Wednesday 26 May 2010
Camping In Scotland, Culzean Castle, A Site Set In Castle Grounds By Peter Lennon Platinum Quality Author
Culzean Castle Fortify yourself with a stay at a site set in castle grounds
The site is in the grounds of the 18th-century Culzean (pronounced Cul-lane) Castle. The castle has elegant Adam interiors, a visitor centre and a country park claimed to be "the most magnificent in Britain". From the shore you can see across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran and the superb sunsets.
* Along the coast is Ayr, the county town of Ayrshire. It is also the capital of "Burns Country" -home to Burns Cottage, the Burns National Heritage Park and the Burns Monument at nearby Alloway.
* For lovers of Scotland's industrial past there is the maritime museum at Irvine, and Clydebuilt at Braehead near Glasgow. Here you can take the role of a Glasgow merchant, load your cargo and steer your ship into harbour.
* Children love the animals and all the other activities - some are for adults as well - at the Heads of Ayr Farm Park. Call In at Electric Brae on the way back to the site.
* From Ardrossan there is a ferry to the Isle of Arran, from Stranraer sailings to Belfast.
* Activities in the school holidays and a playground in the castle grounds keep children happy.
* There is a full programme of events taking place at Culzean Castle and Country Park throughout the year. These include jousting, Scottish country dancing and various music festivals.
* Every Saturday you can find a farmers' market selling local produce, on the Kyle Shopping Centre car park. On Sundays there is a large car boot sale and market on Ayr racecourse
* The site shop is well stocked. Maybole has a small supermarket, Ayr has larger supermarkets and shops. There are a number of good local restaurants.
* Campers who are not members of The National Trust can use their camp site till receipt to gain access to Culzean Country Park, but not the castle.
A visitors' opinion:
"There is plenty to do in the country park and a very good play area for children. We really enjoyed our stay." Mr and Mrs J Holbrook
Did you know?
Culzean Castle site was once the railway station. The site office is on what was the platform.
A nice way to enjoy a tour of Scotland is by motorhome. By doing so you can explore at your leisure and 'wild camp' if you like or find a wonderful campsite such as this one. If you wish to do this, there are many motorhome rental companies throughout England and Scotland who can supply campervans, motorhomes or even large american RVs.
Typically their motorhomes are less than 12 months old and are easy to drive.
If you wish to buy a motorhome, one website with an excellent range of motorhomes for sale is http://www.motorhomesdirect.co.uk.
This website is also a great resource for finding private motorhome hire.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Lennon
Peter Lennon - EzineArticles Expert Author
The site is in the grounds of the 18th-century Culzean (pronounced Cul-lane) Castle. The castle has elegant Adam interiors, a visitor centre and a country park claimed to be "the most magnificent in Britain". From the shore you can see across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran and the superb sunsets.
* Along the coast is Ayr, the county town of Ayrshire. It is also the capital of "Burns Country" -home to Burns Cottage, the Burns National Heritage Park and the Burns Monument at nearby Alloway.
* For lovers of Scotland's industrial past there is the maritime museum at Irvine, and Clydebuilt at Braehead near Glasgow. Here you can take the role of a Glasgow merchant, load your cargo and steer your ship into harbour.
* Children love the animals and all the other activities - some are for adults as well - at the Heads of Ayr Farm Park. Call In at Electric Brae on the way back to the site.
* From Ardrossan there is a ferry to the Isle of Arran, from Stranraer sailings to Belfast.
* Activities in the school holidays and a playground in the castle grounds keep children happy.
* There is a full programme of events taking place at Culzean Castle and Country Park throughout the year. These include jousting, Scottish country dancing and various music festivals.
* Every Saturday you can find a farmers' market selling local produce, on the Kyle Shopping Centre car park. On Sundays there is a large car boot sale and market on Ayr racecourse
* The site shop is well stocked. Maybole has a small supermarket, Ayr has larger supermarkets and shops. There are a number of good local restaurants.
* Campers who are not members of The National Trust can use their camp site till receipt to gain access to Culzean Country Park, but not the castle.
A visitors' opinion:
"There is plenty to do in the country park and a very good play area for children. We really enjoyed our stay." Mr and Mrs J Holbrook
Did you know?
Culzean Castle site was once the railway station. The site office is on what was the platform.
A nice way to enjoy a tour of Scotland is by motorhome. By doing so you can explore at your leisure and 'wild camp' if you like or find a wonderful campsite such as this one. If you wish to do this, there are many motorhome rental companies throughout England and Scotland who can supply campervans, motorhomes or even large american RVs.
Typically their motorhomes are less than 12 months old and are easy to drive.
If you wish to buy a motorhome, one website with an excellent range of motorhomes for sale is http://www.motorhomesdirect.co.uk.
This website is also a great resource for finding private motorhome hire.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Lennon
Peter Lennon - EzineArticles Expert Author
Turnberry, Scotland - What Would Pinehurst Have Done? By Jacqueline White
Several years ago, actually the year that an unlikely professional, Ben Curtis, won the British Open, we enjoyed a holiday golf experience at Turnberry, Scotland. My husband played in a PGA Partner's sponsored tournament and the attendees played and walked seven courses with a caddie including the Alisa Course at Turnberry, St. Andrews Old and New, Royal Troon Old and Portland, Prestwick and Kings Barn in five days. No easy feat!
We decided to go ahead of our group to spend a few extra days playing golf and enjoying the experience you can only have in Scotland. Arriving at the Turnberry Hotel you are instantly meet with gracious, accommodating staff and magnificent views of the Western Coast of Scotland. The world famous Turnberry Hotel stands high atop a headland looking out across the Firth of Clyde towards Ireland. It sits at the southern end of a strip of classic links land along the Ayrshire coast some 50 miles southwest of Glasgow, easy transportation is available. The hotel is magnificent with its white facade and red russet roof, truly an imposing sight on this quiet stretch of the west coast countryside. From this vantage point, you look down on one of the great championship golf courses of the world, the Alisa Course.
After our arrival, we were shown to one of the smaller buildings that is intended to house "groups" of golfers. The building is a short walking distance from the main hotel. There are approximately eight guest rooms in each building along with a common area to share for drinks, golf stories, etc. We settled in. The rooms are nicely appointed and carefully maintained. On the second night of our stay, we heard something in the wall behind the fireplace, each bedroom had a fireplace. What we were hearing was the distress cries of a bird that had fallen down the chimney. In addition, there were other birds on the top of the building "communicating" with the fallen and trapped bird. The cries of the birds were painful to hear and very distressing. Management was awesome, they came immediately to access the problem and tried to determine if the bird could be removed. There are several endangered species in the area, so they had to obtain information from ornithologists in the community.
After several unsuccessful attempts, they determined that the bird could not be removed and that they would have to open the fireplace in order to remove the "most probably" dead little bird. So for us, they had staff help to pack up our belongings, move us comfortably to another building and provide all the care and support that we needed to make this a truly happy and awesome experience. I have often wondered if something like this had happened at a stateside hotel, like Pinehurst, would they have been as gracious and willing to "evacuate" an entire building or a section of a building to solve this type of situation. I am sure that this was very costly with an entire eight rooms being declared "uninhabitable". Would American might have overplayed an attempt of resolving this type of situation as graciously?
But. back to now. Turnberry has a chequered history. During both the First and Second World Wars, the golf courses were dug up to make way for airfields for the Royal Air Force. After the Second World War, there were serious doubts that the courses would ever be rebuilt and it took a persistent campaign by Frank Hole, the then managing director of British Transport Hotels, owners at the time, to force the British Government into paying out compensation to enable reconstruction to be undertaken at all. The world of golf owes Mr. Hole a debt of gratitude who, with the help of course architect, Mackenzie Ross, created one of the great championship links courses, the Ailsa Course.
Some new renovations have been recently added to make the "Alisa" as formidable as any in the rotation.
Turnberry is 247 yards longer than the when the last "Open" was played there in 1994. The course will play at 7,204 yards adding six new tee locations and 21 bunkers to toughen the par-70 course. The seaside layout will be far tougher than when Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus played there in 1977, Turnberry's first Open Event. Watson shot a 12 under par score to beat Nicklaus by a stroke. In 1986, after the R&A tightened the fairways and let the rough grow, Greg Norman's par score won. With the new changes, the course promises to be a "very stiff par 70". Of course, we never know what the weather will be like and if the weather turns bad, windy with lots of rain, then these elements will certainly affect the playability of the course.
The British Open is always a great venue to watch and, believe me, we will be watching and remembering what a phenomenal and breathtaking site. For those of you who will visiting Turnberry, they have an awesome golf shop. Enjoy.
My husband and I are avid golfers. We live in LaQuinta, California. We have had the joy of playing at many of the world's best courses both at home and in Europe. Our passion for golf recently translated into our website, http://www.golfbags4U.com offering top quality, high end American made men's golf bags and high end women's contemporary golf bags and accessories. We have something for every golfer at a price to meet your needs and desires.
Jacqueline White
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jacqueline_White
We decided to go ahead of our group to spend a few extra days playing golf and enjoying the experience you can only have in Scotland. Arriving at the Turnberry Hotel you are instantly meet with gracious, accommodating staff and magnificent views of the Western Coast of Scotland. The world famous Turnberry Hotel stands high atop a headland looking out across the Firth of Clyde towards Ireland. It sits at the southern end of a strip of classic links land along the Ayrshire coast some 50 miles southwest of Glasgow, easy transportation is available. The hotel is magnificent with its white facade and red russet roof, truly an imposing sight on this quiet stretch of the west coast countryside. From this vantage point, you look down on one of the great championship golf courses of the world, the Alisa Course.
