These tours began in the summer and, although you can’t escape the dreich weather entirely in Scotland, I’ve been especially up for getting out & about to see varying parts of our beautiful country to get a wee peek at some of its historical gems.
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Waverley Trip Doon the Watter 2023
Waverley Day Oot on the Watter. Embarked at the Glasgow Science Centre – up past Dumbarton & Greenock with views of Helensburgh opposite – round to Kilcreggan – over to Dunoon – then Blairmore – before taking a wee trip to see some views on Loch Long, Loch Goil, & up to Lochgoilhead – then returned right back the way we’d come. Thank you to May MacPherson who suggested & arranged the obtaining of tickets, &c., for our wee group.
Additional music as performed by RSH’s very own fantastic fiddler, Paul Burns:
‘Song of the Clyde’
‘On wi the Tartan’
‘Abel Banks’
‘Scots Wa Hae’
‘Whisky Welcome Back Again’
‘Farewell to Whisky’
‘Flower o’ the Quern’
‘Greysteil’
‘Keltic Lament’
Find more from him Here.
For the complete upload of John Leighton’s ‘Select Views on the River Clyde‘ (1830) with scans.
For RSH’s visit to the Clydeside Distillery scroll down the Updates to the entry for “23/11/2018” or search the page for “Clydeside Distillery.”
For information & scans on other Scottish scenes everyone should visit once while here I’d recommend Prof Wilson’s ‘Scotland Illustrated‘ (1845).
For more of Scotland’s Railway Incidents from 1900-1907 (so far) head Here.
Or, for readings of those from 1900, catch Alex & myself Here.
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Helensburgh, via Faslane Peace Camp, to Balquhidder
Day trip out with friends & patrons of RSH to Helensburgh, where I spent some of my youth, then over to Faslane Peace Camp, where I spent a wee bit more of my youth, opposite Faslane Naval Base, then up for a view across the Base, before heading up to Balquhidder to visit Rob Roy MacGregor’s grave. We ended the day out with a quick stopover in Stirling to fill up the car.
Music throughout by Paul Burns:
Song of the Clyde
The Streets Where I Lived
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
On Wi the Tartan
Abel Banks
Scots Wha Hae
Flower of the Quern
Strathearn
Major Graham
Farewell to Whisky
Rob Don Mackay Sutherland
Greysteil
Goodnight & Joy be wi Ye All
Head Here for more of Paul’s offerings.
Sources for pictures:
Erskine House, Lord Blantyre’s Home – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Port Glasgow – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Greenock – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Gourock – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Helensburgh & Henry Bell – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Balquhidder – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
‘Six Engravings in Illustration of Rob Roy‘ (1868)
Proceedings Against the Clan Gregor – ‘Narratives from Criminal Trials in Scotland’ (1852)
Gaelic Poetry of Known & Unknown Bards, Published & Traditional, Mr. Robert Kirk, of Balquhidder – ‘Popular Tales of the West Highlands’ (1890)
‘Stirling‘ (1890-ish)
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Clyde Valley Day Oot
Accies took me out down the Clyde Valley. We made a stop at the Hamilton Mausoleum, the final resting place of the Dukes of Hamilton, normally not accessible to the public. We gained access almost by accident &, I don’t want the guy to get in trouble, so I’ve cut him out as much as possible. The full video of that will be uploaded for Patrons only.
Then we went to the reconstructed Chatelherault Hunting Lodge; dog kennels, stables, & holiday residence of the Dukes of Hamilton, at Chatelherault Country Park. Across the Duke’s Bridge I came across the ruins of Cadzow Castle.
Next was Lanark to make a quick stop for the statue & mural of William Wallace. Then on to New Lanark, founded by David Dale, which was a cotton mill with attached social residences for those who worked there. His son-in-law, Robert Owen, joined him in the endeavour & set up a school for the children.
Then Lesmahagow Priory, which was uncovered by archaeologists & left. Almost at the end of our day we got to Strathaven Castle, getting up to which I was convinced my death was looming (getting down was worse).
Our final stop was Bothwell Castle which was sadly fenced off to the extent I couldn’t get round to see most of the place, but super impressive, regardless. Hopefully they can make the site a bit safer & folk like ourselves can pay it a proper visit.
Music throughout by Paul Burns:
Strathearn
Farewell to Whisky
A Keltic Lament
The Bonnie Breast Knots
Jenny’s Bawbee
On Wi’ the Tartan
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Major Graham
Scots Wha Hae
Whisky Welcome Back Again
Song of the Clyde
Abel Banks
Flower o’ the Quern
Greysteil
Head Here for more of Paul’s offerings.
Sources:
Battle of Bothwell Bridge – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890)
Mauldslie Castle – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Hamilton; Cadzow Castle, Avon Water, Chatelherault, & Dukes of Hamilton – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
Hamilton Palace – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
The Cadzow Cows – ‘Domestic Annals’ (1885)
Lanark – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
William Wallace – ‘Balfour’s Historical Works’ (1824)
New Lanark – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
David Dale – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890)
Robert Owen – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890)
Lesmahagow; Falls of Clyde – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
Bothwell Castle – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Bothwell Castle – ‘Poetical Works of the Ettrick Shepherd’ (1838)
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Newark Castle, Through Burns’ Country, to Sanquhar Castle
This time around we started at Newark Castle, Port Glasgow, which made for an interesting experience when realising the fencing didn’t quite prevent access.
Then we headed up to see my wee childhood home in Greenock (my own photos from the mid 80’s incl.), before going through Ardgowan, Largs, Ardrossan, & Troon to get to Alloway for a wee bit of a visit with the legacy left by Robert Burns.
We had a wee bit of fun over at the Electric Brae & an attempt to get near Culzean Castle, Maybole. Fortunately, the rain held off as we finished our day oot over at Sanquhar Castle, where, once again, I found myself in a wee bit of a precarious situation, out in the middle of nowhere, gaining access to somewhere that didn’t seem to appear to be accessible.
Then it was back via Mennock Pass, Scotland’s highest village, Wanlockhead, & Leadhills, home.
Music throughout by Paul Burns:
The Streets Where I Lived
Song of the Clyde
Scots Wha Hae
Flower o the Quern
A Keltic Lament
Good Night & Joy be wi Ye All
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Major Graham
Abel Banks
Strathearn
Rob Donn McKay Sutherland
Greysteil
Head Here for more of Paul’s offerings.
Sources:
Port-Glasgow & Newark Castle – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Greenock – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Inverkip & Ardgowan – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Saltcoats from Ardrossan Castle – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
The Twa Brigs o’ Doon – ‘Scotland Illustrated’ (1845)
Burns’ Cottage & Alloway Kirk – ‘International Library of Famous Literature’ (1898)
Culzean Castle – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
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Crieff – Hermitage, Dunkeld – Crannog Centre – Paisley
Started with a quick stop at Crieff en route to the Hermitage at Dunkeld, where we took in some excellent views with death near at hand, as usual.
Then headed to Loch Tay & the Crannog Centre, Kenmore, but said Crannog had burned down 2 years ago.
