HELLO Winter

Helensburgh and District Branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society run classes and dances from October to March. Full schedule at https://rscds-helensburgh.org.uk/ and dances held at Helensburgh Parish Church Hall or Cardross Parish Church Hall. Tickets £12

2025-2026 season
25 October 2-5pm, Matthew Maclennan, Helensburgh Parish Church Hall
15 November, 2-5pm Susan MacFadyen, Helensburgh Parish Church Hall
9 December (Tuesday Club Christmas Dance), 7.45-10.15pm Màrtainn Skene, Pillar Hall, Victoria Halls
13 December (Christmas Dance), 7.30-10.30pm Sandy Nixon Band, Cardross Parish Church Hall
10 January (Members Dance) 7.30-10pm Matthew Maclennan, Helensburgh Parish Church Hall
14 February (Charity Dance) 7.30-10.30pm Ian Muir Duo, Cardross Parish Church Hall
1 March (Nice and Easy Afternoon Dance in aid of Alzheimer Scotland- Helensburgh Dementia Resource Centre) 7.30-10.30pm Susan MacFadyen Duo Cardross Parish Church Hall

Plus Half day school and dance 28th March details at https://rscds-helensburgh.org.uk/half-day-school-26/

Dumbarton People’s Theatre planned shows for 2026 – tickets on sale the month prior to the event.

The Odd Couple 25-28 February

The Unfriend 29 April – 2 May

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/dumbarton-peoples-theatre Buy online or from from McDermids Keystore, High Street, Dumbarton, or The Scandinavian Shop, Sinclair Street, Helensburgh, or at the box office.

Adult workshop – Painting with Plants Sat 28 Feb 2026 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

In this hands-on workshop, artist and staff member Emma Henderson will introduce you to painting with colour extracted from plants. You’ll learn simple methods for drawing pigment from natural materials and turning them into watercolour paints.

We’ll also experiment with shifting colour by changing the pH of the paint. Many natural pigments respond dramatically to acids and alkalis, allowing a surprising range of colours to be created from a single plant.

This session combines practical making with playful experimentation, offering a gentle introduction to plant-based colour and natural pigments. This workshop is designed for adults. All materials will be provided and no prior experience is needed.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/covepark/2020841

Saturday Studio – Painting with Plants Sat 28 Feb 2026 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM

In this hands-on workshop, artist and Cove Park’s Curator of Engagement Emma Henderson will introduce you to painting with colour extracted from plants. You’ll learn simple methods for drawing pigment from natural materials and turning them into watercolour paints.

We’ll also experiment with shifting colour by changing the pH of the paint. Many natural pigments respond dramatically to acids and alkalis, allowing a surprising range of colours to be created from a single plant.

This session combines practical making with playful experimentation, offering a great introduction to plant-based colour and natural pigments. This free workshop is designed for children and their accompanying families or carers. Adults without accompanying children are invited to attend the workshop in the morning.

All materials will be provided and no prior experience is needed. https://www.tickettailor.com/events/covepark/2020748

If you have questions about workshop accessibility, please get in touch with Emma Henderson (Curator of Engagement).

Helensburgh and District Branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society run classes and dances from October to March. Full schedule at https://rscds-helensburgh.org.uk/ and dances held at Helensburgh Parish Church Hall or Cardross Parish Church Hall. Tickets £12

2025-2026 season
25 October 2-5pm, Matthew Maclennan, Helensburgh Parish Church Hall
15 November, 2-5pm Susan MacFadyen, Helensburgh Parish Church Hall
9 December (Tuesday Club Christmas Dance), 7.45-10.15pm Màrtainn Skene, Pillar Hall, Victoria Halls
13 December (Christmas Dance), 7.30-10.30pm Sandy Nixon Band, Cardross Parish Church Hall
10 January (Members Dance) 7.30-10pm Matthew Maclennan, Helensburgh Parish Church Hall
14 February (Charity Dance) 7.30-10.30pm Ian Muir Duo, Cardross Parish Church Hall
1 March (Nice and Easy Afternoon Dance in aid of Alzheimer Scotland- Helensburgh Dementia Resource Centre) 7.30-10.30pm Susan MacFadyen Duo Cardross Parish Church Hall

Plus Half day school and dance 28th March details at https://rscds-helensburgh.org.uk/half-day-school-26/

The Arts Society Lomond and Argyll have an exciting line-up of events. These are open to Members (free) and Guests (£10) – visit https://www.tasla.org.uk/ to find out about Membership! Lectures are held on the 2nd Tuesday of every Month At Victoria Halls, Helensburgh at 10.30am, with coffee available beforehand from 10am.

