Things to do - Paisley.is

Budding young musicians across Renfrewshire are getting the chance to participate in a range of traditional cultural workshops as part of Fèis Week.

Fèis Week, which takes place at Johnstone High School from 18 – 21 July, is run by Gaelic arts and culture organisation Fèis Phàislig and is an intensive week of arts workshops for young people aged 5-18.

Over the course of the week, young people will work with professionals in a range of fun and engaging taster workshops on traditional music, song, filmmaking, dance, circus skills and art. The week culminates in a finale concert where friends and family can come along and see what participants have been working on.

The sessions are accessible and fun while still being aimed at building their skillset, giving young people an engaging and inspiring experience of Gaelic language and culture. Participants will also take part in Gaelic language activities throughout the week and some of the workshops will be delivered in English and Gaelic to give those learning in Gaelic-medium an opportunity to further develop their skills and encourage other participants to learn a few words or phrases in the language.

Fèis Phàislig director, Grant McFarlane, said: “Our Fèis Week event offers an excellent opportunity for young people to learn more about traditional music and Gaelic culture and have fun. All our tutors are experienced, professional musicians, skilled in working with young people and are sure to get participants engaged and excited by everything Gaelic culture has to offer.

This year’s event is particularly exciting given Paisley will be hosting The Royal National Mòd in October. There’s a real community in Renfrewshire for Gaelic culture and our Fèis Week event and the Mòd are great opportunities to continue to develop that community.”

The Royal National Mòd, organised by An Comunn Gàidhealach, returns to Paisley from Friday 13 – Saturday 21 October. The nine-day festival, which will take place at venues across Paisley, is Scotland’s premier celebration of Gaelic culture and heritage and will feature a range of competitive disciplines, including Gaelic song, poetry, literature, drama, instrumental, Highland dancing and sport.

To find out more about Fèis Week, visit www.feisphaislig.com and click here to find out more about Mòd Phàislig 2023.

Seachdain na Fèise 2023 a’ tòiseachadh

Gheibh luchd-ciùil òg air feadh Siorrachd Rinn Friù cothrom pàirt a ghabhail ann an sreath de bhùthan-obrach cultarach traidiseanta mar phàirt de Sheachdain na Fèise.

Tha Seachdain na Fèise, a bhios ann an Àrd-sgoil Johnstone eadar 18 – 21 Iuchar, air a ruith leis a’ bhuidhinn ealain is cultair Ghàidhlig, Fèis Phàislig: seachdain thrang de bhùthan-obrach ealain do dhaoine òga eadar 5-18 bliadhna a dh’aois.

Thar na seachdain, bidh daoine òga ag obair le proifeiseantaich ann an raon de bhùthan-obrach a bheir dhaibh blasad spòrsail, tarraingeach de cheòl traidiseanta, òrain, dèanamh fhilmichean, dannsa, sgilean siorcais agus ealain. Thig an t-seachdain gu crìch le cuirm-chiùil far am faod caraidean is teaghlach a thighinn a choimhead air na tha an òigridh air a bhith a’ dèanamh.

Tha na seiseanan ruigsinneach agus spòrsail ach ag amas air sgilean a thogail, a’ toirt eòlas tarraingeach is brosnachail do dhaoine òga air cànan is cultar na Gàidhlig. Bidh òigridh cuideachd a’ gabhail pàirt ann an tachartasan Gàidhlig tron t-seachdain agus thèid cuid de na bùthan-obrach a lìbhrigeadh ann am Beurla agus Gàidhlig gus cothrom a thoirt dhaibhsan a tha ag ionnsachadh tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig an sgilean cànain a leasachadh agus com-pàirtichean eile a bhrosnachadh gus beagan fhaclan no abairtean Gàidhlig a thogail.

Thuirt stiùiriche Fèis Phàislig, Grannd MacPhàrlain: “Tha Seachdain na Fèise a’ toirt cothrom air leth do dhaoine òga barrachd ionnsachadh mu cheòl traidiseanta agus cultar na Gàidhlig ann an dòigh spòrsail. Tha na h-oidean againn uile nan luchd-ciùil eòlach, proifeasanta, agus sgileil ann a bhith ag obair còmhla ri daoine òga. Cha eil teagamh nach brosnaich iad ùidh is meas chom-pàirtichean ann an cultar na Gàidhlig.

“Tha Fèis na bliadhna air leth inntinneach leis gum bi Pàislig a’ cumail a’ Mhòid Nàiseanta Rìoghail san Dàmhair. Tha fìor choimhearsnachd ann an Siorrachd Rinn Friù mu thimcheall cultar na Gàidhlig agus tha Seachdain na Fèise agus am Mòd nan deagh chothroman gus a’ choimhearsnachd sin a leasachadh.”

Tha am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail, air a chur air dòigh leis a’ Chomunn Ghàidhealach, a’ tilleadh a Phàislig bho Dhihaoine 13 – Disathairne 21 Dàmhair. Is e an tachartas naoi-latha, a thèid a chumail ann an ionadan air feadh Phàislig, prìomh fhèis na h-Albaairson cultar is dualchas na Gàidhlig agus bidh iomadh farpais na lùib, a’ gabhail a-steach òrain Ghàidhlig, bàrdachd, litreachas, dràma, innealan-ciùil, dannsa Gàidhealach agus spòrs.

