The Great Scottish Outdoors
Nature, Walking and Countryside
Events At a Glance
Many visitors to Scotland this year are drawn by the dramatic and beautiful Scottish lands that their ancestors once walked on. From the most northerly point of the UK at Dunnet Head and the rugged landscape of Shetland right down to the picturesque scenery of Alloway, Scotland has one of the most inspiring sceneries in the World.
Indeed many a Great Mind has been nurtured by the Scottish landscape including the iconic and adored conservationist John Muir. If you share this passion for Scotland's treasured rural sites then a great many of the 300 plus events taking place throughout Homecoming Year cannot be missed! Keep reading to take in just a few of these special events that could play a part in your journey back home.
Scotland's Wildlife
Across Scotland, Throughout the Year
Experience the best of Scotland's Wildlife Homecoming! See the thousands of sea eagles, ospreys and red kites have come home to Scotland after years of absence. More info…
Forest Heritage Scotland
Across Scotland, Throughout the Year
Experience the stories of the people who lived and worked here and enjoy a series of events and activities across Scotland, throughout 2009.
More info…
The John Muir Odyssey
East Lothian, Throughout the Year
A new festival celebrating the life and legacy of John Muir, 'the Father of Modern Conservation', a founder of National Parks and still regarded as one of the most influential people in the world environmental movement. More info…
Walkhighlands' Homecoming Self-Guided Walks
Across the Highlands, Jan 25 - Nov 30
Enjoy a series of self-guided walks especially devised for Homecoming 2009 and walk in the footsteps of your ancestors. More info…
Gardening Scotland 2009 
Edinburgh, May 29-31
Gardening Scotland, Scotland's national celebration of gardening and outdoor living, will burst into bloom from 29 - 31 May at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston. More info…
Royal Highland Show
Edinburgh, June 25-28
Located to the West of Edinburgh Royal Highland Show event will encourage Diaspora Scots to re-connect with their rural past at Scotland's largest outdoor event. More info…
The Hidden Jewel
Oban, July 17-23
Walk with the drama as it unfolds in the gathering evening against the stunning medieval backdrop of Dunollie Castle in Oban. More info…
Turriff Show
Turriff, August 2-3
Turriff Show is the largest two-day agricultural show in Scotland - but it's not just a show for farmers! More info…
Ayr Flower Show
Ayr, August 7-9
The Ayr Flower Show is Scotland's premier horticultural event - often referred to as the Chelsea of the North. More info…
Doors Open Days
Throughout Scotland, September 1 - 30
A unique opportunity to get behind-the-scenes of some of Scotland's best-loved and least-known architectural gems for free. More info…
In the Footsteps of the Reivers
Across the Scottish Borders, September 5 -13
Exhilarating walks in the Scottish Borders combine with the rich and bloody history of the Border Reivers. More info…
Cowalfest
Cowal Peninsula, Oct 9 -18
Join us in 2009 for Cowalfest's seventh fantastic festival of walking, arts and environmental activities. More info…
Click here to read about even more Homecoming events that celebrate the Great Outdoors