We were supposed to finish the day at the Devil’s Pulpit but we had a meeting to catch in Paisley, so we had a 2 hr drive there to end the day.
Music throughout by Paul Burns:
The Braes o’ Kiliecrankie
Strathearn
Flower o’ the Quern
Abel Banks
Coilsfield House
The Bonnie Breast Knots
Greysteil
Head Here for more of Paul’s offerings.
Sources:
Hermitage at Dunkeld – ‘Scotland Illustrated’ (1845)
Chapter IV. – A.D. 843-1107 – ‘History of the Scottish Highlands’ (1875)
The River & Harbour – ‘Old Glasgow’ (1880)
Breadalbane Papers – ‘Sketches of Early Scotch History’ (1861)
‘Kilchurn Heritage: Back Book of Taymouth‘ (1855)
Marquis of Breadalbane’s Refutation & Letter 1. in Response – ‘Gloomy Memories’ (1892)
Letter 2 – ‘Gloomy Memories’ (1892)
Loch Tay & Taymouth Castle – ‘Scotland Illustrated’ (1845)
‘History of Paisley’ (1886)
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Crookston Castle, Devil’s Pulpit, & Glenorchy
Initially I wish to pass on my very sincerest condolences to Laura for the loss of her husband, a wonderful friend & patron of RSH, Simon Kyrollos. He was one of the best of people & we’ll miss him.
For this week’s Accies Tour & Adventure we started at Crookston Castle, Crookston, which is a monument close to home for us.
Then it was on to the Devil’s Pulpit, Finnich Glen, where, as has become usual for these trips, I almost died – drowning this time around, rather than falling from a thing. You’ll get a good look in the video at the swirling eddy, over the very deep water, below the wee waterfall – right before I put my phone in my pocket & slipped… There was a wee baby otter, beaver, stoat, mink, weasel, vole, that seemed to be doing it’s best to escape the pulpit. It kept falling from the high rocky surrounds. I got so close to it I was tempted to pick it up and bring it out with me to see if that would help it find family, but I was kind of concerned I’d get bitten for my trouble.
Next we drove up to the Bridge of Orchy, via the Eas Urchaidh (Orchy Waterfall [Lower]), Easan Dubha (Black Falls), & Inveroran Hotel, where we stopped for a wee drink, as it had started to rain.
Music, as always, courtesy of Paul Burns:
Rob Donn Mackay
Ballindalloch Castle
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
Flower o’ the Quern
Coilsfield House
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
The Diel’s Awa’
Wat’s a’ the Steer Kimmer
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
The Bonnie Breast Knots
The Streets Where I Lived
Greysteil
More from Paul can be found Here.
Only the one source from today at RSH:
Crookston Castle – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
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Dumbarton Castle, Inverary, Loch Awe, & St Conan’s Kirk
Started by meeting Virginia (Gingers), who was over visiting from the US, at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Clyde street, Glasgow city centre. My phone is perhaps still recovering from the Devil’s Pulpit since the footage I got from within the cathedral was nowhere to be found.
We went off to Dumbarton Castle, where I’ve not been since I was a wean. There were a lot of stairs but the views were worth it. Didn’t make it into the closed off, Wallace Tower, part of the castle, like I wanted, since I was being watched by a volunteer. I think the word’s out about our recent forays into certain restricted sites.
Then it was straight up to Inveraray, where we stopped & made friends at the Inveraray Inn, got to the Jail too late for a tour, & lost Gingers at the Castle – was entirely expecting someone in authority to come & chin us about disturbing the peace by shouting “Gingers” repeatedly around the Duke of Argyll’s estate. Didn’t help that we ended up in a restricted area of the Duke’s garden… She joined us just as we were in the process of calling the police to help us out, having spent the £16.50 to go into the castle for the final 30 mins of its being open. The ticket lassie apparently just didn’t recognise my description.
We went up to Loch Awe and its Hotel in Dalmally. Took a wee wander down on to the railway line & the loch, as well as up around the hotel to see the views, including that of Kilchurn Castle.
Finally it was St. Conan’s Kirk, Lochawe, which was beautiful to stroll around. While Accies & Gingers made it into the kirk by sheer luck, I was elsewhere enjoying the gardens & missed on that bit. We had a good sunset home over Loch Lomond.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
The Streets Where I Lived
Ballindalloch Castle 1
Major Graham
Coilsfield House
Song of the Clyde
Dumbarton Castle
Flower o’ the Quern
Bonnie Breast Knots
Strathearn
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
Scott Skinner’s Compliment to Dr Macdonald
Abel Banks
Auld Robin Gray
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
Major Donald Marches to Harlaw
Rob Donn McKay (Sutherland)
A Man’s a Man
Scots Wha Hae
Greysteil
Pictures & Sources:
St Andrew’s Cathedral, Clyde Street, Glasgow – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
Dumbarton Castle:
Dumbarton Castle – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Dumbarton Castle – ‘Valentine’s Snapshots’ of Glasgow (1901-ish)
Miscellaneous Collected Pictures
R. McAlister, Dumbarton, & Titanic Lifeboats – Blog At The Ballast
Loch Fyne – ‘Domestic Annals of Scotland’ (1885)
Loch Awe – ‘Scotland Illustrated’ (1845)
Kilchurn Castle, Loch Awe – Looking To Glen Orchay – ‘Poetical Works of the Ettrick Shepherd’ (1838)
Jougs:
Jougs and Pirliewinkles – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890)
Reign of Charles the First, 1637-1649 – ‘Domestic Annals of Scotland’ (1885)
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Glen Quaich Excerpt
As per an enthusiastic patron of RSH – I’ve clipped this one piece from our #AcciesTour Out & About video from Creiff, the Hermitage at Dunkeld, & Crannog Centre in Kenmore. This video shows our journey through Glen Quaich as mentioned in the letter excerpt that’s being read.
The full 2 letters, as published in Donald MacLeod’s ‘Gloomy Memories,’ that this spoken excerpt is from, can be read Here.
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Dunfermline Abbey – Linlithgow Palace – Kelpies – Antonine Wall, Falkirk
Began at our furthest away stop of Dunfermline where we caught the Abbey, as much of the Palace as was possible due to its being closed, & Pittencrieff Park with Malcolm Canmore’s Tower – which was apparently off-limits, for no reason I could see, so I bypassed the barrier, as usual. We all got ourselves Historic Scotland memberships up at the Abbey.
Then it was off to Linlithgow Palace. While the grounds & loch were great to walk round, no doubt better when not dreich & raining, we only had an hour and a half until it closed. After a quick wee jaunt round the surroundings I got in before the ticket office closed & got round as much of the castle as possible, though the place was a maze with stairs off stairs & about 5 or 6 floors over a huge area. Got right up to the top but felt it was safer to get back down again without holding my phone as everything was a bit wet & scary slippy.