After our arrival, we were shown to one of the smaller buildings that is intended to house "groups" of golfers. The building is a short walking distance from the main hotel. There are approximately eight guest rooms in each building along with a common area to share for drinks, golf stories, etc. We settled in. The rooms are nicely appointed and carefully maintained. On the second night of our stay, we heard something in the wall behind the fireplace, each bedroom had a fireplace. What we were hearing was the distress cries of a bird that had fallen down the chimney. In addition, there were other birds on the top of the building "communicating" with the fallen and trapped bird. The cries of the birds were painful to hear and very distressing. Management was awesome, they came immediately to access the problem and tried to determine if the bird could be removed. There are several endangered species in the area, so they had to obtain information from ornithologists in the community.
After several unsuccessful attempts, they determined that the bird could not be removed and that they would have to open the fireplace in order to remove the "most probably" dead little bird. So for us, they had staff help to pack up our belongings, move us comfortably to another building and provide all the care and support that we needed to make this a truly happy and awesome experience. I have often wondered if something like this had happened at a stateside hotel, like Pinehurst, would they have been as gracious and willing to "evacuate" an entire building or a section of a building to solve this type of situation. I am sure that this was very costly with an entire eight rooms being declared "uninhabitable". Would American might have overplayed an attempt of resolving this type of situation as graciously?
But. back to now. Turnberry has a chequered history. During both the First and Second World Wars, the golf courses were dug up to make way for airfields for the Royal Air Force. After the Second World War, there were serious doubts that the courses would ever be rebuilt and it took a persistent campaign by Frank Hole, the then managing director of British Transport Hotels, owners at the time, to force the British Government into paying out compensation to enable reconstruction to be undertaken at all. The world of golf owes Mr. Hole a debt of gratitude who, with the help of course architect, Mackenzie Ross, created one of the great championship links courses, the Ailsa Course.
Some new renovations have been recently added to make the "Alisa" as formidable as any in the rotation.
Turnberry is 247 yards longer than the when the last "Open" was played there in 1994. The course will play at 7,204 yards adding six new tee locations and 21 bunkers to toughen the par-70 course. The seaside layout will be far tougher than when Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus played there in 1977, Turnberry's first Open Event. Watson shot a 12 under par score to beat Nicklaus by a stroke. In 1986, after the R&A tightened the fairways and let the rough grow, Greg Norman's par score won. With the new changes, the course promises to be a "very stiff par 70". Of course, we never know what the weather will be like and if the weather turns bad, windy with lots of rain, then these elements will certainly affect the playability of the course.
The British Open is always a great venue to watch and, believe me, we will be watching and remembering what a phenomenal and breathtaking site. For those of you who will visiting Turnberry, they have an awesome golf shop. Enjoy.
My husband and I are avid golfers. We live in LaQuinta, California. We have had the joy of playing at many of the world's best courses both at home and in Europe. Our passion for golf recently translated into our website, http://www.golfbags4U.com offering top quality, high end American made men's golf bags and high end women's contemporary golf bags and accessories. We have something for every golfer at a price to meet your needs and desires.
Jacqueline White
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jacqueline_White
Girvan - A Small Place of Interest By Simon Haughtone Platinum Quality Author
If you like traveling and want to know about a great place that is surrounded by beautiful beaches and coast lines, you should check out Girvan. The town of Girvan is located in Scotland and located near the great south Ayrshire. The general population of Girvan is low compared to most places in the land of Scotland. When you travel to Girvan, you might be in for a surprise with the nice ocean views and resorts that's on the beaches.
The town is a fishing port, just like most towns near the coast line in Scotland. The places of interest can be found all over town and one will be the Culzean castle that's located north of the main town. The Culzean castle was constructed during the medieval era and still stands today. Tourist come from all over the world to see the medieval buildings that's located in the mid town.
The Girvan area has many chip shops and pubs that can make your fancy for fine dinning and activities. You will find that the royal hotel that's there off the coast has been known to serve the finest foods and real ale to drink.
The railway station also serves as a good place for traveling town to town throughout the country of Scotland. The services for cabs, buses and tour guides can be ordered or found in town. The transportation isn't a real factor in this town.
If you want a fine place to stay and enjoy the beaches, you should check out the latest places that are in town. The town has a lot to offer for shopping and eating. In town you will find that the guest houses have a lot to offer you for your relaxing time. A vacation in Girvan will be the time of your life. You can count on countless hours of fun and lovely beaches to surf and walk.
To find a hotel in Girvan just click here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
The town is a fishing port, just like most towns near the coast line in Scotland. The places of interest can be found all over town and one will be the Culzean castle that's located north of the main town. The Culzean castle was constructed during the medieval era and still stands today. Tourist come from all over the world to see the medieval buildings that's located in the mid town.
The Girvan area has many chip shops and pubs that can make your fancy for fine dinning and activities. You will find that the royal hotel that's there off the coast has been known to serve the finest foods and real ale to drink.
The railway station also serves as a good place for traveling town to town throughout the country of Scotland. The services for cabs, buses and tour guides can be ordered or found in town. The transportation isn't a real factor in this town.
If you want a fine place to stay and enjoy the beaches, you should check out the latest places that are in town. The town has a lot to offer for shopping and eating. In town you will find that the guest houses have a lot to offer you for your relaxing time. A vacation in Girvan will be the time of your life. You can count on countless hours of fun and lovely beaches to surf and walk.
To find a hotel in Girvan just click here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
Ailsa Craig, South West Scotland By Gordon Mcculloch
The Island of Ailsa Craig.
What is Ailsa Craig? Ailsa Craig is a very well known landmark in Scotland and is a renowned bird sanctuary. The island is home to one of the largest gannet colonies on the world, with more than 70,000 birds, and is designated as a European Special Protection Area.
Ailsa Craig, in the Firth of Clyde, is an Island rising abruptly from the sea to an elevation of 1,110 feet. It is a volcanic plug which lies in the firth of Clyde, being active about 500 million years ago.
Who owns Ailsa Craig? Ailsa Craig is owned by the Kennedy family, whose title was taken from Marques of Ailsa. Ailsa Craig had been part of the lands of Crossraguel Abbey; the dispute of ownership of these lands had formed the background to the notorious "Roasting of the Abbot" in the 16th century. The Kennedy family were also the owners of Culzean Castle, who is now owned by the National Trust.
Where is Ailsa Craig? The distinctive dome-shaped island-rock lies approximately 8 miles from Girvan, and approximately 12 miles from Maidens on the coast of South Ayrshire. It rises sharply from the Firth of Clyde to a height of 340m (1114 feet). Its position is: Latitude 55° 15.1'N, Longitude 5° 06.4'W
It has a conical summit and is very precipitous except on the North East Side where it slopes more gently and is accessible. It can be seen from Girvan for miles in either direction along the Ayrshire coast. The shape appears to change as you move along the coast, viewing it from different angles.
The Background of Ailsa Craig. Ailsa Craig comes from the Gaelic for 'Fairy Rock', is 1200m (1300 yards) long and 800m (900 yards) wide, with an area of 100 Ha (245 acres). It is also known as Paddy's Milestone owing to its position as a landmark en route from Ireland.
What is Ailsa Craig made from? The island was the heart of an ancient volcano, its rock exhibiting fine columnar structure and was renowned as the source of a superior micro-granite used to fashion curling stones.
Indeed, most curling stones still in use today were made from Ailsa Craig granite. It was here that the curling stones used by the Scottish Women's Curling Team, winter 2002 Olympic Gold medal winners, were made.
The Living History of Ailsa Craig. By the late 19th Century the island had a population of 29 people, working in the quarries or the lighthouse. In 1881, petitions were received by the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses from Lloyds and the Scottish Shipmasters Association requesting the erection of two fog signals and a lighthouse on Ailsa Craig. The Board of Trade and Trinity House both agreed to the proposal and work commenced the following year. The construction was supervised in 1883-6 by Thomas and his nephew David Stevenson, Engineers to the Board. (Thomas was the father of Robert Louis Stevenson). The light was first exhibited on the night of 15 June 1886, an oil burning light which remained in use until 24 January 1911, when it was converted to incandescent.
Siren fog signals were erected on the North and South ends of Ailsa Craig and were powered by gas engines until 1911, when they were replaced by oil driven engines.
These fog signals were permanently discontinued in November 1966, and replaced by a Tyfon fog signal, which had a character of 3 blasts, each of three seconds duration every 45 seconds. It was sounded from a position close to the South East of the Lighthouse tower and not at either of the previous siren signals sites.
This fog signal was discontinued in 1987. Until wireless telephone communications were established on Ailsa Craig in 1935, the light keepers and employees of Ailsa Craig Granites Ltd used to depend on pigeons for the conveyance of messages.
A pigeon house was established at Girvan Green, where the town council established a parking place for cars and buses in 1935.
The Upgraded Light House on Ailsa Craig. The lighthouse was automated in 1990 and is now remotely monitored from the Northern Lighthouse Board's offices in Edinburgh. In 2001 as part of the refurbishment and de-gassing programme Alisa Craig Lighthouse was converted to solar-electric power.
Local sayings. "When Ailsa Craig has on its coat, The Weather will be very hot, (hoat). When Ailsa Craig has on its hat, You can be sure it will be wet, (wat). When Ailsa Craig has on its tie, That's a sign its going to be dry" The 'coat', 'hat' and 'tie' are the clouds or mist often seen at Ailsa Craig.
There is only one harbour to Ailsa Craig. It is adequate to land, but only just. The water here gets deep very quickly.
At one time, you were discouraged from landing on Ailsa Craig, but now the freedom of the country side act, allows you full access, as long as you act responsibly.
Please feel free to use this article in any way you wish. It appears on my website at www.keelbilge.com [http://www.keelbilge.com], where I have included many photos to give a flavour of the island. All I ask is that you include my website URL address, preferably attributing it to myself, Gordon McCulloch.