9th September 2025 From Downton to Gatsby By Andrew Prince
14th October 2025 The Baroque Country House by Amy Lim
11th November 2025 Tintoretto, painter of the people by Julia Musgrave
9th December 2024 Christmas Ghosts by Kirsty Hartsiosis
13th January 2026 The History of Opera by Jamie Hayes
10th February 2026 The Glasgow Girls by Elaine Hansen
10th March 2026 Bad Behaviour by Mark Fisher
14th April 2026 Poetry, Passion and Painting by Michael Howard
12th May 2026 The Sutton Hoo Ship Burial by Mark Cottle
9th June 2026 History of Embroidery by Susan Kay-Williams

Helensburgh and Gareloch Horticultural Society hold a series of talks, free to members, non members welcome £5, more details on the HGHS website.

10 September Planting the seeds of hope – Horatio’s Garden. Chelsea Lowe.
8 October A social and historical perspective of Geilston Garden. Alana Ingram.
12 November Sally Morgan: Would you be the best judge of the Chelsea Flower Show Garden? Dougal Philip and Lesley Watson, Hoptoun Gardens
14 January Hisotry of the honey bee. Colin Sherwood
14 February: Truly hardy perennials, Helen Knowles.
11 March Introduction to fuchsias with practical demonstration. Andrew Cathcart and Tom Sneddon.
22 April AGM and spring bulb competition

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

ANDREW CRUICKSHANK AND RACHEL HYNES Date: 21/02/2026 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Rachel Hynes is an opera singer: https://www.rachelhynes.co.uk
Andrew Cruickshank is a composer and musician: http://andrewcruickshank.scot
“A mix of opera highlights that will include music from Carmen, Purcell & Puccini; songs from the shows such as West Side Story & The Gates, along with some popular jazz standards. The music will range from classical through jazz to contemporary”.
Midday till 2.30 Lunch, teas and coffee
Tickets £12.50
https://eventlist.store/coveburghhall/tickets

SATURDAY 21ST MARCH – 7-10PM – DEADLY ACTS THEATRE PRESENTS – THE BACK ROOM
Join us at Cove Burgh Hall for a night of murder and intrigue.
Let us take you back to New York City 1923… The inhabitants have not taken well to the act of Prohibition. The supply of liquor has gone underground, and criminals capitalise on its trade. At one particular speakeasy a select few have gathered for an important meeting but after a long day of violence and extortion tempers are high and that can only lead to one thing…..MURDER!!!
The event is not suitable for children (under 16 years of age). Please note the performance may contain foul language, adult content and some mild violence.
Guests will be working in teams at their table to solve the mystery. You are encouraged to form a team of 6 to 8, but everyone is welcome and can join others. Dressing up is encouraged (but not essential).
Ticket Price: £15 AVAILABLE SOON Free for Gold Members

FRIDAY 24TH APRIL 7.30-10PM- CATERAN
Cateran are a Scottish band, playing their own blend of Country, Americana and Folk influenced music.
The band is comprised of a group of seasoned musicians and friends who had previously played in many different bands and in many guises.
Featuring five vocalists and with influences including the Eagles; Crosby Stills Nash & Young and Runrig, to name but a few, their sound features warm, close, blended harmonies, which underpin their melodic but meaningful song-writing style.

