It has been a while since my last post. Life has a way of catching up with you and in my case I had to put my focus elsewhere for a while. Now that I have returned a little recharging is required.
So I took a quick walk to see the cherry blossoms at the Meadows in Edinburgh.
They never disappoint. They always put on a good show.
Even the familiar distance views looked better with a splash of colour.
It was a short visit this time but worthy of the trip.
© The Scottish Pearl 2022
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.
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 Scottish Pearl 2022
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.
© The Scottish Pearl 2022
Yesterday’s walk included the ruins of Roslin Castle. There is a bit of climb before you can see the remaining walls but certainly worth the exploration.
The castle is located just outside the village of Roslin, 9 miles south of Edinburgh. Apparently, there has been a castle on this site since the 14th century.
I had to use my imagination as to what it might have been due to only fragments of the walls remaining today. There is no doubt that it commanded a striking presence.
How lovely to explore the castle as part of this walk.
© The Scottish Pearl 2022
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 🙌🏾
© The Scottish Pearl 2022
Today we all woke up to a dusting of snow in the Scottish capital. I clearly have become obsessed with the weather here. It’s because it lends itself to a lot of conversation! I mean a lot!
A quick scan of my container garden with my morning coffee wonderfully demonstrated the multiple personalities of Mother Nature! My daffodils and hyacinth are blooming while the garden pots are coated with a layer of snow. Lol!
A walk around Holyrood Park which you know is one of my favourites in the city. On this occasion, I wanted to see it with this layer of snow.
The kids were out having snowball fights. The dogs were more playful than ever! How could I not smile?
The crags looked magical.
Finally, before I go, I had to take this photo! Only in Scotland can you have a layer of snow across the city but find people hard at work painting their outside fence!
Love it!
© The Scottish Pearl 2022