I would also be happy to answer any questions you may have by contacting me at GCCMCCULLOCH@aol.com.
About the Author. Gordon McCulloch is a professional engineer and teacher. He has worked and sailed in boats all his life. He was brought up near the coast, served with the Merchant Marine, and now occupies himself with all forms of water sports, in which he has developed his skill as a webmaster. Feel free to visit and comment on his website site at [http://www.keelbilge.com]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gordon_Mcculloch
Gordon Mcculloch - EzineArticles Expert Author
What is Ailsa Craig? Ailsa Craig is a very well known landmark in Scotland and is a renowned bird sanctuary. The island is home to one of the largest gannet colonies on the world, with more than 70,000 birds, and is designated as a European Special Protection Area.
Ailsa Craig, in the Firth of Clyde, is an Island rising abruptly from the sea to an elevation of 1,110 feet. It is a volcanic plug which lies in the firth of Clyde, being active about 500 million years ago.
Who owns Ailsa Craig? Ailsa Craig is owned by the Kennedy family, whose title was taken from Marques of Ailsa. Ailsa Craig had been part of the lands of Crossraguel Abbey; the dispute of ownership of these lands had formed the background to the notorious "Roasting of the Abbot" in the 16th century. The Kennedy family were also the owners of Culzean Castle, who is now owned by the National Trust.
Where is Ailsa Craig? The distinctive dome-shaped island-rock lies approximately 8 miles from Girvan, and approximately 12 miles from Maidens on the coast of South Ayrshire. It rises sharply from the Firth of Clyde to a height of 340m (1114 feet). Its position is: Latitude 55° 15.1'N, Longitude 5° 06.4'W
It has a conical summit and is very precipitous except on the North East Side where it slopes more gently and is accessible. It can be seen from Girvan for miles in either direction along the Ayrshire coast. The shape appears to change as you move along the coast, viewing it from different angles.
The Background of Ailsa Craig. Ailsa Craig comes from the Gaelic for 'Fairy Rock', is 1200m (1300 yards) long and 800m (900 yards) wide, with an area of 100 Ha (245 acres). It is also known as Paddy's Milestone owing to its position as a landmark en route from Ireland.
What is Ailsa Craig made from? The island was the heart of an ancient volcano, its rock exhibiting fine columnar structure and was renowned as the source of a superior micro-granite used to fashion curling stones.
Indeed, most curling stones still in use today were made from Ailsa Craig granite. It was here that the curling stones used by the Scottish Women's Curling Team, winter 2002 Olympic Gold medal winners, were made.
The Living History of Ailsa Craig. By the late 19th Century the island had a population of 29 people, working in the quarries or the lighthouse. In 1881, petitions were received by the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses from Lloyds and the Scottish Shipmasters Association requesting the erection of two fog signals and a lighthouse on Ailsa Craig. The Board of Trade and Trinity House both agreed to the proposal and work commenced the following year. The construction was supervised in 1883-6 by Thomas and his nephew David Stevenson, Engineers to the Board. (Thomas was the father of Robert Louis Stevenson). The light was first exhibited on the night of 15 June 1886, an oil burning light which remained in use until 24 January 1911, when it was converted to incandescent.
Siren fog signals were erected on the North and South ends of Ailsa Craig and were powered by gas engines until 1911, when they were replaced by oil driven engines.
These fog signals were permanently discontinued in November 1966, and replaced by a Tyfon fog signal, which had a character of 3 blasts, each of three seconds duration every 45 seconds. It was sounded from a position close to the South East of the Lighthouse tower and not at either of the previous siren signals sites.
This fog signal was discontinued in 1987. Until wireless telephone communications were established on Ailsa Craig in 1935, the light keepers and employees of Ailsa Craig Granites Ltd used to depend on pigeons for the conveyance of messages.
A pigeon house was established at Girvan Green, where the town council established a parking place for cars and buses in 1935.
The Upgraded Light House on Ailsa Craig. The lighthouse was automated in 1990 and is now remotely monitored from the Northern Lighthouse Board's offices in Edinburgh. In 2001 as part of the refurbishment and de-gassing programme Alisa Craig Lighthouse was converted to solar-electric power.
Local sayings. "When Ailsa Craig has on its coat, The Weather will be very hot, (hoat). When Ailsa Craig has on its hat, You can be sure it will be wet, (wat). When Ailsa Craig has on its tie, That's a sign its going to be dry" The 'coat', 'hat' and 'tie' are the clouds or mist often seen at Ailsa Craig.
There is only one harbour to Ailsa Craig. It is adequate to land, but only just. The water here gets deep very quickly.
At one time, you were discouraged from landing on Ailsa Craig, but now the freedom of the country side act, allows you full access, as long as you act responsibly.
Please feel free to use this article in any way you wish. It appears on my website at www.keelbilge.com [http://www.keelbilge.com], where I have included many photos to give a flavour of the island. All I ask is that you include my website URL address, preferably attributing it to myself, Gordon McCulloch.
I would also be happy to answer any questions you may have by contacting me at GCCMCCULLOCH@aol.com.
About the Author. Gordon McCulloch is a professional engineer and teacher. He has worked and sailed in boats all his life. He was brought up near the coast, served with the Merchant Marine, and now occupies himself with all forms of water sports, in which he has developed his skill as a webmaster. Feel free to visit and comment on his website site at [http://www.keelbilge.com]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gordon_Mcculloch
Gordon Mcculloch - EzineArticles Expert Author
Stranraer - Isn't That Just Where You Catch the Ferry to Belfast? By Michael P Harrison
There are many places in the British Isles that have now become dated, mainly due to the decline of industry and the rise in tourism, and could do with some TLC. Some of these towns and cities have taken the initiative to draw up plans for regeneration and Stranraer is one such place. If you ask most people what they know about about Stranraer, they'll probably say something like "isn't that just the place where you catch the ferry to Belfast" or "I've been through there on the way to Ireland but never stopped". These comments make me cringe every time, because Stranraer has so much more to offer than that, however these assets need to managed and promoted properly. Here's my summary of what these assets are and how they could be used as tourist attractions:
Loch Ryan - Stranraer is at the end of a large sea-loch called Loch Ryan which is, in geographical terms, one in a million. Scenically it is stunning, with views beyond to Ailsa Craig and Arran on the clearest days. But very few people stop and walk round it. What I would like to see is something like what they have a Loch Leven (Kinross) with a path/cycleway all the way round, and heavy promotion of this by Visit Scotland. This has already began with the Loch Ryan Coast Path, which starts in Stranraer and meets up with the Ayrshire Coast Path all the way up to Ardrossan. However, this is already severely under-promoted (there's not even a website) and needs to go all the way round Loch Ryan (perhaps even extending right round the Rhins of Galloway), not just half of it.
Wildlife - Wildlife is often forgotten by Councillors as a tourist attraction and goodness knows why because it's fast becoming big business in the tourism sector and really easy to set something up to harness it. Just look at the Red Kite Trail near Castle Douglas - this has generated hundreds of thousands of pounds in revenue for the local economy. Loch Ryan is particularly important for the only colony of Pale Bellied Brent Geese (that arrive in the winter) in Scotland as well as the thousands of waders and Terns in summer. Loch Ryan already attracts a number of birdwatchers every year because it's such a great spot for it - all we need to do is attract more by providing facilities such as hides, a visitor centre and a network of footpaths. Loch Ryan also hosts many types of fish - from pipefish to grey mullet and I'm positive that a glass bottom boat would go down well (though this may have to wait until Stena Line move's its port further up the coast). Another locally suggested idea is a Sealife Centre displaying creatures from the loch and the Irish Sea.. In all honesty, why isn't Loch Ryan a nature reserve?
History - this area is steeped in history. Heard of the Supermarine Stranraer? These were the flying boats used in World War II and named after, you guessed it, Stranraer, though they were actually stationed up the coast by Kirkcolm. On the other side of Loch Ryan is Cairnryan - named as "military port no.2" in the second world war (in case Southampton or Glasgow were destroyed), this was also where the Mulberry (floating) Harbour was built for use in Normandy in 1944. This is why Stranraer would be an ideal location for a Military/Maritime Museum.
So you can see that Stranraer and surrounding area has quite a lot to offer - it all just needs focus and dedication. The next time your on your way to Belfast, think about stopping over a night in Stranraer and checking it out for yourself.
Mike Harrison is a web professional and photographer, who also happens to be webmaster for the Visit Stranraer and the Rhins tourist information site.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_P_Harrison
Loch Ryan - Stranraer is at the end of a large sea-loch called Loch Ryan which is, in geographical terms, one in a million. Scenically it is stunning, with views beyond to Ailsa Craig and Arran on the clearest days. But very few people stop and walk round it. What I would like to see is something like what they have a Loch Leven (Kinross) with a path/cycleway all the way round, and heavy promotion of this by Visit Scotland. This has already began with the Loch Ryan Coast Path, which starts in Stranraer and meets up with the Ayrshire Coast Path all the way up to Ardrossan. However, this is already severely under-promoted (there's not even a website) and needs to go all the way round Loch Ryan (perhaps even extending right round the Rhins of Galloway), not just half of it.
Wildlife - Wildlife is often forgotten by Councillors as a tourist attraction and goodness knows why because it's fast becoming big business in the tourism sector and really easy to set something up to harness it. Just look at the Red Kite Trail near Castle Douglas - this has generated hundreds of thousands of pounds in revenue for the local economy. Loch Ryan is particularly important for the only colony of Pale Bellied Brent Geese (that arrive in the winter) in Scotland as well as the thousands of waders and Terns in summer. Loch Ryan already attracts a number of birdwatchers every year because it's such a great spot for it - all we need to do is attract more by providing facilities such as hides, a visitor centre and a network of footpaths. Loch Ryan also hosts many types of fish - from pipefish to grey mullet and I'm positive that a glass bottom boat would go down well (though this may have to wait until Stena Line move's its port further up the coast). Another locally suggested idea is a Sealife Centre displaying creatures from the loch and the Irish Sea.. In all honesty, why isn't Loch Ryan a nature reserve?