Then we paid the Kelpies on the Forth & Clyde canal a wee visit. We also tried to catch the Falkirk Wheel, while we were out that way, but the place was closed & with little hope of seeing it in action we headed to our final sight, that of the Antonine Wall. More specifically, the huge ditch defense at Watling Lodge.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
On wi the Tartan
Coilsfield House
The Diel’s Awa
Robert the Bruce Outlaw King
Flower o’ the Quern
Bonnie Breast Knots
Ballindalloch Castle
Abel Banks
Scots Wha Hae
Dumbarton Castle
Major Donald Marches to Harlaw
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
Major Graham
Greysteil
Pictures & Sources:
Dunfermline – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
Dunfermline – ‘Scotland Illustrated’ (1845)
Dunfermline Palace – ‘Scotland Illustrated’ (1845)
Linlithgow – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890)
Antonine’s Wall – ‘History of the Scottish Highlands Contents’ (1875)
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RSH Hallowe’en: Edinburgh Dungeons & Mary King’s Close True Crime
We went to Edinburgh for Hallowe’en shenanigans this year.
Firstly, we visited the Edinburgh Dungeons, which is always a good laugh. Unfortunately, the pitch-black boat ride for the Sawney Bean & family experience wasn’t available, neither was the drop ride for when you’re “hanged.” It was great regardless & the staff cosplayers were fantastic, as always.
We stopped for dinner before heading up to Mary King’s Close for a special Hallowe’en True Crime tour. This was excellent & I took a note of the talking points so I could get into them with you & share some extra tidbits not included in the quick run-throughs we were given while in Edinburgh.
We weren’t allowed to take any pictures or videos during either location &, even though I was considering doing it all sneaky-like, I’d not have been able to put any of the footage in the video due to likely infringement of varying copyrights. I even scanned in all the literature we got, then realised I wasn’t super comfortable using any of it. Also, having gone on 2 day trips in 2 days, both for separate resulting videos, before having to contend with near continuous tech issues, meant I wasn’t able to have enough time available to get into my usual Hallowe’en spirit by dressing up for the occasion. I’m typing this as the thing exports with 4 hours left to go before it’s due to go live, which shows the lack of time I’ve been dealing with.
So, apologies all round, for this one – with the one exception – the kittens. Man, were they noisy throughout this yin! But kittens will kit…
Rob Donn Mckay by the wonderful Paul Burns.
Links for the information throughout:
Sawney Bean & Family – ‘Book of Days’ (1886)
Footnote 13 – ‘Narratives from Criminal Trials in Scotland’ (1852)
Mary King & her Close – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Royal Exchange – Grant’s Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Church of St Giles – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Nor’ Loch – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Nor’ Loch used for Duckings – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Mercat Cross & the executions there – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Demonology – ‘Kelso Chronicle,’ 26th June, 1863
Sketches of Superstition & Geilis Duncan – ‘Chambers’ Edinburgh Journal,’ 18th July, 1840
John Kincaid – ‘Scottish Review,’ 18th October, 1891
Bloody McKenzie & the Covenanters – ‘Chambers’ Edinburgh Journal,’ 2nd May 1835
Thomas Aikenhead the Blasphemer – Chambers’ ‘Domestic Annals of Scotland’ (1885)
James Young Simpson – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Chloroform for Seasickness – ‘Punch’s Almanack,’ 24th October, 1857
Resurrectionists – ‘Book of Days’ (1886)
Burke & Hare – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Major Weir – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Deacon Brodie – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
& his story – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Porteous Mob – Grant’s ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880)
Edinburgh University has Interactive Map for Witch Cases
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Glasgow Cathedral – St Mungo Museum – St Andrew’s Cathedral
RSH patron & joint member of the Accies’ Tours team, Alexis, & I went into Glasgow city centre on a bitterly cold day to explore Glasgow Cathedral, the St Mungo Museum, & aptly, being the day after St Andrew’s Day, St Andrew’s Cathedral. I’ve not been in Glasgow Cathedral since I was about 10 years old when it was compulsory to attend end of term school services there.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
The Streets Where I Lived
Flower o’ the Quern
Rob Donn Mckay (Sutherland)
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
Coilsfield House
Auld Robin Gray
Major Graham
The Bonnie Breast Knots
Abel Banks
Greysteil
Sources:
Glasgow’s Cathedral & City Necropolis
Glasgow Cathedral – ‘Old Glasgow’ (1880)
Bishopric of Glasgow – ‘Sketches of Early Scotch History’ (1861)
Glasgow’s City Necropolis – (Tam McCann)
Glasgow Lithographs – Thomas Fairbairn (1848-50)
Photos of Glasgow – Valentine’s (1901-ish)
‘Royal Scottish Album of Glasgow & the Clyde‘ – (undated)
Collection of Views & Maps of Glasgow – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890)
13th of January St Mungo’s Day – ‘Book of Days’ (1886)
St Mungo & Glasgow – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
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This week we started off at Queen’s View, Auchengillan, before heading out to see what Buchanan Castle had in store for us. Queen’s View had some beautiful views over mist covered fields & hills. I wasn’t able to find Catythirsty Well. If I was to do it again, I’d go down the road until I got a good way to the other side of the hill before cutting into the marsh for the walk back. It was so cold & my shoes had puddles of water in them. I wasn’t prepared.
The next stop, when we finally made it there, was the derelict ruins of Buchanan Castle. As far as I can tell it was built by James Graham, 4th Duke of Montrose (under the 2nd creation of the title), and completed in 1858 after the original caught fire. Montrose sold it in 1925. As a military hospital in WWII, it saw Rudolph Hess spend some time there after parachuting out a plane. He remained imprisoned until his death, in Berlin, at the age of 93. The structure itself seemed fairly sound but there was some amount of wooden supports & beams in danger of falling. I didn’t want to chance the stairs too much but I’m sad I couldn’t see the decorative metal item that seemed to be either attached to the wall or the underside of the spiral stairs above, however, it also looked like, with it where it was, there would’ve not been any way to get around it without moving it. Very strange.
The theme of this one is aimless walking without achieving the goal of the mission, e.g., wandering in the random area next to Queen’s View, attempting to find Catythirsty Well, & the initial search for Buchanan Castle. I think it was all worth it.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Abel Banks
Flower o’ the Quern
Jenny’s Bawbee
Braes of Killiecrankie
Strathearn
Coilsfield House
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
Diel’s Awa’
Major Graham
Greysteil
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New Lanark & the Falls of Clyde
Revisited New Lanark, where we were for one of our early tours (Clyde Valley Day Oot – https://youtu.be/BLdXP9PI7m0), but this time it was Christmas, which actually only made it kind of a weird experience, & we got in about the housing, mill, & school buildings. Haven’t been within this property for 30 years, having gone on a school trip. We started in the main mill building and went on the Annie McLeod Experience, but, again, it was a weird mix of Christmas and the harsh realities of mill life in the 19th Century. I’ve tried to crop out as much of the unnecessary as possible but felt the AME should be kept in full. There are a lot of varying signs & boards with information throughout. I didn’t want to add extra time to the video for those not into the read, but I’ve hopefully paused long enough at each that pausing should allow for a comfy intake of the information at hand.
Then it was a wee jaunt up the Falls of Clyde, this time with no tourists & children racing about, starting at the Dunduff Linn and ending at the Corra Linn. Had it not been so cold, while being short on time and light, due to it being the day after the Winter Solstice, I’d have made it all the way to the Bonnington Linn. It’s a good excuse for a follow up tour to the other side of the River Clyde in this area.
