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A Highland Fling.
  • Janette and John

A Highland Fling.

A 18-day adventure by Janette and John Read more
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  • Trip start
    August 4, 2024
    Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John

    Day One - setting off

    August 4, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 9 °C

    I left home just after lunch leaving time to visit Kathy in hospital in Brighton before arriving at the “Cole household” to collect Candice. Much excitement there with preparations underway for Hugo’s trip to Scotland - he leaves Thursday.

    Arrived at the airport hotel around 6.30pm and, after a little confusion with new long-term parking arrangements, we had a lovely meal with a view overlooking the terminal. Hoping to get 3 or 4 hours sleep before checking in for our flight.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Dinner in the old Stables at Cliveden
    1Emirates BarEmirates LoungeCliveden HouseHall of busts at ClivedenOur most comfortable beds at Cliveden.Way ahead: Scotch College B Band marching to Finals performance in World Championships at Glasgow

    Day two Arrive in Uk

    August 5, 2024 in England ⋅ 🌙 19 °C

    After a couple of hours’ sleep we were up and checked in by 2.45am. We waited in the Emirates lounge until we flew out at 5.15am. Emirates business class is the best!

    Flight went like clockwork with no delays and we managed about six hours sleep in bursts. Lots of entertainment choices - I even watched Casablanca. We spent a couple of hours in the bar area talking to George from Melbourne. He went to Melbourne High and was a most interesting businessman and lovely person.

    Stopover in Dubai was smooth too. Plane on time and having the wheelchair meant we went directly to the lounge and were there in about 5 minutes. It would have taken us longer to find. Able to have a coffee and relax before being taken to board.

    Arrived on time in London to find a wheelchair and attendant waiting. It was busy but we were through customs, had collected luggage and were at the Avis bus in 45 minutes. Picked up a lovely blue Volvo and with the help of satnav were at Cliveden House, our accommodation for the night, in time for the dinner reservation at 8.30pm. The restaurant was in the old stable building and many of the original features were retained. The food did not disappoint.

    Cliveden is a National Trust house just 40 minutes from London (and less from the airport). It was built in 1666 and sits on 376 acres of Grade 1 listed gardens with views of the Thames.

    We stayed in the “Warrender Suite” named after Sir George Warrender who bought Cliveden in 1824 after it had been left derelict since 1795 when a fire had destroyed almost the entire main house. He commissioned a Scottish Architect William Burn to rebuild the main block but sadly no trace of his design remains as Cliveden once again caught fire in 1849. Sir George enjoyed entertaining at Cliveden and due to his lifestyle was nicknamed “Sir Gorge Provender”.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Breakfast buffet at Cliveden
    Cliveden Breakfast RoomCliveden Breakfast RoomPlumbing for use by staff at ClivedenHidden doorway to staff tearoom!Christine Keeler with othersView of Cliveden from ThamesCorridors at Cliveden are filled with treasures.Entrance to Cliveden Spa.

    Cliveden House

    August 6, 2024 in England ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    After a pretty good sleep on truly comfortable beds it was off for a great breakfast followed by a self guided tour of the house and gardens. What an amazing place. The portrait of Christine Keeler is a nod to the “Profumo” affair - much of which took place here.

    Weather was a little damp and grey so we headed out to Dorset and had a drive through lovely English lanes and countryside as well as some time on the motorway.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Pub at Christchurch Beach
    Christchurch BeachHughieBack view of house.Gardens at Humphries' House.Gardens at Humphries' HouseDinner on!Check out the squirrel!

    “Humphries’ House”

    August 6, 2024 in England ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    Arrived at Christchurch and were very warmly welcomed by Chris and Hazel. After a long catch up and cup of tea Candice had a short kip.

    Hazel and I took the dog, Hughie, to the beach for a walk. Lovely dog friendly beach and Hazel showed me their bathing box. Christchurch beach is sandy (not pebbled) and overlooks the Isle of Wight.

    Back home for a barbecue dinner and more catching up before lights out.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Mapperton House
    Gardens at Mapperton HouseChris Humphries with Candice at Mapperton House.Chris and Janette after the best sandwiches for lunch!After seafood dinner looking out to the Isle of Wight.Julie, Viscountess of Hitchingbrooke, with Candice.

