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Fun for all the family as Gordon Castle Highland Games due to return


By Alan Beresford

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Traditional heavy Highland games will be joined by an array of other evets and competitions. Picture: Beth Taylor
Traditional heavy Highland games will be joined by an array of other evets and competitions. Picture: Beth Taylor

FROM Highland dancing to BMX stunts, the Gordon Castle Highland Games and Country Fair is set to return to Fochabers next month.

Sunday, May 19 will see the event held in the historic grounds of Gordon Castle, bringing together traditional Scottish entertainment and country sports performances, offering something for all the family.

For the first time in history, the Gordon Castle Highland Games will play host to a women’s open heavy event and tug of war.

The men's tug-o-war will be joined for the first time by a women's event. Picture: Beth Taylor
The men's tug-o-war will be joined for the first time by a women's event. Picture: Beth Taylor

The Country Sports Arena will showcase Europe’s leading BMX stunt team Savage Skills who will thrill the audience with their daring display. Set for a warm welcome back is Mordor Gun Dogs, and the much-loved Gordon Setter gathering.

The Gordon Setters are a much-loved attraction at the games. Picture: Beth Taylor.
The Gordon Setters are a much-loved attraction at the games. Picture: Beth Taylor.

In between the packed schedule of both arenas visitors will enjoy massed pipe band displays, wood turning, laser clay, archery, axe throwing and vintage tractors and classic cars.

Massed pipes and drums marching in the Country Sports Arena make for a splendid sight at the Gordon Castle Highland Games 2023. Picture: Beth Taylor
Massed pipes and drums marching in the Country Sports Arena make for a splendid sight at the Gordon Castle Highland Games 2023. Picture: Beth Taylor

The newest addition to the event is one for folks’ furry friends, the fun dog show, where they will compete in categories ranging from the most handsome boy to the best sausage catcher.

Another successful addition to last year’s games was the Tower Hall shopping boutique. Showcasing over 30 small businesses, there was a huge variety to browse and shop. In addition to this the organisers will be welcoming a wide range of traders throughout the grounds.

The caber toss is set to be a firm favourite again this year. Picture: Beth Taylor
The caber toss is set to be a firm favourite again this year. Picture: Beth Taylor

With an audience of avid foodies, there will be something to tickle everyone’s tastebuds. The games will be welcoming local food businesses, including Qismat Street Food, Calum’s Kitchen and Moray Hog Roast, as well as a licensed bar showcasing Gordon Castle gin.

For the children, there is a dedicated fun area with bouncy castles, caricatures, races, balloon modelling, trampolines, tam o’ shunter, moo music Moray and much more to keep the little ones entertained.

Together the family event - brought back to life in 2011 by the current owners Angus and Zara Gordon Lennox – offers a diverse programme showcasing some of Scotland’s most treasured heritage.

Gordon Castle owners Zara and Gordon Lennox. Picture: Daniel Forsyth
Gordon Castle owners Zara and Gordon Lennox. Picture: Daniel Forsyth

The event will be held in the picturesque grounds of of the castle from 10am to 5pm.

For more information, including ticket prices, visit https://www.gordoncastle.co.uk/

Discounts on most ticket prices are available if purchased before Wednesday, may 1.

The games organisers have expressed theirthanks to this year’s sponsors: Glen Moray; Gordon and Macphail; Ace Taxis; Forsyths, Galbraith; MJD Systems; Walker’s.



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