Then it was back to the mill area itself, only I didn’t pass Saskia on the return journey. I was pretty sure she’d not have missed the chance to see the Falls having made a start. Was messaged a wee while after my return by my fellow adventurer; “I think I’ve taen a wrong turn. Am on a footpath wi moose all round me.” What does a person do with that information?! Anyways, we managed to make contact after she found her way back. Quick stop for a coffee & bite.
Next stop was the School Building. I had found a christmas cracker on my return from the Falls & handed it in to the guy at reception. I didn’t want to film him but he was dolled up as a professor in black graduation mortarboard. Upstairs was the classroom, and a huge room split up into parts & devoted to information on living conditions through the eras at new Lanark.
To finish we went to check out the Workers’ House. It was very similar to the Tenement Flat that’s been preserved to the west of Glasgow city centre. It was a good way to round off the day. Wee bit of a fright when I walked past a doorway to find a wee boy standing at a cludgie – he was a model so he didn’t mind.
When we came out the sky was there to surprise us with something called nacreous “mother of pearl” clouds. A huge part of the sky was rainbow. It was in the shape of a cartoon villain’s eye, stretched out with very pale blue greens in the centre going out to yellows, oranges, reds, pinks, purples & blues. It looked like a film of oil on water & I’m so sad my camera wasn’t for picking it up as bright and obvious as it was to the naked eye.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Lament For Death of 2nd Wife
Hey Tutti Tatti
Flower O’ The Quern
The Bonnie Breast Knots
Auld Robin Gray
Coilsfield House
Major Graham
Dumbarton Castle
Song of the Clyde
Rob Donn Mckay (Sutherland)
The Braes O Killicrankie
Scott Skinners Compliments to Dr Macdonald
A Man’s A Man
Scots Wha Hae
Abel Banks
Farewell to Whiskey (1799)
Major Donald Marches To Harlaw
Pibroch O’ Donuil Dhu
Ballindaloch Castle
Good Night an Joy be Wi Ye All
Greysteil
Other Pictures & Sources:
New Lanark – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
David Dale & Robert Owen (Partners in the Founding of New Lanark) – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890)
Lanark – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
Fall of Corehouse (Corra Lyn) – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Bonnington Lyn – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Fall of Stonebyres – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Mauchline Ware Box & Books (Show & Tell)
Related Video – Clyde Valley Day Oot
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Corehouse – Corra Castle & Linn – Bonnington Linn
We were out to the opposite side of the River Clyde from New Lanark, where we were for our last, Christmas, tour, (New Lanark & the Falls of Clyde – • New Lanark & the Falls of Clyde ) as well as earlier last year (Clyde Valley Day Oot – • Clyde Valley Day Oot ). This wee jaunt was done on January 2nd & we assumed it would be fairly quiet, what with folk recovering still from New Years, but there were a good amount of people out taking in the scenery.
First we took a wee walk down to Corehouse, the seat of clan Cranstoun. I could only get a good view of it by sneaking down past a sign suggesting visitors weren’t welcome. En route there there was plenty of interesting wee finds. There was some kind of ruined building, possibly a summerhouse or something to do with a vineyard previously located there. Only considering the latter option as a possibility due to ruins a wee bit further on which another visitor had suggested might be a stove house related to a vineyard that would’ve been nearby. On checking, however, stove houses seem to have been used to dry out salt blocks. So, I’m still not sure what it was we came across there.
On returning to the path there were a few wee side paths that took my fancy &, in going down one, I came across what looked like a wee monument, sundial, or similar, that had nice carvings on it, what I could see uncovered by moss. There was a wee waterfall under a bridge nearby, along with a bridge that didn’t look safe to cross but took my weight fine. Then it was back out to complete the final leg of that particular path to Corehouse itself.
Went back on ourselves to a wee junction we’d bypassed initially, which took us to a nice wee trail sign showing that Corra Linn, which we saw from the other side during the New Lanark & Falls of Clyde trip, was to our left with the Bonnington Linn, which we didn’t manage to make it to from the other side, was to our right. Accies decided he was heading up to the Bonnington Linn, so we parted with a view to my catching up with him after getting a view of Corra Linn.
First, I came to Corra Castle, which is a ruin with a locked door that even I couldn’t have got past. Next, went down to the Corra Linn & it was beautiful. A real force of nature and I would’ve hung around longer had there been somewhere dry to sit & had been in no hurry to catch back up with Accies.
It was quite the wee walk to get to Bonnington Linn. I had taken the smaller path that ran alongside the River Clyde, but knowing Accies had taken the upper path, I kept checking to see if I could see him through the trees & nature as I went. I didn’t notice him at all & was pretty surprised when I got to the destination only to find he wasn’t there. The falls themselves were something else. Something of a 2-in-1 waterfall, with a smaller 3rd fall to the right side. Just gorgeous. On a warm summer day you could hang out here for some amount of time. I didn’t want to pester the wee man sat having his lunch there, so, after getting the footage I tried to set about finding out what had happened tae my partner in tours. Well, he never made it to Bonnington, for reasons I go into on the video. Definitely happy I did this trip, despite the rain, cold, mud, &c., it made for an excellent wee day out.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Flower o’ the Quern
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
The Braes of Killiecrankie
Abel Banks
Coilsfield House
Greysteil
Pictures & Sources:
Fall of Corehouse (Corra Lyn) – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Bonnington Lyn – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Corehouse – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Remains of Stove House (Vinery) at Corehouse (not RSH affiliated media)
Related Videos: Clyde Valley Day Oot – • Clyde Valley Day Oot
New Lanark & the Falls of Clyde – • New Lanark & the Falls of Clyde
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Tenement House & Gallery of Modern Art
Yesterday, for St Mungo’s Day, RSH patron & joint member of the Accies’ Tours team, Alexis, & I went into Glasgow city centre on a another winter day to explore the Tenement House, Buccleuch Street. We stopped for a bite to eat at the Rennie Mackintosh Willow Tearooms, Sauchiehall Street, before finishing our day at the Gallery of Modern Art, Queen Street.
En route to Central Station to get our respective trains home, we went via Mitchell Street, to see old shop signs & one of the lesser known murals, & going part of the way across the Jamaica Bridge to catch the sunset over the River Clyde.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
The Streets Where I Lived
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
The Bonnie Breast Knots
Flower o’ the Quern
Coilsfield House
Scots Wha Hae
Abel Banks
Song of the Clyde
Greysteil
Sources:
Valentine’s Photos of Glasgow (1901-ish)
‘Royal Scottish Album of Glasgow & the Clyde‘ (Undated)
A MacGeorge’s ‘Old Glasgow’ (1880) [Scans]
A MacGeorge’s ‘Old Glasgow’ (1880) [Contents]
‘Memorial Catalogue of the Old Glasgow Exhibition 1894’ (1896) [Scans]
‘Memorial Catalogue of the Old Glasgow Exhibition 1894’ (1896) [Contents]
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Rosslyn Chapel & Castle
This time we took in Rosslyn Chapel, to begin with, & wow is there a LOT to see. reading about the place doesn’t do it nearly enough justice. It’s one of those places that has to be seen to be believed. The sheer amount of effort, time, & thought that’s gone into the creation of the chapel is genuinely astounding. Alexis & I were lucky enough to run into a gentleman, on our first approach to the chapel, who was happy to take some time out of his day to show us around some of the highlights from around the periphery of the structure, which we were super grateful to him for.