Airson tuilleadh fiosrachaidh mu Sheachdain na Fèise, tadhail airwww.feisphaislig.com no airson tuilleadh fiosrachaidh mu Mhòd Phàislig tadhail air www.modphaislig.com.

The weather in Scotland can be changeable, but don’t let that stop you.

Whatever your age, you can have some fun this summer with our list of seven rainy day things to do in Renfrewshire.

Go hunting for mythical beasts with the new PaisleyFirst Lego trail.

Running from Saturday 24 June to Sunday 13 August, there are 18 different beasts to find. Trail maps are available from the Piazza Shopping Centre and The Paisley Centre.

Have a splash about with OneRen’s Cool Summer Swimming.

Whether you fancy Fun Swim at Renfrew Victory Baths, or a Splash Session at Johnstone Community Sports Hub, OneRen have something for you. Plus, this summer, Family Swim Passes are available for all OneRen pools.

Get hands-on with history at the Weavers Cottage.

In the centre of Kilbarchan you’ll find an atmospheric cottage and hands-on museum where the traditional weaver’s craft comes to life. Step back in time and learn about what it was like to live in Renfrewshire over 200 years ago. The cottage is also Renfrewshire’s only National Trust for Scotland property, so it’s a must-visit for Trust members, who get free admission to all Trust places.

Curl up on the sofa and get lost in a great book.

OneRen have 12 libraries around Renfrewshire packed with every kind of book you can imagine. Whether you’re looking for a swashbuckling adventure, the latest biography, or some gritty true crime, you’ll find it in the library. All you need to do is sign up for a free library card. The library also offers home delivery, e-books and e-magazines—so you don’t even need to get your coat on.

Get into nature at the RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve.

Whilst not-strictly an indoor activity, the trails at RSBP Lochwinnoch are very sheltered. The hides and visitors centre provide a break from the rain, and the raised viewing tower is the perfect place to spot wildlife. RSPB Lochwinnoch is one of the best wetlands in Scotland, and even on a driech day the reserve is full of interesting things to see.

Jump, slide and tumble at one of Renfrewshire’s indoor play centres.

Both the Big Adventure in Linwood and Pandamonium in Erskine offer great soft play centres. With sliding things, bouncy things, wobbling things and climbing things, kids of all ages will love it. Plus with free parking and good coffee, they’re great for parents too.

Explore Paisley’s weaving heritage at the Sma’ Shot Cottages.

Turn back the clock as you walk through the door into a typical 18th century weaver’s cottage. Local guides will accompany you and provide a fascinating insight into how a typical weaving family lived and worked. Plus, the tearoom serves delicious homecooked food, ideal for some post-tour refreshments.

Of course, you can also just embrace the rain! Put your wellies on, grab your coat and go explore. Find some puddles, spot some wildlife, and have a fun time.

Have we missed something out? What’s your favourite rainy day activity in Renfrewshire? Get in touch on social and let us know.

Natalie, mum of two is always looking for fun things to do with the kids. This weekend she tried strawberry picking and was not disappointed.

The summer sun was shining, the wind blowing gently through the long grass and the sweet smell of strawberries in the air.

East Yonderton Farm is a lovely farm in the most interesting of places. Just off Barnsford Road which hugs the side of Glasgow Airport.

Young girl dressed in pink shorts and t-shirt stands on a path beside a big field of long green grass. She is holding a blue punnet and smiling.

I called ahead during the week and booked our space in the car park. We arrived just as the Emirates A380 was taking off which was a sight to be seen on its own.

As we entered the farm we were greeted by a parking attendant who guided us to a space. Then we made our way to the barn to collect our punnets, we went for two 1kg boxes.

We followed the path down past the perfectly cut long grass, past the pea pods and gooseberries and straight to the strawberries. The first thing that hit me was the smell of the strawberries, instantly my mouth watered.

The rows upon rows of bright red strawberries looked so inviting, and even although we had never done it before my three-year-old daughter Isla knew exactly what to do.

We spent about an hour in the field picking the strawberries and pea pods. The friendly farmer was on hand if you had any questions – and make sure you weren’t eating too many strawberries before they went in the box.

Young girl is walking in a strawberry field holding a blue punnet filled with strawberries.

There was no charge for coming down the farm you simply paid for what you picked. We spent £10 on our two punnets (2kg) and took them home to make strawberry ice cream – as requested by Isla.

It was a lovely afternoon and we would definitely go back. If you are looking for things to do especially with kids we would give this a thumbs up – the strawberries are pretty tasty too.

Tip

Pack a picnic. Although you can’t eat your picnic in the farm, the car park is on a grass field with some lovely big trees providing much needed shade. Once you have picked all your strawberries sit down under a big shady tree and enjoy a picnic (and the fruits of your labour) while watching the planes taking off.

I asked Isla what her favourite part of the day was...strawberry ice cream!

Isla, aged 3

Contact

East Yonderton Farm

Walkinshaw Rd

Renfrew PA4 9LP

0141 889 3492

Related Links

East Yonderton

A sensational, dynamic and inclusive programme of concerts, events, exhibitions and workshops has been unveiled for the Royal National Mòd which returns to Paisley between 13 – 21 October 2023.

Scotland’s premier Gaelic cultural event will celebrate the language and Scottish traditional music, song, drama, literature, art and sport.