    Mapperton House

    August 7, 2024 in England ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    Left at 9am for the hour and a half drive to Mapperton House. Chris drove us. Unfortunately Hazel had to stay behind to supervise some cleaners who were preparing a house nearby for their daughter and granddaughter (Sam and Billie) to move into next week. This means that the whole family are living nearby as both Sam and sister Katy have sold their London places and moved to Christchurch.

    Mapperton Estate is a 1,900 acre estate in West Dorset, consisting of five farms with a mix of arable, dairy, pasture and woodlands. The Estate surrounds historic Mapperton House & Gardens, which are open to the public, and is in an area of outstanding natural beauty. It was entered in the Domesday book 1086 as Malperetone. From then it belonged to only four families - until it was bought in 1919 by Ethel Labouchere. After her death in 1955 it was purchased by Victor Montagu, father of the current Earl of Sandwich.

    The 4th Earl of Sandwich, John Montagu 1718-1792, was a prominent statesman who served as First Lord of the Admiralty. He is remembered for sponsoring the voyages of discovery made by Captain James Cook who named the Sandwich islands in his honour, and also as the namesake of the sandwich.

    Surrounded by the stunning West Dorset countryside, Mapperton is home to the Earl and Countess of Sandwich and their family, heir Luke and his US-born TV presenter wife Julie, the Viscount and Viscountess Hinchingbrooke. Julie has a YouTube channel and one of her most enthusiastic followers is Candice so this was a must visit on our itinerary.

    We did a tour of the house, the Alberta Room, and the amazing gardens. Even more amazing was finding Julie in her shower cap and dressing gown about to get into the old pool with a drill to fix some planter boxes which had come detached from the walls of the pool. She had her camera man in tow as they were filming for a YouTube post!

    The Alberta Room is full of memorabilia of an American heiress, Alberta Sturges Montagu, the 9th Countess of Sandwich. Letters from 1888-1951 exchanged between Alberta, her family, and the peerage at large shed light on the triumphs and tragedies of a ‘dollar bride’ during the Gilded Age. The family seat was actually at another property ‘Hinchingbrooke House’ and this was used as a refugee camp and later as a Red Cross Convalescent Hospital.

    We had the best sandwiches for lunch - Chris wanted the “Earl of Sandwich Special” - roast beef - but they were out of beef as it had been really busy. He and I then had a wholemeal Camembert, cranberry and bacon sandwich with side salad and crisps. It is my new favourite sandwich. The Coach House Cafe is a restored coach house and beautifully done.

    Home to Christchurch and a quick tour of the highlights of the town. The “Eleventh Century” Priory is spectacular. Chris and Hazel often go to concerts there - apparently the acoustics are amazing. The Christchurch harbour and beachside are lovely and very typical of an English seaside holiday place with various boating activities, scuba diving, and good pubs and cafes offering seafood dishes. We had dinner at a lovely restaurant overlooking the sea with a view of the Isle of Wight in the distance.

    Really great day!    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Highclere
    Windy and wet at HighclereHighclereFirst high tea in UK. Note the tea set!Wonderful High Tea at Highclere.View from Highclere CastleLeaving HighclereBeech hedge at Highclere

    Highclere Castle AKA Downton Abbey

    August 8, 2024 in England ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    Left Christchurch just after 8am and headed north to Newbury to visit Highclere Castle, the home of the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnavon. It has been in their family since the late 17th century. Although still a family home, it is the setting of the popular series 'Downton Abbey' which is one of many ways they have been able to fund the ongoing maintenance of such a large and historic castle.

    It has its share of early history and is blessed with countless paintings, sculptures, books and beautiful furniture. However, we were most interested in the connection and story of the 5th Earl of Carnavon and his discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun.

    After the tour of the house we visited their Egyptian Exhibition and the story of the discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun.

    We then made our way upstairs in the Coach House where we had a High Tea for lunch. The lunch was so delicious and a lot of fun.