Unfortunately, there were complete prohibitions against the taking of photos & videos within the chapel, with a surprising number of staff to ensure those guidelines were adhered to. I don’t enjoy being told I’m unable to do a thing. If it’s at all possible, I will chance a thing, as you may have noticed from prior outings on our tours.
Then it was a wee walk down to the castle. Though, as per usual, I meandered off myself to see what lay down some paths I happened upon. The castle was completely off limits with workmen everywhere. No wee sneaky entries into the site that I saw. We’ll be back in May for its grand opening, with any luck.
I apologise for the sudden end to the video. I like to have a wee something to end with but I was actually feeling pretty rotten while we were out, despite my insisting on going off on something of a hike. By the end I was totally gubbed & spent the whole journey back to Glasgow feeling like I was on the verge of passing out or being sick, so I’m sorry there wasn’t a better ending to this particular tour. It ended up being quite long, considering we only visited the two sites.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
Coilsfield House
Flower o’ the Quern
Bonnie Breast Knots
Greysteil
Pictures & Sources:
Rosslyn Chapel – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
Rosslyn Chapel – ‘Scotland Illustrated (1845)
Roslin Glen & Castle – ‘Scotland Illustrated’ (1845)
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Culzean Castle
This week we had a wee run down to Culzean Castle & the adjoining extensive grounds. It was an absolutely gorgeous place to have had the opportunity to visit. The carpark is over by the Culzean Country Park Visitor Centre, where we start our journey to the castle itself. There’s a great wee cafe for a bite & a drink to give us the energy needed for our jaunt.
The first stop, thereafter, was the Home Farm Second Hand Bookshop – who accept donations, which I didn’t realise or I would have really been able to help them out some (not with any of those pre-20thC publications in the RSH archive, of course). I was able to make the wee shop assistants day by buying up the biggest purchase she’d ever been witness to; a 2-volume set of an 1860 illustrated bible, that’s huge & has over 900 engravings within. It was an absolute steal at the price, too, though I think she was on the verge of allowing me to haggle.
Then it was the Gas House with the Kraken-topped plastics bin. It was really clever the way the household obtained gas for themselves back in the day. Once again I ended up with soggy socks, but definitely worth it. There’s a windy path that takes you down to the edifices there but also a more direct route via stairs.
Finally we made it to the castle itself. It was closed, so we couldn’t get inside for a look but it’s so huge & an absolutely incredible building. That gardens were fantastic & littered with canons, a fountain, & plenty of wildlife. The viaduct path we took away from the castle offered the opportunity for some excellent vantage points & sights. Hopefully we’ll get back when we can have a wee look at the interior.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Jenny’s Bawbee
Strathearn
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
Abel Banks
Ballindalloch Castle
Major Donald Marches to Harlaw
Coilsfield House
Flower o’ the Quern
Bonnie Breast Knots
Song of the Clyde
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Major Graham
Greysteil
Sources & Picture:
Colzean Castle – ‘Select Views on the River Clyde’ (1830)
Colzean Castle – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
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Stonehaven Viaduct & Return tae Chatelherault
We began this week’s tour by heading up to Larkhall to check out the Stonehaven Viaduct from the high up location of the Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park, which had an excellent playground that Alexis & myself had to check out, since we’re all forever weans at heart.
On the way out we saw a wee set-up of some sheep made of wire with signs around them – turns out it was the lyrics of the Song of the Clyde, which our wonderful fiddler extraordinaire, Paul Burns, had already provided us a copy of for one of the first videos, Helensburgh, I believe. So, there’s a chance for a wee sing-along during this yin.
Then it was back to Chatelherault Country Park to get a better view of the Duke’s Bridge and Cadzow Castle, which I ended up too feart tae attempt entry intae. It could definitely have been done, but the danger of falling down the ravine to my death was too a likely an outcome for me to gie it a go.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
On wi’ the Tartan
Battle of Harlaw
Ballindalloch Castle
Song of the Clyde
Farewell to Whisky
Abel Banks
Greysteil
Sources:
Hamilton; Cadzow Castle, Avon Water, Chatelherault, & Dukes of Hamilton – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
The Cadzow Cows – ‘Domestic Annals’ (1885)
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St Bride’s Church, Wanlockhead, Morton Castle
This week we started our tour at St Bride’s Church, Douglas, where the Black Douglas, a Scottish hero & devout follower of Robert Bruce during Scotland’s late 13th/early 14th century wars of Independence, was buried. It was a beautiful day for a walk around its graveyard. Unfortunately the church itself is under renovation and we weren’t able to get inside for a good look.
Then it was up to Scotland’s highest village at over 400 meters above sea level. The pub was closed, as was the mining museum. That’s what we get for going on a Monday when it was guaranteed to be quiet, out of season. An absolutely beautiful place to have a wander around with wee burns all over the place & some fantastic views.
Finally we made it up some dirt track farm roads to get to Morton Castle. More gorgeous scenery with Loch Morton framing the castle ruins. This site was also off limits due to having been fenced in for fear of falling masonry getting some unsuspecting explorers. As usual it didn’t prevent me from making an informed decision to not get smacked on the head by any falling blocks of stone & I squeezed through a wee gap to have a good look inside the place. I was sad there weren’t any remaining stairs in order to get up high for a good panoramic look at the grounds it’s set in, but it was worth it for what I did get to see.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Strathearn
Major Graham
Scots Wha Hae
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
The Streets Where I Lived
Bonnie Breast Knots
Abel Banks
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
Greysteil
Sources:
Black Douglas Anecdote – ‘Kelso Chronicle’ (1863)
St Bride’s Church – ‘Scots Lore’ (1895)
Gold in Wanlockhead – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890)
Wanlockhead (1561-2) – ‘Domestic Annals’ (1885)
Leadhills & Wanlockhead – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
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Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall, Moffat
We went for an impromptu evening out at the Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall outside Moffat. Definitely not dressed for it but the attempt was made. It was a very steep climb up uneven stone stairs to get closer to the waterfall itself. I’m happy with where I got to. Not entirely sure I’d do it again…
Sun set on the way home which was a nice end to the evening.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Coilsfield House
Rob Donn McKay
Auld Robin Gray
Greysteil
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Inverary Pt 2, St Conan’s Kirk, & Glen Etive
A quick wee stop in Arrochar, at the head of Loch Long, was followed by arriving in Inverary. We’d been here before, in September of last year, but after spending a lot of time exploring Dumbarton Castle, we didn’t have time to get around the Jail, All Saint’s Church, or the Bell Tower, as they were closed. This time around we got in about it all. The church is gorgeous with a super creepy picture of Jesus within, a print by Gabriel Cornelius Ritter von Max. The Bell Tower requires a certain level of fitness that I don’t think we qualified for but we made it to the top to catch the views across Loch Fyne. There was the bell room to have a look at and the ringers’ room with a wee video about them in action, too. The Jail is a larger compound than I had expected, with 3 buildings to get in about comprising the old and new jails. There was a lot to see and you may have to pause the video occasionally to read any plaques or notices of interest, if you’re wanting to read all about it, as you go.