History - this area is steeped in history. Heard of the Supermarine Stranraer? These were the flying boats used in World War II and named after, you guessed it, Stranraer, though they were actually stationed up the coast by Kirkcolm. On the other side of Loch Ryan is Cairnryan - named as "military port no.2" in the second world war (in case Southampton or Glasgow were destroyed), this was also where the Mulberry (floating) Harbour was built for use in Normandy in 1944. This is why Stranraer would be an ideal location for a Military/Maritime Museum.
So you can see that Stranraer and surrounding area has quite a lot to offer - it all just needs focus and dedication. The next time your on your way to Belfast, think about stopping over a night in Stranraer and checking it out for yourself.
Mike Harrison is a web professional and photographer, who also happens to be webmaster for the Visit Stranraer and the Rhins tourist information site.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_P_Harrison
The History of Stranraer By Adam Singleton Platinum Quality Author
Stranraer may not be one of the most famous Scottish destinations but the town in the south west of Scotland has an abundance of history to interest visitors.
The town grew out of the settlement around Stranraer Castle - or the Castle of Saint John - which was built around 1510. The four-story, L-plan tower was designed and built by the Adairs of Kilhilt and over the years has served several different purposes - a home, a court, a prison, a garrison and, as it stands now, as a museum showing the history of justice from the Middle Ages to the present day. The castle has been open to the public since 1990.
It's not only the castle in Stranraer that has historic relevance. The town's football team - who play their home games at Stair Park near the centre of town - is the third oldest club in Scotland, having been formed in 1870. In the 2008/09 season they were relegated to the Scottish Third Division meaning that for the eighth successive season they will have played in a different league to the previous year. Despite the relegation, fans of the club are relieved that they still have a team to support as in January 2009 their chairman revealed that there was a 50-50 chance of the club folding due to financial difficulties. However, in March, the club was saved by a local business consortium who took over the club and its debts.
Stranraer's port played an important role in World War II with many submarines and flying boats built there, including the Supermarine Stranraer which was named after the town. Sir Winston Churchill visited Stranraer in 1942 and made his second visit of the war to the United States from the Scottish port.
Travelling from Northern Ireland to Stranraer by ferry has its roots in history as it was used as the droving route for farmers taking their animals to market in Dumfries. Nowadays the ferry to Stranraer service is used by travellers and tourists wanting to make the trip across the Irish Sea. Stranraer's port was the first in Great Britain to offer a roll on, roll off service giving the town a boost in popularity.
As well as being full of history, Stranraer has beauty from the modern era. The town displays this in abundance with its easily recognisable centre, full of colourful buildings and houses which help brighten up any day and look particularly picturesque on a sunny day.
Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Singleton
The town grew out of the settlement around Stranraer Castle - or the Castle of Saint John - which was built around 1510. The four-story, L-plan tower was designed and built by the Adairs of Kilhilt and over the years has served several different purposes - a home, a court, a prison, a garrison and, as it stands now, as a museum showing the history of justice from the Middle Ages to the present day. The castle has been open to the public since 1990.
It's not only the castle in Stranraer that has historic relevance. The town's football team - who play their home games at Stair Park near the centre of town - is the third oldest club in Scotland, having been formed in 1870. In the 2008/09 season they were relegated to the Scottish Third Division meaning that for the eighth successive season they will have played in a different league to the previous year. Despite the relegation, fans of the club are relieved that they still have a team to support as in January 2009 their chairman revealed that there was a 50-50 chance of the club folding due to financial difficulties. However, in March, the club was saved by a local business consortium who took over the club and its debts.
Stranraer's port played an important role in World War II with many submarines and flying boats built there, including the Supermarine Stranraer which was named after the town. Sir Winston Churchill visited Stranraer in 1942 and made his second visit of the war to the United States from the Scottish port.
Travelling from Northern Ireland to Stranraer by ferry has its roots in history as it was used as the droving route for farmers taking their animals to market in Dumfries. Nowadays the ferry to Stranraer service is used by travellers and tourists wanting to make the trip across the Irish Sea. Stranraer's port was the first in Great Britain to offer a roll on, roll off service giving the town a boost in popularity.
As well as being full of history, Stranraer has beauty from the modern era. The town displays this in abundance with its easily recognisable centre, full of colourful buildings and houses which help brighten up any day and look particularly picturesque on a sunny day.
Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Singleton
Saturday 22 May 2010
Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway By Simon Haughtone Platinum Quality Author
Newton Stewart is located in a very charming and peaceful area about the Galloway forest park. The Galloway forest park in the United Kingdom is the largest in the area. Galloway forest park is spread over the area of around 300 square miles of the forest area. This is an excellent place to visit for those who like nature as it gives one of the fascinating views with a 200 mile of the coast line and the farmlands around it.
You will be able to easily get to the Newton Stewart from the northern part of England or Ireland. This is one of the favorite spots for the holiday destination for most people. Many people will mainly visit the Newton Stewart to admire its boundless beauty. This place is located within a touching distance from the Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburg or Carlisle.
Those who like to trek should not miss a chance to climb the hills of the Merrick and Cairnsmore. As this will allow you to observe natural beauty from a very close place. You will be able to trek through the small trails which will lead to the passageway all along the coast line which is really a visual treat to your eyes.
You will be able to see the geese and other types of the migratory birds, if you receive this place during the spring and the fall season. Ornithologists should not miss this chance to see these birds.
Those who like to do fishing will have an excellent time around while they are in the shore or from the boat. This place will also serve well for the hunters, who will be able to do rough shooting and deer stalking. If you are not interested with this, then you can enjoy yourself your leisure time by playing golf, tennis, carpet bowling etc. So don't miss the chance to go to the Newton Stewart during your vacations.
For accommodation in Newton Stewart check this list of Newton Stewart hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
You will be able to easily get to the Newton Stewart from the northern part of England or Ireland. This is one of the favorite spots for the holiday destination for most people. Many people will mainly visit the Newton Stewart to admire its boundless beauty. This place is located within a touching distance from the Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburg or Carlisle.
Those who like to trek should not miss a chance to climb the hills of the Merrick and Cairnsmore. As this will allow you to observe natural beauty from a very close place. You will be able to trek through the small trails which will lead to the passageway all along the coast line which is really a visual treat to your eyes.
You will be able to see the geese and other types of the migratory birds, if you receive this place during the spring and the fall season. Ornithologists should not miss this chance to see these birds.
Those who like to do fishing will have an excellent time around while they are in the shore or from the boat. This place will also serve well for the hunters, who will be able to do rough shooting and deer stalking. If you are not interested with this, then you can enjoy yourself your leisure time by playing golf, tennis, carpet bowling etc. So don't miss the chance to go to the Newton Stewart during your vacations.
For accommodation in Newton Stewart check this list of Newton Stewart hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway - Plenty of Activities By Simon Haughtone Platinum Quality Author
hroughout the world, nature sure does have a lot of great things to offer. There are also some awesome man made places, which flatter us each day, especially when they have to do with history. As you travel the world, you are going to come across many historical artifacts. One of the great places where you can find both nature and history at its best is Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway. As you read this article, you are going to learn about this wonderful area.
First of all, as you are in the area, we highly recommend you visiting The Galloway Hills & Galloway Forest Park. Why? Because there is miles of magnificent hills that are surrounding a forest. There is three hundred square miles of forest, peaks, moorland and lochs inside this park. With over two hundred miles of coastline, you will be sure to find some great activities. This is definitely paradise for all of those outdoor lovers.
Inside Galloway, you are going to come across some great activities and attractions. If you like to hike through nature and enjoy the wildlife, then you will be able to do that in this area. There are some world class nature reserves, where you will be able to enjoy good old Mother Nature at her best.
If you are a fisher, then you will enjoy the River Cree. You can catch many Salmon as well as trout. You can go sea fishing on not only the shore, but from a boat as well. Yes, the fishing is high quality. You can also hunt in the area, but we recommend you just viewing the wildlife and taking some pictures. We believe this is the ideal holiday location, which both you and your family members are going to enjoy. Don't forget to take some pictures for the folks back home.
To find a hotel in Newton Stewart just click here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
First of all, as you are in the area, we highly recommend you visiting The Galloway Hills & Galloway Forest Park. Why? Because there is miles of magnificent hills that are surrounding a forest. There is three hundred square miles of forest, peaks, moorland and lochs inside this park. With over two hundred miles of coastline, you will be sure to find some great activities. This is definitely paradise for all of those outdoor lovers.
Inside Galloway, you are going to come across some great activities and attractions. If you like to hike through nature and enjoy the wildlife, then you will be able to do that in this area. There are some world class nature reserves, where you will be able to enjoy good old Mother Nature at her best.
If you are a fisher, then you will enjoy the River Cree. You can catch many Salmon as well as trout. You can go sea fishing on not only the shore, but from a boat as well. Yes, the fishing is high quality. You can also hunt in the area, but we recommend you just viewing the wildlife and taking some pictures. We believe this is the ideal holiday location, which both you and your family members are going to enjoy. Don't forget to take some pictures for the folks back home.
To find a hotel in Newton Stewart just click here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
Holiday Cottages in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland By Charles Marriage
Not sure about taking a holiday in Dumfries and Galloway? Its an ideal part of Scotland for taking a self catering holiday, though in the past travellers often didn't stop.