    Candice admired the crockery on which the high tea was served and I noticed it was displayed on the wall behind her … you could purchase this dinnerware. We went across to the gift shop afterwards and a tea set is on its way home!    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Drawing Room at Highclere
    Grand Dining Room at HighclereLibrary at HighclereHighclereOak staircase at HighclereEarly Carnavon/Carter discovery.Replica of Death Mask of TutankhamunIn 1987 Egyptian items recently re-discoveredView of one of many digs financed by Lord Carnavon4,000 year old Egyptian antiquity

    Highclere Castle & Tutankhamun Story

    August 8, 2024 in England ⋅ 🌬 20 °C

    The 5th Earl of Carnavon became fascinated with Egypt in 1898 when, after a series of motor accidents he was advised to spend winters in a warmer climate. After initially working alone he was introduced to an out of work artist and Egyptologist, Howard Carter.

    They worked together for 16 years and became firm friends. During these years Lord Carnavon established an impressive collection of Egyptian antiquities and works of art but was ever spurred on to find something more beautiful. In 1922 he was about to cease work in Egypt for financial reasons but Carter persuaded him to continue for one more season.

    Tutankhamun’s Tomb was discovered in November 1922. Carter’s telegram to Lord Carnavon read: “At last we have made a wonderful discovery in valley. A magnificent tomb with seals intact; re-covered for your arrival. Congratulations, Carter”

    We were unable to take actual photos at the exhibition so the pictures are taken from their guidebook and do not do justice to the exhibition. The items in the exhibition were truly unique, beautiful and amazing. Many are replicas of the highest quality - the originals are in museums or kept in safe keeping by Egyptian authorities. However the replicas showed just what a magnificent find this was - the greatest find in the history of archaeological exploration.

    Whilst the buildings and contents, high teas, family interests in racing and horses, along with the Downton Abbey collection were all really great, I think the Tutankhanum connection really stole the show for me at Highclere Castle.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Donna has not changed in 20 years!
    Paul and CandiceFish & Chips looked great.Great lamb dish.Four very happy diners.

    Peacock at Rowsley - Donna and Paul

    August 8, 2024 in England ⋅ 🌬 20 °C

    Drove directly to our accommodation, a trip of almost four hours. When we arrived Donna and Paul were waiting in the carpark so it was a quick check in, change and downstairs to the most gorgeous little bar/restaurant and lots of catching up for the next five hours. It is twenty years since Paul and Donna came to Australia but it seemed just like last week.

    Our meals were great - haven’t had a disappointing meal yet. We are staying here for two nights and we each have a tiny single, very comfortable room so looking forward to our stay here. We are in Matlock, a beautiful town about an hour out of Manchester.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    View from breakfast room.
    Breakfast at The Peacock at RowsleyKippers for breakfast!Lounge at The PeacockOne of the dining rooms at The PeacockDinner at The PeacockThe Cockpit ChairBar / Pub area at The Peacock.Mouse tail appears on the corner of every dining table.Carved mice on the legs of tables and chairs.

    Peacock at Rowsley

    August 9, 2024 in England ⋅ 🌬 15 °C

    We are staying at the Peacock at Rowsley - a historic boutique hotel near Matlock in the Northeast of England. It has beautiful, albeit small, gardens, is historic and well maintained, comfortable and employs the most friendly staff. It is set in the gorgeous town of Rowsley not far from Bakewell. Despite staying two nights we would love to have more time to explore this lovely area.

    In the small bar area of the hotel there is an amazing chair. It is a rare and early 19th century ash and elm cockpit chair. Used by judges it has an arm with a circular rest built in. This chair originated from Salford and is inscribed: “This judge’s chair was used at the cockpit at Salford 1829 ….”

    In the Dining Room the table and chairs were made by Robert Thompson, aka Mousey Thompson from Kilburn in Yorkshire. The tables by Mousey Thompson have a mouse tail on each corner of the table top, and a mouse on the leg of the table. There are carved mice on the legs of the chairs which have a leather plaited seats. I have heard they are much sought after by collectors. There must be about 40 tables and 100 chairs here!

    A la carte breakfast was included in our accommodation and we dined in-house both nights - once in the little pub bar area with Donna and Paul and once in the restaurant. All meals were delicious and special.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Chatsworth
    ChatsworthChatsworth LibraryCharsworthIncredible marble veiled statue.ChatsworthAlexander the Great

    Chatsworth

    August 9, 2024 in England ⋅ 🌬 17 °C

    Main event today was to visit Chatsworth House in Derbyshire. It is not far from our lodgings so we arrived around 9.30 am to find it was already quite busy. The driveway was an absolute picture (quite long so probably should say “pictures”). Sensational views of Chatsworth and surrounding countryside and sheep grazing without fencing (contained within Chatsworth grounds by road grates) reminded me a bit of the grazing regime on Norfolk Island.

