Celebrating 50 years is an important milestone, especially when you want to share the occasion somewhere special and surrounded by close family and friends. Earlier in July, Winton Castle was fortunate to share a small slice of celebrations with Paolo and help him plan his ultimate birthday party!
This wasn’t just any party, Paolo flew over in a private jet direct from Italy, just for the day, with his two beloved children and five very close friends from his school days.
“Celebrating 50 years is an important event: it took me almost a month to choose the location and the entertainment activities for my guests! Winton Castle immediately convinced me for its wonderful grounds, for its proximity to Edinburgh airport, and above all for the vast choice of possible activities… and let’s say… the result was phenomenal!” says Paolo.
Mini Highland Games, Magic and Clay Pigeon Shooting
What a day they had, beginning with the Winton Mini Highland Games with an opportunity to ‘have a go’ at playing the bagpipes and to show their skills at the many activities.
After a quick coffee it was off to the woods for clay pigeon shooting which definitely brought out the competitive spirit among these school friends. Led by Billy Gordon, 23 times Scottish Champion, the session was a huge success and enjoyed by everyone with prizes for the winner and loser (or pheasants’ friend as we like to call it)!
Then it was back to the castle for a delicious lunch cooked by a private chef paired with very special wines which Paolo had been saving for this special day and brought with him on the flight.
During lunch all were entertained by a magician which the children found particularly engaging.
Whisky Tasting then Birthday Cake Cutting with the Winton Sword
After lunch, further treats awaited with a tutored Whisky tasting down in our stone cellar, the oldest part of the castle which dates back to 1480. The day finished up with an interactive Falconry session and a hilarious Dog and Duck herding display.
All too soon, it was time to leave but not before a splendid afternoon tea, situated in the Octagon Hall with the cosy open wood burning fire and clarsach player to set the scene. Of course, no birthday would be complete without the traditional Birthday cake, utilising the not-so-traditional Winton cake-cutting sword!
So, to sum up in Paolo’s own words: “On July 17th, after months of preparations, I flew direct from Milan to Edinburgh with my two beloved children and 5 very close friends, for an intense day of fun, games, entertainment and lots of human warmth. In short, I couldn’t have wished for anything better for my half century! Thanks to all the staff at Winton Castle who have always supported me in all my choices, my whims and have shown great professionalism.”