Then out to St Conan’s Kirk we went. I hadn’t gained entry the first time around, which was fine as there was so much to the outside of it that was stunning; both the surrounds and architecture. This time around I get to show you the inside of it. Anyone not having seen the outside, I’m afraid I didn’t capture nearly so much of it as last time but the video uploaded in September will fill that in for you (Dumbarton Castle, Inverary, Loch Awe, & St Conan’s Kirk). We met the friendliest wee black kitten there who ran over to us meowing for strokes. I was sad I’d not brought anything by way of treats for him.
We then wheeched ourselves off to Glen Etive, which was just beautiful. I captured some amount of wildlife while out there; Stag, deer, tadpoles, minnows, &c. Just fantastic to get in about Scotland’s wild nature.
There was so much excellent scenery as we were driving to each place that I wanted to let you enjoy it fully, but with it ending up such a long video, in comparison with those put out previously, I felt I had to speed those bits up a wee bit in an attempt to shorten the viewing time some for you.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
On wi the Tartan
Bonnie Breast Knots
Major Graham
Sir James the Ross
Major Donald Marches to Harlaw
Rob Donn McKay (Sutherland)
Coilsfield House
Flower o the Quern
Greysteil
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Glencoe, Glenfinnan, Arisaig, & Mallaig
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Auld Robin Gray
The Bonnie Breast Knots
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
The Streets Where I Lived
Rob Donn McKay (Sutherland)
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
Greysteil
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Getting to Inverness & Culloden
Day one of our Inverness trip mainly consisted of getting there but we had time to get in about Culloden Battlefield. I had recorded a tour we were given but the wind was just too much to really catch what was being said. Much was missed. It was said Scots wanted to put Charlie on the throne but failed to mention that it was due to them feeling as though he was the means to ending the fairly recent union with England, which had failed by 4 votes in the House of Lords in 1713, quickly followed by the 1715 rebellion with Charles’ dad James. Seemed like the tour was really a synopsis for Outlander fans. It was interesting to find that all the grave markers, placed a century afterwards, were wrongly assigned & placed.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Jacobean Medleys
Greysteil
Sources:
Inverness – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
Culloden – Varying sources.
Battle of Culloden & it’s Aftereffects (Podcast)
Duke of Cumberland – ‘Tales of the Highlands’ (1881), Cruelty of the Duke of Cumberland after the Battle of Culloden
Jacobites – ‘Scottish National Memorials’ (1890), The Jacobite Period
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Auchendoune Castle, Ballindalloch Gatehouse, Clava Cairns, & Ardclach Tower and Kirkyard
For our second day we thought we’d check out Auchendoune Castle but it was closed. It was far off in the middle of a field and due to it being freezing & raining, we opted to catch it from the furthest point we could reach. Would want to go back to explore this ruin on a drier day. Ballindalloch Castle was also closed but as we were passing its Gatehouse anyway, we popped by to see that and get down to the river by it. We went on to then visit the Clava Cairns and standing stones. More Outlander fans getting there phiotos taken there. I found it strange that, despite it being a gravesite, there were picnic tables set up nearby. It was very peaceful despite the amount of people there. Then we finished our day at Ardclach Bell Tower and it’s Kirk which made for a very serene wander through the kirkyard.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
The Streets Where I Lived
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Lament for Death of 2nd Wife
Auld Robin Gray (Slow)
Abel Banks
Greysteil
Sources:
Ballindalloch Castle – Guest Photos
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Fort George, Nairn, Chanonry Point, & Craig Castle
We started our third day with Fort George, which is an active, extensive, barracks. There was a lot to see and I’d like to get back to see the rest of it. Then a wee stop at Nairn Beach and Harbour where there was the really good Wallace Bandstand. A wee bit away from this was an excellently realised memorial to the town’s fisherwomen of past eras. Next a quick wee stop was had at Chanonry Point to see if we could spot some dolphins but it was so cold that we baled out pretty quickly. To end the day we chanced a visit to the 16th century Craig Castle, as out of the way as Auchendoune Castle had been the day before, and it was great. Although difficult to get to and fenced off, said fence had a gate so it could actually be accessed which was a nice surprise and saved me a break in attempt to get a good look at it.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Major Donald Marches to Harlaw
Major Graham
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Jacobean Medley
The Streets Where I Lived
Flower o’ the Quern
Scots Wha Hae
Coilsfield House
Greysteil
Sources:
Fort George – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847), Inverness
Nairn – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847), Nairn
Witchcraft in Nairn – ‘Narratives from Criminal Trials’ (1852), Trials for Witchcraft
Chanonry – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847), Fortrose
The Black Isle – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847), Ardmeanach
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Injured, Raigmore Hospital, & Going Home – Wee Bit Graphic to Start
Trigger Warning – 2 unpleasant photos at the start – there is a beep when they’re no longer on screen or you can skip to 40secs in.
Our fourth day began with a faulty kettle leading to boiling water scalding my right foot from sole to above my ankle, which led to a sudden reaction by myself that led to the water also splashing my left thigh. At which point I through the thing behind me on the floor so I could strip off my sock & PJ bottoms that were holding the hot water against my skin. There was no plug in the sink to be able to fill it with cold water and steep the main wound to my foot, so I had to use the shower which did quite a lot to strip off skin prior to being able to sort myself out for a trip to Raigmore hospital. All very unpleasant. This video is, for the most part, travel scenes from our trip back towards Glasgow.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Wat’s a’ the Steer Kimmer
The Braes o’ Killicrankie
Strathearn
Ballindalloch Castle
Auld Robin Gray
Song of the Clyde
Greysteil
Sources:
Inverness – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847), Inverness
Well of the Seven Heads – ‘Scotsman’ (11th January, 2016)
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Stirling pt. 1
In Stirling, a day after returning from Inverness with the scalding injury. There would, obviously have been more pictures & far more video were I able bodied, but I was limping about on crutches while out and about for this trip. The Wallace Monument was obviously on the list to be seen but it was infeasible with my injuries. In lieu of getting a good up close view of it I tried to get very many views from as close as we could get.
Day one consisted of getting settled in to the Stirling Highland Hotel. Getting used to the idea that the next few days would mainly consist of hills. The hotel had been a High School, built in 1888, and was a fantastic building. Not sure why I didn’t get more pictures of inside. I think most of my efforts were on getting to and from places.
Day two had us getting out to see what was on offer to get in about. Stirling is great for having signs telling you the history of most places. We popped into Cowanes Hospital Trust, established in 1637, where we learn a wee bit about the merchants of the old town, with a focus on John Cowane and his altruistic use of the funds at his disposal.