    We started with the House tour and saw amazing paintings (even on the ceilings), sculptures, and furniture. There were very knowledgeable volunteers throughout who could assist with information on the House, contents, history etc.

    The massive dining room was set with beautiful china, glassware and silver. The forks were all placed ‘prongs down’. When I queried this (not how a table is normally set) it was explained that in the 1600’s and 1700’s the fashion was for lacy, frilly cuffs and diners could get tangled up if the forks were placed prongs up!

    There was an amazing collection of marble statues both in the Sculpture Gallery and throughout the House. Candice had a favourite female bust in the Library area with the veiling looking so very real. Other young female tourists from South America were equally excited to see it.

    I loved the painting of ‘The Whitsun Walk Through Lees’, by Helen Bradley, 1968. I recall John’s Mum, Edna, talking of this event in Manchester. The Whitsun walks developed out of the Sunday School movement and were an opportunity for children, sometimes already working in factories, to have some freedom and fresh air.

    There were also items made of “Blue John” something which I also heard about first when visiting John’s parents in the 1990’s.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Chatsworth
    Chatsworth - painted hallGreat Stairs at ChatsworthChatsworth - Chapel Corridor (Hall of Busts)High Tea at ChatsworthHigh Tea with champagne - great inclusion.Sculpture Gallery - ChatsworthCloser to the World Championships!

    More Chatsworth

    August 9, 2024 in England ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C

    After the House Tour we walked up to the converted stable complex to have another High Tea in their beautiful, upmarket cafe. Beautiful china, food and a glass of pink champagne to top it off! The staff were educated about the various teas and we could choose a different tea with different food. It was a lovely warm Friday and there were a good number of people enjoying Chatsworth without there being crowds or queues.

    There is so much to say about Chatsworth that this blog will not be able to do it justice. So glad I had the opportunity to see it.

    A bit of history:

    Chatsworth was purchased by the Cavendish family in 1549. Sir William Cavendish was a commissioner of Henry VIII (and indeed looks a little like him in his portrait). The following generations all added in some way - be it garden improvements and installations, purchase of art works, building additions and improvements etc. Henry Cavendish (1731-1810) accumulated a collection of some 12,000 books on science and other subjects. He was an eccentric scientist who determined the composition of water, recognised hydrogen as an element, and was the first man to ‘weigh the world’.

    Over the years death duties have affected the estate as they probably have for most family estates in the UK. The Eleventh Duke of Devonshire and his wife, Deborah, worked tirelessly to ensure the survival of Chatsworth and established the successful visitor attraction we experience today. It is now run under a registered charity which is overseen by the 12th Duke and Duchess of Devonshire with assistance from their son and his wife, Lord and Lady Burlington.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    The Case - protects tender plants - 91 metres long
    Chatsworth Gardens and views.The 100 steps lead from Maze to Arboretum WalkChatsworth Gardens.Chatsworth Gardens.Chatsworth MazeOn Tower tour waving to Mum below!Chatsworth Tower from Stables Complex.Tractor tour of the substantial Chatsworth grounds. We toured on a golf buggy.Chatsworth Rock Garden - we preferred our naturally laid rocks.Squirty Tree - I would love one of these!

    Chatswoth Gardens

    August 9, 2024 in England ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C

    The gardens consist of forty hectares (100 acres) and have changed and evolved over 500 years. We took a golf buggy tour which took us to the far reaches of the garden where we saw many features - the maze, the broad walk, the various lawns and fountains, the wild gardens and a stone garden. I was particularly taken with the fountain tree called “The Squirty Tree!”

    There was a tour of the Tower of the House with magnificent views over the estate and beyond. I was struggling with steps and stairs at this point so Candice went up the many flights of steps whilst I had a lovely fossick in the lovely gift shop where I bought a Chatsworth toy guinea pig for my friend Kathy who recently, sadly due to ill health, had to give her real guinea pigs away. If you look closely you can see Candice waving from the top of the Tower.