Hundreds of musicians and artists will take to stages, halls and libraries in over 20 venues across Paisley and its surrounding areas during the nine-day event when it returns to the Renfrewshire town for the first time in ten years.

Mòd Phàislig will get underway with the Cuirm-Fosglaidh a’ Mhòid 2023 (Mòd 2023 Opening Concert) at Paisley Town Hall on Friday 13th October, featuring contemporary folk act, Breabach. The five-piece, who are currently Folk Band of the Year, will be one of the first acts to take to the stage of the newly refurbished Renfrewshire venue.

The hall will also play host to an unforgettable night of traditional music and Gaelic culture showcasing young talent from Renfrewshire and beyond for Ar Cànan ‘s Ar Ceòl (Our Language Our Music) on Saturday 14th October. Fèis Phàislig youngsters and the Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band will put on a show-stopping performance, whilst The Glasgow Gaelic Choir will be joined by some of Scotland’s finest Gaelic singers including Ainsley Hamill, Deirdre Graham and Joy Dunlop. Kilbarchan Pipe Band and Jenna Reid and Harris Playfair will also make an appearance on the show’s fantastic bill.

A specially created show launching the reworked Gaelic song collection of Frances Tolmie: Gun Sireadh Gun Iarraidh, will also take place at Paisley Town Hall on Tuesday, 17th October.

Tolmie’s iconic collection of songs have been passed down, reimagined and reshaped over many years, and are being brought together in one special collection by Kenna Campbell and Ainsley Hamill. The pair will be joined by others who have used Tolmie with their own repertoire and style, including Ceitlin Lilidh, Mischa Macpherson, Màiri Callan, James Graham, Rachel Walker, Mary Ann Kennedy, Wilma Kennedy and Seumas Campbell. They will be accompanied by a Scottish folk all-star house band.

There will also be an opportunity to connect with Gaelic outdoors – thanks to a Gaelic Nature Walk at Paisley’s Fountain Gardens led by Alasdair Whyte and developed in partnership with local community development organisation STAR Project. On Sunday 15th October, participants will be able to experience Paisley’s oldest public gardens, discover Gaelic folklore and learn Gaelic names for the trees, plants, animals, birds and features in the park.

Workshops are also on the programme, with Gaelic speaker and traditional musician Evie Waddell hosting Fàilte Gu British Sign Language (BSL) (Welcome to BSL) on Friday 20th October. Joined by a team of d/Deaf performers, Evie will help participants learn some Gaelic signed song and rhythmic traditional step dance in what is set to be a joyful cultural exchange that will be open to all. A vibrant show will follow at Paisley Town Hall that evening, using traditional songs and stories, sign and dance, to explore the relationships between Scottish culture, Gaelic and BSL.

There will be a varied and extensive programme for families across the week with activity taking place in venues right across Renfrewshire. Struth will return on the Monday and Tuesday, giving young people the opportunity to chat with some of Gaeldom’s best-known stars, while week-long Mòd Kids Clubs and day sessions led by Fèis Phàislig, and local partners such as Lochwinnoch Arts Festival and Erskine Arts, will fill the October school holidays with a raft of activity.

Gaelic Bookbug will run at libraries in Linwood, Foxbar, Ralston, Johnstone and Glenburn, while children’s ceilidhs will take place at the UWS Students’ Union on Monday 16th and Tuesday 17th October.

Later in the week, The Tannahill Centre will stage the Fàilte Cèilidh – a warm welcoming multi-cultural ceilidh for communities from all cultures to share stories in their native languages, mixed with Gaelic. The event on Thursday 19th October will be hosted by School of African Cultures in partnership with local community groups Pachedu and Inspiring Families.

As Halloween nears and the Mòd draws to a close, Saturday 21st October will see a Spooky Samhain Family Cèilidh at UWS Students’ Union. This Halloween themed cèilidh for all the family, led by Fèis Phàislig, will celebrate Halloween and the Samhain festival in Paisley’s famous fashion.

The coveted sport events will also bring the Mòd’s programme of activity to the King George V Playing Fields on Saturday 14th October. The sport of the Gaels, shinty, will be played by men’s, women’s and youth teams in hotly contested finals, while the Football Mòd Cup will see two teams with Gaelic roots battle it out. While Sunday 15th October sees Paisley Abbey welcome the Mòd Church Service.

The celebrations are set to go into the wee hours and spill out into businesses across the town, with the Mòd Festival Club being held at The Sneddon. The Paisley pub will welcome a variety of pop-up live music sessions and entertainment each day of the festival and give event goers a chance to catch up after the day’s festivities.

The much-loved Bungalow will host the Mòd Late & Live which will let visitors experience live traditional and Gaelic music from some of the best names on the scene. The Swan and The Keg will also be home to lively pub sessions throughout the week of the event.

The wealth of events and activities on offer sits alongside the Mòd’s prestigious competition schedule, which will see the usual array of talent vying for the most coveted titles in Gaeldom. The Gold Medal, Traditional Gold Medal Final and Silver Pendant competitions, choirs competitions and Drama Final will all take place throughout the week, alongside children’s and music competitions, which will all welcome competitors from across Scotland and the wider world to Paisley.

