Posts for January, 2026

An evening dedicated to the joys of getting out in the cold.

Grab a seat for a screening of Patagonia’s latest snow films at Cairngorm Community Cinema, Aviemore, with special guests Lesley McKenna and Pete Whitaker.

From the magic of mastering the simple turn, to big walling in Greenland, to the power of passion and community, we’re proud to present short stories dedicated to the joys of snow motion and getting out. Popping up in Aviemore, for a Cairngorm Community Cinema special, Patagonia’s movie night will feature short films, talks and Q&As with special guests, Lesley McKenna, and climber Pete Whitaker.

The Grantown Society presents a talk by Eileen Stewart : The Merchant Adventurers of Strathspey – 18th Century Fortune-hunting Abroad. Eileen Stewart enlightened us last year on the life of Abbe Peter Grant and his assistance in Rome with the purchase of paintings for Castle Grant. This year Eileen will present an account of the research she has been doing into the local merchant adventurers who made it possible for the enterprising young men to travel to make their fortunes – in some cases anyway – in the mid 18th century. It brings together a really interesting and multi-faceted view of our local involvement in Atlantic trading.
Refreshments may be brought through from the bar.

Bruce, the comedian behind the 230k subscriber YouTube channel Scotland History Tours, comes to Boat of Garten with a new show. Laughs galore and quirky observations as he explains how Scotland Made the World.
His unique style showcases and celebrates Scottish culture and history, in a way that will not only keep you fully engaged, but have you rolling with laughter and screaming for more!
This show will deliver more jokes than you’d get from the YouTube videos, and some might even make you blush, but you’ll still leave having learned about Scotland’s role in the world while laughing along the way.
Nominated for comedy awards in Australia, at home in Scotland and even named Scottish Comedian of the Year, Bruce appeared on ABC series Stuff the British Stole and many UK TV and radio shows

Friday 6 March 2026 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Boat of Garten Community Hall

Renowned master of the fiddle including the “Strathspey” genre, Paul Anderson invites traditional musicians to join in a mentored session from 7.15pm to 8.15pm (£10 per player) followed by the popular open session in the bar from 8.30pm to 10pm (free to all).

Immerse yourself in creative fun for a morning of nature painting with Ellie Dimambro-Denson.

In 2024, Ellie challenged herself to walk 250 kilometres across the Cairngorms Connect partnership: the UK’s biggest habitat restoration project and 600 square kilometres of ancient forest, peaty bog, and magnificent mountains.

On her journey she captured her experiences in beautiful watercolour, using natural pigments she made herself from the plants that grow within the landscape.

Join us at the Loch Garten Nature Centre for a beginner’s workshop on the world of wild watercolours:

~ Get an introduction to making paint pigments from nature

~ Learn tips & tricks on how best to capture your favourite scenes through watercolour

~ Enjoy the mindfulness and peace of painting in an ancient forest location

This workshop is for beginners but all abilities are welcome!

This is an indoor event at the Loch Garten Nature Centre but please bring warm layers in case you feel inclined to take inspiration directly from the outdoors! The centre is a short, 3-4 minute walk from the car park over even ground, however if you require further assistance, an all-terrain wheelchair is available to use for free. Please contact us in advance if required.

Royal Deeside’s annual art exhibition, featuring the artwork of around 40 artists from across the North East and Cairngorms, working in a variety of mediums. Exhibition includes original paintings, drawings, jewellery and sculpture as well as prints and cards.

Open daily in Aboyne’s Victory Hall 10am-6pm between July 11th and August 1st 2026. Find out more on our website and Instagram/Facebook @artaboyne.

Available 23th – 25th January 2026

Is there a better place to celebrate Burns night than in the Highlands of Scotland?

Experience a taste of the Scottish Highlands this Burns Weekend at the Cairngorm Hotel Aviemore.

Our special menu features locally sourced, seasonal dishes bursting with flavour, from Scottish salmon and black pudding scotch eff and, of course, the classic Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties to a twist on our classic Sundae.

Why not make a night of it and stay over.

Is there a better place to celebrate Burns night than in the Highlands of Scotland?


Experience a taste of the Scottish Highlands this Burns Night at The Boat Country Inn.

Our special menu features locally sourced, seasonal dishes bursting with flavour, from tasty mushrooms to Scottish salmon and, of course, the classic Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties.

Experience the passion and drama of Moulin Rouge in this adults-only dance workshop! Explore theatrical moves inspired by the iconic musical, bringing the romance, energy, and flair of the world of cabaret to life.

After the workshop, unwind with our own showing of Moulin Rouge on the big screen, immersing yourself in the unforgettable songs and dramatic love story that has captivated audiences worldwide.

Unleash your inner vaudeville vixen in the final chapter of our Cell Block Tango experience!

Join us for an adults-only dance workshop inspired by the iconic world of the hit musical, Chicago. But that’s not all – after dancing, settle in for a special screening of Chicago on the big screen! Experience the glitz, glamour, and unforgettable music of the film while celebrating all your energy from the workshop.