Posts for September, 2025

Run Balmoral is North-East Scotland’s biggest mass participation sporting event.

Each year around 5000 runners, from primary-school pupils to international athletes, take part in our two-day community running festival, set against the spectacular backdrop of Balmoral Castle and Estate.

Joining them are around 10,000 spectators, all free to enjoy the food and fun of the bustling event village, as well as the beauty of the event’s magical Deeside location. Every finisher receives a special medal and, in 2026, will have the option to purchase a sustainable Run Balmoral t-shirt. Saturday plays host to the McIntosh Plant Hire 1.5km Primary Schools Race, the RAM Tubulars 2.5km Secondary Schools Race, the Harbour Energy 5km and the Stena Drilling 10km.

Sunday is trails day with two off-road events: the 6 Mile Trail Race and the 15 Mile Trail Race. Take on all four main events over the two days and you’ll become one of our John Clark Motor Group Devils of Deeside!

Classical Concert with the Braeriach Quartet and Friends. Entry by donation. Refreshments from 6.30pm in the Wheatley Hall (attached to the church) and concert starts at 7pm.

Acclaimed local composer and musician Hamish Napier is joined by Patsy Reid, one of Scotland’s finest fiddle players, for a special folk concert followed by a community ceilidh dance. Doors open 6.30pm. CONCERT 7pm to 8pm then after a break for refreshments and raffle (bring CASH for raffle) CEILIDH from 8.30pm to 09.30pm. Licensed bar, teas & coffees, prize raffle. Free venue parking.

A wide range of events including walks, tours, talks and concerts, with something for everyone interested in learning more about heritage around Badenoch – come and join us as we celebrate, learn about and remember the heritage of this wonderful region.

The full programme of events can be seen here (since printing the Kingussie of Old event will be rescheduled for later in the year – we hope it will take place in October as one of our Winter Talks).

Folk in the Forest returns for another year; RSPB Loch Garten invites you to an unforgettable day of traditional music and storytelling, in the heart of Abernethy Forest.

Join the dynamic and witty Anna Massie, one of Scotland’s finest trad guitarists; award-winning Orcadian fiddler Kristan Harvey, known for her powerful playing with Blazin’ Fiddles and FARA; and captivating storyteller David Hughes, whose mythic tales bring the forest to life, for a spellbinding afternoon of live music and storytelling inspired by the natural world.

The Loch Garten Nature Centre, with its vaulted ceilings and panoramic forest views, offers the perfect atmospheric setting to sit back with a hot drink and soak up the sounds of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.

Select from a matinee or evening show
1pm-3pm – https://events.rspb.org.uk/events/131138
7pm-9pm – https://events.rspb.org.uk/events/131068

*This is a fully covered, indoor event within the visitor centre.

“What’s in a Name?”: The first of this season’s Grantown Society talks is by Neil Macgregor, with special reference to Gaelic place names around Grantown including tales of landscape, crofts and characters and perhaps even a mention of your own homestead!

Talk is on Friday 19th September at 7.30pm in the Grant Arms Hotel following our Grantown Society AGM (for members only) commencing 7pm.

All next week in the Hub, there will be an interactive display on the theme of place names, and linked to that, a short leisurely “walk with history” entitled “Six Sovereigns and a Shepherdess” will leave from The Grantown Hub (2 High St.) on Thurs.

18th September at 10.30am.

Scottish Gas Men’s Scottish Cup: Strathspey Thistle FC v Dundee North End FC, kick-off 3pm.

Parking at ground (disabled spaces available) and at Burnfield Avenue car park. Tea bar with hot food.

Mackellar Suite open from 1.30pm for those who have booked hospitality packages (hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk to book) or are adults/seniors who have paid admission at main gate. (N.B. Season tickets are NOT valid at this match).

Half-time raffle. Merchandise and team-sheets.

General knowledge quiz from The Grantown Society in aid of the Fiddler of Strathspey Festival.

Drinks available from the bar of the Royal British Legion bar before the quiz starts at 7.30pm sharp.

Teams of 6 maximum.

Meet at The Grantown Hub at 12.30pm for a relaxed heritage walk for all ages through town and woods with musical interludes.

Arrive at Grant Park at 13.45pm for an outdoor picnic and more music. (N.B. Picnic is weather dependent).

The perfect way to unwind after the multifarious FoS programme the day before – musicians, please bring your instruments and join in the fun!!!

The award-winning writer, broadcaster, comedian, and lifelong Motherwell FC supporter is bringing his riotous stand-up show to Boat of Garten.

Expect sensational stories from his incredible 35-year career in radio, TV, and newspapers, served up with his signature no-holds-barred style.

This is your chance to witness Tam’s sharp wit and infectious humour live – a guaranteed evening of unforgettable entertainment.

Doors 7pm and show will start at 8pm.

Licensed bar – cash/card sales.