Stirling Castle Splendor-Why it's a Must-See!

Stirling Castle Splendor-Why it's a Must-See!

Myths and Legends. They accompany nearly every castle. Add exquisite panoramic landscapes swirling around a fortress set upon a central pedestal, featuring brilliantly-colored interiors, and you have a must-see bastion of quintessential Scotland here at Stirling Castle.

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Gallivanting around Glamis- a great Day Trip from Edinburgh

Gallivanting around Glamis- a great Day Trip from Edinburgh

Not far from Edinburgh, lies a castle with ties to modern-day Royalty, Shakespeare, and ghosts. Its architecture is truly captivating, while its foreboding, defensive exterior disguises it’s charming and quite cozy interiors. Take a look at both…

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Scotland's Sheepdogs...Preserving a Tradition

Scotland's Sheepdogs...Preserving a Tradition

A unique way to delve into Scottish culture is to observe sheepdogs in action. It's an easy aspect of Scotland to overlook, as it does not enjoy heavy prominence in guidebooks. This next post takes us right into the heart of Scotland.  It's a glimpse into the present day, as well as a tradition that's been around this region for centuries. Puppies included!

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Comical Sights on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh (& another free visitor attraction!)

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The Lesser-Known Sights on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

A picture could be worth a thousand words, or it could leave you speechless.  I never expected these surprising sights on the Royal Mile, but they did leave me laughing and smiling as we meandered on down the road. If you visit Edinburgh, prepare yourselves for the juxtaposition of the odd, funny, and theatrical against a background of intriguing history and architecture.

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Minions can even be found in Scotland.

I still haven't figured this one out yet...

I still haven't figured this one out yet...

 
Does anyone know the trick to this?

Does anyone know the trick to this?

 
Would this be considered 'Owlery'?

Would this be considered 'Owlery'?

 
I like Yoda and all, but this one has the creepiest face...

I like Yoda and all, but this one has the creepiest face...

 
They say those ultra-quiet ones are really dangerous...

They say those ultra-quiet ones are really dangerous...

Another Free Visitor Attraction in Edinburgh

Most of these interesting characters can be found closer to Edinburgh Castle.  But, before I finish this post, I wanted to mention another freebie attraction, St. Giles' Cathedral, and it's right along the Royal Mile. It's a lovely place to gain a bit of quiet and refuge from lousy weather.  

Stature of John Knox, minister to the cathedral from 1560-1572.

Stature of John Knox, minister to the cathedral from 1560-1572.

St. Giles is more warm and inviting inside than I expected, most of which is due to natural light pooled from its collection of gorgeous stained glass windows and interiors whitewashed by Calvinists. The light helps illuminate the cathedral's fair share of fabulous fan-vaulted ceilings.

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The addition of the richly colored banners bearing coats of arms lends just the right amount of striking color.

The addition of the richly colored banners bearing coats of arms lends just the right amount of striking color.

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The stunning gleam of the organ's pipes.

The stunning gleam of the organ's pipes.

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Donations are encouraged to help with maintenance.  If you are hungry, stop into the Cathedral's Cafe for a bite to eat.  Cafe is open 9-5 Mon-Sat; 11-5 Sundays. Check the website for updated information here.

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Scotland’s Sheepdogs…Preserving A Tradition

Gallivanting around Glamis