SUNDAY 3RD MAY – PIPPA REID FOSTER – 2-4PM
Contemporary Harpist from the west coast of Scotland. A performer, teacher and composer of the harp. Sharing music which feeds the mind and soul. Even though her instrument, the Clarsach (lever harp), is regarded traditionally Scottish, her technique incorporates electronic looping, effects, and field recordings. Focusing on contemporary music with strong minimalist elements.

SATURDAY 23RD MAY – PATRICIA HARTSHORNE – WITH A BIT OF A SWAGGER – 7.30-10PM
In 2024 Patricia published her memoir, ‘with a bit of a SWAGGER’, which is about her origins and adventures as a performer. She asks how an ex-convent schoolgirl came to be swaggering around an intimate off-West End theatre as Marlene Dietrich, flaunting her French knickers and suspenders – on a Good Friday? Her show, WITH A BIT OF A SWAGGER, is based on the book and this year she’ll be taking it to venues in the north, including Scotland

Come for a drink, a sandwich and an hour of wonderful music being performed. To reserve places so we have an idea of numbers please email: randschurch59@gmail.com Suggested donation £15. Doors open 12.30 (except 22 March 2.45pm)
2026
1pm – Friday 30th January: Nikita Lukinov – (Piano)
3pm – Sunday 22 March Flutes Unlimited (no catering)
1pm – Friday 27th March: Ryan Corbett (Accordian)
1pm – Friday 24th April: Trio Alma: Daniella Hathaway – Soprano, Sarah Harrington – Cello, Stephen Adam – Piano
1pm – Friday 29th May: Tony Moffatt – Violin, Stephen Adam-Piano
1pm – Friday 25th September: Ida Pelliccioli – Piano
1pm – Friday 30th October: Daniel Ciubano – Piano
1pm – Friday 27th November: tbc

Come for a drink, a sandwich and an hour of wonderful music being performed. To reserve places so we have an idea of numbers please email: randschurch59@gmail.com Suggested donation £15. Doors open 12.30 (except 22 March 2.45pm)
2026
1pm – Friday 30th January: Nikita Lukinov – (Piano)
3pm – Sunday 22 March Flutes Unlimited (no catering)
1pm – Friday 27th March: Ryan Corbett (Accordian)
1pm – Friday 24th April: Trio Alma: Daniella Hathaway – Soprano, Sarah Harrington – Cello, Stephen Adam – Piano
1pm – Friday 29th May: Tony Moffatt – Violin, Stephen Adam-Piano
1pm – Friday 25th September: Ida Pelliccioli – Piano
1pm – Friday 30th October: Daniel Ciubano – Piano
1pm – Friday 27th November: tbc

The Arts Society Lomond and Argyll have an exciting line-up of events. These are open to Members (free) and Guests (£10) – visit https://www.tasla.org.uk/ to find out about Membership! Lectures are held on the 2nd Tuesday of every Month At Victoria Halls, Helensburgh at 10.30am, with coffee available beforehand from 10am.

9th September 2025 From Downton to Gatsby By Andrew Prince
14th October 2025 The Baroque Country House by Amy Lim
11th November 2025 Tintoretto, painter of the people by Julia Musgrave
9th December 2024 Christmas Ghosts by Kirsty Hartsiosis
13th January 2026 The History of Opera by Jamie Hayes
10th February 2026 The Glasgow Girls by Elaine Hansen
10th March 2026 Bad Behaviour by Mark Fisher
14th April 2026 Poetry, Passion and Painting by Michael Howard
12th May 2026 The Sutton Hoo Ship Burial by Mark Cottle
9th June 2026 History of Embroidery by Susan Kay-Williams

Helensburgh and Gareloch Horticultural Society hold a series of talks, free to members, non members welcome £5, more details on the HGHS website.