Battle of the Bands will also be back for 2023 as young Scottish traditional and Gaelic acts perform for an esteemed panel of judges and lively audience at the The Wynd Centre for the final on Tuesday 17th October and the Literature Prize Giving will be held on Wednesday 18th October.

Following last year’s addition of art into the Mòd programme for the first time, artworks championing Gaelic culture and Scottish life from across Scotland will also be celebrated at the Mòd Phàislig with a digital display. The entrants for the Highland Art Prize will then be showcased at Glasgow’s Briggait from Friday 20^th October. Visitors can also enjoy a guided tour of the ten longlist finalists.

A fitting finale to the Paisley Mòd will come in the form of the much-loved Massed Choirs. Hundreds of singers in choirs across Scotland will join in solidarity when they congregate in Paisley town centre on Saturday 21st October.

That night, folk-electronica powerhouse Niteworks will play Paisley Town Hall to round off a spectacular nine-day celebration of Gaelic. The concert presented by The Reeling, which was announced last month and marks the band’s only Scottish venue gig of the year, has seen fans snap up tickets.

Tha prògram do-chreidsinneach, fiùghantach agus in-ghabhalach de chuirmean-ciùil, tachartasan, taisbeanaidhean agus bùithtean-obrach air fhoillseachadh leis a’ Mhòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail ’s e a’ tilleadh a Phàislig eadar 13 – 21 Dàmhair 2023.

Bidh prìomh thachartas cultarach Gàidhlig na h-Alba a’ comharrachadh a’ chànain còmhla ri ceòl traidiseanta, òrain, dràma, litreachas, ealain agus spòrs na h-Alba.

Bidh na ceudan de luchd-ciùil agus luchd-ealain a’ gabhail chun an àrd-ùrlair, tallachan agus leabharlannan ann an còrr air 20 ionad-cruinneachaidh ann am Pàislig agus san sgìre mun cuairt rè an tachartais naoi làithean seo, nuair a thilleas e don bhaile ann an Siorrachd Rinn Friù airson a’ chiad uair ann an deich bliadhna.

Thèid Mòd Phàislig a chur fo sheòl le Cuirm Fosglaidh a’ Mhòid 2023 ann an Talla Baile Phàislig air Dihaoine 13 Dàmhair, a’ nochdadh a’ bhuidhinn cho-aimsireil tuath-cheòl, Breabach. Bidh an còmhlan de chòignear, a tha gu làithreach ainmichte mar Còmhlan Tuath-cheòl na Bliadhna, mar aon de na ciad thachartasan a ghabhas gu àrd-ùrlar an ionad-chruinneachaidh seo a tha air a dhèanamh suas às ùr, ann an Siorrachd Rinn Friù.

Bidh an talla a’ toirt aoigheachd cuideachd do dh’oidhche nach tèid à cuimhne de cheòl traidiseanta agus de chultar na Gàidhlig, a’ taisbeanadh tàlant òg à Siorrachd Rinn Friù agus nas fhaide a-muigh airson Ar Cànan ’s Ar Ceòl air Disathairne 14 Dàmhair. Bidh òigridh Fèis Phàislig agus Còmhlan Pìobaireachd Sgoiltean Siorrachd Rinn Friù a’ cur gnìomhadh iongantach air àrd-ùrlar, fhad ’s a bhios cuid de na seinneadairean Gàidhlig as grinne ann an Alba, a’ gabhail a-steach Ainsley Hamill, Deirdre Ghreumach agus Joy Dunlop, a’ gabhail pàirt còmhla ri Còisir Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu. Còmhla riutha air àrd-ùrlar bidh Còmhlan Pìobaireachd Chill Bhearchain agus Jenna Reid is Harris Playfair a’ nochdadh air prògram na h-oidhche.

Thèid taisbeanadh air ùr-chruthachadh, a’ cur air bhog cruinneachadh às ùr de dh’òrain Ghàidhlig Frances Tolmie: Gun Sireadh Gun Iarraidh, a chur air àrd-ùrlar ann an Talla Baile Phàislig air Dimàirt 17 Dàmhair.

Tha an cruinneachadh suaicheanta de dh’òrain Tolmie air an sìneadh sìos, air an ath-obrachadh ’s air an ath-chumadh thar mòran bhliadhnaichean, agus air an toirt còmhla ann an aon chruinneachadh speisealta le Kenna Chaimbeul agus Ainsley Hamill. Còmhla ris an dithis sin, bidh feadhainn eile a tha air Tolmie a chleachdadh nan cruinneachadh agus na stoidhle fhèin, a’ gabhail a-steach Ceitlin Lilidh, Mischa Nic a’ Phearsain, Màiri Callan, Seumas Greumach, Raonaid Walker, Màiri Anna NicUalraig, Wilma NicUalraig agus Seumas Caimbeul. Gheibh iad taic-ciùil bho chòmhlan taighe de rionnagan tuath-cheòl Albannach.

Bidh cothrom ann cuideachd ceangal a dhèanamh le Gàidhlig air an taobh a-muigh le taing do Chuairt Nàdair Ghàidhlig ann an Gàrraidhean Fuarain Phàislig, air a stiùireadh le Alasdair Whyte agus air a leasachadh ann an com-pàirteachas leis a’ bhuidheann leasachaidh coimhearsnachd ionadail, Pròiseact STAR. Air Didòmhnaich 15 Dàmhair, bidh cothrom aig com-pàirtichean eòlas a chur air na gàrraidhean poblach as sine ann am Pàislig, faighinn a-mach mu bheul-aithris Gàidhlig agus ainmean Gàidhlig do chraobhan, planntrais, beathaichean, eòin agus àiteachan cudromach sa phàirc, ionnsachadh.