    There was so much to see in the gardens and so many fantastic features. No wonder it is such a successful historic tourism destination.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Dumfries house
    Note the tower built to disguise where old and new roofs meet.At Dumfries HouseDumfries House groundsDumfries House - FountainWe did the tour but again "no photos allowed".The Pewter CorridorThe Family ParlourThe Family BedroomThe Tapestry Room - cedar panelling used as a natural moth repellant to protect the tapestries.Getting closer to seeing the boys compete.

    Dumfries House

    August 10, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ 🌬 18 °C

    We did a slight diversion to visit Dumfries House which has in recent times been well known for being preserved by the efforts of King Charles and others.

    The future of the house came into jeopardy when the 7th Marquis of Bute was faced with double death duties due to the previous owner, 5th Marquess and her son dying in the same year. He then inherited the property and the duties payable.

    The house tour was interesting - Dumfries houses the largest collection of Chippendale furniture in the world with chairs (of which they have 13) being worth over 2 million pounds each and a cabinet worth over 20 million pounds. The reason it is worth so much is that it was made, purchased immediately then sent to Dumfries before copies could be made. It is a one-off Chippendale cabinet.

    When we arrived we were taken into a small drawing room and the guide gave us a rundown on the Dumfries House story - in particular King Charle’s influence on rescuing, renovating and retaining it for people to see it. We were not allowed to take photos inside the house but managed to get some from the brochure.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Bedroom Candice chose.
    Spare bedroom!A lovely bedroom for a Nana.Hallway within apartment at Scone Palace.Relations of Billy Connolly?Baby peacock chicks out tor some exercise.Replica of the Stone of SconePerformance at Stirling Castle - few days to go to World Championships

    Scone Palace Accommodation

    August 11, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C

    We arrived last night to our very extravagant accommodation, an apartment in Scone Palace. Three bedrooms, bathrooms, lounge and kitchen with all facilities - even a washing machine which is great as we are here for four nights and we will also cook for ourselves.

    'Cooking' might be a stretch as Candice arranged to have dinners prepared that we can heat and serve for ourselves.

     Last night’s fish pie and salad was delicious.

    The hallway leads to all rooms we have access to. There are framed pictures of Scottish hunters through the past couple of hundred years and many look like Billy Connolly!

    There is a family of resident peacocks living here - very quiet and include a recent arrival of baby chicks. You may have to look hard to see them but they are near the magnificent purple beech tree.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Note the deer in the background.
    Ready to cheer and barrack ...Hugo probably still a little jet lagged.Ready for warm up.Warm up.Later in the day jamming and relaxing. Hot day so bus offered some shade.Awards for European Champions.Candice and Hugo at Scone Castle.Second Place European ChampionshipsScotch College - 2nd place European Championships 2024 👏What you do with down time. Hugo drumming with hat on.

    European Pipe Band Championships - Perth

    August 11, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ 🌩️ 15 °C

    Scotch College were competing in the European Championships and we went to see Hugo compete. We wore new Scotch tartan caps and scarves to help us cheer them on,

    The boys were all decked out in new uniforms with the school tartan and looked very smart indeed. The atmosphere all around the arena was fantastic with bands practising and warming up everywhere.

    The boys and teachers were all pleased with the B band’s performance and were rewarded with second place out of 21 entrants in their category for the drum’s performance.

    The school’s A team came first so the school should be really happy.

    Considering many of the boys were still a bit jet lagged they all did really well. It was hot (we went back to the palace for lunch and changed) and there will be a lot of sunburned people around tomorrow. Hugo joined us so he could see the palace and did a quick tour while I put my feet up for an hour.

    Home around 7.30 and so glad to have shepherd’s pie and salad in the fridge ready to heat and serve. Love this place!    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Kitchen in Apartment at Scone Palace
    Edinburgh Castle from near carpark - back view.View across Princess Gardens to the Castle.On our walk through Edinburgh.Mini mushroom cappuccino.High Tea at Gleneagles Townhouse.High Tea at Gleneagles Townhouse.Even has pull the chain.

    Day in Edinburgh

    August 12, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    Slower start today as it will be a late night at the Tattoo in Edinburgh. Cooked breakfast with the goodies left in the fridge for our four day stay. Eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, sausages, bacon, and toast with the lovely Palace jams and marmalade.

    Looking forward to a tour of the castle - perhaps tomorrow morning.

