Nairn Highland Games
© Iain Fairweather
Highland Games
Running from May to September, this fantastic outdoor gathering features a mix of heavy athletics, dance and music events and are typically held in towns and villages across Scotland. They are a blend of ancient clan traditions and athletic events that are deeply rooted in historical Highland life.
Here are a few events to add to your itinerary:
The Braemar Gathering, Aberdeenshire – often visited by the Royal family, this spectacular event hosts massed pipe bands, elite heavyweight events and Highland dancing amongst a beautiful scenic backdrop.
Ceres Highland Games, Fife – dating back to as early as 1314, it is recorded as Scotland’s oldest Highland Games event.
Atholl Gathering, Perthshire – hosted in front of Blair Atholl Castle in May, this event holds a strong historical element and is home to the Atholl Highlanders – the last private army in Europe.
Stirling Highland Games – home of the signature strength event the Stirling Stones, this heavy-stone lifting challenge is a unique competition which you can’t find anywhere else.
The Genesis Scottish Open in East Lothian
© European Tour Group
Scottish sport
Scotland is the birthplace of many exciting sports and has inspired a strong sense of identity, community and tradition. From golf and curling to rugby sevens, these sports play an important part of Scotland’s heritage.
Our beautiful landscapes have also shaped many other outdoor sporting events too, including mountain biking and sailing. Today, Scotland’s national pride still shines through at many sporting events, from the Commonwealth Games to the Rugby World Cup, helping to unite people across the country through shared celebrations.