Tha bùithtean-obrach air a’ phrògram cuideachd, leis an neach-labhairt Gàidhlig agus an neach-ciùil traidiseanta, Evie Waddell a’ toirt aoigheachd do Fàilte Gu Cànan Soidhnidh Bhreatainn (BSL) air Dihaoine 20 Dàmhair. Le sgioba de luchd-gnìomhaidh a tha bodhar, bidh Evie a’ cuideachadh chom-pàirtichean le beagan Gàidhlig ionnsachadh, agus òrain is dannsa-ceum traidiseanta ruitheamach soidhnichte, ann an suidheachadh a tha gu bhith na iomlaid chultarach thoilichte agus fosgailte do na h-uile. Leanaidh taisbeanadh beòthail ann an Talla Baile Phàislig air an fheasgar sin, a’ cleachdadh òrain agus sgeulachdan traidiseanta, soidhneadh agus dannsa, gus na dàimhean eadar cultar na h-Alba, Gàidhlig agus BSL a rannsachadh.

Bidh prògram farsaing agus measgaichte ann do theaghlaichean fad na seachdaine le gnìomhachdan a’ gabhail àite ann an ionadan-cruinneachaidh air feadh sgìre Siorrachd Rinn Friù. Tillidh Struth air Diluain agus Dimàirt, a’ toirt cothrom do dhaoine òga còmhradh ri cuid de na rionnagan as aithnichte ann an saoghal nan Gàidheal, fhad ’s a bhios Clubaichean Clann a’ Mhòid a’ dol fad na seachdaine agus seiseanan gach latha air an stiùireadh le Fèis Phàislig, agus com-pàirtichean ionadail leithid Fèis Ealain Loch Uinneach a’ lìonadh seachdain nan saor-làithean sgoile san Dàmhair le sreath de ghnìomhachd.

Ann an leabharlannan Linwood, Foxbar, Baile Raghnaill, Baile Iain agus Glenburn, bidh Bookbug Gàidhlig a’ ruith fhad ’s a bhios cèilidhean chloinne a’ gabhail àite ann an Aonadh Oileanaich UWS air Diluain 16 agus Dimàirt 17 Dàmhair.

Nas fhaide air adhart san t-seachdain, bidh Ionad Tannahill ga chleachdadh airson Cèilidh Fàilte – cèilidh ioma-chultarach fàilteach do choimhearsnachdan bho gach cultar gus sgeulachdan a roinn nan cànan dùthchasach, measgaichte le Gàidhlig. Gheibh an tachartas air Diardaoin 19 Dàmhair aoigheachd bho Sgoil nan Cultaran Afraganach ann an com-pàirteachas leis na buidhnean coimhearsnachd ionadail, Pachedu agus Inspiring Families.

Mar a bhios oidhche Shamhna a’ tarraing nas dlùithe agus am Mòd a’ tighinn gu crìch, air Disathairne 21 Dàmhair chithear Cèilidh Teaghlaich Spooky Samhain a’ gabhail àite aig Aonadh Oileanaich UWS. Bidh an cèilidh cuspaireil Samhna seo don teaghlach air fad, air a stiùireadh le Fèis Phàislig, a’ comharrachadh Oidhche Shamhna agus fèis Shamhna ann an stoidhle ainmeil Phàislig.

Bheir na tachartasan cliùiteach spòrs prògram ghnìomhachdan a’ Mhòid gu Raointean Cluiche Rìgh Seòras V air Disathairne 14 Dàmhair. Thèid iomain, spòrs nan Gàidheal, a chluich le sgiobaidhean nam fear, nam mnathan agus na h-òigridh ann am farpaisean crìochnachaidh a bhios gu math teann, agus chì Cupa Ball-coise a’ Mhòid dà sgioba le freumhan Gàidhlig a’ farpais an aghaidh a chèile. Air Didòmhnaich 15 Dàmhair, bidh Abaid Phàislig a’ cur fàilte air Seirbheis Eaglaiseil a’ Mhòid.

Tha na subhachasan deiseil airson a dhol air adhart gu uairean beaga na maidne air feadh a’ bhaile, agus sgaoileadh a-mach gu gnothachasan air feadh na sgìre, le Club Fèis a’ Mhòid ga chumail anns an Sneddon. Cuiridh an taigh-seinnse seo ann am Pàislig fàilte air measgachadh de sheiseanan ciùil beò sealach agus cur-seachad air gach latha den fhèis, a’ toirt cothrom do luchd-tadhail air fois a ghabhail an dèidh subhachasan an latha.

Bidh am Bungalow a’ toirt aoigheachd don Mòd Anmoch is Beò anns a’ Bhungalow, a bheir cothrom do luchd-tadhail eòlas a chur air ceòl traidiseanta is Gàidhlig bho chuid de na h-ainmean as fheàrr a tha mun cuairt. Bidh an Swan agus an Keg nan dachaigh do sheiseanan taigh-seinnse air feadh na seachadaine.