    Drove to Edinburgh and parked in a carpark walking distance from the Castle. Walked along Princes street - a little tourist shopping and busker watching - and then found our way up to Gleneagles where we had a 2.30pm High tea. Little more creative than the others we have had. Started with a mini mushroom cappuccino followed by warm tasters. Lovely selection of tiny cakes which were all delicious. We left the scones to the end but couldn’t quite finish them.. Beautiful building and decor - right down to the washrooms!

    We spent most of the afternoon there then walked back to the car to off load a bit. We called into a little pub for a drink and a break on the way called The Queens Arms. Things were very busy around here due more to the Edinburgh Festival the than the Tattoo I think.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Countdown to the start ...
    Hugo is up there somewhere.Free programs anyone?From USA The Quantico Marine Corps BandTeamwork Arts IndiaMajestic Drum Corps - SwitzerlandLighting was fabulous.The massed bands of His Majesty's Royal Marines.United States Ceremonial GuardBack to Scone Palace over the Forth on Firth.The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Performers

    Edinburgh Tattoo

    August 12, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 23 °C

    The Tattoo was fabulous. We had front row seats facing where the bands entered. The night was balmy and comfortable although we put our jackets on during the performance as it started to get cooler. David and Melinda (parents of Hugo’s friend Magnus) sat with us and couldn’t believe their luck in getting such good seats.

    Hugo was up in the gods but really enjoyed it too. Hard to say much more so will let the pictures do the talking. Might add some video footage on future posts also.

    One comment from Trish: “Amazing how we returned home to the Palace after an event at the Castle”!    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Door into our amazing first floor apartment
    Entrance to the side of Palace for the likes of Queen Victoria.Village graveyard in the Palace groundsTourist entrance.Ancient burial site.These emblems were carved into atones along the fence.Marie Antionette's Writing Table.View of the front of the Palace. Earl of Mansfield home (flag flying).They have real deer too.Drums at Stirling Castle - just a snippet of the performance.

    Scone Palace last day

    August 13, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ 🌬 18 °C

    A slow start after the late night at the Tattoo. Late morning I did the tour of Scone Palace where we are staying. I followed this by a coffee in their lovely tearooms before we left for Stirling. But more about Stirling later.

    Scone Palace is the home of the Earls of Mansfield (the Murray family) and a major attraction to visitors from all over the world. Fifteen hundred years ago it was the capital of a Pictish Kingdom and an important seat of the ancient Celtic church. Since then it has been the home of parliaments and the crowning place of Scottish kings. It houses a replica of the Stone of Scone and has been immortalised in Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

    The Estate is 27,000 acres and contains some of the finest arable land Tayside. The river Tay runs through the centre of the estate and, as it is one of the world’s great salmon rivers, provides sporting fishing to fishermen from all over the world.

    The palace contains so many wonderful paintings, sculptures as well as a huge collection of ceramics. The furniture, like most of these historic homes, is antique and rare. One piece in particular is a gorgeous delicate writing table owned by Marie Antionette who was a friend of David Murray, the 2nd Earl of Mansfield. It was a gift and was thought to have come from Versailles. It certainly would not look out of place at Versailles.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    First wet day - Stirling1Great formation but look at the weather coming ...After being washed out in the garden reformed in the courtyard.Bigger audience without the rain.Beautiful and very old Stirling.Robert the Bruce overlooks site of his famous victory at Bannockburn 1314.Inside Stirling CastleStirling performance as the rain hit ...

    Stirling Performance

    August 14, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    Wow … what a performance it was.

    The boys were doing a ‘gig’ at Stirling Castle at 3.00pm so we headed off after lunch and arrived in plenty of time to look around Stirling Castle beforehand. The gardens were beautiful and a perfect setting for the performance. It was raining but cleared a little to enable them to start. By the second item the rain came back and was really heavy - as you will see on the video. The performance had to be stopped.

    About 10 minutes on the rain cleared so the band re-formed in the courtyard of the Castle and put on a fabulous show. The crowds built up and as we were leaving some young tourists wanted photos taken with the talent!

    I was blown away by the standard they have reached. All that practise was definitely worth it. The timing in the combined teams drumming was first class.