This area is on the route from England to Northern Ireland via Stranraer's ferry and many people have rushed through without stopping or taking in the pretty market towns and beautiful countryside. Yet others visited Gretna Green in the east and stayed long enough only to get married, as it was the place where young lovers eloped to be married there legally but without their parents consent.
Galloway consists of soft rolling countryside penetrated by sea inlets, for example at Gatehouse of Fleet, Its climate has favoured settlement from prehistoric times: Viking carved stones, stone age temples, Iron age hill forts, through the medieval (nine extant castles) and to the present day, gardens pampered by the moderating effect of the sea (there are 13 significant gardens open to the public). The farming is good and the Galloway breed of cattle is renowned.
Behind - north - of the coastal area the countryside is bleaker. Passing on the road to Newton Stewart you pass the reservoir of Clatteringshaws. On bleak days you can understand the name, but the surrounding area is a notable forest park with walks and cycleways. Higher still there is good climbing on the Clints of Dromore.
The area is renowned, too, for Robbie Burns the eighteenth century Ploughman Poet who was born in Ayrshire and died young (age 37) in Dumfries. In this town is a mausoleum and a museum devoted to him.
There is much to see in the area such as the gardens, castles, walks along abandoned railways and the well spaced small market towns (Newton Stewart, Wigtown, Kirkcudbright). There are also four bird reserves, at the Mull of Galloway (the most Southerly part of Scotland), Wood of Cree near Newton Stewart, and two more near Dumfries.
Accommodation - self catering cottages, bed and breakfasts, campsites and so on are widely available even though the area is not a tourist hotspot.
Much better to stay than simply rush through to the ferry at Cairnryan.
Writes on travel and holidays. Visit scotland's holiday cottage web site for outstandingly beautiful holiday locations in Scotland.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charles_Marriage
This area is on the route from England to Northern Ireland via Stranraer's ferry and many people have rushed through without stopping or taking in the pretty market towns and beautiful countryside. Yet others visited Gretna Green in the east and stayed long enough only to get married, as it was the place where young lovers eloped to be married there legally but without their parents consent.
Galloway consists of soft rolling countryside penetrated by sea inlets, for example at Gatehouse of Fleet, Its climate has favoured settlement from prehistoric times: Viking carved stones, stone age temples, Iron age hill forts, through the medieval (nine extant castles) and to the present day, gardens pampered by the moderating effect of the sea (there are 13 significant gardens open to the public). The farming is good and the Galloway breed of cattle is renowned.
Behind - north - of the coastal area the countryside is bleaker. Passing on the road to Newton Stewart you pass the reservoir of Clatteringshaws. On bleak days you can understand the name, but the surrounding area is a notable forest park with walks and cycleways. Higher still there is good climbing on the Clints of Dromore.
The area is renowned, too, for Robbie Burns the eighteenth century Ploughman Poet who was born in Ayrshire and died young (age 37) in Dumfries. In this town is a mausoleum and a museum devoted to him.
There is much to see in the area such as the gardens, castles, walks along abandoned railways and the well spaced small market towns (Newton Stewart, Wigtown, Kirkcudbright). There are also four bird reserves, at the Mull of Galloway (the most Southerly part of Scotland), Wood of Cree near Newton Stewart, and two more near Dumfries.
Accommodation - self catering cottages, bed and breakfasts, campsites and so on are widely available even though the area is not a tourist hotspot.
Much better to stay than simply rush through to the ferry at Cairnryan.
Writes on travel and holidays. Visit scotland's holiday cottage web site for outstandingly beautiful holiday locations in Scotland.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charles_Marriage
Scotland - Threave Castle By Michael Russell Platinum Quality Author
Murder, mayhem and Mons Meg dominate the history of a simple tower house perched on an island in the River Dee, near Kirkcudbright. Threave Castle served the "Black" Douglases, who used this watery site as a springboard against their rivals, the Stewarts, in the 14th and 15th centuries. As the typical Scottish tower house, the stronghold effectively merged simplicity and durability to pose a formidable threat to all comers.
Archibald the "Grim", Lord of Galloway and 3rd Earl of Douglas, erected Threave Castle in 1370 on the site of an earth-and-timber fortification. The illegitimate son and only heir of "Good" Sir James Douglas, Archibald developed a reputation in Galloway for cold-hearted oppression. Isolated from the surrounding landscape, this inhospitable tower house seems an appropriate home for the despised Archibald, yet the structure was more elaborate than its exterior suggests.
Standing five storeys high, the 8-foot thick walls solidly protected the Douglases. Each story had a specific purpose. Used for storage, the vaulted basement contained the well, a sink and drain and the dungeon. It may also have held servants quarters. The kitchen level above the basement had a large fireplace, stone sink, deep recessed window, latrine and probably provided dining space for the servants. A spiral staircase afforded the easy transfer of hot meals between the kitchen and the great hall, purposely located on the floor above. As the Laird's showplace, the great hall featured an ornate fireplace, three well-lit windows with seats and a latrine. An outside doorway allowed passage between the great hall and boat docks on the river below. Archibald and his descendents lived on the floor above the great hall, with private apartments offering refuge and a bedchamber when guests proved tiring. Meager accommodation filled the uppermost storey.
After the death in 1439 of the powerful 5th Earl of Douglas, who was also named Archibald, the relationship between the Black Douglases and the Scottish monarchy, which had never been easy, began to break down. In 1440, the two Douglas heirs, William and David, rode to Edinburgh Castle to dine with King James II, who was still in his teens. During the "Black Bull's Dinner", the kings regents charged the young Douglases with treason. According to tradition, at the end of the evening's meal, one of the regents placed a bull's head before the brothers to symbolize their impending doom. Both were executed in front of the young king.
The blood feud continued. In 1452, the 8th Earl imprisoned a rival, Sir Patrick MacLellan, who was "the Tutor of Bombie" and Sheriff of Galloway. MacLellan's uncle visited Douglas, who suspected the uncle was carrying a release decree signed by the king. Douglas arranged to dine with the uncle before discussing the prisoner's freedom. During the meal he had MacLellan killed, voiding the royal decree and enraging King James.
The king soon discovered that Douglas was conspiring against him with the Earl of Crawford and the Lord of the Isles, John MacDonald. Allegedly hoping to reconcile the bad blood between them, King James II invited Douglas to dine at Stirling Castle. When the 8th Earl of Douglas refused to renounce his association with Crawford and MacDonald, the king became infuriated and stabbed him to death.
In 1455, the king's army defeated James, 9th Earl of Douglas; and his assembly of 40,000 men, who marched to Stirling Castle to avenge the murder of the 8th Earl. Proceeding to Threave, James II scorned the Earl's offer of the castle as a gift and instead built an artillery wall around the stronghold. The king then bombarded the sturdy tower house with the legendary Mons Meg (how housed in Edinburgh Castle). The Mons Meg was a mammoth cannon presented by the Duke of Burgundy to James II in 1457. Seeing the destruction of several outbuildings and with their laird safely ensconced in England, the garrison surrendered to the king. From then onward, Threave Castle served as a royal fortress with the Lords Maxwell as hereditary keepers from 1526.
The castle of the Black Douglases faced its final and most devastating siege in 1640, when a force of Covenanters, Calvinists determined to enforce Protestant rule in Scotland, wreaked havoc upon the site for 13 weeks. Although left in ruin, the tower house remained strong enough to imprison French prisoners during the Napoleonic Wars.
In 1948 the National Trust for Scotland became custodians and started a School for Practical Gardening in the castle grounds. Now under the dual care of the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Scotland, Threave Castle is open during the summer for an entrance fee.
Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Tourism [http://tourism-guided.com]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell
Michael Russell - EzineArticles Expert Author
Archibald the "Grim", Lord of Galloway and 3rd Earl of Douglas, erected Threave Castle in 1370 on the site of an earth-and-timber fortification. The illegitimate son and only heir of "Good" Sir James Douglas, Archibald developed a reputation in Galloway for cold-hearted oppression. Isolated from the surrounding landscape, this inhospitable tower house seems an appropriate home for the despised Archibald, yet the structure was more elaborate than its exterior suggests.
Standing five storeys high, the 8-foot thick walls solidly protected the Douglases. Each story had a specific purpose. Used for storage, the vaulted basement contained the well, a sink and drain and the dungeon. It may also have held servants quarters. The kitchen level above the basement had a large fireplace, stone sink, deep recessed window, latrine and probably provided dining space for the servants. A spiral staircase afforded the easy transfer of hot meals between the kitchen and the great hall, purposely located on the floor above. As the Laird's showplace, the great hall featured an ornate fireplace, three well-lit windows with seats and a latrine. An outside doorway allowed passage between the great hall and boat docks on the river below. Archibald and his descendents lived on the floor above the great hall, with private apartments offering refuge and a bedchamber when guests proved tiring. Meager accommodation filled the uppermost storey.
After the death in 1439 of the powerful 5th Earl of Douglas, who was also named Archibald, the relationship between the Black Douglases and the Scottish monarchy, which had never been easy, began to break down. In 1440, the two Douglas heirs, William and David, rode to Edinburgh Castle to dine with King James II, who was still in his teens. During the "Black Bull's Dinner", the kings regents charged the young Douglases with treason. According to tradition, at the end of the evening's meal, one of the regents placed a bull's head before the brothers to symbolize their impending doom. Both were executed in front of the young king.
The blood feud continued. In 1452, the 8th Earl imprisoned a rival, Sir Patrick MacLellan, who was "the Tutor of Bombie" and Sheriff of Galloway. MacLellan's uncle visited Douglas, who suspected the uncle was carrying a release decree signed by the king. Douglas arranged to dine with the uncle before discussing the prisoner's freedom. During the meal he had MacLellan killed, voiding the royal decree and enraging King James.
