Tag Archives: History

A Day at Pittencrieff Park in Dunfermline

Although I have visited Dunfermline several times, I had not walked their famous park, Pittencrieff Park. It was time to do just that.

Walking towards the park, it was a true delight to go through the centre where the City Chambers building dominates the skyline. It has a wonderful presence as it punctuates the High Street.

Like Edinburgh, Dunfermline has delightful green spaces right in the middle of the city centre. Pittencrief park is perhaps the most prominent one. Often referred to as “The Glen” by the locals.

The park and the estate were a gift to the people of Dunfermline from Andrew Carnegie in 1903. Pittencrief house stands majestically within the grounds.

The park is known for its peacock sanctuary and consequently one of the popular attractions is the fact that peacocks roam free in the park.

I was thrilled to see both white and colouful blue peacocks wandering the park.

We were privileged to also witness a mother with her babies, housed safely inside the sanctuary.

Roaming the Greenhouse and surrounding gardens was delightful.

I could not leave without walking along the glen.

There is something about hearing and walking beside water. Right? It is so soothing. It is like a gentle mind massage. At least these were the feelings that emerged while I enjoyed the walk in this tranquil woodland.

What a lovely park.

St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh

Leave a reply

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.

Called the Wild West in Edinburgh

Leave a reply

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.

Walking Calder East in West Lothian, The Shale Trail.

Leave a reply

It has been a while. After starting the year with so much energy, I have slowed down a little. Okay, a lot. I had a few challenges to attend and have since regrouped. I like to think I’m back!

Last week I went on two group walks. One was titled “a Mystery Walk!”. It seemed fitting that I should join it. We ended up in East Calder, walking along the Shale Trail. Once the location of a bustling oil site, now a rejuvenated trail.

It was a revelation to me. I was unaware of the history and location until this walk. This was the location of the first commercial oil works in the world.

Once a collection of mines and oil refineries, manufacturing products from paraffin oil and candles to petrol. It operated for just over 100 years, closing in 1960. A mystery no more.

The trail runs along the Almond river valley. Tranquil and scenic.

Passing the viaduct and the covered bridge.

Even on an overcast day, this once industrial site, makes for a very pleasant and therapeutic hike.

Circus Lane in Edinburgh

Leave a reply

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.

A Short Visit to St Andrews

Leave a reply

A little while ago I took a short trip to St Andrews. I was in need of a small adventure.

Everywhere I went the St Andrews coat of arms seemed to guide my path. So I clearly had to stop and take note. However, the reality was I knew I was heading straight for the cathedral.

As I walked by Deans Court I realised that the cathedral was closed for some needed repair and maintenance

So I walked towards the castle which was also closed for repairs. I clearly was out of luck! I had to admire both sites from their perimeter and along the coast.