With the summer games season in full swing, we thought we would share the history of this tradition with you and tell you some of the best events to go to this summer. Interested in coastal walking holidays? Booking with EasyWays will give you the best chance of experience this great Scottish culture. Walking holidays in Scotland are always great fun!
What is the tradition all about?
The Highland Games take place all across Scotland and involve a range of field and track events as well as piping and highland dancing competitions.
History of the Games
It is believed that the games began in Ireland before crossing the water to Scotland during the fourth and fifth century migrations of the Scotti (the Irish) into Dalriada (Argyll) and further into Scotland.
Over the centuries the games grew hugely in numbers and popularity until they were tragically hit by the Act of Proscription in 1746 which outlawed all Scottish dress, customs and gatherings, which unfortunately put an end to the games. However, the act was repealed after 40 years of being enforced and the games slowly began to take place again. Following George IV’s visit in 1822 the games grew tremendously in popularity – there are even two famous landmarks in Edinburgh named after George IV to commemorate this.
The Events
It comprises a number of events including the likes of tug-o-war and the caber toss, both traditional heavy athletic events in Scotland. Including the traditional events, many typical athletic competitions such as running, cycling, hill racing and shot put to test the competitors speed, strength and stamina. At event like this is so easy to enjoy! The perfect thing after one of EasyWay’s coastal walking holidays.
As well as all the sporting events, there is plenty of traditional Scottish music. With hundreds of pipers and drummers from different groups playing together and marching in unison, it is certainly a sight to see – and hear! There are also solo piping competitions and plenty of traditional highland dancing to see at the games.
Where are the Games?
They take place all across Scotland throughout the summer months. The biggest and most prestigious of the games is the Braemar Gathering, which is even attended by the Royal Family.
The Cupar Games, near St Andrews, takes place on the 11th June, and encompasses all the traditional elements of the games, making it a great day out for the whole family. There are also some brilliant places to walk in the area, due to the beautiful landscape, and our Fife coastal path route allows you to see some stunning views.
Coastal Walking Holidays with EasyWays
Also, are you interested learning about other things discover when enjoying EasyWays’s coastal walking holidays? Look at our last post!
Thinking of booking one of Scotland’s famous coastal walking holidays? Then get in touch today!
