Anstruther Harbour

I recently made a pitstop at Anstruther. I was returning to Edinburgh however my curiosity got the better of me.

I figured I could jump off at the harbour for an hour or two. So that is exactly what I did! Although the stop was right on the harbour, I took a quick detour to embrace the surrounding village streets.

I was met with lovely narrow alleyways that reflected its history. It was just missing the cobblestones that I have become accustomed to that grace other coastal fishing villages. It was enjoyable all the same.

I was lucky to capture this moment as I walked the streets. A lady with a coat inscribed:

There Is Nothing Like a Sistah

That alone made my day 🙌🏾

After that encounter, I made my way to the water.

I was really lucky. I had beautiful weather and the harbour was humming

I did not expect the harbour to be so big. It is a formidable size and very much a working harbour.

A video showing the 360 views of the harbour.

Needless to say the village is known for its fish and chips. Well, on my next visit I will stay longer to take in the village delights.

A Daffodil Explosion at London Road Gardens in Edinburgh

Walking the Shoreline from Dalmeny to South Queensferry

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As I completed the River Almond walkway, I noticed the Dalmeny Estate walk.

It had been a long time since I did that walk and as a result, it was time to revisit that trail. I decided to do the longer option to take in the shoreline of the Forth Estuary.

And just like that my walk started again. I headed along the River Almond to the shore of the Forth but this time the walk was on the opposite side to Cramond.

When I reached the shore I took the time to look at Cramond. It was interesting seeing it from this viewpoint. I smiled when I saw the ice cream van which may as well be a permanent fixture on Cramond harbour.

Walking along the beach on the shores of the Forth.

My walk continued along the waterfront and beach. Truly spectacular views. I know I have said this many times before but amazingly, there are such varied and beautiful landscapes that exist within the city.

I continued through the woods where the forest floor was covered with carpets of wild garlic. I really did not realise how abundant this plant is here. The woods led to what looked like wetlands. Mother Nature is a master at her craft because the scene was nothing short of perfection. Breathtaking. What other word can I use but beautiful? Nope, beautiful is the perfect word to describe it. A fitting stop for lunch.

Why did I take so long to do this walk? It is so varied and a feast for the eyes.

As I continued the walk, there was a lovely panoramic view of the Barnbougle castle.

The walk along the shore led to Dalmeny House. Very picturesque. I had not realised how close these two buildings [Dalmeny House and Barnbougle Castle] were to each other. What a treat.

I have since learned that Dalmeny house is part of the Rosebery Estates. Dalmeny House & Estate has been home to the Earls of Rosebery since 1662. The current house is the home to The 7th Earl and Countess of Rosebery. Although it is a family home, the house is open to the public for viewings. I would love to do that someday.

Barnbougle Castle is a private castle. However, I could see it through the trees. I have since learned that:

“the castle is on the site of a medieval tower house built by the Mowbray family which was destroyed and then rebuilt in the 19th century. At Barnbougle the fifth Earl of Rosebery (Prime Minister) practised his speeches in a gallery hall built for the purpose”

This explains the proximity of the two buildings. The grounds of both properties are delightful.

My walk continued through the woods. It seemed more manicured than I remembered. It was clear that work had been done. It looked great and it made for an easier walk.

I came across a curious visitor and clearly no stranger to a camera! So cute. I had interrupted his play but I don’t think he minded. Lol!

My walk continued through a significant stretch of woodlands then just like that I could see the outline of the Forth Bridge.

It is such an iconic bridge and on this occasion marking my entry into South Queensferry.

What a great walk!

A Walk Along River Almond in Cramond

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It’s been a while since I’ve been in Cramond. So off I went determined to walk all of the River Almond Walkway. I usually putter around the cafe and then head east. This time I decided to go in the opposite direction. OK, I did walk around the Fort which I will share in a different post. I always enjoy that and so I could not skip that.

I then walked in the direction of the river. It was the first time that I saw all the boats out of the water. It must be maintenance season.

Regardless, this is where I started my little adventure. I am not sure why I had this drive to be near water, but on this day I did. Running water is so therapeutic and I was in need of some therapy LOL! It did not disappoint. I could not get over all the wild garlic! They were everywhere.

As I walked along the river, I could not help but notice several trees in bloom. It was so lovely to see.

What a glorious day! Perfect weather for a walk. I also saw a few men fishing. Spring is such a lovely time of the year.

As I approached the old mill, I had to take another clip.

The plaque on display shared the following:

“The ruined walls here are all that is left of Fair-a Far Mill. From 1779 it was the heart of Cramond’s industrial revolution.”

“The River Almond once powered five mills between Cramond Brig and the sea. Originally grain mills, four were converted to iron working. Fair-a-Far Mill processed woollen cloth before being converted to a forge. Other mills worked with paper and furniture. After the iron industry closed down, it became a paint factory and store. In1935, a flood damaged the building beyond repair.”

I continued my walk towards the Old Bridge. I had not appreciated how varied the walk was before. There was plenty to take in.

Although the trees were bare for the most part, the running water and carpets of new growth made it a delightful walk.

Windows on Princes Street in Edinburgh

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I had a day of looking up as I walked Princes Street in the bonnie capital. Nestled in between the modern, standard white framed windows I enjoyed the craftsmanship of yesteryear’s amazing windows.

The detail is quite amazing.

Love the craftsmanship on the build and detail around this window, located at the British Hotel. The chandelier was like a jewel on display.

This one is almost hidden on the street.

This one was fascinating with the addition of red and white checkered curtains.

This one is part of the grand, old Jenners building!

I wish the new builds paid just as much detail and craftmanship.

The Drama of Dunnottar Castle

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Dunnottar castle is one of my favourite castles. It has everything. Anticipation, location, drama, history and presence. It truly is a must see location.

The castle is located about 2 miles south of Stonehaven harbour. The walk to the castle is just as enjoyable as being at the castle itself.

I walked through the harbour then along the coast to the castle. Walking along the coast was so therapeutic, and seeing the castle in the distance slowly built the anticipation of this wee adventure. Waves crashing and the wind washing one’s face added to the drama and scenery. I felt I was on a movie set location. I remember grinning for most of the walk.

When I finally reached the castle I had to stop for a few minutes to take it all in. What presence!

The castle juts out on a small peninsula. The location is perfect for a fort.

I had to walk down countless steps then climb just as many to actually get into the castle. All worth it.

I spent a good couple of hours on location. Following the map, I let my imagination run free.

The grounds are truly marvellous, both inside and out. The site and castle have such rich history. The Dunnottar website shares that “It is not known exactly how long ago the site was originally inhabited, it is believed that the Picts established it between 5000BC and 700AD.” The website goes on to share a long list of Scottish leaders and heroes who have left their mark at this site. Just wonderful.

It was so easy to stroll and imagine the communities who would have inhabited the castle and the battles that were fought.

Definitely one of my favourite locations and castle.

The Scottish Pearl

Storytelling with Photography. A discovery journey of Scottish Pearls, Scotland's amazing culture and locations.