10 September Planting the seeds of hope – Horatio’s Garden. Chelsea Lowe.
8 October A social and historical perspective of Geilston Garden. Alana Ingram.
12 November Sally Morgan: Would you be the best judge of the Chelsea Flower Show Garden? Dougal Philip and Lesley Watson, Hoptoun Gardens
14 January Hisotry of the honey bee. Colin Sherwood
14 February: Truly hardy perennials, Helen Knowles.
11 March Introduction to fuchsias with practical demonstration. Andrew Cathcart and Tom Sneddon.
22 April AGM and spring bulb competition

Come for a drink, a sandwich and an hour of wonderful music being performed. To reserve places so we have an idea of numbers please email: randschurch59@gmail.com Suggested donation £15. Doors open 12.30 (except 22 March 2.45pm)
2026
1pm – Friday 30th January: Nikita Lukinov – (Piano)
3pm – Sunday 22 March Flutes Unlimited (no catering)
1pm – Friday 27th March: Ryan Corbett (Accordian)
1pm – Friday 24th April: Trio Alma: Daniella Hathaway – Soprano, Sarah Harrington – Cello, Stephen Adam – Piano
1pm – Friday 29th May: Tony Moffatt – Violin, Stephen Adam-Piano
1pm – Friday 25th September: Ida Pelliccioli – Piano
1pm – Friday 30th October: Daniel Ciubano – Piano
1pm – Friday 27th November: tbc

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

ANDREW CRUICKSHANK AND RACHEL HYNES Date: 21/02/2026 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Rachel Hynes is an opera singer: https://www.rachelhynes.co.uk
Andrew Cruickshank is a composer and musician: http://andrewcruickshank.scot
“A mix of opera highlights that will include music from Carmen, Purcell & Puccini; songs from the shows such as West Side Story & The Gates, along with some popular jazz standards. The music will range from classical through jazz to contemporary”.
Midday till 2.30 Lunch, teas and coffee
Tickets £12.50
https://eventlist.store/coveburghhall/tickets

SATURDAY 21ST MARCH – 7-10PM – DEADLY ACTS THEATRE PRESENTS – THE BACK ROOM
Join us at Cove Burgh Hall for a night of murder and intrigue.
Let us take you back to New York City 1923… The inhabitants have not taken well to the act of Prohibition. The supply of liquor has gone underground, and criminals capitalise on its trade. At one particular speakeasy a select few have gathered for an important meeting but after a long day of violence and extortion tempers are high and that can only lead to one thing…..MURDER!!!
The event is not suitable for children (under 16 years of age). Please note the performance may contain foul language, adult content and some mild violence.
Guests will be working in teams at their table to solve the mystery. You are encouraged to form a team of 6 to 8, but everyone is welcome and can join others. Dressing up is encouraged (but not essential).
Ticket Price: £15 AVAILABLE SOON Free for Gold Members

FRIDAY 24TH APRIL 7.30-10PM- CATERAN
Cateran are a Scottish band, playing their own blend of Country, Americana and Folk influenced music.
The band is comprised of a group of seasoned musicians and friends who had previously played in many different bands and in many guises.
Featuring five vocalists and with influences including the Eagles; Crosby Stills Nash & Young and Runrig, to name but a few, their sound features warm, close, blended harmonies, which underpin their melodic but meaningful song-writing style.

SUNDAY 3RD MAY – PIPPA REID FOSTER – 2-4PM
Contemporary Harpist from the west coast of Scotland. A performer, teacher and composer of the harp. Sharing music which feeds the mind and soul. Even though her instrument, the Clarsach (lever harp), is regarded traditionally Scottish, her technique incorporates electronic looping, effects, and field recordings. Focusing on contemporary music with strong minimalist elements.

SATURDAY 23RD MAY – PATRICIA HARTSHORNE – WITH A BIT OF A SWAGGER – 7.30-10PM
In 2024 Patricia published her memoir, ‘with a bit of a SWAGGER’, which is about her origins and adventures as a performer. She asks how an ex-convent schoolgirl came to be swaggering around an intimate off-West End theatre as Marlene Dietrich, flaunting her French knickers and suspenders – on a Good Friday? Her show, WITH A BIT OF A SWAGGER, is based on the book and this year she’ll be taking it to venues in the north, including Scotland

Dumbarton People’s Theatre planned shows for 2026 – tickets on sale the month prior to the event.

