This morning began with amazing skies, and I couldn't resist taking a couple of photos prior to our heading out for today's gallivanting adventure.
The sun had just risen
and was reflecting off of the white buildings.
Isn't it lovely? Great way to begin the day, for sure!
Our first destination was Blackness Castle, which is just a bit west of here and sits on the Firth of Forth. I have always wanted to visit this castle, but never seemed to be able to fit it into our schedule on past trips to Scotland.
This castle was first built as a residence for the Crichton family and was originally a port for the royal burgh of Linlithgow. In 1453, it became a castle. King James V transformed Blackness castle into an artillery fortification. In later years, it became a prison under Charles II and James II both of who imprisoned many Covenanters.
I was amazed to see how well preserved this bulwark continues to be. Walking around the grounds, one could easily imagine how it served its purpose in the 16th century.
Located out on the Firth, it would have been easy to spot any potential invaders. And, because of that location, it made for an excellent vantage point for enjoying the vistas.
The weather could not be more perfect for viewing the three bridges in the distance
and the town of Blackness
Here we are at the top of the tower
and, again, on the spot that juts out over the water.
When we first arrived, we were kind of confused by a group of four women, who were posing on their black peugeot, with the castle in the background. In fact, one asked Amy if she would take their photograph, at which point, all of them hoisted themselves up on the side doors, and stuck their arms in the air while Amy took the photo.
As we were walking through the castle, I soon was able to solve the mystery behind their enthusiasm, and let me just say, it had nothing to do with King James V or Oliver Cromwell.
Apparently a scene from the recent series, Outlander, was filmed at this location. That became obvious when a couple was touring with a guide, dressed in a kilt, and they were commenting on how they hadn't seen Jamie or Clair.
When we were in the ticket office, prior to leaving, I spotted a poster that showed all of the various locations where some of the show had been filmed. I was amazed to see that Marty and I had seen most of them, (and there had to be at least a dozen mentioned), all prior to the filming.
Each one of the venues had been fascinating to tour, but now I fear that they are being inundated by tourists fascinated with the show. Even the proprietor of the B&B where we are staying told us that she has been booked with Canadian and American women, all coming in small groups, to take Outlander tours.
Now, that is fabulous for the local economy, I'll admit. But I began to fear that the once intimate settings that we had visited would be overrun with Americans who weren't the least bit interested in the actual history behind the castles or landmarks. I realize that there is actually no harm in people taking a tour in this fashion, except that it does lessen the enjoyment when there are large crowds to try to maneuver around.
And, this might be going out on a limb, but please....please....PLEASE....if you are reading this and planning on taking an Outlander tour, please take the time to learn the actual history behind where you are. It is fascinating and, actually, much more exciting than an Outlander episode, which, may I mention, is fictional. (I hope you do realize that.)
Ok, I'm off my soapbox for now regarding that, so let continue regarding this day's adventures.
We took a quick trip to see the Kelpies. The largest equine structures in the world, it took only 90 days to raise the structures made of stainless steel plates.
They were completed in 2013 and are one of Scotland's biggest attractions. And, believe me, the place was hopping with visitors today.
Just as we were leaving, a sudden shower appeared, and the result was a beautiful rainbow overtop the Kelpies.
How lucky was that?
From there we drove to the House of the Binns which is actually located near Blackness Castle, but it did not open until 2:00. In fact, this is another grand house that I have been trying to visit in past trips, but the hours are so limited that it made it difficult to fit into a travel schedule.
But it worked out perfectly for today!
We arrived early, so we took a walk around the grounds. Here you an see Blackness Castle in the distance.
On top of the hill behind the house stands this huge tower.
which offers a view of the castle as well.
Interestingly enough, there are peacocks on the grounds, and apparently flocks have existed on the grounds for centuries, as they are depicted on the plaster ceiling of the King's Room in the house.
We were able to take an interior tour of the house and the woman who was our guide was entertaining as well as informative. She had a fabulous sense of humor and we all enjoyed learning the interesting history of this house which has stood here, owned by the same family, since 1612, when it was originally built by Thomas Dalyell, a merchant who made his fortune in the court of King James VI and I in London.
The history of the family was fascinating, and our guide took a lot of time explaining just how the title traveled down the family line as well as the contributions made by several of the generations.
The house is actually owned by the National Trust of Scotland, but the wife of the latest Dalyell continues to live there. Her husband, Thomas, passed away just this past year.
Mrs. Dalyell was an active part of the welcoming team, and when we arrived, she was sweeping the leaves away from the front door!
As we were leaving, we were greeted by yet a second rainbow.
Driving down the road from the house, we had a bit of a road block.
But that was soon remedied when they moved out of the way. Unfortunately, I couldn't capture a photo that included sheep AND a rainbow, so this is the best I could muster.
From here we drove to Linlithgow, which is only about 5 miles away. In 1130, King David I declared this village as a Royal Burgh.
In the mid-1400s, Edward I built the Palace that continues to stand here.
The castle is really quite impressive.
The top features a round tower where it is said that Queen Margaret anxiously awaited the return of her husband, James IV from battle.
Unfortunately, James never returned home as he died at the Battle of Flodden.
James V had this amazing fountain built in the middle of the esplanade.
It was fed via lead pipes with the water source coming from a nearby stream.
But the most significant event associated with this Palace is the birth of Mary Queen of Scots. This has been a favorite palace of Stuart queens over the years.
I'll just post a few photos of this amazing structure.
Ok, so that was more than a few. Here's the last one....I promise.
What a terrific way to spend our last day!
We made the drive back to South Queensferry and decided to dine just across the street at a local restaurant, where we had a very relaxing meal, followed by a fabulous dessert.
Or, as Amy would say, it was "freaking awesome!" And I certainly would have to agree with that!
Our trip has come to an end, but I'm so glad that you followed along.
I do hope that you have enjoyed our gallivanting adventures.
So, for now, we once again bid a fond farewell to this spectacular country!