    This castle was old and less opulent than some we have seen, perhaps with less rebuilding so still felt very medieval. In particular it has been set up for children and school groups with lots of interactive displays and activities. There were some richly reconstructed rooms which had been previously occupied by James V and Mary of London Guise and their daughter Mary Queen of Scots.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Leaving Scone Palace.
    Leaving Scone PalaceGlamis Castle - childhood home of Elizabeth the Queen MotherGlamis CastleDoll's House thought to pre-date the Queen Mother. Furnished more recently.Gallery of Queen's Mother through the yearsOn our way through lovely countryside.Cairngorms National ParkCairngorms National ParkThe award winning performance at Perth - a snippet

    On our way to Braemar

    August 14, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ ☀️ 12 °C

    Packed up and sadly left my Lady Carnegie suite. First stop was Glamis Castle near Dundee. Framed against the backdrop of the Angus Hills, it is another very special place. It is also the childhood home of The Queen Mother, Elizabeth nee Bowes-Lyon. It has been the ancestral seat of the Lyon family since 1372.

    We did a short guided tour. Like most of these historic homes the dining room was elaborate and large with pictures of the ancestors all around. The dining room dates back to the 1600’s but we then went through a door to an older part of the castle, still in really good condition, but dating back to the 1300’s. The buildings must have taken great skill to build and things like the stonework and ceilings would probably be beyond today’s tradespeople.

    The gardens and grounds were beautiful and, whilst we saw everything, it was a shame we didn’t have longer.

    We left with another hour’s drive to get to Braemar. We travelled through Cairngorm National Park and saw some amazing scenery. Passed the Scottish Ski Resort at Glenshee although no snow in mid-summer.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Our a accommodation for tonight - The Fife Arms
    The Flying Stag Restaurant at Fife ArmsLunch at The Flying StagPop up Italian Restaurant - amazing lighting featureMeeting RoomRiver Clunie which runs past the HotelNature and Poetry - the Robert Louis Stevenson Room - Janette stayed here.Scottish Culture - The Elsie Inglis Room - Candice loved.Scones for afternoon tea at Fife Arms - under a Picasso original!A Picasso original in the Afternoon Tea RoomMajesticks Drumcorps from Switzerland at the Tattoo.

    Fife Arms

    August 14, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C

    After a beautiful drive through the highlands, we arrived at Braemar which is a beautiful, historic, small village set in the mountains. Lunch had been booked in The Flying Stag restaurant and we had mussels in a garlic creamy broth with the house special “porridge bread” to soak it all up. Yum.

    We walked around the village checking out the local crafts and the gift shops. There look to be some fantastic walks along the really picturesque waterways and small woodlands. Fife Arms have a team of Ghillie’s who will take you on guided walks and hikes or maybe fly fishing etc. Ghillie is the Gaelic term for a Highlands attendant who looks after guests, particularly fishing, hunting or deer stalking. It must be a mecca for deer stalkers here as antlers feature by the hundreds in all the decor.

    On check-in we were given a guided tour of the hotel with its many restaurants, galleries and quirky points of interest.

    As the creation of Iwan and Manuela Wirth, art is central to the Fife Arms. The duo have personally curated an extraordinary collection of over 14,000 pieces that span furniture, militaria, archeology, taxidermy and an exceptional collection of contemporary fine art.

    Displayed throughout the hotel in a way that is far more personal than is experienced in a museum or gallery, the decor brings contemporary and modern styles to blend with the antique and Scottish setting in a fabulous way - I think with an appeal for everyone.

    Our rooms are interconnected - Candice in a Scottish culture room named after Elsie Inglis who was born in 1864 and was an innovator, doctor, suffragist and founder of the Scottish Women’s Hospital during the First World War. I was in a Nature and Poetry room named after Robert Louis Stevenson, author of Treasure Island. He wrote the first chapters of this novel in Braemar.

    Afternoon tea under the Picasso in one of the lounge areas was scones with jam and cream and a welcome cup of tea.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Pre dinner gin & grapefruit juice - gin and whisky complimentary in rooms!
    At dinner in The Clunie Dining RoomAt dinner in the Clunie Dining RoomOur first taste of whisky - Candice ...👎 Janette 🤙Bertie's Whisky Bar - 450 varieties of which 85% are ScottishWe had a cream tea in this room at Fife ArmsElsa's Bar named after dress designer Elsa Schiaparelli who loved shocking pink.Just prior to partaking in a Ghillie's breakfast (Janette) and "the best porridge ever" (Candice)Set for breakfast in the Clunie Dining RoomSnippet from the Tattoo - The Massed bands of His Majesty's Royal Marines

    Fife Arms Evening

    August 14, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C

    There was so much to do and see here at Fife Arms. We had dinner in the Clunie Dining Room - two entrees as we were not so hungry after our 4pm scones. A very attentive sommelier encouraged us to buy a white wine from Austria (Gruner) which was very nice indeed.

