Scottish events of the week

By LISA TONER
Published on 28/05/2012 17:46

How will you spend your spare time this week? We look at five leisurely pursuits happening around Scotland to give you some inspiration.

From Friday until 24th June - The West End Festival

Glasgow’s most exciting cultural event returns for it’s 17th year on Friday and this year’s programme of events is bursting with variety - the usual melting pot of music, comedy, theatre, dance and exhibitions. There are options for all ages and many events are free. Highlights include the O2 Mela, Gibson Street Gala and Ashton Lane Summer Solstice. This weekend proceedings kick off with a nostalgic West End Science walk on Saturday and a performance from much-loved singer-songwriter James Yorkston on Sunday. (www.westendfestival.co.uk)

Saturday - Cornhill Highland Games

Taking place at Cornhill Playing Field, Aberdeenshire, this year’s games programme includes the Heavy Weight Championship, Tug O’ War and Highland Dancing competitions. Traditional fayre and refreshments will be available from various stalls offering fresh local produce. Several pipe bands will play throughout the day and there will be a disco taking place in the marquee in the evening. (www.cornhillgames.org.uk)

Until Sunday - Islay Festival of Music and Malt

The Isle of Islay comes alive to celebrate this yearly festival with ceilidhs, fishing, Gaelic lessons and much more. All ages are catered for as the island’s distilleries open their doors to allow the adults a spot of whisky tasting, whilst a variety of children’s workshops keep the youngsters entertained. This weekend is the finale of the festival and closing events include an open-air gig in the courtyard of the Laphroaig Distillery on Friday evening and the Final Fling concert on Saturday night. (www.theislayfestival.co.uk)

Ongoing until 5th June - Tweedlove

Tweedlove is a festival with a difference, specifically catering for cyclists in the bike-friendly Tweed Valley. The programme includes a diverse range of events for both adults and children and combines bike-riding with live music. The Glentress Seven trail-riding competition takes place this Saturday, followed by the Crank It Up gig in the evening, headlined by indie-rock band We Were Promised Jetpacks. (tweedlove.com)

From Friday until 4th June – Fynefest

Set against the stunning backdrop of Glen Fyne, Fynefest is a boutique beer festival showcasing the very best of British and American Beers alongside a line-up of Argyll’s most accomplished musicians. Fresh quality food will be available from the area’s top produce providers and local health and beauty specialists Sephora will be on hand to keep revellers relaxed and happy with a variety of massages. (www.fynefest.com)