The Odd Couple 25-28 February

The Unfriend 29 April – 2 May

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/dumbarton-peoples-theatre Buy online or from from McDermids Keystore, High Street, Dumbarton, or The Scandinavian Shop, Sinclair Street, Helensburgh, or at the box office.

Dumbarton People’s Theatre planned shows for 2026 – tickets on sale the month prior to the event.

The Odd Couple 25-28 February

The Unfriend 29 April – 2 May

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/dumbarton-peoples-theatre Buy online or from from McDermids Keystore, High Street, Dumbarton, or The Scandinavian Shop, Sinclair Street, Helensburgh, or at the box office.

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

ANDREW CRUICKSHANK AND RACHEL HYNES Date: 21/02/2026 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Rachel Hynes is an opera singer: https://www.rachelhynes.co.uk
Andrew Cruickshank is a composer and musician: http://andrewcruickshank.scot
“A mix of opera highlights that will include music from Carmen, Purcell & Puccini; songs from the shows such as West Side Story & The Gates, along with some popular jazz standards. The music will range from classical through jazz to contemporary”.
Midday till 2.30 Lunch, teas and coffee
Tickets £12.50
https://eventlist.store/coveburghhall/tickets

SATURDAY 21ST MARCH – 7-10PM – DEADLY ACTS THEATRE PRESENTS – THE BACK ROOM
Join us at Cove Burgh Hall for a night of murder and intrigue.
Let us take you back to New York City 1923… The inhabitants have not taken well to the act of Prohibition. The supply of liquor has gone underground, and criminals capitalise on its trade. At one particular speakeasy a select few have gathered for an important meeting but after a long day of violence and extortion tempers are high and that can only lead to one thing…..MURDER!!!
The event is not suitable for children (under 16 years of age). Please note the performance may contain foul language, adult content and some mild violence.
Guests will be working in teams at their table to solve the mystery. You are encouraged to form a team of 6 to 8, but everyone is welcome and can join others. Dressing up is encouraged (but not essential).
Ticket Price: £15 AVAILABLE SOON Free for Gold Members

FRIDAY 24TH APRIL 7.30-10PM- CATERAN
Cateran are a Scottish band, playing their own blend of Country, Americana and Folk influenced music.
The band is comprised of a group of seasoned musicians and friends who had previously played in many different bands and in many guises.
Featuring five vocalists and with influences including the Eagles; Crosby Stills Nash & Young and Runrig, to name but a few, their sound features warm, close, blended harmonies, which underpin their melodic but meaningful song-writing style.

SUNDAY 3RD MAY – PIPPA REID FOSTER – 2-4PM
Contemporary Harpist from the west coast of Scotland. A performer, teacher and composer of the harp. Sharing music which feeds the mind and soul. Even though her instrument, the Clarsach (lever harp), is regarded traditionally Scottish, her technique incorporates electronic looping, effects, and field recordings. Focusing on contemporary music with strong minimalist elements.

SATURDAY 23RD MAY – PATRICIA HARTSHORNE – WITH A BIT OF A SWAGGER – 7.30-10PM
In 2024 Patricia published her memoir, ‘with a bit of a SWAGGER’, which is about her origins and adventures as a performer. She asks how an ex-convent schoolgirl came to be swaggering around an intimate off-West End theatre as Marlene Dietrich, flaunting her French knickers and suspenders – on a Good Friday? Her show, WITH A BIT OF A SWAGGER, is based on the book and this year she’ll be taking it to venues in the north, including Scotland

The Arts Society Lomond and Argyll have an exciting line-up of events. These are open to Members (free) and Guests (£10) – visit https://www.tasla.org.uk/ to find out about Membership! Lectures are held on the 2nd Tuesday of every Month At Victoria Halls, Helensburgh at 10.30am, with coffee available beforehand from 10am.