    We called in at Bertie’s Whisky Bar. The young attendant was so friendly, knowledgeable and entertaining and we agreed to do a tasting. She asked what things we liked to drink - eg tea, Guinness, various spirits etc. and then chose an appropriate whisky from the 450 in stock. Candice couldn’t drink hers but I managed to drink mine which had a flavour profile based on coffee.

    We had a look around at the various artworks then retired to our very interesting rooms.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    Leaving Fife Arms
    Countryside - Glenlivet Whisky CountryBallindalloch Estate entranceBridge over River LivetTrain through Grantown-on-Spey - Dulnain BridgeJanette's Bedroom at 15Glasgow B&BBoys have eaten and look weary. When the music started they livened up quite a bit..Hugo standing.Teachers perform for the boys, parents and grandparents.Scottish Fiddle band jamming downstairs at Curler's Rest.Drum and Bagpipe teachers play for boys, parents and grandparents.

    The Road to Glasgow

    August 15, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ 🌧 16 °C

    After a first class Ghillies’ full breakfast for me and “the best porridge I have ever had” for Candice, we took a road less travelled to Glasgow. It rained quite heavily most of the way but it was fine by the time we got to Stirling later in the day.

    The drive up north and down the centre to Glasgow was picturesque with more farms rather than large estates. It is the end of summer but it is so green and beautiful everywhere. We did pass one estate, Ballindalloch at Glenlivet and stopped near one of the entrances which was a bit special and near a lovely old bridge over the river Livet. This is serious whisky country (The Glenlivet Whisky).

    Arrived in Glasgow around 5.00pm in time to check-in for our B&B accommodation for the next three nights. It was a quick change and book an uber to take us to The Curler’s Rest Pub for the parents’ dinner with the boys. Great to see the boys having some fun and time out from practice. Also great to meet more of the other parents and grandparents. The teachers played three items which were enjoyed by all - much clapping and stomping.
    On the way out, downstairs, we listened to some local musicians - very like the Scottish Fiddle band that played at the Tatong Tavern. They were very good and added to the flavour and enjoyment of the night.    Read more

  • Janette and JohnA Highland Fling.Janette and John
    On the banks of Loch Loman
    Loch LomanSwimming in Loch Loman! Brrrrr ...On the banks of Loch LomanInverary WharfInverary CastleMassive and amazingly well preserved kitchen in Inverary CastleInverary Castle - that's what you call guns over the mantlepiece!Dinner at Five March. They only offer share plates so need to choose 5 carefully.At Five March Trendy Restaurant.Short jam whilst awaiting results at European Championships

    Loch Loman and Inverary Castle

    August 16, 2024 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 13 °C

    After a fairly substantial breakfast we headed off to Inverary Castle which took us along the “bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Loman”. I always had visions of Loch Loman being more rural but it is not so very far from Glasgow. It presents beautiful views as you drive along the side of it for miles. Didn’t see Nessie (perhaps because we were not at Loch Ness!) but were surprised to see a lonely swimmer as the water is very cold and so was the day. Families picnicked on the shores and parks and there was a good variety of water activities on offer.

    Inverary Castle was another smaller but lovely castle. The tour took us through rooms full of antique ceramics, furniture, paintings and beautiful decor. However this Castle included a much larger component of weaponry.

    We had lunch in their tearooms as it started to rain and then back to the B&B to catch up with the blog and reels before walking around the corner for dinner.

    Five March restaurant is located in a very unassuming building and barely signposted. Inside it had that edgy feel of a trendy restaurant. They only serve share plates (didn’t ask what happens if you are dining alone). Anyway the food was amongst the best we have had. We ordered five share plates, on the recommendation of the waiter, probably one too many. We agreed the gnocchi dish was the best we have ever eaten.    Read more

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