Friday, December 14, 2018

Scottish Relics: Craignethan Castle

The Castle Keep
Craignethan Castle in Lanarkshire was built around 1530.
 It overlooks the River Nethan and a great gorge. 




Lots of tunnels and corridors to explore here.



The River Nethan from a lookout on short hike from the castle. 

Magical Hawthorn in Bloom

On the hike below the castle

Thursday, December 13, 2018

The Holly & The Ivy


Gathering the Greens


The holiday season is well under way. I hope amidst the usual busyness of December you take time to slow down and experience the beauty of the season, the dark and starry nights, the twinkling lights, warm hearts, fires in the hearth, traditions of old and new.

A quick note: Nearly everything in shop is 20 to 40 percent off and much of it comes shipped for free. Gathering the Green Print above is only $5.40 and the Yuletide Emerald Post is only $10.40 both with free shipping. 

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Yuletide Emerald Post

Thursday, December 6, 2018

Scottish Relics: Crichton Castle

"That castle rises on the steep
Of the green vale of Tyne;
And far beneath, where slow they creep
From pool to eddy, dark and deep,
Where alders moist and willows weep
You hear her streams repine."

- description of Crichton Castle in1808 
by Sir Walter Scott from Marmion

Crichton Castle rising from the banks of the Tyne below. Built around 1400 by John Crichton. This castle is unbelievably picturesque and grand. Cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and on their Members Pass, about 40 minutes from Edinburgh and well worth a visit.

It was the very end of May when we visited but the May Tree, hawthorn, was at her splendid height of bloom as you can see. The castle overlooks this incredibly lush river valley, a strategic outpost with near 360 degree views and would have held control of the river. 

Unique diamond faceted façade added in 1580 by Francis Stewart - inspired by journeys to Italy.


Inside of the Grand Stables

The Grand Stables



The Gatehouse

Crichton Collegiate Church - Built in 1449 by William Crichton, Chancellor and one of the most powerful people in Scotland at the time.