International Scottish Country Dancing returns to Shanklin
February 25, 2026
The annual Isle of Wight Scottish Country Dancing Weekend School, held at the Shanklin Hotel on the clifftops in Shanklin from Friday 13th to Sunday 15th February 2026, was yet another capacity weekend, with 115 people coming from many different European countries. This very successful weekend was organised by Catherine Packwood-Bluett, Aileen Napper, Ian & Judith Muir with assistance from Frankie Bluett-Burgess and IOW Tours. The Shanklin Hotel provided a good value weekend with excellent service from good humoured friendly staff, and good food.
The teachers this year were the world renowned Raphaelle Orgeret from Lyon in France and Eric Finley from North Ayrshire in Scotland, who both emphasised the fun to be had doing Scottish Country Dancing, whilst teaching challenging and creative dances.
Fabulous music for the whole weekend was provided by a 4-piece Craigellachie Band from the south of England, Ian & Judith Muir (now IOW residents), John Browne and Ali McCan. There were dances on Friday & Saturday nights until late, with many dances being encored as the music was so lively, and Scottish Dance classes on Saturday and Sunday mornings, accompanied by Ian, Judith and Ali. One of the local teachers, Janette Baxter, offered a walk-through of the Saturday evening dances, but for those who wanted to venture out the weather was kind and the visitors had wall to wall sunshine in the afternoon of Valentine’s Day to explore the island.
Many guests, including islanders, attended just for the social dances (or as non-dancers) in order to keep in touch with the friends they’ve made through Scottish Country Dancing over the years. The atmosphere was electric.
Next year the Isle of Wight Weekend School will again be at the Shanklin Hotel Friday 19th to Sunday 21st February 2027 with Eric Finley and Alice Stainer teaching, accompanied by Ian Muir and the Craigellachie Band. Don’t miss it! Save the date!
Photo left to right: Eric Finley, Raphaelle Orgeret, John Browne, Ali McCan, Catherine Packwood-Bluett, Ian Muir, Frankie Bluett-Burgess, Judith Muir and front Janette Baxter, Aileen Napper.
Photo by Frankie Bluett-Burgess.
Judy Valvona