Then we had a wee wander through the Old Town Kirkyard, where we saw some excellent memorials, including Maggie Wilson’s, which was enclosed in a glass case. She was drowned in punishment as a Covenanter who was set on maintaining her Protestant faith. The highest parts of the graveyard overlooked the event space which was being prepared for Shania Twain, who apparently played there, by Stirling Castle, during our stay.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Strathearn
Abel Banks
Pibroch o’ Donuil Dhu
A Keltic Lament
Coilsfield House
Greysteil
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Stirling pt. 2
For our third day, we made our way up to Stirling Castle. Not super easy to get round if you’ve mobility issues. A wee scooter or something would have been great but still so much that would’ve been missed out on. At least I was able to get myself up stairs to get a good view of the place. Also, a few more perspectives of the Wallace Monument. I tried to get a good bit of the guides in mediaeval clothing talking but, despite being a Wednesday, it was the start of July & the place was mobbed with folk. The children screaming about the place & general chatter made it quite difficult to get clear recordings. I’ll need to consider a better way to record audio when in busier or more echoey places.
After a quick stop back at the hotel, we got into Stirling’s Jail. I have a recording of our tour but nothing I could do resolved the muffled result enough to make it easily audible. I’m sorry. It was super interesting. Well worth the visit. The views from the upper walkway were incredible. The guides were a really good laugh, too. Lots of interactive elements to keep you busy for a while.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Mhello Waltz
Ballindalloch Castle
Major Donald Marches to Harlaw
Flower o’ the Quern
Major Graham
Abel Banks
Greysteil
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Edinburgh Highlights
To end the mini tour of Scotland (Inverness, Stirling, & Edinburgh) we took in a wee bit of our country’s capital city. The mix of contemporary with structures as old as the 16th century is amazing to see. James Grant bemoans the loss of “Old Edinburgh,” in his 1880 publication, and the stately edifices that once graced the wynds & closes, and in traversing the city you can get a taste of what was lost.
Of course we had something of a tour of the old city on our Accies Tour of the Edinburgh Dungeons and Mary King’s Close back in October last year for our Hallowe’en episode – (RSH Hallowe’en: Edinburgh Dungeons & Mary King’s Close True Crime Tour).
Of course, I was still injured, and in pushing myself to get about as much as possible, I managed to get myself a wee infection, meaning we had to leave a day & a half early. Having to wear a slipper out in the rain, and with many of the puddles being unavoidable, I wasn’t doing myself any favours. I can be something of a daftie when there’s footage tae be obtained.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Coilsfield House
A Keltic Lament
Scots Wha Hae
Major Graham
The Bonnie Breast Knots
Hey Tutti Tatti
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Greysteil
Sources:
James Grant, ‘Old & New Edinburgh’ (1880);
Boyd’s Entry & White Horse Close
Chalmer’s Close & Carrubber’s Close
Canongate Kirkyard & Moray House
Nelson’s Monument & Martyrs of Reform Monument
Cowgate – Chapter 31 & Chapter 32
Carrubber’s Close – Chapter 27 & Chapter 31
Edinburgh Castle – Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, & Chapter 7
Alan Ramsay – Chapter 16 & Tea-Table Miscellany
Burns & Fergusson – ‘Anecdotes of Burns’ (1893)
Scott Monument – ‘Scenery & Songs of Scotland’ (1853)
Views of Edinburgh (1884)
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RSH Drone Finally in Action
Took a wee bit of getting used to but really looking forward tae getting it up on an Oot & Aboot tour.
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Falkirk Wheel, Dunblane Cathedral, & Doune Castle
This week we started our tour at the Falkirk Wheel, which we missed when we were last up that way checking out the Kelpies – where there was quite a lot set up for you to have a bit of fun in the water. Lots to keep the weans busy.
Then it was off to Dunblane Cathedral, which was beautiful. The pictish stones were good, as was the extensive wood carvings. There were a few signs that alluded to the Reformation having been to blame for the opposite side of the Cathedral’s chancel losing it’s roof and windows. The guide also pointed out why this was strange since the Reformationists tended to opt for the particularly religious aspects to destroy. This would seem to be due to the Morton men, instead, being to blame for its dilapidation, as they took the roof and windows to make use of the wooden beams & lead for battles. Which would explain why only the least religious and important aspects of the cathedral were targeted for resources. I didn’t see any mention of this as an alternate history from the Reformationists being at fault. Nice to see the Drummond sisters’ burial site in person. Shame there was no access to the bell tower.
Finally we ended our jaunt at Doune Castle, which had a starring role in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The shop even sold pairs of coconut shells (not super cheaply).
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Scott Skinner’s Compliments to Dr Macdonald
Hey Tutti Tatti
Bonnie Breast Knots
Coilsfield House
A Keltic Lament
Abel Banks
Scots Wha Hae
Farewell to Whisky
Greysteil
Sources:
The Falkirk Wheel connects the Forth and Clyde canal – ‘Gazetteer of Scotland‘ (1847)
Union canal – ‘Old & New Edinburgh‘ (1880)
Dunblane Cathedral;
Drummond Sisters – ‘Heroines of Scotland‘ (1889)
Morton’s Men Take the Roof – (about halfway down this article) – ‘Reminiscences of Scottish Life and Character’ (1861)
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Accies’ Tours Becomes Accies’ Jalopy Jaunts
Arbroath Abbey, Declaration Memorial, Carlungie Earth House, &c.
RSH is pleased to partner with what was formerly Accies Tours, and is now AcciesMadz Wee Jalopy Jaunts (tae give it it’s full title), to get out and about while getting ourselves informed about the random wee beauties our country has to offer.
We’re down by 1 member and up by 4 cameras with footage of some behind the scenes shenanigans. Staying until after the end credits for outtakes is an option if you enjoy watching what we get up to.
We decided Arbroath Abbey would be the perfect first proper jaunt being the place where Scotland’s nationhood was initially really cemented in 1306, with King Robert Bruce’s Declaration of Arbroath, affirming our independence from the rest of the island. There was so much to see and do at this location, including playing dress up, if you feel so inclined.
Then it was a quick stop off at the Declaration of Arbroath Memorial statue as we left the town, en route to the Carlungie Earth House, which we found in the middle of a operational field.
We finally made two quick stops, firstly to see Powrie Castle – but we weren’t able to see a valid public way into this – and lastly at Mains Castle, which was a fantastic building, now housing a function suite. We couldn’t have guessed at this due to there being no signs advertising said suite. The city council has prevented them, for whatever reason, from announcing their presence in this way and it was only by having a sneaky peek that we realised.
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Stirling, Aberfoyle, & Wallace Monument
We headed back to Stirling, now that my scald wounds are healed, to do what we couldn’t back at the start of July.
It was raining so much on the Sunday when we got to Stirling, so there wasn’t much done that evening by way of sightseeing but we did make an attempt.
On Monday morning we were out of the hotel by 8am so we could get to the station to catch a bus out to Aberfoyle for a 9:30am appointment with Scotland’s longest zip slide hosted by the Go Ape team. It was quite the uphill hike just to get up to the start, then more of an uphill hike to get on the 2nd zip slide to get back to base. Quite the cardiac workout!