Tha am beairteas de thachartasan agus ghnìomhachdan a thathar a’ tabhann a’ ruith taobh ri taobh le clàr fharpaisean cliùiteach a’ Mhòid, a chì an sreath àbhaisteach de thàlant a’ farpais airson nan tiotalan as tograiche ann an saoghal nan Gàidheal. Gabhaidh am Bonn Òir, Farpais Crìochnachaidh an t-Seann Nòis, agus farpaisean an Aigeallain Airgid, farpaisean chòisirean agus Farpais Crìochnachaidh an Dràma àite tron t-seachdain, ri taobh farpaisean chloinne is ciùil, a chuireas uile fàilte air farpaisich bho air feadh Alba agus an t-saoghail nas fharsainge, gu Pàislig.

Bidh Cogadh nan Còmhlan air ais ann an 2023 agus còmhlain òga traidiseanta Albannach agus Gàidhlig a’ gnìomhadh mu choinneamh pannal spèiseil de bhritheamhan agus luchd-èisteachd beò aig Ionad Wynd, airson na farpais chrìochnachaidh air Dimàirt 17 Dàmhair agus na Duaisean Litreachais gam buileachadh air Diciadain 18 Dàmhair.

A’ leantainn air farpais ealain na bliadhna an-uiridh ga chur ri prògram a’ Mhòid, bidh obair-ealain ag adhartachadh cultar Gàidhlig agus beatha Alba bho air feadh Alba, ga chomharrachadh aig Mòd Phàislig le taisbeanadh didseatach. Thèid com-pàirtichean Duais Ealain na Gàidhealtachd a thaisbeanadh an uair sin sa Bhriggait ann an Glaschu bho Dihaoine 20^mh Dàmhair. Faodaidh luchd-tadhail tlachd a ghabhail cuideachd à cuairt stiùirichte de obair nan deichnear luchd-crìochnachaidh air an liosta fhada.

Thig crìoch fhreagarrach air Mòd Phàislig ann an cruth Caithream nan Còisirean. Thig na ceudan de sheinneadairean bho air feadh Alba còmhla nuair a chruinnicheas iad ann am meadhan Baile Phàislig air Disathairne 21 Dàmhair.

An oidhche sin, bidh còmhlan folk-electronica Niteworks a’ cluich ann an Talla Baile Phàislig gus naoi làithean iongantach de shubhachasan a thoirt gu crìch. Tha a’ chuirm-chiùil a chaidh ainmeachadh air a’ mhìos mu dheireadh air a riochdachadh leis The Reeling, ’s iad a’ comharrachadh an aon chuirm a-mhàin aig a’ chòmhlan ann an Alba am-bliadhna, agus air a bhith a’ faicinn thiogaidean gan ceannach nan sruthan.

This year’s Royal National Mòd programme truly has something for everyone and shows the incredible breadth and richness of Gaelic language and culture spanning all backgrounds and ages.

James Graham
Chief Executive Officer of An Comunn Gàidhealach

We have pulled together some of Renfrewshire’s quirky and unusual days out that are packed full of fun and are just a bit different to your standard family outing.

Theatre on the Lawn – Finlaystone Country Park

Pack a picnic, bring a rug and join Mr Todd, Mole, Ratty and Badger on their mad-cap adventures in Quantum Theatre’s adaptation of Wind in the Willow’s, taking place in the gorgeous grounds of Finlaystone Country Park. Make sure you pack for all weather, even if it is raining, as they say in the industry – the show must go on!

Where: Finlaystone Country Park
When: Friday 7 July, 5.50pm – 7pm
Price: Adult £16, Child £11, Family £46

Renfrew Comic Con – Robertson Park

Calling all superheroes, and villains. It’s time to dress up the kids…and adults and fly over to Robertson Park in Renfrew for the BGCP Comic Con. Meet your favourite characters and browse over 50 traders selling toys and crafts. Pack a power snack and liquid fuel to make a day of it in the park.

Where: Robertson Park, Renfrew
When: Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 July, 10am – 4pm
Price: Free entry

BRICKLIVE Mythical Beasts – Paisley

It’s not every day you see a nine headed water serpent or an immortal winged horse in Paisley town centre. This summer, thanks to the BRICKLIVE Mythical Beasts trail you will. This exciting unusual day out brings the fascinating world of creatures from mythology to life using toy bricks. Meet the Hippogriff, a legendary creature with the front half of an eagle and the hind half of a horse or track down the wise Owl of Athena and listen our for the melody of the mermaid, or the roar of the feared one-eyed Cyclops. There are 18 different BRICKLIVE models to find, pick up a trail leaflet and a free activity sheet from the Paisley Centre and the Piazza Shopping Centre and let the adventure begin!

Where: Paisley Town Centre
When: Saturday 24 June until Sunday 13 August
Price: Free

Strawberry picking – East Yonderton Farm

Juicy strawberries and sunny summer days – does it get any better? Strawberry picking season has officially started but be quick they won’t be around for long. Entry is free and you pay for what you pick. Call ahead to reserve your space – 0141 889 3492.

Where: East Yonderton Farm
When: Daily throughout the summer, until the fruit has all been picked.
Price: Free entry, pay for what you pick

Wild Night – Finlaystone Country Park

Wild Night at Finalystone is a great camping experience out for kids and adults. Pitch up at Finalystone Country Park with all your essentials; tent, sleeping bags, food and refreshments.

