well as your body. Each of their 13 treatments are designed to take you on a journey and care for your mind as well as your body. (Image: Emily Davison) The Covent Garden store opened in the summer of 2025 and it's one of two spa stores in London, the other being in Oxford Street. I was booked in to try The Highlands treatment, which is one of their newest treatments that takes inspiration from the breathtaking Scottish Highlands and Celtic traditions. The Highlands treatment is one of their newest treatments that takes inspiration from the breathtaking Scottish Highlands and Celtic traditions. (Image: Emily Davison) I first began by making my way through the shop to find the Lush Spa, which is located on the basement of the shop, and after filling in a brief questionnaire I was introduced to my lovely therapist Katie. Each of the spa's rooms are named after a different flower, and I will just say Lush Spas feel like being in someone's cosy and well-appointed home, complete with flowers, bowls of fruit, and artwork on the walls. Lush Spas feel like being in someone's cosy and well-appointed home. (Image: Emily Davison) The Highlands is a 60-minute full body massage that uses hot stones that originated from volcanoes, which mean they retain their heat for a longer time. Like all of the spa treatments at Lush, it begins with a little creative flair where you are given a unique stone reading. The treatment uses hot stones that originated from volcanoes, which mean they retain their heat for a longer time. (Image: Emily Davison) You begin by selecting three stones from a bag which feature Celtic symbols, and from there you whittle it down to one and are given a reading, which indicates how you may be feeling or want to feel. The treatment is timed alongside a soundtrack featuring Gaelic artists, soundscapes from the Highlands and beautiful vocals from Julie Fowlis, whose voice you may recognise if you've watched Disney's Brave. The treatment is timed alongside a soundtrack featuring Gaelic artists, soundscapes from the Highlands and beautiful vocals from Julie Fowlis. (Image: Emily Davison) As for the treatment itself, this would be perfect for anyone who feels the cold like I do, or if they play a lot of sport or have quite a physically demanding job. The treatment tackled every knot I think I'd built up over the past year from my back to my feet and head. The massage technique is specially choreographed to the pace of the music, beginning with rhythmic presses to mimic the sensation of ascending a hill, to slow and gentle touches as you arrive by the seashore at the end of the music track. The treatment tackled every knot I think I'd built up over the past year from my back to my feet and head. (Image: Emily Davison) Finally the treatment finished with a cup of Scottish black tea, which you can drink on comfy armchairs, taking as much time to relax and unwind as you'd like if you're not ready to brave the outside world just yet. I left feeling like I'd been blessed with a new body and was more than ready for an evening in bed, enjoying my knot-free back and un-aching feet. The Highlands Spa Treatment is available to book for £150 a person at ten Lush spas across the UK, including Covent Garden in London, or if you fancy treating yourself and a loved one then couples rooms are also available to book too.