The king soon discovered that Douglas was conspiring against him with the Earl of Crawford and the Lord of the Isles, John MacDonald. Allegedly hoping to reconcile the bad blood between them, King James II invited Douglas to dine at Stirling Castle. When the 8th Earl of Douglas refused to renounce his association with Crawford and MacDonald, the king became infuriated and stabbed him to death.
In 1455, the king's army defeated James, 9th Earl of Douglas; and his assembly of 40,000 men, who marched to Stirling Castle to avenge the murder of the 8th Earl. Proceeding to Threave, James II scorned the Earl's offer of the castle as a gift and instead built an artillery wall around the stronghold. The king then bombarded the sturdy tower house with the legendary Mons Meg (how housed in Edinburgh Castle). The Mons Meg was a mammoth cannon presented by the Duke of Burgundy to James II in 1457. Seeing the destruction of several outbuildings and with their laird safely ensconced in England, the garrison surrendered to the king. From then onward, Threave Castle served as a royal fortress with the Lords Maxwell as hereditary keepers from 1526.
The castle of the Black Douglases faced its final and most devastating siege in 1640, when a force of Covenanters, Calvinists determined to enforce Protestant rule in Scotland, wreaked havoc upon the site for 13 weeks. Although left in ruin, the tower house remained strong enough to imprison French prisoners during the Napoleonic Wars.
In 1948 the National Trust for Scotland became custodians and started a School for Practical Gardening in the castle grounds. Now under the dual care of the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Scotland, Threave Castle is open during the summer for an entrance fee.
Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Tourism [http://tourism-guided.com]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell
Michael Russell - EzineArticles Expert Author
Castle Douglas in Dumfries and Galloway By Simon Haughtone Platinum Quality Author
Finding a vacation through the Internet is very easy to do. In fact, booking a vacation in a specific town is extremely easy. Did you know that there are places you can go that will actually allow you to book your entire vacation? This includes the plane tickets, rental car and hotel room. In fact, on the Internet, you can plan out your entire vacation. This is exactly what we did when we visited Castle Douglas. Castle Douglas is a town that can be found in Dumfries and Galloway.
This may be a small town, but you should not let that stop you from visiting it. In fact, within this small town, you are going to come across many other small areas. Those areas have a tendency to specialize in high quality food products. In fact, you are going to find that some of those restaurants are serving fresh seafood. There is no denying that it is a busy shopping area and if you are into fresh produce and gourmet food, you will enjoy it.
When you take a stroll along the streets of Castle Douglas, you will be stepping back in time a bit. You will come across fishmongers, butchers and bakers that are preparing delicious food. In some of the other specialty shops, you will find fresh fruit and vegetables.
Apart from food, there are many other great place in this area. In fact, there are many lovely hotels that you will be able to stay at. As you are in this town, you cannot forget to stay at the Historic Threave Castle.
There are many annual events that are held in Castle Douglas. Some of those events include Craft fairs, food weekends, food fairs and masterclasses. You will find a number of different sporting activities available. IN fact, the town has a total of thirty gold courses. You are also going to find many fishing attractions scattered around this small town.
For accommodation in Castle Douglas check this list of Castle Douglas hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
This may be a small town, but you should not let that stop you from visiting it. In fact, within this small town, you are going to come across many other small areas. Those areas have a tendency to specialize in high quality food products. In fact, you are going to find that some of those restaurants are serving fresh seafood. There is no denying that it is a busy shopping area and if you are into fresh produce and gourmet food, you will enjoy it.
When you take a stroll along the streets of Castle Douglas, you will be stepping back in time a bit. You will come across fishmongers, butchers and bakers that are preparing delicious food. In some of the other specialty shops, you will find fresh fruit and vegetables.
Apart from food, there are many other great place in this area. In fact, there are many lovely hotels that you will be able to stay at. As you are in this town, you cannot forget to stay at the Historic Threave Castle.
There are many annual events that are held in Castle Douglas. Some of those events include Craft fairs, food weekends, food fairs and masterclasses. You will find a number of different sporting activities available. IN fact, the town has a total of thirty gold courses. You are also going to find many fishing attractions scattered around this small town.
For accommodation in Castle Douglas check this list of Castle Douglas hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
Castle Douglas - Dumfries and Galloway By Simon Haughtone Platinum Quality Author
Located centrally in Dumfries and Galloway is Castle Douglas, a small Food Town known as Castle Douglas - Dumfries and Galloway.
There are many small areas within this small town, specializing in quality food products, as well as a variety of eateries that often serve fresh seafood. This town also boasts a busy shopping area for Artesians, gourmet foods, and fresh produce.
Castle Douglas is also an area offering a variety of different types of sporting activities. In fact, the area boasts over 30 golf courses, as well as many shooting and fishing attractions.
You'll also find it is rich in history, including John Paul Jones' birthplace, Peter Pan's inspiration as well as Scotland's very first Christian Church. Not only are their mountains and forests available but you'll also find lochs, castles, and beaches.
You'll also find a variety of different types of activities and attractions in the area including Southwest Scotland Maze, paintball with Pro-Zone a 200 acre area for fun and games, the Guild Players who are based out of Scotland's oldest working theater. And if you'd like to volunteer to help, Search and Rescue Dogs Association of Southern Scotland could use a few bodies training once in awhile.
Infrastructure in the area will include a variety of different transportation types to get you around including the Stena Line Ferry, P & O Ferry, Avis and Hertz car rentals, Limousine rentals, Taxi's, Private Cars and Coaches for Hire, and in trains the West Coast main line, Network Rail, and bussing provided by Citylink.
Enjoy the region with many luxury and basic accommodations including bed and breakfast, hotels, motels, and self catering accommodations.
Enjoy Castle Douglas and the varietal landscape and don't forget to pick up gourmet food, fresh produce, and fresh seafood while you're there.
For accommodation in Castle Douglas check this list of Castle Douglas hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
There are many small areas within this small town, specializing in quality food products, as well as a variety of eateries that often serve fresh seafood. This town also boasts a busy shopping area for Artesians, gourmet foods, and fresh produce.
Castle Douglas is also an area offering a variety of different types of sporting activities. In fact, the area boasts over 30 golf courses, as well as many shooting and fishing attractions.
You'll also find it is rich in history, including John Paul Jones' birthplace, Peter Pan's inspiration as well as Scotland's very first Christian Church. Not only are their mountains and forests available but you'll also find lochs, castles, and beaches.
You'll also find a variety of different types of activities and attractions in the area including Southwest Scotland Maze, paintball with Pro-Zone a 200 acre area for fun and games, the Guild Players who are based out of Scotland's oldest working theater. And if you'd like to volunteer to help, Search and Rescue Dogs Association of Southern Scotland could use a few bodies training once in awhile.
Infrastructure in the area will include a variety of different transportation types to get you around including the Stena Line Ferry, P & O Ferry, Avis and Hertz car rentals, Limousine rentals, Taxi's, Private Cars and Coaches for Hire, and in trains the West Coast main line, Network Rail, and bussing provided by Citylink.
Enjoy the region with many luxury and basic accommodations including bed and breakfast, hotels, motels, and self catering accommodations.
Enjoy Castle Douglas and the varietal landscape and don't forget to pick up gourmet food, fresh produce, and fresh seafood while you're there.
For accommodation in Castle Douglas check this list of Castle Douglas hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
Thursday 20 May 2010
Robbie Burns - Scotland's Favorite Son By Rauncie Kinnaird
"The Ploughman Poet" Robert Burns was born on January 25, 1759. He was a poet and lyricist who inspired many. His birthday is celebrated as an unofficial national holiday in Scotland.
Born in Alloway, South Ayrshire, Scotland, "The Bard" lived a hard life of poverty. Educated by his father, Burns was the principle laborer on his family farm. His first poem was inspired by a female co-worker.
Settling on a small farm after his father's death, Robert formed the Tarlbolton Bachelor's Club and became a Freemason at Lodge St. David. Burns was known for his fondness of scotch and ladies and had many casual love affairs. His first child was born to his mother's servant. Soon after, Jean Armour gave birth to twin sons and later married Burns. In total, she had nine children although only 3 lived past infancy.
The success of Burns' first collection of published works, Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect, led to recognition across the country. He helped James Johnson preserve old Scots songs and contributed nearly a third of the songs in the cots Musical Museum. He also contributed over 100 songs to the Melodies of Scotland and to A Select Collection of Original Scottish Airs for the Voice. Constant themes included class inequalities, gender roles, Scottish cultural identity, poverty, and socializing. He was an inspiration to liberalism, socialism and the campaign for self-government.
At the young age of 37, Burns' heart gave out on July 21, 1796. A memorial edition of his works was published to raise money for his family. Burns' close friends began the tradition of a supper every January 25th to pay tribute to him. Burns suppers are still a common tradition today and the format of the supper has not changed since 1796.
Among Burns' works is his most famous poem, Auld Lang Syne, which is sung at Hogmany (New Years Eve) celebrations. Some of his other well known works include A Red, Red Rose, A Man's A Man for A' That, To a Louse, To a Mouse, The Battle of Sherramuir and Ae Fond Kiss. His life and works continue to be greatly promoted today.
Rauncie Kinnaird owns Kinnaird Bagpipes & Reeds specializing in UK foods, including Haggis, Celtic jewelery, Guinness gear, gift items, pipe band supplies, and Highland dress.
Sign-up for free articles on Scottish history and events at http://www.kinnairdbagpipes.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rauncie_Kinnaird
Born in Alloway, South Ayrshire, Scotland, "The Bard" lived a hard life of poverty. Educated by his father, Burns was the principle laborer on his family farm. His first poem was inspired by a female co-worker.
