A season of fantastic festivals

From whisky festivals to cooking events

This year, live events and festivals are back in a BIG way across Scotland. We look at some of the best, from whisky and music festivals to art fairs and live cooking shows. 

James Martin Live, Glasgow Concert Hall, 11th March
Celebrity chef James Martin has been entertaining and educating the nation for almost three decades with his expert culinary skills both on screen and through his best-selling cookbooks. Following the phenomenal success of his previous tours, James returns to Glasgow Royal Concert Hall with his new show James Martin Live. Expect an evening of live demonstrations, cooking tasks, conversation and special guests. Why not combine it with a stay at nearby Crossbasket Castle, and continue your culinary journey at the restaurant, overseen by the legendary Michel Roux Jr.

The Borders Art Fair, Borders Event Centre, Kelso, 25th to 27th March
Browse and buy artworks from over 70 artists, and stroll through pop-up galleries and exclusive collections. You can also meet the artists, watch demonstrations and take part in workshops for all ages. Combine a visit to the Art Fair with a stay in the beautiful Borders at our two Luxury Scotland Members, Schloss Roxburghe Hotel & Golf Course and Cringletie.

Stromness, Orkney

Orkney Folk Festival, 26th to 29th May 2022
The Orkney Folk Festival began in 1983, and is now regarded as one of the best and friendliest festivals in Scotland. Based in its spiritual home of Stromness, there are also events elsewhere on the islands. Whether you enjoy a lively toe-tapping pub session or an energetic 'stomp,' Orkney Folk Festival attracts visitors and a stellar line-up of artists from all over the world. This includes the hugely popular contemporary Scottish fiddle band Blazin' Fiddles, who are pictured in the main image of this article. Why not combine a visit to the Folk Festival with a trip to Luxury Scotland Business Partner, Sheila Fleet Jewellery. Pop into The Kirk Gallery & Café in Tankernes. This beautifully renovated former parish church is a showcase for Sheila Fleet’s jewellery collections, including her very latest designs. The Kirk Café, is a fantastic Orkney food experience offering some unique Orcadian dishes. 

Pouring whisky

Islay Festival of Music and Malt, 27th May to 4th June
The Islay Festival, otherwise know as Fèis Ìle, is a gathering of whisky and Islay fans from across the globe. There is a popular saying on Islay: "Come for the whisky, return for the island," so even if it's the whisky that draws you to one of Scotland’s most beautiful islands, you're bound to be mesmerised by the combination of tastings, tours, beaches, walks, ceilidhs, sunsets and sunrises. Why not stay at our stunning Luxury Scotland hotel, The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links

Main image: ©Blazin' Fiddles on Facebook