We got back to Aberfoyle Tourist Information – where we were to meet the bus back to Stirling, but were 10mins too late with the next being 2hrs later. So, we bided some time in the Scottish Wool Centre – which I was disappointed to find doesn’t sell wool, but only finished items – watched some sheep, goats, ducks, & crows frolick. Then we went for a walk and found an excellent wee bridge over the river Forth. The bus arrived to take us back to Stirling.
We had a quick bite of lunch, then it was off to the Wallace Monument, which I absolutely could not have visited while on crutches last time we were in the area. We had more of an uphill hike to get to the base of the tower. Then it was ALL the stairs to get to the top. The views made it all so worth it.
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A Wander Through the Woods – Gilbertfield, Bothwell, & Calderglen
Wee bit of a different format for this wee wander through a Scottish forest, for reasons…
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Slains & Glamis Castles
Being Hallowe’en it seemed a good idea to head up to Scotland’s “Dracula Castle,” Slains Castle, Cruden Bay. Bram Stoker had seemingly used it for his portrayal of Dracula’s abode, while there writing the novel, in 1895. The remaining structure is immense and fantastic to get a wander around. So sad it was just left to ruin after being stripped of everything it was worth. It would have made, and could still likely make, a great venue for varying events.
We then popped into Glamis castle, that made famous world-wide by Shakespeare in his ‘Macbeth.’ Didn’t get a chance to catch up with the three witches and their Hallowe’en evening tour wasn’t available on the Monday we were there. I have offered as much as I can remember from the tour, being forbidden from recording, filming, or photographing, any of what I was shown.
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Pt. 1 Lochmaben & Tortherwald Castles
This jaunt was taken on the Friday before Hallowe’en. We actually got in about Lochmaben, Torthorwald, & Caerlaverock castles, along with Sweetheart Abbey, but the full day out made for a 2 hour long video, so, you’ll be getting this day out as a 2-parter. It’s edit and upload were delayed due to the Slains & Glamis Castles trip, done the Monday after, being more fitting for a Hallowe’eny video.
I was only able to get into the one, more dilapidated and overgrown, part of Lochmaben Castle. The other side has the grass cut and was better kept but there were no easy means of entry. I went for a wee bit of a walk through the woodlands between the castle & the loch.
Then we drove into the town of Lochmaben, making a wee pit stop at the Old Cemetery. Very overgrown and some interesting stylistic choices on many of the headstones.
It was then over to Torthorwald castle. I didn’t know what I was expecting but a mud-slidey equine adventure was not it. I wasn’t entirely certain that there’d be any easy way to get to the ruins themselves. The wall opposite where we parked up looked to be a possibility but on further inspection the jaggy nettles and overgrowth made it infeasible. Accies suggested I walk round to where there was a gate. Said gate had a sign warning against the possibility of being bitten by horses. It wasn’t wrong but the payoff was getting in about the place.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Flower o’ the Quern
Abel Banks
Greysteil
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Pt. 2 Caerlaverock Castle & Sweetheart Abbey
This jaunt was taken on the Friday before Hallowe’en.
We actually got in about Lochmaben, Torthorwald, & Caerlaverock castles, along with Sweetheart Abbey, but the full day out made for a 2 hour long video, so, you’ll be getting this day out as a 2-parter. Its edit and upload were delayed due to the Slains & Glamis Castles trip, done the Monday after, being more fitting for a Hallowe’eny video.
Caerlaverock castle was far more of a place than I expected. Shame we didn’t get it to ourselves but you can fair get around the place. Another of those where you can get right up to the top to catch some views. I don’t believe we’ve encountered another castle accompanied by a moat in our Oot & Aboot jaunts, thus far. Hoping to return once the renovations are complete so we can get into the other side of this excellent building. Also, no biting horses here, which is now a must-have requirement for locations…
Then it was on to Sweetheart Abbey. I first learned about Sweetheart Abbey from ‘Scots Lore‘ (1895) – the first publication I uploaded in full to RSH.scot. I got a few of my details wrong in my attempt to recollect the information, such as; Dervorgilla (patron of the abbey) was not a queen, but she was mother to John Baliol, sometime king of Scots, it was also built in the 13th, rather than the 14th, century. Expansive building and, with seemingly most of the places we get to, it would be nice for renovations & safety to be dealt with in order that we might get in about them without all of the scaffolding & security fencing. Would also mean less necessity to break & enter on my part…
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Coilsfield House
Scots Wha Hae
Greysteil
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A Condensed History of the Mitchell Library
We went on a night time tour of the Mitchell Library and I had filmed as much of it as possible, while my phone was set on denying me that luxury. We did it, however, with a LOT of help from the National Library of Scotland and their archives. I hope you enjoy this short wee history of the Mitchell Library.
If you like a good map, I hope not to disappoint, having chosen from a variety of very different options.
Sources:
National Library of Scotland; Maps
Mitchell Library; St Andrew’s Halls Fire
Glasgow Story; Mitchell Library’s Relocations
‘Municipal Glasgow its Evolution and Enterprises,’ issued by the Corporation of the City of Glasgow 1914, Reprinted, 1915, pp.82-6. ‘New Library World,’ vol. 14, no. 5, pp.128-160.
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Glencoe Mountain Resort & Chairlift
For our first outing of the year we thought we’d attempt to catch Glencoe under snow – *Spoiler* there was nae snow, as is pointed out numerous times throughout… Accies gives his determination as to why.
The scenery was gorgeous and we were blessed with dry crisp weather and beautiful skies. This is a return to Glencoe for us and part 2 to This Section of our Glencoe, Glenfinnan, Arisaig, & Mallaig outing.
The chairlift was freaky but provided exceptional views of the area. Lots of nervous laughter on the go, as Accies shifted about & jiggled the whole thing every time he put his hands in his pockets. Going past the supporting pillars made everything vibrate and the pauses in service didn’t help. Would do it again, maybe on ma todd…
Music in this yin by the wonderful Paul, whose renditions of auld musical offerings for RSH can be found Here.
Strathearn
Robb Donn McKay
Battle of Harlaw
Major Graham
Greysteil
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Kelso & Dryburgh Abbeys
We headed down to the Scottish Borders to see if we could get in about any of the 4 main abbeys there; Melrose, Dryburgh, Jedburgh, & Kelso.
We started with Kelso, which was fenced off and too public to get in about. This made it quite quick to get around for a view.
We were going to head down to Jedburgh but wasn’t sure if we’d have time for a 3rd if we went out the way to it, so decided on Dryburgh, en route to Melrose.
Dryburgh had so much to see and took so much time to get around that we ended our day with it. Accies was super proud of himself for getting up one of the towers to get a view, which he should be. I couldn’t force myself to get up there. Not only was it really claustrophobic, but the wee spiral steps were so wee that you couldn’t even put a whole foot on one, so I opted out, having got as high as I was able. Fortunately Accies has provided us with his footage, so you’re not missing out.
Music throughout by the wonderful Paul Burns:
Abel Banks
Bonnie Breast Knots
A Keltic Lament
Coilsfield House
Rob Donn McKay
You certainly had a busy real. What a fascinating and beautiful place Scotland is. Thanks for sharing😊