Settling on a small farm after his father's death, Robert formed the Tarlbolton Bachelor's Club and became a Freemason at Lodge St. David. Burns was known for his fondness of scotch and ladies and had many casual love affairs. His first child was born to his mother's servant. Soon after, Jean Armour gave birth to twin sons and later married Burns. In total, she had nine children although only 3 lived past infancy.
The success of Burns' first collection of published works, Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect, led to recognition across the country. He helped James Johnson preserve old Scots songs and contributed nearly a third of the songs in the cots Musical Museum. He also contributed over 100 songs to the Melodies of Scotland and to A Select Collection of Original Scottish Airs for the Voice. Constant themes included class inequalities, gender roles, Scottish cultural identity, poverty, and socializing. He was an inspiration to liberalism, socialism and the campaign for self-government.
At the young age of 37, Burns' heart gave out on July 21, 1796. A memorial edition of his works was published to raise money for his family. Burns' close friends began the tradition of a supper every January 25th to pay tribute to him. Burns suppers are still a common tradition today and the format of the supper has not changed since 1796.
Among Burns' works is his most famous poem, Auld Lang Syne, which is sung at Hogmany (New Years Eve) celebrations. Some of his other well known works include A Red, Red Rose, A Man's A Man for A' That, To a Louse, To a Mouse, The Battle of Sherramuir and Ae Fond Kiss. His life and works continue to be greatly promoted today.
Rauncie Kinnaird owns Kinnaird Bagpipes & Reeds specializing in UK foods, including Haggis, Celtic jewelery, Guinness gear, gift items, pipe band supplies, and Highland dress.
Sign-up for free articles on Scottish history and events at http://www.kinnairdbagpipes.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rauncie_Kinnaird
Burns Night Supper - A Celebration of Robbie Burns By Rauncie Kinnaird
2009 marked the 250th birthday of Robbie Burns. Although they began as a small celebration by Burns' friends after his death, the celebrations have grown and now Burns suppers are celebrated all over the world. Generally, the event takes place on or around January 25th, the poet's birthday.
There is a specific format to a Robbie Burns Supper. It is as follows:
Welcome Speech- The event host welcomes everyone to the supper and the guests take their seats.
Selkirk Grace- The following grace is read as guests bow their heads:
"Some hae meat and canna eat,
And some wad eat that want it;
But we hae meat, and we can eat,
Sae let the Lord be thankit."
Entrance of the Haggis- Lead by a bagpiper, the haggis is brought in by the cook. The Address to a Haggis is given and the haggis is cut.
Supper- A toast is given to the haggis and guests enjoy their meal.
Loyal Toast- The host proposes a toast to the health of the monarch.
Immortal memory- A guest gives a speech reflecting on some aspects of Burns' life. Everyone drinks a toast to the bard.
Toast to the Lassies- A male speaker expresses views on women. It should be amusing, but not offensive.
Reply to the Toast to the Lassies- A female guest gets to reciprocate with her views on men.
Works by Burns- Burns' poems and songs are read and sang.
So, enjoy your haggis and whisky in celebration of Scotland's Favorite Son, Robbie Burns.
Rauncie Kinnaird owns Kinnaird Bagpipes & Reeds specializing in Celtic jewellery, food including haggis, Guinness clothing, gift items, pipe band supplies and Highland dress. Sign-up for free articles on Celtic history and events at http://www.kinnairdbagpipes.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rauncie_Kinnaird
There is a specific format to a Robbie Burns Supper. It is as follows:
Welcome Speech- The event host welcomes everyone to the supper and the guests take their seats.
Selkirk Grace- The following grace is read as guests bow their heads:
"Some hae meat and canna eat,
And some wad eat that want it;
But we hae meat, and we can eat,
Sae let the Lord be thankit."
Entrance of the Haggis- Lead by a bagpiper, the haggis is brought in by the cook. The Address to a Haggis is given and the haggis is cut.
Supper- A toast is given to the haggis and guests enjoy their meal.
Loyal Toast- The host proposes a toast to the health of the monarch.
Immortal memory- A guest gives a speech reflecting on some aspects of Burns' life. Everyone drinks a toast to the bard.
Toast to the Lassies- A male speaker expresses views on women. It should be amusing, but not offensive.
Reply to the Toast to the Lassies- A female guest gets to reciprocate with her views on men.
Works by Burns- Burns' poems and songs are read and sang.
So, enjoy your haggis and whisky in celebration of Scotland's Favorite Son, Robbie Burns.
Rauncie Kinnaird owns Kinnaird Bagpipes & Reeds specializing in Celtic jewellery, food including haggis, Guinness clothing, gift items, pipe band supplies and Highland dress. Sign-up for free articles on Celtic history and events at http://www.kinnairdbagpipes.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rauncie_Kinnaird
The Story of Burns Night By Paul Ian Fraser
Robert Burns remains Scotland's pre-eminent poet and, on January 25, millions of people around the world will celebrate Burns Night to mark the anniversary of his birth.
Burns Night has been celebrated for over two centuries. But why, you may ask, has the history of Burns Night endured so widely, and for so long?
One answer is, of course, his writing.
John Steinbeck took the title of his 1937 novel, Of Mice and Men, from a Burns Poem.
And folk legend Bob Dylan highlighted Burns' 1794 song, A Red Red Rose, as the lyric that had the biggest effect on his life.
Even in Russia, Burns was elected the 'people's poet' and a 1924 translation of his works sold over 600,000 copies. His poetry continues to be taught in Russian schools.
For another answer, look no further than New Year's Eve.
"And we'll tak a cup o' kindness yet, for auld lang syne..." - from Auld Lang Syne by Robert Burns
Burns is most commonly known as the author of Auld Lange Syne, the song used to greet the New Year by English speakers across the globe.
The song is a true anthem, containing a universal truth: the past is forever gone, but should never be forgotten.
Auld Lang Syne's underlying theme, of making the harsh realities of life more palatable through the company of good friends and good drink, is quintessentially Scottish.
And it would have been this theme that a select group of Burns' friends had in mind when they celebrated the very first Burns Supper in 1801, five years after his death.
Celebrating their friend's passing in such as way was noble and poignant, particularly when considering his tragic and awful demise.
"An illness which has long hung about me... will speedily send me beyond that bourne whence no traveller returns... Farewell!!" - a letter written by Burns in his final days
Burns' death is understood to have been caused by a chronic heart complaint.
Unfortunately, his end was worsened by 19th century misdiagnosis.
Mistaking his condition for gout, Burns' person physician advised his patient to travel to Brow Well, a mineral spring near Dumfries in Scotland.
There, the treatments - including drinking and bathing in the foul-tasting cold spring waters - only worsened Burns' condition.
As his health deteriorated, he began to age prematurely and would fall into fits of despondency, with only his battered Bible for comfort.
Four days after leaving Brow Well, Burns died aged just 37.
"Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o' the puddin-race!" - a line from Burns' Ode to Haggis
In its early years, Burns Night was held on the date of the poet's death: July 21, 1796.
However, as Robert Burns became a recognised Scottish institution, and Burns Night evolved into a nation's pastime, the celebration was moved to his birthday: January 25, 1759.
Burns Night itself, and the Burns Supper, includes various established traditions.
These included the eating of haggis - originally Burns' friends' tribute to his famous Ode to Haggis - along with neeps and tatties, to compliment the haggis' spiciness.
Traditionally, the Burns Supper is held with everyone sat around a table. After a few words welcoming everyone are spoken, grace is usually said - normally, the Selkirk Grace.
"Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it; But we hae meat, and we can eat, Sae let the Lord be thankit...." - from the Selkirk Grace
The Selkirk Grace, so-called because Burns was said to have delivered it at a dinner given by the Earl of Selkirk, precedes a soup course.
Later, when the tables are cleared after the meal, the host proposes The Loyal Toast, often honouring the Head of State (for example, The Queen in the UK).
Then comes the Immortal Memory, a short, lively speech about Robert Burns himself. Featuring tributes to Burns' life and works, it ends with a toast to his immortal memory.
Aside from the enduring popularity of Burns night, various memorabilia recent sales, both at auction and on the private market, have demonstrated that Burns' legacy is also immortal.
Last year, having been unseen in public since 1896, one of the most important pieces of Burns memorabilia appeared on the private market.
The famous Burns' Bible, clutched by the poet at Brow Well as his main comfort during his final days, was recently sold by Paul Fraser Collectibles for £25,000 ($41,250).
And, earlier in 2009, a retired professor became the new patron of Burns' best known creation: the origional Auld Lang Syne manuscript itself.
The manuscript "sold" at auction for £10,000 to Professor David Purdie. Purdie will remain Auld Lang Syne's custodian while it is held in the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Ayrshire, Scotland.
Elsewhere in the collectors' markets, the renowned Macallan distillery released a new whisky marking the 250th anniversary of Burns' birth.
Limited to just 250 bottles - from two casks chosen by The Macallan's whisky maker Bob Dalgarno, one from 1997 and one from 1998 - each was numbered 1759, the date of Burns' birth.
The whisky is rare: a sherry oak expression with an ABV of 46%, according to Whisky Intelligence. It is sold in a specially-designed decanter.
In England, Burns has been honoured on postage stamps three times, and is now portrayed on the reverse side of the £5 coin.
While, in his homeland of Scotland, he is pictured on the £5 note of the Clydesdale Bank.
And, in addition to these memorabilia, there remains Burns Night: still celebrated each year by native Scotsmen and expats all over the world.
For as long as Burns' literary legacy and his message - to remember our common humanity - live on, the celebrations of his life and works will continue.
Paul Fraser has been involved in high-end collectibles for over 35 years, selling more than $300m of rare items, including John Lennon's childhood stamp album to the Smithsonian. Paul Fraser Collectibles offers a free high-end collectibles newsletter service with expert opinion and advice.
