Traquair Wins Silver for Green Tourism

As a member of the Green Tourism Business Scheme Traquair has been assessed for its' environmental credentials, energy saving measures, energy efficiency, recycling and environmental interpretation. We have been given the prestigious Silver Award. Next time we are going for Gold!

The Eastgate Theatre - w/c 4 December 2008

1-31 December Daily
Exhibition
Christmas Exhibition in aid of Multiple Sclerosis Trust
Success in a photographic competition capturing 'the art of movement' inspired Alison Binnie to raise funds for the MS Trust. She recruited some of her creative friends to help put together this exciting exhibition and sale of art, featuring original photography, children's book illustrations, water colour paintings, machine textile embroidery, and Victorian-inspired stitch art. FREE

Wednesday 3rd - Saturday 6th December 7.30pm, Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th 2.30pm
Pantomime
Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs
Yes it is! Another popular pantomime from Tweed Theatre. A young princess, on the run from her wicked stepmother, finds refuge in a small cottage out in the forest, where seven pint-sized men decide to adopt her and protect her with their lives. Full of colour, singing, dancing, and fun. Book early!

Friday 12 December 7.30pm
Dance
Jive Party
It's party time! For one of the best Christmas party nights - whether you've already mastered the Boogie-Woogie and the Jitterbug, or just want to learn a few basic moves - this could be for you. Round up your friends, partners and workmates and bring them along to enjoy live music and dancing. There's tuition if you want it and guaranteed fun. A fundraiser for Friends of the Eastgate.

Saturday 13 December 7.30pm
Music
The Meadows Chamber Orchestra (Music in Peebles)
The MCO, which normally performs in the Queen's Hall, is coming to Peebles with its conductor Peter Evans. They will play Siegfried Idyll by Wagner, Music for the Theatre by Copland, and Symphony no 5 by Schubert. Afterwords, enjoy a glass of wine in the studio.

Sunday 14 December
Film
Wild Child (12A) 2.30pm
Poppy's personal journey from bored, stroppy teenager to proper young lady.
Brideshead Revisited 7.30pm
Emma Thompson, Michael Gambon, Ben Whishaw and Matthew Goode star in this new adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's decadent novel.

Monday 15 December 10am & 1.30pm
Family
Sticky Kids' Christmas Show
If you like things live, loud and loony - this is for you. A musical show for 2-6 year olds, featuring Molly Muddle - the human party popper - and her good friend Old Macdonald; when they get together, the fun really begins. Lots of audience participation. Watch out for flying crackers!
For concientious parents, rest assured, we understand this show has an educational touch too. "The CD also helped to develop their listening skills." Nursery Education Review (December 06)

Dawyck Botanic Garden becomes first five star garden in Scotland

Dawyck Botanic Garden has officially been awarded VisitScotland five star status making it the first garden in Scotland to achieve world class recognition.

The Garden, near Peebles, has reaped the benefits of a new £1.6m visitor centre to join an elite band of five star visitor attractions in the Scottish Borders and become the first five star garden in Scotland.

The Eastgate Theatre - w/c 20 November 2008

20 November Thursday 7.30pm
music
The Beggar Girls
Enjoy an eclectic mix of acoustic music from this lively four-piece band. They combine instrumental skills (fiddle, viola, accordion, drums) with vocal harmonies, ranging across East European, French and English traditional songs and tunes, along with some original compositions; hence the title of their new CD - Dance of Delight.

21 November Friday 7.30pm
music
Benny Gallagher
In an intimate evening of songs, Benny performs the hits he penned for McGuinness Flint and Gallagher & Lyle – including the classics Runaway, When I’m Dead, Malt and Barley Blues and Breakaway. He also introduces songs from his first solo CD, At the Edge of the Wave, released in October 2008.

22 November Saturday 7.30pm
music
Fondoo
Find out what’s happening in the Peebleshire music scene. Enjoy an exciting mix of groovy bands from far and near at the Eastgate Theatre. Great atmosphere! Check out the website at www.fondoo.eu

27 November Thursday 6.30pm
drama
This Happened To Me
Peebles High School follow up last year's fantastic performance with another production, written and co-ordinated by Mandy Durkin. Not only do the students perform the play, they’ve also designed the make-up, masks and sets. To make this a total real life experience the marketing has also been executed by the students. This is part of the Eastgate Theatre's OUTREACH programme, taking theatre into schools, bringing children into theatre, and inspiring confidence through creativity.

