Of course we are chasing castles, we are in Scotland!
Today we knocked over three of them. The first being Blackness Castle. This castle was used in Outlander as Fort William where Jamie got flogged and earned those famous scars on his back. Also featured in the movies Outlaw King and Mary Queen of Scots. This castle is Wayne’s favourite so far. ‘It feels like a real castle [insert grunting and a strong arm stance]. We got there plenty early, so no real crowds. We explored every nook and cranny of the grounds. It is unoccupied and empty but your imagination can run wild with thoughts of what life might have been here.
Next was Midhope Castle or as known to fellow Outlander fans, Jamie’s home, Lallybroch. Midhope Castle is abandoned and somewhat in ruin. There is an operating farm behind the main structure and a lovely forest walk before you get there. The show has obviously made this place into a pilgrimage site odlf sorts because unless you are a fan of the show, no other reason would bring you here. You can only enter the first room which is set out rather unimpressively with memorabilia from the show. They have had steel beams fitted to keep the walls from caving in I guess. Still neat to visit but worth £9.50 entry fee, as a fan, I think so, but if you haven’t watched the show, probs not.
Tip #8 – the real life version of what you see on TV might disappoint without the cinematic magic, but it depends on your perspective. I found it interesting and now I will give those scenes a closer look to understand what was real and what was good editing!
From Lallybroch to the Kelpies. The Kelpies are a Scotish mythical water horse to be feared. In Falkirk they have built giant metal statues to the beasts and it is a sight to see! If you are close to here, I would highly recommend a stop to check them out. You can even pay to climb them on the inside. We didn’t, but you can!
Final stop for the day was Stirling Castle where the history kicks back in again. Connections to Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots and most influential of all James V who redesigned much of what can be seen today by way of exaggerating his claim to the throne through statues and grandeur. This castle is my favourite so far due to the gardens and exhibits on display. They have done a very good job of making this castle interactive and interesting. The work put in here is very good for bringing the castle to life as it would have been at the height of its position of power in Scotland.
From the third castle of the day, we found our way to a pub, The Highland Gate, which I had tagged as one that let you park in the carpark for the night. I expected a charge of £15 for the privilege but on arrival, the publican said no charge, just have some drinks and a meal of which we were very happy to oblige 🍻 great pub meals before settling in again for an early night.
My Happy Travels 