What’s on in Helensburgh & Lomond

Friends of Geilston are very pleased that Reflection Holistics have agreed to offer these amazing experiences.  Lewis and Morven’s sessions are always popular and very well received.

Celtic Storytelling Saturday 12 September Cost £15 11.30am-1pm

Fee for the events Booking at geilstonfriends.events@gmail.com Please visit the Friends of Geilston website for more information

NTS garden entry fees apply. Free to NTS members £1 Young Scotcardholders.  See NTS website for details of entry and membership fees.

The race starts from Hermitage Academy at 11am – there will be a short safety brief at 10.50am and from there a short walk to the other end of the school for the start line. Lots of friendly and encouraging marshals all the way round. There’s a short section at the start and end of the route on tarred pavement and road and about half way round for less than one KM. Apart from that it is mainly land rover track and some well made trails.

On a good day this race offers great views! What’s not to love. There is a lot of hills in this which is a good thing for a hill race! The climbs come in 4 parts with the last one through the trees being both the steepest and shortest. At around 8 kms you are all downhill to the finish. There is a short downhill between the second and third climb to allow your legs a wee break. With the last 4 Kms being downhill on a good gradient you can let go and enjoy the route to the finish.

Full details at Hel n Back – EntryCentral

Sunday 6 September 2pm An afternoon with James McCracken – An afternoon with James McCracken Acclaimed local entertainer James returns with a selection of songs from favourite artists.

Saturday 12 September 7pm The Big Quiz! The Big Quiz All ages welcome in teams of up to 6. Our inaugural Big Quiz last year was a sell-out massive hit and now it’s back by popular demand! Raffle and full bar available. Doors open 6.15pm for 7pm start

Saturday 30 January 7.30pm An Evening with James Cosmo – An Evening With James Cosmo
Step into the world of one of Britain’s most recognisable and beloved actors for a captivating night of stories, laughter, and unforgettable moments. With a career spanning over five decades, James Cosmo has brought to life some of the most iconic characters in film and television. Credits include starring roles in 130 Hollywood movies, including Highlander, Trainspotting, Troy, Chronicles of Narnia, Brave Heart, Ben-Hur, and Wonder Woman. 

His TV credits are equally impressive, including the role of Jeor Mormont in Game of Thrones. From epic historical dramas to global television phenomena, his commanding presence and unmistakable voice have made him a firm favourite with audiences worldwide. In this intimate live event, James invites you behind the scenes of his extraordinary journey. Hear first-hand accounts of life on set, the challenges and triumphs of a long acting career, and the personal stories that have shaped the man behind the roles. Expect humour, honesty, and a generous dose of Scottish charm as he reflects on working alongside some of the industry’s biggest names.

The evening also includes an audience Q&A, giving you the chance to ask your own questions and gain unique insight into his life and work. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply love great storytelling, this is a rare opportunity to spend an evening in the company of a true screen legend. Don’t miss your chance to experience An Evening with James Cosmo – live, candid, and unforgettable.

https://tickets.thevenue.scot/home

Join Helensburgh Music Society for their seasonal programme of events, held at Helensburgh & Lomond Civic Centre, starting at 7.30pm. Full programme details at Home | Helensburgh Music Society

13th September, 2026 Huw Wiggin (saxophone) & Oxana Shevchenko (piano)
4th October, 2026 Bute Wind Quintet
15th November, 2026 Giordano Buondonno (piano)
17th January, 2027 A4 Brass Quartet
21st February, 2027 Colin Scobie (violin) & Jâms Coleman (piano)
14th March, 2027 Isla String Quartet (This concert is supported by The Tunnell Trust)

Helensburgh Music Society presents a series of concerts each year, between October and March, in the form of performances by Professional Ensembles or Solo Recitals. Our concerts, in the Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre on Clyde Street, Helensburgh, are open to everyone. An evening out listening to beautiful music, and a chance to meet friends over an interval drink. Ticket prices are low, especially the season ticket. We encourage performers to talk to the audiences, introducing both themselves and the pieces of music they are playing, expanding on the programme notes so adding to the accessibility of the music. Each year the programme we present, features a variety of performers and instrumental combinations. We also include repertoire ranging from early music to established classical works as well as modern compositions and Jazz. Performers include Scottish based musicians as well as international musicians and ensembles, all of the very highest calibre. It is also an important aim of HMS to offer opportunities to outstanding young artists, especially those based in Scotland.

