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EVENING LECTURE

BEYOND THE POPPY

THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF

LADY DOROTHY HAIG

Monday, 8th December

Talk begins at 19:00

Book tickets
 
 
 
 
Step into the fascinating history of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and its visionary founder, Lady Dorothy Haig.
 
 

TIME & LOCATION



Date and time: Monday 8th December 2025 from 19:00 – 20:30

Location: The Royal Scots Club, 29-31 Abercromby Place, EH3 6QE
Ticket type
Price
Club Member
£0.00
General Admission
£5.00


 
 

ABOUT THE LECTURE

Opened in Edinburgh in 1926 to ensure Scotland had its own supply of Remembrance Day poppies, the factory quickly grew beyond its initial purpose. Discover how Lady Haig’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to create workshops that employed disabled Scottish veterans, making everything from toys to leather goods.

Learn about her hands-on approach, from driving the sales van across Scotland to bringing an elephant to the factory for publicity. This lecture explores the inspiring story of a woman who not only founded a vital institution but also dedicated her life to the welfare and employment of our veterans.

 
 

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Rev Kevin Thompson is an established speaker, and most well known for delivering various shows on Robert Burns featuring his songs and poems and why he wrote them. Kevin is currently president (again) of the prestigious Bowhill Peoples Burns Club and a past board member of the World Burns Federation.

Kevin is also an ambassador for Prostate Scotland and delivers frequent talks (mainly to men) on the dangers of prostate cancer.

 
Dining

Join us 

for Supper

The Abercromby Dining Room is open from 5:30 PM prior to each evening event. Join fellow members or come with friends and make a night of it.

 
Book in for supper
 

UPCOMING EVENTS

17
Oct

Military Dinner in Support of Poppy Scotland

Join us for an unforgettable Military Dinner on Friday, October 17th, at The Royal Scots Club, dedicated to supporting Poppy Scotland.

Member only event

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20
Oct

Evening Lecture – The Three Forth Bridges

One rail and two road bridges, serving slightly different purposes. Hear about the men who built them and the struggles they faced to do so. Illustrated by stunning photographs.


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23
Oct

Edinburgh Big Curry Lunch in Support of Army Benevolent Fund

The Edinburgh Big Curry Lunch is a chance to meet-up with friends, and for business professionals to invite colleagues or clients. You will rub shoulders with VIP s and civic dignitaries, senior officers from the British Army, and corporate influencers fr


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03
Nov

Evening Lecture – The Battles and Songs of Scotland

Best of Burns – Battles and Songs of Scotland A round up of several historic Scotland battles, and the songs that they inspired. These are all delivered by a seasoned performer, well experienced in delivering the bard’s songs, poem and toasts, at hundr


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07
Nov

Captain’s Table: November

The Captain’s Table is a regular Royal Scots Club lunch where members and their guests can get together and enjoy good food, good conversation and meet new people.

Member only event

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09
Nov

Remembrance Sunday Lunch

Join us for a short service of Remembrance at the Club Memorial. The Abercromby Dining Room is open for bookings from 12:00 to 14:00 on Sunday 9th November.


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12
Nov

Breakfast Club: November

The Breakfast Club returns next month and is hosted by a RSC Member. Engage with fellow Club members and chat about a new topic of interest over a breakfast roll or pastry.

Member only event

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27
Nov

Thanksgiving Dinner

We’re celebrating Thanksgiving this year with a traditional turkey dinner and all our American friends! Everyone is welcome to join us for dinner in the gorgeous Hepburn Suite for a delicious 3-course dinner with all the trimmings. Enjoy great company i


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28
Nov

St Andrew’s Day Dinner at The Royal Scots Club

Join us for an evening of musical entertainment, loyal toasts, great company and delicious food! Please note, per usual, the night will be a red-carpet, black-tie, miniature medal affair with uniform to be adorned where appropriate.

Member only event

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05
Dec

Captain’s Table: December

The Captain’s Table is a regular Royal Scots Club lunch where members and their guests can get together and enjoy good food, good conversation and meet new people.

Member only event

View event
06
Dec

The RSC Annual Members’ Christmas Lunch & Raffle

Join us for our Members Christmas Lunch on Saturday 6th December 2025 from 12pm to 3pm.

Member only event

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08
Dec

Evening Lecture – Beyond the Poppy: The Life and Legacy of Lady Dorothy Haig

Step into the fascinating history of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and its visionary founder, Lady Dorothy Haig.


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18
Dec

Chairman’s Christmas Cocktails

Join our Chairman and other Members on Thursday, 18th December for a festive drinks reception. This is a complimentary event available for Members only.

Member only event

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