There will be a welcoming family campsite with a large campfire and games for the kids all hosted by a Senior Scout who can also help you with any questions you might have about pitching your tent or building a den.

Where: Finlaystone Country Park
When: Saturday 22 July
Price: Adult £18.50, Child £14

Summer Film Sessions – Ikea Glasgow

You normally see pop up cinemas in car parks, a park or even on a roof top but it’s not every day one pops up in your local furniture store. Ikea Glasgow are hosting three nights of family movies which are free to Ikea family members (free to sign up. For an unusual day out (or should we say night our) at the cinema visit their website and book in now.

Where: Ikea, Braehead Shopping Centre
When: Monday 17 to Wednesday 19 July
Price: Free

Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun
Looking for things to do? Our ultimate guide to summer fun has some great places to play and plenty of fun activities.
Various
Wednesday 28 June - Monday 14 August, 2023

Come on down and explore the Mythical Beasts summer trail in Paisley town centre.

Running from Saturday 24 June to Sunday 13 August, the Mythical Beasts summer trail is sure to be popular with local families and visitors to the town.

The majestic Hippogriff and the Owl of Athena will be allies – but beware of the likes of the vengeful Minotaur, the fearsome four-headed Chimera and the seven-headed Hydra, who won’t be as friendly!

The trail is free, and with 18 different beasts to find, it’s fun for the whole family.

Find out more about this BrickLive summer trail hosted by Paisley First

Trail maps showing participating businesses are available from the Piazza Shopping Centre and The Paisley Centre.

While you’re here

Why not grab a great bite to eat or drink, explore a walking trail, or feast your eyes on some iconic street art.

We can’t wait to tread the boards at RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve with the opening of a new 400m boardwalk.

Visitors have been enjoying the wildlife at the RSPB Lochwinnoch wetland and woodland site for years. Now, visitor access has just got even better with a new circular path letting people explore more of what the nature reserve has to offer.

The boardwalk closes 400 metres of the gap in a circular route around the Aird Meadow Loch. The new route means a new waterside walk, better access to view water birds and and wonderful scenic views of the loch.

The route ends at a viewpoint beside the Peel Tower. This scheduled monument was consolidated last year as part of the Garnock Connections project. The 16^th century fortified tower was built by the Sempill family as a ‘safe place’ in times of war but, until now, most visitors to RSPB Lochwinnoch did not know it was there.

RSPB Scotland have completed the construction thanks to generous support from Visit Scotland’s Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, as part of the Garnock Connections landscape partnership scheme.

Tabby Lamont, RSPB Scotland Site Manager at Lochwinnoch, said: “The new boardwalk is a real game-changer for the nature reserve. It will allow our visitors to experience new views and see so much more of the incredible wildlife here, not to mention the Peel Tower, that hardly anyone even knew was there.

“At the same time, it means our staff and volunteers can easily access the site and make sure it’s safely managed for everyone and for the wildlife that uses the loch. We’re really looking forward to celebrating this with everyone who has helped us to make the project happen.”

RSPB Lochwinnoch: Learn about Renfrewshire's own wetland reserve
We spoke to Robert Conn, Visitor Experience Manager at RSPB Lochwinnoch, who told us more about the nature reserve here in Renfrewshire.
Read more

Immersing yourself in nature, getting up close to the history of a place, or just going places without the car – there are plenty of ways to enjoy Slow Travel in Renfrewshire.

What is slow travel?

Slow travel is about making connections with a place, creating personal memories, and finding a peace and calm by taking things one step at a time. It’s about switching off from your phone, heading into nature, stopping to admire the view, and taking your time. Just like microadventuring, slow travel in Renfrewshire can be about changing your perception of a place.

“When we stop, close our eyes and listen when out in nature, something magical happens. The sounds of nature hold so much power and help heal our everyday stresses fears and anxieties”. Jack Cairney, Founder Hidden Scotland

Getting outside

If you’re looking for a great place to walk in Renfrewshire, we have plenty to offer. From long hikes across vast open moorland and gentle strolls along lochs to peaceful woodlands and hidden waterfalls.

If cycling is more your thing, we have incredible connections thanks to the Sustrans National Cycle Network, as well as some gentle easy cycling around our towns and villages.

And being outside doesn’t have to mean a big hike. Sitting in your local park, or out in your garden, can be just as good for your health and wellbeing. Barshaw Park Walled Peace Garden is an oasis of calm not far from Paisley town centre. And if you don’t have a garden yourself, getting involved with your local allotment or growing ground can be a great way to be connected to the land and community around you.

Taking time for yourself

In a world full of work and technology, it can be hard to find the time to switch off. But the benefits for your mental and physical health are huge. Nature can improve your mood and help you feel more connected to the spaces and people around you. It can improve your physical health and help you feel more relaxed.

Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park ranger led walk

Get out in a group

A great introduction to connecting with nature can be to get outside with an organised group. RSPB Lochwinnoch have several ranger-led events throughout the year aimed at getting you out into nature, including wellbeing walks. Active Communities based in Johnstone have regular walks aimed at making connections with both nature and community. Paisley Ramblers host regular walks of various lengths including trips further afield. And OneRen have a range of walking groups across Renfrewshire all aimed at getting you outside, exploring your local area and making connections.