28 November Friday 7.30pm
dance
Arabic Hafla
A showcase for local and invited dancers performing bellydance of all styles. The performance features local student Tigerlily who recently auditioned to join the Bellydance Superstars and has been described as 'one of the best dancers in Scotland'. A party-style event for all the family.

The Eastgate Theatre - w/c 13 November 2008

Until 16th November
exhibition
Twenty-One Years On The Road
A fascinating display of costumes, posters and other memorabilia as part of Rowan Tree Theatre’s 21st birthday celebrations. Bringing back fond memories, this exhibition highlights how the company has developed over the years.

14 November Friday 7.30pm
drama
Not About Heroes
“. . . but about war and the pity of war.” (Wilfred Owen). The Eastgate Theatre presents Stephen Macdonald’s superb play about the friendship between First World War poets Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon, forged at Craiglockhart Hospital for Nervous Diseases in Edinburgh. From very different backgrounds, the two men were bonded by their creativity, their doubts about the war, and their bravery. This is a strong production with local connection through director, John Haswell who founded Borders Youth Festival which in turn spawned the actors Oliver Bisset (Sassoon) and Matthew Burgess (Owen). By Rowan Tree Theatre Company.

15 November Saturday 4pm & 7pm
music
Concert For Children
Richard Nisbet introduces a varied programme of orchestral music, guaranteed to entertain and delight the younger concert-goers in particular. Conductor Kenneth Dempster, Peebles Orchestra and solo violinist Colin Scobie perform excerpts from Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, Mendelssohn’s Fingal’s Cave, as well as some well known sing-along songs.

16 November Sunday
film
Space Chimps (U) 2.30pm
Ham III, grandson of the first chimp astronaut, is blasted into space with a pair of simian friends, and a mission to rid a far-away planet of its tyrannical leader.
Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day (PG) 7.30pm
The story of a spinster who discovers cocktails and kissing – almost the perfect fairytale!

17 – 28 November, Daily
exhibition
Young Artists Exhibition
An opportunity to come and view local youngsters’ art achievements. Described a visual feast, this work by S5 and S6 students from Peebles High School, shows exceptional talent in portraiture, still life and graphic design. The works displayed resulted in almost 80% of the students being awarded a grade A by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). An exhibition that is both thought-provoking and inspirational.

18 November Tuesday 7.30pm
music
From The Heart
An evening of mirth, merriment and musical entertainment in aid of Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland (Peebles branch), featuring One Voice – a small, amateur singing group – with friends. Fabulous prizes to be won on the night - golf pass to Turnberry 2009, a holiday, theatre tickets and lots more. Be prepared to leave with your wallets empty and your hearts full!

20 November Thursday 7.30pm
music
The Beggar Girls
Enjoy an eclectic mix of acoustic music from this lively four-piece band. They combine instrumental skills (fiddle, viola, accordion, drums) with vocal harmonies, ranging across East European, French and English traditional songs and tunes, along with some original compositions; hence the title of their new CD - Dance of Delight.

21 November Friday 7.30pm
music
Benny Gallagher
In an intimate evening of songs, Benny performs the hits he penned for McGuinness Flint and Gallagher & Lyle – including the classics Runaway, When I’m Dead, Malt and Barley Blues and Breakaway. He also introduces songs from his first solo CD, At the Edge of the Wave, released in October 2008.

The Eastgate Theatre - w/c 6 November 2008

6 November 7.30pm
music
Genticorum
Weaving wooden flute, fiddle, acoustic guitar, jew’s harp, bass and foot percussion with strong vocal harmonies, these Québécois musicians offer a blend of traditional songs and tunes as well as original compositions. Their distinctive sound, sense of humour and stage presence make them a supreme crowd pleaser.

7 November 6 – 10pm
food & drink
Villeneuve Wines Annual Wine Tasting
A great chance to beat the credit crunch! Have a great evening AND get your money back as once more, The Eastgate Theatre hosts one of the best, biggest and most important wine tastings in Scotland. With over 120 wines to sample including Champagnes and Ports, there are experts on hand to dish out advice. Wine lovers unite: come along and meet the wine producers, masters of wine, and Villeneuve Wines’ staff. Taste and try before you buy... book now!

8 November 7.30pm
music
Strange Brew
A treat for local rock fans with the welcome return of Strange Brew. Having rocked the theatre earlier in the year with tunes from Cream, Thin Lizzy, Deep Purple and many more, this is an evening not to be missed! Support comes from the amazing Alex Rech band. www.strangebrewrock.co.uk

10 November 7.30pm
music
Martinu Quartet (Music in Peebles)
Together since they were students at the Conservatoire in Prague over three decades ago, the Martinu Quartet went on to win prizes in eight international competitions as well as recording, broadcasting and touring throughout the world. The concert includes works by Smetana, Borodin, and Brahms’ Quintet for clarinet and strings.