A programme of events at Cove Burgh Hall – visit https://eventlist.store/coveburghhall/tickets for tickets

SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST Mark Neal and Eilidh Steel

Scottish fiddle, guitar and vocal duo weaving together origional compositions alongside tunes and songs from the West Coast of Scotland. Their passion for the music and their effortless musicianship clearly shines through in their performances Mark Neal and Eilidh Steel | Cove Burgh Hall.

FRIDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER 7.30-10PM Lavinia Blackwall with support from Alex Rex

Lavinia  & Band play a melodic blend of folk psychedelia  & pop with support from Alex Rex (Ex Trembling Bells)

Lavinia is a talented musician, singer, song writer and performer. On stage she has an incredible connection with the audience.  A rich tapestry of folk, rock, and psych-power pop, her performance will leave you spellbound. Alex Rex is a composer, songwriter and musician specialising in experimental folk and psychedelic music. Since moving to Glasgow in 2001, he has been a key figure in the city’s music scene Lavinia Blackwall with support from Alex Rex | Cove Burgh Hall

Friday 13th November 7.30pm Lucy Farrell and Shane Pendergast

Rooted in the rich traditions of English and Maritime folk music, Lucy Farrell and Shane Pendergast bring together two distinct yet complementary voices in contemporary folk. Shane Pendergast & Lucy Farrell | Cove Burgh Hall

Saturday 5th December SING A SONG – A TRIBUTE TO THE CARPENTERS 7.30pm

Get that festive feeling and sing along to all the hits from the Carpenters’ classic ‘Christmas Portrait’ album, including Sleigh Ride, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and their 1971 hit Christmas single Merry Christmas Darling. Sing a Song: A Tribute to the Carpenters | Cove Burgh Hall

Other upcoming events… see Cove Burgh Hall website

6 February 2027 7-11pm – Girls love the 80s. Dust off your leg warmers and crimp your hair! Girls Just Wanna Have Fun is the high energy, neon-soaked tribute to the most vibrant decade in music history. Produced by West End choreographer and chart-topping artist Leona Marie, this show brings the electric atmosphere of the 1980s straight to your stage with unmatched professional polish and theatrical flair.

12 March 2027 7-11pm – Aespeniða are an acoustic duo performing experimental Nordic folk, comprising Barry Nisbet (vocals, fiddle and guitar) and Miriam Iorwerth (marimba and percussion).

27 March 2027 7-11pm – Deadly Acts Theatre: Alice with Malice. Interactive murder, mystery theatrical performance. It’s a dark tale of revenge from beyond the grave….set in the early part of the 19th century.  Alice built her life on the back of a dream. Over the years all that she had wanted or desired has been taken away. Now Alice wants it back…but someone is standing in her way to ensure that she never does. 

24 April 2027 7-11pm – Artistic Licence. Fronted by both a female and male singer, and consisting of highly experienced musicians, our aim and passion is filling your dance floor and delivering one of the best party experiences. With the latest sound and lighting equipment, Artistic License put on a superb show tailored to your needs.

A great opportunity to see Karen Dunbar live with a brand new show for 2026, Aw Roon the Hooses!

Age limit 14+, Victoria Halls, doors open 8.30pm, show starts 9.30pm, Tickets from https://www.breakneckcomedy.co.uk/product/karen-dunbar-5

Join Sharon Goodwin of Loopdyloop at The Summerhouse in Cardross on one of these fabulous craft workshops – various prices, see https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/sew-silly-lily-30820443400 for full details

Absolute Beginner Crochet-along | Magic Ringless Keyrings Sat 29 Aug, 10:00
Crochet-along | Sunflower Brooch Sat 5 Sept, 10:00
Twirl-along | Botanical Wire Art Wall Hanging Sat 19 Sept, 10:00
Crochet-along | Iris Pocket Bag Sat 26 Sept, 10:00
Needle-Felt & Stitch-along | Painting with Fibre & Stitch 3 & 10 October 10:00
Absolute Beginner Crochet-along | Daisy Bookmark Sat 17 Oct, 10:00
Absolute Beginners Crochet-along | Peanut the Bear 24 & 31 October, 10:00
Christmas Crochet-along | Lil’ Penguin Bauble Sat 7 Nov, 10:00
Absolute Beginners Christmas Crochet-along | Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star Sat 14 Nov, 10:00
Wire Art | Wire Christmas Decorations Sat 28 Nov, 10:00
Christmas Wreath Making 5, 6, 12 and 13 December, 13:00 – 15:00

This race consists of a run over varied terrain starting on a track leading to a foresty road which has the only significant hill in the race – once at the top of this hill you are rewarded with views over Loch Long then carrying on along this forestry road and descending to Ardgarten via a forest path. At this point you will need to cross the A83 Trunk Road and all precautions must be taken. Once across this road, there is a bit more running on forest paths through woodland and then for the second half of the race you will be running on the pavement alongside Loch Long with views of Arrochar and Ben Lomond.