Helping others travel slowly

If you want to go exploring but aren’t sure where to start. Or if you just want to connect with the paths around you in a meaningful way. There are a few projects that you could get involved in.

Scottish Paths Map is a project from Ramblers UK. The aim is to walk and record every path in Scotland, including all those that aren’t shown on regular maps. There are over 42,000 miles of paths in Scotland, and Ramblers UK are looking for volunteers to help audit the project.

Slowways is a UK-wide network that uses existing paths, ways, trails and roads. You can use Slow Ways routes to walk or wheel between neighbouring settlements and combine them to create longer trips. You can sign up to the website, choose a route, walk it and then review it. The reviews help others understand what the terrain is like, how easy the route is, and any interesting features.

Both the Scottish Paths Map and Slowways UK are great resources for route planning. The interactive maps are a great place to start if you are looking for new places to explore.

Ramblers UK Scottish Path Map showing excerpt of Johnstone

Ramblers UK Scottish Path Map excerpt showing paths in Johnstone

Paisley’s Hedgehog Trail runs from Friday 28 April until Tuesday 9 May.

Try this fun family trail in Paisley town centre and see if you can spot all the hedgehogs that have made their way here.

It’s a great, free activity for Bank Holiday weekends – and it’s national Hedgehog Awareness Week!

All lovingly made by Bears by Sue Quinn (based at Lawn Street, Paisley), these 10 adorable hedgehogs are in the windows of local businesses. Can you find them all?

Once you complete the trail, pop an entry form in one of the special hedgehog postboxes to be entered into a prize draw.

You can get all the details and a trail map on the Paisley First website. You can also pick up a trail map from the Piazza Shopping Centre or the Paisley Centre.

With Spring arriving, and the Paisley 10k coming up in August, now is a great time to go running in Renfrewshire. The blossoms and bluebells are starting to bloom, the evenings are lighter, and you don’t need to put on ten different layers just to get out the door.

Whether you’re a regular runner or just enjoy moving through interesting places, we’re spoilt for choice with places to run across Renfrewshire. From abandoned mines, volcanos and waterfalls to riverside paths and peaceful trails, there’s something for everyone.

As well as being great for your mental and physical health, exploring your local area on foot gives you a more intimate look at the space around you.

Here are four scenic places some of the Paisley.is team love to run.

Gleniffer Braes looking towards a lonely tree

The eastern edge of the Gleniffer Braes, above Brownside Farm

Gleniffer Braes Country Park

With a vast network of trails, good parking and stunning views ‘the Braes’ is one of the most popular places in Renfrewshire for trail running. Sitting on the southern edge of Paisley and Johnstone, the Braes is a one-stop-shop for all kinds of terrain. From managed woodlands with winding paths, to wide open moorland, it’s full of interesting routes.

Because of its size, you can easily link across to lots of different places. These include Neilston and Barrhead through the picturesque Ferenze Hill and Killoch Glen, or Rannoch and Bluebell Woods in Johnstone.

As we’re in Scotland, the trails can be muddy, they can be steep, and you might encounter highland coos! But with such a wide variety of runs available, you can tailor your route to suit you.

Freneze Hill looking down towards Barrhead

Linwood Moss

Home to Renfrewshire’s oldest Parkrun, Linwood Moss is a great place for an easy short run.

The network of trails includes tarmac and gravel, covering parkland and woodland. It’s very flat, with very gentle undulations, which also makes it a great place to run with kids.

Whilst the trails can get quite muddy after rain, there’s great parking and the On-x Linwood Sports Centre has a café for a wee refreshment afterwards. Linwood Parkrun is a free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or head along and spectate, it happens every Saturday at 9.30am.

Linwood Moss Nature Reserve

Erskine Waterfront

Running next to water is better for your mental health, thanks to a nicer soundscape and less pollution. At least that’s what The Canal and River trust say, and we’d have to agree.

You can explore the sights and sounds of the River Clyde in a few different locations in Renfrewshire, but one of the most popular is the Erskine Waterfront. Featuring wide paths and vast views up and down the river, including the Erksine Bridge.

The main waterfront area runs between Newshott Island Nature Reserve and Boden Boo Woodlands. This makes it an ideal place for a long run, with a great variety of terrain and ever-changing scenery. The Erskine Waterfront Parkrun is fun, free and takes place here each Saturday at 9.30am.

Erksine Waterfront Walkway looking towards Erksine Bridge

Head East along the White Cart River

A perfect route for those who want to stick to tarmac, the White Cart Cycleway links Hawkhead in Paisley to Crookston and Rosshall in Glasgow. Starting from Ben Nevis Road, it follows National Cycle Route 7 on wide and smooth paths alongside the river before opening with views across parkland.

You can follow Crookston Road round to Glasgow Road and head back into Paisley in a big loop. Or you can continue following the cycle route into Rosshall Gardens and discover the hidden grotto and disc-golf course.

And if you fancy a much longer run, the cycle route eventually flows all the way through Pollock Park, Glasgow City Centre and beyond.

White Cart Water from the Hawkhead to Crookston Cycleway

Tell us where you like to go running in Renfrewshire

Do you have a set route round the block, or do you have a favourite local trail?

We want to hear from you.

You might also like this