11 November Tuesday 7.30pm
lecture
Exploring A Dictionary Of The Older Scottish Tongue (Tweeddale Society)
A fascinating exploration of our language from its earliest times, this dictionary contains a wealth of quotations which throw light on Scottish life and letters, through the ages. It reveals some curious beliefs, proverbs, remedies and recipes whilst highlighting some of the quirkier entries. With Dr Chris Robinson, Director of Scottish Language Dictionaries.

14 November Friday 7.30pm
drama
Not About Heroes
“...but about war and the pity of war.” (Wilfred Owen). The Eastgate Theatre presents Stephen Macdonald’s superb play about the friendship between First World War poets Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon, forged at Craiglockhart Hospital for Nervous Diseases in Edinburgh. From very different backgrounds, the two men were bonded by their creativity, their doubts about the war, and their bravery. This is a strong production with local connection through director, John Haswell who founded Borders Youth Festival which in turn spawned the actors Oliver Bisset (Sasoon) and Matthew Burgess (Owen). By Rowan Tree Theatre Company.

and don’t miss-

Exhibition – until 16th November
Twenty-One Years On The Road
A fascinating display of costumes, posters and other memorabilia as part of Rowan Tree Theatre’s 21st birthday celebrations. Bringing back fond memories, this exhibition highlights how the company has developed over the years.

Hallowe'en Family Sunday Lunch at the Tontine Hotel 2 November 12 noon to 3pm

Welcome all you 'guys and ghouls' to our Sunday lunch of 'high spirits' and 'devilish' good food.
To make it all go with a bang - don't forget to bring your 'fiends' with you.

Face painting
Witches brew
Ghostly goings on
and much more...
Tel: 01721 720 892

Special November Short Break Offers from the Tontine Hotel

£99 Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Break
Enjoy a special 2 night break at the Tontine in November 2008.
From £99 per person for 2 nights bed and breakfast in a standard room *
Includes dinner on the first night only **
Offer is based on 2 people sharing a standard Twin or Double room for 2 nights (Sunday to Thursday) and is subject to availability.
**Dinner offer only available at time of booking. Valid for our main menu and does not include dishes with a price supplement.
3 nights Bed & Breakfast Break - £99 per person, based on 2 people sharing a standard double/twin room, Sunday to Thursday inclusive. Subject to availability.
Call us on 01721 720892 or Email us on info@tontinehotel.com for our Last Minute weekend offers

News from Caddon View

At Caddon View from 30th November 2008 to end March 2009, we are offering 3 nights bed and breakfast for the price of 2 nights.

Please note that this is not valid between Christmas and New Year.

Also, it's now possible to book a stay at Caddon View online directly through our website although you still have the option of phoning to reserve your room.

Our new a la carte menu is being launched on the 2nd November featuring 5 delicious options at each course rather than the old fixed price 3 course menu. You can see this on our website from the 2nd November.

To celebrate St Andrews day we have joined up with the family run, organic Peelham Farm(www.peelham.co.uk) in the Lammermuir Hills, and Forth Wines to bring you 5 wonderful dishes and 5 accompanying wines on the 29 November at our Almost St Andrews Day dinner. If you wish to dine with us tickets must be purchased in advance, please phone or email to reserve your table. Tickets are £42 per person.

The menu includes:

Canapés - Gustave Lorentz Cremant d'Alsace
Minestrone soup with Peelham smoked ham - Gavi di Gavi Volpi
Devilled Peelham lambs kidneys - Beronia Reserva Rioja
Roast shoulder of field raised Peelham rosé veal - Selaks Founders Reserve Merlot from New Zealand
Tobermory cheddar cheese and homemade oatcakes - Torreon de Paredes Don Amado Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot blend
Lemon Posset - Torreon de Paredes Late Harvest Gewurztraminer
Coffee and petit fours

Traquair House

29th & 30th November Free Christmas Opening - roasted chestnuts & mulled wine, children's treasure hunt, craft stalls and discounts on gifts

Eastgate Theatre

7.30pm 8 November

Strange Brew makes a welcome return to the Eastgate, having rocked the theatre earlier in the year! With tunes from Cream, Thin Lizzy, Deep Purple and many more, this is an evening not to be missed by local rock fans.

www.strangebrewrock.co.uk £6 - £4

10 November Martinu Quartet - The quartet came together in 1976 when they were students at the Conservatoire in Prague; then went on to win prizes in eight international competitions as well as recording, broadcasting and touring throughout the world. The concert includes works by Smetana, Borodin, and Brahms' Quintet for clarinet and strings. £10

3-7 December Snow White £8 - £6

For more at the Eastgate theatre visit their website on: www.eastgatearts.com/

Kailzie Gardens

Open 7 days a week during daylight hours in the wintertime. There is also a putting green or why not try your hand at a spot of fly-fishing at the stocked trout pond.