The Arrochar 10k is open to runners aged 16 years or older on the day of the race.

Before entering, please note the race entry terms and conditions. Organised by Loch Long Jetty Association under UK Athletics Rules.

https://www.entrycentral.com/Arrochar_10k

Graham Mackie is a seasoned circuit stalwart who has been gigging regularly on the scene in Scotland for over 15 years and there’s just no substitute for experience. Graham’s claim to fame is that he has gotten himself into the final of the “Scottish Comedian of The Year” competition FOUR times! Nobody else has ever achieved this remarkable feat and it’s a testament to the talent and determination of the big man.

Down to Earth and just plain funny is the only way to describe Graham Mackie who has drawn some very fine material indeed from his dysfunctional home life and his eventful career in teaching.

https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Glasgow/Geilston-Hall/Comedy-Night—Graham-Mackie/42329459 (18+)

Yaaas Queen Disco Party Night – Come dressed as any kind of Queen: Royal, Disney, Drag or otherwise!

Tickets £10 available NOW! www.ticketsource.co.uk/helensburghsavoy

Disco, Karaoke and Lip Sync Battles, Best Dressed Competition, Games and Prizes

After selling out shows in 2025 – The Sound of Scotland with the Macdonald Bros returns in 2026 with a stunning new production which will take you on a musical journey celebrating Scotland’s greatest songs and artists. Join our outstanding live musicians The MacDonald Bros as they celebrate their 20th anniversary since bursting into the public eye on the X Factor.

This show truly highlights the brother’s multi-instrumental talents including accordion, fiddle, piano, guitars and Irish whistles as well as their unique Vocal Harmonies which has seen them referred to as “The Scottish Everly Bros”. These talented guys perform some of the biggest hits from The Proclaimers to Deacon Blue and from Runrig to The Bay City Rollers plus a whole lot more!

Joining the brothers on stage will be an amazing supporting cast of dancers, and stunning video footage accompanies every number – ensuring an unforgettable evening of Scottish music variety. The Sound of Scotland celebrates everything wonderful about Scotland and has been described as a Scottish Music Extravaganza – so get your tartan scarves at the ready! This production is truly one of the best shows touring Scottish Theatres in 2026!

Tickets https://liveargyll.co.uk/event/the-sound-of-scotland-with-the-macdonald-bros-2/

As a massive thank you to all the local support and the continued hard work of our amazing volunteers, we welcome you all to celebrate with us in the Edible Garden and enjoy some of the yummy produce we have grown.

Places are limited so booking essential at rhuhallmac@gmail.com.

When: Sunday 21st September at 12.30pm Where: Rhu Hall, Hall Road, Rhu.

An informal wine tasting in the bar. A social event with some nibbles, 2 sessions either 6.30pm or 8pm

Book online https://www.sugarboat.co.uk/events/

24 September Portuguese Wine Tasting with Alliance Wine 6 wines plus nibbles, £25 per person

All events start at 7.30pm and are held at the Helensburgh Sailing Club. While the programme of events are for club members, non-members are very welcome to attend for a nominal contribution. Teas / coffees & biscuits are supplied at the break.

2026
24th September Demo Roy Burdon The invention of colour and The art of forgery
22nd October Demo Fiona Wilson Abstract landscape
12th November Demo Max McKinnon Landscape in acrylic with palette knife
10th December Demo Kerry Lindsell Wildlife portraiture
2027
14th January Demo Alastair Strachan Cityscape with collage

Dumbarton Rocks – A celebration of everything that ‘rocks’ about Dumbarton, food, drink, music and community

Whether you’re coming for the live music, fantastic street food, local craft drinks or a fun-filled family day out, there’s something for everyone.

Note: The festival is over-18s only after 6pm.

Dumbarton Rocks Festival 2026 | Tickets & Line Up | Skiddle

The Cove & Kilcreggan Literary Society has speakers invited to give talks on a wide range of social, scientific and cultural topics. Our season runs from October through to March. The talks start at 8.00pm every other Monday evening. Membership for the whole season of 12 talks only £25. Visitors welcome at £3 per evening. Contact: cklitsoc@mail.com

Monday September 28th:Film, TV, Annika and Me, a talk by Arabella Page Croft. Arabella is the co-founder and CEO of Glasgow-based indie film and TV company Black Camel Pictures. Their award-winning series, Annika, shot on the Clyde and starring Nicola Walker, has achieved record-breaking viewing figures and secured a huge audience (currently no. 6 in the UK). Arabella will talk about shooting in Scotland and her life and work as a producer and director.