9th September 2025 From Downton to Gatsby By Andrew Prince
14th October 2025 The Baroque Country House by Amy Lim
11th November 2025 Tintoretto, painter of the people by Julia Musgrave
9th December 2024 Christmas Ghosts by Kirsty Hartsiosis
13th January 2026 The History of Opera by Jamie Hayes
10th February 2026 The Glasgow Girls by Elaine Hansen
10th March 2026 Bad Behaviour by Mark Fisher
14th April 2026 Poetry, Passion and Painting by Michael Howard
12th May 2026 The Sutton Hoo Ship Burial by Mark Cottle
9th June 2026 History of Embroidery by Susan Kay-Williams

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

ANDREW CRUICKSHANK AND RACHEL HYNES Date: 21/02/2026 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Rachel Hynes is an opera singer: https://www.rachelhynes.co.uk
Andrew Cruickshank is a composer and musician: http://andrewcruickshank.scot
“A mix of opera highlights that will include music from Carmen, Purcell & Puccini; songs from the shows such as West Side Story & The Gates, along with some popular jazz standards. The music will range from classical through jazz to contemporary”.
Midday till 2.30 Lunch, teas and coffee
Tickets £12.50
https://eventlist.store/coveburghhall/tickets

SATURDAY 21ST MARCH – 7-10PM – DEADLY ACTS THEATRE PRESENTS – THE BACK ROOM
Join us at Cove Burgh Hall for a night of murder and intrigue.
Let us take you back to New York City 1923… The inhabitants have not taken well to the act of Prohibition. The supply of liquor has gone underground, and criminals capitalise on its trade. At one particular speakeasy a select few have gathered for an important meeting but after a long day of violence and extortion tempers are high and that can only lead to one thing…..MURDER!!!
The event is not suitable for children (under 16 years of age). Please note the performance may contain foul language, adult content and some mild violence.
Guests will be working in teams at their table to solve the mystery. You are encouraged to form a team of 6 to 8, but everyone is welcome and can join others. Dressing up is encouraged (but not essential).
Ticket Price: £15 AVAILABLE SOON Free for Gold Members

FRIDAY 24TH APRIL 7.30-10PM- CATERAN
Cateran are a Scottish band, playing their own blend of Country, Americana and Folk influenced music.
The band is comprised of a group of seasoned musicians and friends who had previously played in many different bands and in many guises.
Featuring five vocalists and with influences including the Eagles; Crosby Stills Nash & Young and Runrig, to name but a few, their sound features warm, close, blended harmonies, which underpin their melodic but meaningful song-writing style.

SUNDAY 3RD MAY – PIPPA REID FOSTER – 2-4PM
Contemporary Harpist from the west coast of Scotland. A performer, teacher and composer of the harp. Sharing music which feeds the mind and soul. Even though her instrument, the Clarsach (lever harp), is regarded traditionally Scottish, her technique incorporates electronic looping, effects, and field recordings. Focusing on contemporary music with strong minimalist elements.

SATURDAY 23RD MAY – PATRICIA HARTSHORNE – WITH A BIT OF A SWAGGER – 7.30-10PM
In 2024 Patricia published her memoir, ‘with a bit of a SWAGGER’, which is about her origins and adventures as a performer. She asks how an ex-convent schoolgirl came to be swaggering around an intimate off-West End theatre as Marlene Dietrich, flaunting her French knickers and suspenders – on a Good Friday? Her show, WITH A BIT OF A SWAGGER, is based on the book and this year she’ll be taking it to venues in the north, including Scotland

Come for a drink, a sandwich and an hour of wonderful music being performed. To reserve places so we have an idea of numbers please email: randschurch59@gmail.com Suggested donation £15. Doors open 12.30 (except 22 March 2.45pm)
2026
1pm – Friday 30th January: Nikita Lukinov – (Piano)
3pm – Sunday 22 March Flutes Unlimited (no catering)
1pm – Friday 27th March: Ryan Corbett (Accordian)
1pm – Friday 24th April: Trio Alma: Daniella Hathaway – Soprano, Sarah Harrington – Cello, Stephen Adam – Piano
1pm – Friday 29th May: Tony Moffatt – Violin, Stephen Adam-Piano
1pm – Friday 25th September: Ida Pelliccioli – Piano
1pm – Friday 30th October: Daniel Ciubano – Piano
1pm – Friday 27th November: tbc