June 2009 and throughout the year, Loch Rannoch Watersports Centre, Kinloch Rannoch. A multitude of activities are available to groups and individuals. Taster sessions for beginners are available all week, while those with more experience can benefit from further training or simply hire one of their boats. All activities are under the supervision of qualified staff, and all necessary equipment can be provided for a safe and enjoyable day, weekend or week away. You can choose from Sailing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Boat Hire, Mountain Biking, Quad Biking, Off Road Driving and Safari’s, Climbing, Abseiling, Archery, and multi-activity courses. www.goforth.co.uk

Throughout the year, The Scottish Storytelling Centre, John Knox House High Street, Edinburgh. The Centre is a unique venue the home of Scotland's stories on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. The autumn and winter programme reflects the seasons and celebrations of St. Andrew's Day, Yule and the turning of the year, with live storytelling, theatre and family events. Please visit their web address www.scottishstorytellingcentre .co.uk for all the relevant details.

Throughout the year Lauriston Castle in Edinburgh, provides an abundance of interesting events to suit the whole family from experiencing what it was like to be a servant in the castle in days gone by to art classes and discovering the exotic blooms which can be found in the gardens there is something for everyone. Full details can be found on their website www.cac.org.uk

6th June 2009, Taste of Grampian Food Festival, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire. The north east's superior food event celebrates the diversity of Grampian's food larder in a one-day food and drink festival that's a great day out for all the family. With music, children's entertainment, arts & crafts, fabulous local produce to taste and buy, cookery competitions and demonstrations with celebrity chefs and guests, a fun packed day for all. Complete program details and list of events can be found at www.tasteofgrampian.co.uk

17th to 28th June 2009, Edinburgh International Film Festival, Edinburgh. Edinburgh International Film Festival is one of the world’s first international film festivals and has now become so pivotal to film culture in nations all over the world. It has grown into an important business hub for the United Kingdom and the international film industry. www.edfilmfest.org.uk lists full details of the films appearing at this years festival.

18th to 21st June 2009, Borders Book Festival, Melrose. The creme de la creme of the literary world return to the beautiful Borders town for another lively programme of author talks, signings and book events. www.bordersbookfestival.org list the full details.

24th to 29th June 2009, Shetland - Bergen Races, Lerwick, Shetland. These ocean yacht races between Bergen in the Hordaland region of Western Norway and Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, are the most challenging and spectacular event of the North Sea. www.visitshetland.com lists full details.

25th to 28th June 2009, Royal Highland Show, Ingliston, Edinburgh. Scotland's foremost farming and food event promises to be even bigger r and better this year. Held over four days, with over 4,000 livestock on show and 1,000 stands selling everything from speciality foods to 4x4s. There is a wide range of entertainment and demonstrations in skills such as cookery, crafts, falconry and fashion. Further information can be found at www.royalhighlandshow.org 

29th June to 4th July 2009, Mendelssohn on Mull Festival, Isle of Mull. A program of open rehearsals, recitals and concerts given by a group of young musicians on the brink of starting their professional careers. The week-long festival plays to packed houses on the island Mendelssohn himself admired so much. www.mullfest.org.uk lists full details.