Monday 12th October: James Clerk Maxwell, a Scottish Genius, at talk by Gian-Luca Oppo of Strathclyde University. Gian-Luca will describe how Maxwell laid the foundations for our modern communication technologies including radio, television, and radar.

Monday 26th October: The Work of Arrochar Mountain Rescue Team, by Ross Cadie. Ross Cadie will describe how the team members volunteer and carry out search and rescue missions to find people in any weather and in sometimes extremely challenging environments.

Join Sharon Goodwin of Loopdyloop at The Summerhouse in Cardross on one of these fabulous craft workshops – various prices, see https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/sew-silly-lily-30820443400 for full details

Absolute Beginner Crochet-along | Magic Ringless Keyrings Sat 29 Aug, 10:00
Crochet-along | Sunflower Brooch Sat 5 Sept, 10:00
Twirl-along | Botanical Wire Art Wall Hanging Sat 19 Sept, 10:00
Crochet-along | Iris Pocket Bag Sat 26 Sept, 10:00
Needle-Felt & Stitch-along | Painting with Fibre & Stitch 3 & 10 October 10:00
Absolute Beginner Crochet-along | Daisy Bookmark Sat 17 Oct, 10:00
Absolute Beginners Crochet-along | Peanut the Bear 24 & 31 October, 10:00
Christmas Crochet-along | Lil’ Penguin Bauble Sat 7 Nov, 10:00
Absolute Beginners Christmas Crochet-along | Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star Sat 14 Nov, 10:00
Wire Art | Wire Christmas Decorations Sat 28 Nov, 10:00
Christmas Wreath Making 5, 6, 12 and 13 December, 13:00 – 15:00

THE GREATEST STORY NEVER TOLD! THREE GLASGOW BIRDS & THAT BAND OF GOLD…

(If you liked The Provy Wummin-You’ll love to Meet us at Boots Corner!)

KISS OR DISS? BOOTS CORNER, 1975. WHERE GLASGOW’S YOUNG LOVERS WOULD MEET FOR A DATE. GO TAE RA’ DANCIN’ OR BE SITTING IN THE BACK ROW OF THE MOVIES ON A SATURDAY NIGHT. HOPING FOR SOME ROMANCE AND MAYBE A CHANCE AT A BAND OF GOLD FROM BEAVERBROOKS.

JOIN OUR LOVELORN DREAMERS- LINDA, UNA & VIV AS THEY TAKE YOU FOR A SPIN ROUND THE DANCEHALLS ON SOME DODGY DATES AND SOME SASSY SHENANIGANS…AND A WHOLE LOT OF “GLAM-ROCKING”. WITH A FABULOUS SOUNDTRACK TO THE 70S INCLUDING T-REX-SLADE-ELTON JOHN…ABBA AND SO MANY MORE

Tickets https://liveargyll.co.uk/event/boots-corner-by-paul-moore/

Join Helensburgh Music Society for their seasonal programme of events, held at Helensburgh & Lomond Civic Centre, starting at 7.30pm. Full programme details at Home | Helensburgh Music Society

13th September, 2026 Huw Wiggin (saxophone) & Oxana Shevchenko (piano)
4th October, 2026 Bute Wind Quintet
15th November, 2026 Giordano Buondonno (piano)
17th January, 2027 A4 Brass Quartet
21st February, 2027 Colin Scobie (violin) & Jâms Coleman (piano)
14th March, 2027 Isla String Quartet (This concert is supported by The Tunnell Trust)

Helensburgh Music Society presents a series of concerts each year, between October and March, in the form of performances by Professional Ensembles or Solo Recitals. Our concerts, in the Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre on Clyde Street, Helensburgh, are open to everyone. An evening out listening to beautiful music, and a chance to meet friends over an interval drink. Ticket prices are low, especially the season ticket. We encourage performers to talk to the audiences, introducing both themselves and the pieces of music they are playing, expanding on the programme notes so adding to the accessibility of the music. Each year the programme we present, features a variety of performers and instrumental combinations. We also include repertoire ranging from early music to established classical works as well as modern compositions and Jazz. Performers include Scottish based musicians as well as international musicians and ensembles, all of the very highest calibre. It is also an important aim of HMS to offer opportunities to outstanding young artists, especially those based in Scotland.