If You Only Do One Thing...

ALCHEMY FILM & MOVING IMAGE FESTIVAL

Hawick, Roxburghshire, April 14 - 17 This festival is Scotland’s international festival dedicated to experimental film and moving images. Taking place in Hawick in the Scottish Borders, Alchemy spotlights first rate artistic projects, and independent short films of the highest international standing. www.alchemyfilmfestival.org.uk/

SCOTTISH GRAND NATIONAL

Ayr Racecourse, April 16 Place your bets and watch up to 30 of the nation’s fastest horses battle it out for the Coral Scottish Grand National. Involving 25 fences over a four-mile chase, it’s arguably Scotland’s biggest horse racing event. www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk

AVIEMORE ADVENTURE FILM FESTIVAL

Spey Valley Cinema, Highlands, April 22 - 24 Celebrate the very best in adventure film and hear talks from the world’s best outdoor sports women and men. Speakers include Lee Craigie and David MacLeod. An array of films will be shown featuring fantastic scenery and daring exploits. www.aviemoreadventureff.org/

COLONSAY BOOK FESTIVAL 2016

Colonsay, Argyll, April 23 - 24 The Colonsay Book Festival is one of the smallest and most secluded literary events in Britain. Held on the beautiful island of Colonsay, it may be small, but the two-day event always attracts big names. Past participating authors include Jackie Kay, Andrew Greig and Val McDermid. www.colonsaybookfestival.org.uk

PEDAL IN THE PARK

Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire, April 24 This event, pictured, features all things cycling with various ride options suitable for road and hand cyclists. Based at Castle Semple Visitor Centre, participants can choose from multiple bike rides, including the classic from last year and a new longer, more challenging route! Register in advance. www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk