Tag Archives: Views

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.

Walking the Shoreline from Dalmeny to South Queensferry

Leave a reply

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!

The Grounds of Sir Walter Scott

Leave a reply

It is Thursday! You know what that means. It is time for a throwback! So as I sipped my coffee, I scanned through my archives of photos I’ve taken.

Abbotsford House! Yes, the home of Sir Walter Scott. I love that place.

Various views of the outside of the house

These photos were taken September 2020. We were allowed to roam the garden but not the house.

The grounds were delightful and even with all the restrictions, the gardens were lovely.

Abbotsford House is located in the Scottish Borders, near Galashiels, on the south bank of the River Tweed. It was built as the residence of Sir Walter Scott between 1817 and 1825.

It is time for a return visit! Especially now that so much more is open. I would love to see the inside. I am adding it to my list. Stay tuned.

Edinburgh’s Craigmillar Castle

Leave a reply

I recently wrote a post on the panoramic view of Craigmillar Castle. As it is Thursday, as part of #ThrowBackThursday, I thought I would search my archives for photos I took of that castle! These were taken in January 2020, just before COVID lockdown.

It truly is a hidden gem! I would venture to say that of the four castles I know of in Edinburgh, Craigmillar castle is a good second to Edinburgh Castle.

As you walk towards the castle, you definitely get a sense of grandeur. It is quite an imposing structure.

The lands upon which this castle stands were granted to the monks of Dunfermline Abbey in the 12th century. The castle was built in the 14h century.

It is well documented that Queen Mary stayed at the castle on at least two occasions. As you enter the castle’s courtyard you cannot miss the trees; two yews. It is thought that one is connected with Queen Mary’s visit. Quite incredible. Wow! If trees could talk.

I remember slowly climbing the stairs to the rooms but I am struggling to remember the layout. I need to visit again to get better acquainted.

However, I do remember the view! It was wonderful.

Another visit is definitely required. It is on my list!

Walking Calton Hill

Leave a reply

Walking Calton Hill is my quick fix for elevated views. It is such a gem and a gift to have this park in the city centre.

I usually walk the hill at sunrise but this time I decided to do a sunset walk. The colours were not as vibrant as I know they can be but still worthy of taking a collection of pics. So feast your eyes on these.

Calton Hill’s views never disappoint. 360-degree views of the city are amazing. Views that truly never tire 🙌🏾

Jacob’s Ladder in Edinburgh

2 Replies

I realised after writing the post on Hidden Lane in Edinburgh that I should write about Jacob’s Ladder. After all, I have already taken the photos!

Jacob’s Ladder is a steep pathway that connects Calton Road with Regent Road in Edinburgh. This is a historical pathway that first appeared on a map in 1784. Originally the path led to the Old Calton Burial Ground and was used as a funeral processional route. Given how steep the route is, I cannot imagine how they did the actual procession.