Tag Archives: Buildings

Dunfermline Abbey in Fife

A few weeks ago I shared a post about Pittencrieff Park in Dunfermline. What was visibly absent from that post was any mention of the Abbey 😊. I just thought it would be better to share my time spent at the Abbey in a separate note. Hence this post.

The Abbey is close to the City Chambers. If you are anywhere near it, it is worth a visit.

As you walk through the centre of town, now city, there is a path that runs through the Abbey’s burial grounds that leads to the majestic structure of Dunfermline Abbey.

When strolling the grounds, you can’t help but wonder how many historic figures would have walked these paths. It has had an amazing past.

A little look into the past you find that: “The foundations of the original church evolved into the Abbey in 1128. Dunfermline Abbey went on to control four burghs, three courts of regality and a large portfolio of lands. A total of eighteen royals, including seven Kings, were buried there from Queen Margaret in 1093 to Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany in 1420. During the fight for Scottish Independence from English rule, between 1296 and 1329, Robert The Bruce had insisted as early as 1314, to be buried in the royal mausoleum in Dunfermline. Robert The Bruce (reigned 1306–29) would ultimately become the last of the seven Scottish Kings to be given this honour in 1329 [Source Wikipedia] ”

What rich history. Quite Magnificent!

Here is a collection of photos taken of the Abbey’s exterior:

As shown below, this wonderful workmanship outside continues inside the Abbey.

A definite Scottish Pearl 🙌🏾

St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh

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All eyes will be on St Giles Cathedral today as mourners take the opportunity to say “Goodbye” to the Queen.

Here are a few photos that were taken of this iconic building earlier this year.

Haddington on the Last Day of August

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I had planned to return to Haddington in Spring but life had other plans for me. As a result, Spring came and went with very little walking in beautiful Scotland. So when I saw plans for a group walk last week for Haddington, I jumped at it.

The Malting Building and Bridge across the Tyne

Haddington is truly a pretty town. After walking through the town centre, one passes a small dam and river Tyne next to the malting site.

With a short walk, we were surrounded by beautiful countryside.

As we continued to walk, we had an unexpected surprise. Amisfield Walled Gardens.

This garden lies just outside Haddington town. Dating from the late 18th century, it is one of the largest walled gardens in Scotland. I had no idea that this was there. It had large herbaceous borders, fruit and vegetable beds/orchards, wildflower meadow and woodland plantings.

A great find indeed. I could not get over all the apples! Especially those that climbed the walls.

Given the year we had, with so little rain and record breaking temperatures, it was lovely to see so many beautiful flowers.

The wall gardens were truly delightful. We continued our walk across the old bridge towards St Mary’s Church.

Linked to the church is another walled garden! Known as St Mary’s Pleasance.

As we entered this garden, we were greeted by an inviting hedge maze with views of the surrounding countryside.

The garden was divided into different areas or rooms by tree-lined paths which gave it a sense of mystery and anticipation.

What a delightful and rewarding walk. Truly one of discovery 🙌🏾

Called the Wild West in Edinburgh

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I have read about Springvalley Gardens countless times and I have been to Morningside just as many. So it was time that I actually made a stop at this location called the wild west of Edinburgh. It is also called a ghost town. So off I went.

I found it. It is located in a small alleyway off Springvalley Gardens. I certainly would not call it a “town” 😆

However, it does have a western flare. Apparently, this was built as part of a promotion strategy in the 90s for selling furniture at this location. The furniture shop has since closedown but the buildings remain.

I must admit my expectations were higher as I was expecting a town with distinct stores. But it did satisfy my curiosity and was worth a visit.

Circus Lane in Edinburgh

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One of the most photographed streets in Edinburgh is Circus Lane in Stockbridge Edinburgh.

It is such a pretty lane. You cannot help but pull out your camera as you stroll this quaint and picturesque street.

However, it was not always the case. It has such an interesting history Originally, the lane was the dwelling for horses (stables) and for those that served the neighbouring affluent residents of New Town Royal Circus (1760). In the early 1900s, it was a somewhat rundown neighbourhood.

In the mid 1900s the lane went through several transformations as the residents took pride and ownership of its beautification. They did a great job.

So if you do get a chance to walk this lane, don’t forget to give a respectful nod to the residents while enjoying the fruits of their continued effort.