Outdoor Pursuits

If you are feeling more adventurous then why not spend some time mountain biking, either at Glentress or on Innerleithens downhill race course. Maybe horse riding is more your thing at Kailzie Home Farm.

If it's just a gentle walk that you fancy then there are so many to choose from: Thornielee Forest overlooks the Tweed Valley where you can see Muckle Meg - a wooden statue symbolising a romantic tale with a twist! Cardrona Forest and Glentress forest both have wonderful trails as well as Caberstone Forest which is right on our doorstep.

Homecoming Scotland 2009

2009 is the 250th anniversary of the birth of the nation's bard, Robert Burns. To commemorate the birth of this cultural icon, a rich and diverse range of events will showcase everything that is wonderful about Scotland, with the aim of encouraging people of Scottish descent - or those who simply love Scotland - back to its shores.

Whether you visit Scotland simply to enjoy the magnificent tranquility of the rural and coastal landscapes, to explore historic houses, castles and gardens, for a round of golf, for the annual Border Common Ridings, or to see the 60 or more annual Highland Games and Gatherings, the events listed in the programme are just the beginning of the Homecoming story. Register at www.homecomingscotland.com to keep up to date with news.

Ceud Mille Failte (a hundred thousand welcomes).

The Eastgate Theatre - w/c 30 October 2008

Thurs Fri 30 & 31 Oct 7.30pm
Bold Girls
drama
For three women in war torn Belfast, although their men have been killed or imprisoned for their political activities, everyday life must go on. However, the arrival of a disturbing young girl and the revelations which follow threaten to disrupt their friendship. A strong drama from Tweed Theatre – but wait for the poignant ending.

1 & 2 November Saturday 6.45pm & Sunday 2.30pm
It's Time to Dance
dance
This is the annual show of the Fiona Henderson School of Dancing, featuring dancers from three to 26 years old. A glittering performance showcasing the progress and talents of the dancers who regularly attend classes at the Eastgate Theatre in Peebles. Not to be missed!

2 November Film Sunday
WallE (U) 5pm
An avant-garde, ambitious and outrageously alive mix of robot love story and ecological fable.
The Dark Knight (12A) 7.30pm
Director Christopher Nolan reinvents the Batman story, with the hero (Christian Bale) confronted by the white-faced Joker (Heath Ledger) in Gotham City.

3 - 16 November, Daily
Twenty-One Years On The Road
exhibition
A fascinating exhibition of costumes, posters and other memorabilia as part of Rowan Tree Theatre’s 21st birthday celebrations. Bringing back fond memories, this exhibition highlights how the company has developed over the years.
FREE

5 November 7.30pm
The Sleeping Beauty
dance
Come and be swept away by this magical ballet, presented by European Ballet and set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious score. Directed by Stanislav Tchassov, former principal dancer at The Bolshoi Ballet, the company is known for the dedication and energy of its talented dancers. Colourful sets and lavish costumes make this a favourite for all ages. In addition, some local students from the Fiona Henderson School of Dancing will also enjoy the dream of performing alongside such a renowned troup.

6 November Thursday 7.30pm
Genticorum
music
Weaving wooden flute, fiddle, acoustic guitar, jew’s harp, bass and foot percussion with strong vocal harmonies, these Quebecois musicians offer a blend of traditional songs and tunes as well as original compositions. Their distinctive sound, sense of humour and stage presence make them a supreme crowd pleaser.

7 November Friday 6 - 10pm
Villeneuve Wines Annual Wine Tasting
food & drink
A great chance to beat the credit crunch! Have a great evening AND get your money back as once more, The Eastgate hosts one of the best, biggest and most important wine tastings in Scotland. With over 120 wines to sample including Champagnes and Ports, there are experts on hand to dish out advice. Wine lovers unite: come along and meet the wine producers, masters of wine, and Villeneuve Wines’ staff. Taste and try before you buy... book now!