Posts for May, 2026

Scotland’s waterscapes will be front and centre at the new summer show at one of the Cairngorms’ best galleries.

A host of well-known artists will display their paintings and photography at the Spey Bank Studio in Grantown from Jun 19.

This year the theme is Lochs and Rivers so we’re expecting lots of deep blues and vibrant turquoises.

Among the names exhibiting are Ally MacKellar, Stephen Redpath, Helen Bruce, Jess Greaves and many more. And with a new gallery layout, there will be more work to see than ever.

More information at the gallery website.

This summer’s exhibition explores the woven heritage of Strathspey, showcasing a rare collection of ancient and historic tartans. Discover the colours, patterns, and craftsmanship behind traditional weaving, and learn how this unique textile heritage continues to shape the region today. Open Daily Monday to Saturday. Please note the museum opens at 11.00am on a Saturday.

Events Programme

Saturday 30th May | 11am–3pm | Museum
Join tartan historian Peter Macdonald as we warp the loom and prepare to recreate an 18th century plaid. Drop in throughout the day to watch a tartan being made, explore traditional weaving techniques, and talk with us about Strathspey’s weaving heritage.

Thursday 4th June | 7pm | Museum
Spinning yarns, Tartan talks
An entertaining evening of stories and conversation celebrating Scotland’s tartan heritage. Margaret Grant, master kiltmaker from Grantown, joins tartan historian Peter Macdonald for a lively discussion on weaving, designing, and researching tartans. Together they share insights from decades immersed in the world of tartan.

Sunday 12 July | 2pm–5pm | From the Museum
Bobbin Mills Story Walk with Strathspey Story Walks’ Sarah Hobbs
Discover the hidden history of bobbin making and its impact on the local landscape on this guided walk. A fascinating insight into Strathspey’s industrial past.

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bobbin-mills-story-walk-tickets-1990322019739?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join us for a fascinating walk to the site of an old bobbin mill with Strathspey Story Walks’ Sarah Hobbs who has been researching their hidden history

Leaving from the museum in a minibus to location..

Please bring weather appropriate clothing , footwear and something to drink.

Free to attend, however please book your ticket as spaces are limited.

Spinning yarns, Tartan talks.

Sure to be thoroughly entertaining ..

A short evening of tales, stories and musings from two people who live and breath tartan.

Following in her Mother’s footsteps Margaret Grant, master kiltmaker in Grantown has been making kilts since she was 13. She is self confessed as tartan obsessed, an entrepreneur and excellent raconteur Margaret joins in conversation with Scotland’s pre- eminent Tartan Historian Peter MacDonald who has been weaving, designing and researching tartans for decades.

Join tartan historian Peter MacDonald as we warp the loom. Ready to recreate an 18th century plaid.

Come and watch how a tartan is made.

Drop-in between 11-3

Watch, learn and chat with about weaving heritage and tartan.

Starting at Abernethy Old Kirk, with an introduction to its history from Frank Bardgett, then across the newly restored Aultmore Bridge and into the woods to see the remains of a World War II timber camp.

We are so excited to bring another baby/toddler/kids special to our wee community here this time in partnership with Roots and Shoots.

Starting in the woods at 9.30am, just behind the cinema, we will meet for a one-off Roots and Shoots, a nature play session that provides opportunities to learn, play and explore our surrounding woodlands. This is open to all, so come along before the cinema to enjoy fresh air activities!

We will then head into the cinema to watch “The Magic Faraway Tree” from 11am. A film about a series of fantastical worlds that await at the top of a magical tree hidden within an enchanted wood – based on Enid Blyton’s beloved books “The Faraway Tree”.

Thanks to Spotlight Legacy Fund/Film Hub Scotland we have support to offer the Roots and Shoots session for free.

Then tickets for the film are £5 – but free for under 5’s.
Buy online or on the door.
macdonaldspeyvalleycinema.co.uk

Meet at The Grantown Hub at 7pm. Six venues – a complimentary drink at each one. Last stop is the Ben Mhor Hotel which has traditional music being performed. Costumed tour guides and local dramatic incidents acted out at each location. Dressing up entirely optional but feel free to join in the fun by donning anything reminiscent of the last two centuries! An award will be presented for the best costume.

Meet at The Grantown Hub (2 High St.) for 7pm. A complimentary drink at each of the six venues. Costumed tour guides and local dramatic incidents acted out at each location. Prepare to learn lots of things you didn’t know about Grantown and its characters. Dressing up is entirely optional, but feel free to join in the fun! An award will be presented for the best costume and a free prize draw is included.

A Coffee Morning with a difference as you are serenaded by the stars of Strathfest 26 music festival. What is not different is that you will be spoilt with your favourite cuppa and delicious fresh bakes of every description! Entry by donation.