Tag Archives: Views

A Walk along Musselburgh’s Waterfront

I have often puttered around Musselburgh Beach and Fisherrow Harbour but then stop. I don’t know why.

As I pondered the map, I noticed that there are lagoons behind Musselburgh’s race track.

We are such creatures of habit. I have no idea why I had not ventured further than Fisherrow Harbour especially since I consider myself an explorer! How did I miss that? So this walk had a mission to visit the lagoons.

As I ventured east, I smiled at the statues that recognised the fishermen of days gone by. The Fisherrow fishermen.

The views were amazing. I could see Arthur’s seat and the shores of Portobello in the distance.

To continue east, I had to walk along the River Esk. What a lovely walk! It was a great day for it.

While crossing the bridge I stopped to scan the lovers’ locks.

The wildflowers along the river bank were in full bloom and looked marvellous. It was evident that a lot of effort has gone into this path.

I loved that there were maps posted regularly and in my case specifically, the maps highlighted the location of the lagoons.

I continued the walk east until I reached the Nature reserve where the lagoons were located

I found them! My photos do not give the lagoons justice. What a tranquil beautiful site. A nature reserve with birds as its primary focus.

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Musselburgh’s Lagoons

Well, that was definitely worth it. These short walks are definitely helping me get my “mojo” back 🙂

© The Scottish Pearl 2023

Dean Village Rooftops

I took these pics early this year! What caught my eye were the rooftops while taking a walk in Dean Village.

I enjoyed walking through the small alleyways which seemed to provide a “peek-a-boo” view of the village rooftops.

I found the views enchanting.

Once started it was hard to stop. I found myself sneaking a peek at various rooftops and their associated gardens.

One, in particular, made me smile because of all the flags.

What is it about rooftops that are so captivating?

© The Scottish Pearl 2023

Summer Vibes at North Berwick

My hometown is Edinburgh which I love. It offers so much. However, I do like to change it up and when I want to quickly treat myself to Summer vibes, North Berwick is a lovely option. My first stop is always getting a treat on the High Street followed by a walk around the town.

Original St Andrew’s Church

A walk by St Andrew’s church ruins reminds me of its historic past, as I make my way to the Lodge Grounds.

The Lodge has lovely gardens and public paths. As an amateur gardener, I always like to see the botanic offerings of others.

View of North Berwick Law

The Lodge paths always make for a delightful stroll with bonus views of North Berwick Law.

On this trip, I really enjoyed the elevated path just north of the Lodge. It has breathtaking views of the town and bay.

https://videos.files.wordpress.com/zR1SekxO/img_8768.mp4

It is such a pretty town and on this occasion, I was fortunate to have great weather to enjoy it.

As much as I enjoyed my walk through the town, a visit to North Berwick is not complete without visiting the beach. So the next stop was the beach.

Stunning!

I cannot remember how long I stayed. Lots of people watching, wave watching, reading and just relaxing on a gorgeous day at this spot.

https://videos.files.wordpress.com/XULtP56q/summer-vibes-at-nb.mp4

Summer vibes indeed

© The Scottish Pearl 2023

The Cottage Experience in Edinburgh North

There is an unusual spot in Edinburgh that often puts a smile on my face because of its cottage feel within the city. It is in the Granton-Wardie Bay area. The Wardie Bay Area has definitely come into its own. It has become a frequent pastime for the locals. It is a lovely spot to just relax.

Lower Granton Road
Granton Harbour Breakwater

It has a seafront feel even without the water. The painted coloured residences gives that feel. The homes proudly line the harbour.

But with all that and as much as I enjoy this spot, this is not the spot. However, it is close by.

Just South of Wardie Bay is a path that leads into Wardie Steps. It is walking this path that gives me the cottage, seaside feel! I think it is because it is unexpected.

This narrow lane leads to white-painted cottages and a rainbow of coloured homes.

It is a little hamlet with an air of coastal living right in the Bonnie capital.

Yes, this is what makes me smile. A delightful path to the Wardie Bay waterfront.

© The Scottish Pearl 2023

Road Trip: Arriving at Kirkcudbright Harbour

After several stops en route (Scottish Borders, Dumfries and Castle Douglas), I made it to Kirkcudbright. An Artists Town. Delighted, I got off at the harbour where I stayed for a while. What a lovely introduction to the town.

It was very much an active harbour. People were busy working, instructing, positioning and focused. You could not help but be drawn to the buzz of the larger boats and the hum related to the effort of loading the boats. They must be used to spectators as there was nearby seating which encouraged an audience.

A walk along the harbour provided views of the marina and a nearby art gallery, The Harbour Cottage Gallery.

I soon learned that white-painted homesteads, together with a sprinkling of candy-floss-coloured buildings, were a signature of the town. It all looked very pleasing.

I took the opportunity to visit Habour Cottage Gallery. As well as enjoying the art that was on display, the windows framed a delightful view of the harbour. A lovely prospect.

After enjoying the gallery, I strolled the nearby buildings and then sat at the seats strategically positioned to entice you to take in the scenes of the harbour. They certainly designed that right.

Again, the harbour was a delightful introduction. The next day was all about exploring the town.

© The Scottish Pearl 2023

Road Trip: Dumfries and Castle Douglas

I continued this road trip stopping at Dumfries and Castle Douglas. The ride through the Scottish Borders whetted my appetite for more as I made my way to my ultimate destination.

Dumfries Town centre
The Midsteeple Building

Although I stopped at Dumfries, I quickly walked the Town centre then spent most of my time at the old bridge. The Devorgilla Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in Scotland. It has a presence that demands your attention. At least that is the case with me. A picturesque sight; laden with a history that easily stimulates one’s imagination.

Devorgilla Bridge

As I imagined Dumfries past, I also kept thinking about the next leg of my journey to Castle Douglas. It was the reason I didn’t extend my walkabout of Dumfries.

I finally boarded Bus 500 to Castle Douglas, full of anticipation.

The ride did not disappoint. The scenery was breathtaking.

Rides like these are a constant reminder of how varied and beautiful Scotland is. There is something about a bus ride. I continue to be in awe of the driver’s ability to drive around a multitude of bendy roads through small villages and mountains. It is masterful and such a treat for riders like me.

Finally got to Castle Douglas which meant I was that much closer to my ultimate destination. What a pretty little town! It was marked by colourful, well-kept buildings and intriguing shops. However, I had to stay focused. I knew there was a loch nearby so while I admired my surroundings, I was determined to find the water.

Found it! Carlingwark Loch.

I entered the loch via Lochside Park. Beautiful.

I spent most of my time gazing and walking around the loch. I was really lucky. The weather was perfect and the water magical.

Next Kirkcudbright. My ultimate destination for this road trip

© The Scottish Pearl 2023