Paul Fraser Collectibles
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Ian_Fraser
Burns Night has been celebrated for over two centuries. But why, you may ask, has the history of Burns Night endured so widely, and for so long?
One answer is, of course, his writing.
John Steinbeck took the title of his 1937 novel, Of Mice and Men, from a Burns Poem.
And folk legend Bob Dylan highlighted Burns' 1794 song, A Red Red Rose, as the lyric that had the biggest effect on his life.
Even in Russia, Burns was elected the 'people's poet' and a 1924 translation of his works sold over 600,000 copies. His poetry continues to be taught in Russian schools.
For another answer, look no further than New Year's Eve.
"And we'll tak a cup o' kindness yet, for auld lang syne..." - from Auld Lang Syne by Robert Burns
Burns is most commonly known as the author of Auld Lange Syne, the song used to greet the New Year by English speakers across the globe.
The song is a true anthem, containing a universal truth: the past is forever gone, but should never be forgotten.
Auld Lang Syne's underlying theme, of making the harsh realities of life more palatable through the company of good friends and good drink, is quintessentially Scottish.
And it would have been this theme that a select group of Burns' friends had in mind when they celebrated the very first Burns Supper in 1801, five years after his death.
Celebrating their friend's passing in such as way was noble and poignant, particularly when considering his tragic and awful demise.
"An illness which has long hung about me... will speedily send me beyond that bourne whence no traveller returns... Farewell!!" - a letter written by Burns in his final days
Burns' death is understood to have been caused by a chronic heart complaint.
Unfortunately, his end was worsened by 19th century misdiagnosis.
Mistaking his condition for gout, Burns' person physician advised his patient to travel to Brow Well, a mineral spring near Dumfries in Scotland.
There, the treatments - including drinking and bathing in the foul-tasting cold spring waters - only worsened Burns' condition.
As his health deteriorated, he began to age prematurely and would fall into fits of despondency, with only his battered Bible for comfort.
Four days after leaving Brow Well, Burns died aged just 37.
"Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o' the puddin-race!" - a line from Burns' Ode to Haggis
In its early years, Burns Night was held on the date of the poet's death: July 21, 1796.
However, as Robert Burns became a recognised Scottish institution, and Burns Night evolved into a nation's pastime, the celebration was moved to his birthday: January 25, 1759.
Burns Night itself, and the Burns Supper, includes various established traditions.
These included the eating of haggis - originally Burns' friends' tribute to his famous Ode to Haggis - along with neeps and tatties, to compliment the haggis' spiciness.
Traditionally, the Burns Supper is held with everyone sat around a table. After a few words welcoming everyone are spoken, grace is usually said - normally, the Selkirk Grace.
"Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it; But we hae meat, and we can eat, Sae let the Lord be thankit...." - from the Selkirk Grace
The Selkirk Grace, so-called because Burns was said to have delivered it at a dinner given by the Earl of Selkirk, precedes a soup course.
Later, when the tables are cleared after the meal, the host proposes The Loyal Toast, often honouring the Head of State (for example, The Queen in the UK).
Then comes the Immortal Memory, a short, lively speech about Robert Burns himself. Featuring tributes to Burns' life and works, it ends with a toast to his immortal memory.
Aside from the enduring popularity of Burns night, various memorabilia recent sales, both at auction and on the private market, have demonstrated that Burns' legacy is also immortal.
Last year, having been unseen in public since 1896, one of the most important pieces of Burns memorabilia appeared on the private market.
The famous Burns' Bible, clutched by the poet at Brow Well as his main comfort during his final days, was recently sold by Paul Fraser Collectibles for £25,000 ($41,250).
And, earlier in 2009, a retired professor became the new patron of Burns' best known creation: the origional Auld Lang Syne manuscript itself.
The manuscript "sold" at auction for £10,000 to Professor David Purdie. Purdie will remain Auld Lang Syne's custodian while it is held in the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Ayrshire, Scotland.
Elsewhere in the collectors' markets, the renowned Macallan distillery released a new whisky marking the 250th anniversary of Burns' birth.
Limited to just 250 bottles - from two casks chosen by The Macallan's whisky maker Bob Dalgarno, one from 1997 and one from 1998 - each was numbered 1759, the date of Burns' birth.
The whisky is rare: a sherry oak expression with an ABV of 46%, according to Whisky Intelligence. It is sold in a specially-designed decanter.
In England, Burns has been honoured on postage stamps three times, and is now portrayed on the reverse side of the £5 coin.
While, in his homeland of Scotland, he is pictured on the £5 note of the Clydesdale Bank.
And, in addition to these memorabilia, there remains Burns Night: still celebrated each year by native Scotsmen and expats all over the world.
For as long as Burns' literary legacy and his message - to remember our common humanity - live on, the celebrations of his life and works will continue.
Paul Fraser has been involved in high-end collectibles for over 35 years, selling more than $300m of rare items, including John Lennon's childhood stamp album to the Smithsonian. Paul Fraser Collectibles offers a free high-end collectibles newsletter service with expert opinion and advice.
Paul Fraser Collectibles
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Ian_Fraser
Robert Burns Deserves to Be Feted With Pipes and Poems By Niamh Crowe Platinum Quality Author
Whether you call him Robert Burns, Robbie Burns or more colloquially Rabbie Burns he is a writer whose work is known worldwide. He is a Scot of humble beginnings who, once his work became recognised for its beauty, mixed with the gentry. He was a failed farmer and a bard whose songs and poems summed up his experiences and his ideas and provided a diary of his times.
Just now Scots worldwide are preparing for Robert Burns night. It is a night they cherish year after year, a night that has its own traditions. It is certainly a night unlike any other celebration because, let's be honest, no other race but the Scots would consider Haggis a suitable celebratory meal. After all how many people really want to eat a dish whose main ingredients are sheep's lung, stomach, heart and liver?
On this night of nights the Chairperson for the evening asked the company to receive the haggis. It's piped in carried by the chief to the accompaniment of a slow hand clap. He then recites the poem "To a Haggis" and cuts it with a sharp knife. Then a guest speaker gives a short speech dedicated to the immortal memory of the poet. The fun continues with a toast to the lassies and a suitable reply to that toast. The rest of the evening is spent singing and saying the works of Robert Burns. When you think he wrote in a local dialect you will understand the reverence Scots have for Robert Burns because to the rest of us it is a struggle to understand the Ayrshire dialect he used in most of his work. Today there is a growing interest in reviving the dialect and many website available to help whose who want to quote the works as Robert Burns himself would have done.
Whiskey is drunk at this meal. In fact it is probably fair to say that a lot of whiskey is drunk on the night. After all they are toasting their own bard with a drink they have brewed themselves and which is the ideal accompaniment to the Haggis. A vote of thanks to the speakers is an integral part of the evening. The night itself ends with a clasping of hands and the most famous of all Robert Burns songs Auld Lang Syne
The one thing you can say bout Robert Burns night is that it is different and that it celebrates a man who was exceedingly different in that he was a genius. His work reached out to the ordinary man and woman yet enthralled the literary world. He has left a rich legacy indeed.
Niamh Crowe, Copyright Speechwriters 1994-2007, marketing@speech-writers.com, Tel. +353 1 8333599
Niamh Crowe started her speech writing career with Holiday toasts. That was 20 years ago. To date she has written thousands of different speeches like bride speeches, birthday speeches, farewell speeches and Christmas toast etc.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Niamh_Crowe
Just now Scots worldwide are preparing for Robert Burns night. It is a night they cherish year after year, a night that has its own traditions. It is certainly a night unlike any other celebration because, let's be honest, no other race but the Scots would consider Haggis a suitable celebratory meal. After all how many people really want to eat a dish whose main ingredients are sheep's lung, stomach, heart and liver?
On this night of nights the Chairperson for the evening asked the company to receive the haggis. It's piped in carried by the chief to the accompaniment of a slow hand clap. He then recites the poem "To a Haggis" and cuts it with a sharp knife. Then a guest speaker gives a short speech dedicated to the immortal memory of the poet. The fun continues with a toast to the lassies and a suitable reply to that toast. The rest of the evening is spent singing and saying the works of Robert Burns. When you think he wrote in a local dialect you will understand the reverence Scots have for Robert Burns because to the rest of us it is a struggle to understand the Ayrshire dialect he used in most of his work. Today there is a growing interest in reviving the dialect and many website available to help whose who want to quote the works as Robert Burns himself would have done.
Whiskey is drunk at this meal. In fact it is probably fair to say that a lot of whiskey is drunk on the night. After all they are toasting their own bard with a drink they have brewed themselves and which is the ideal accompaniment to the Haggis. A vote of thanks to the speakers is an integral part of the evening. The night itself ends with a clasping of hands and the most famous of all Robert Burns songs Auld Lang Syne
The one thing you can say bout Robert Burns night is that it is different and that it celebrates a man who was exceedingly different in that he was a genius. His work reached out to the ordinary man and woman yet enthralled the literary world. He has left a rich legacy indeed.
Niamh Crowe, Copyright Speechwriters 1994-2007, marketing@speech-writers.com, Tel. +353 1 8333599
Niamh Crowe started her speech writing career with Holiday toasts. That was 20 years ago. To date she has written thousands of different speeches like bride speeches, birthday speeches, farewell speeches and Christmas toast etc.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Niamh_Crowe
Robert Burns - An Acrostic Poem Contribution By Joseph Spence, Sr. Platinum Quality Author
his year Robert Burns' 250th birthday celebration is the best yet. Across the world many are raising their glasses and giving toasts to a great poet and song writer. Burns wrote hundreds of enduring poems and song to Scottish life and beyond including "Address to a Haggis" (1786), "The Highland Lassie" (1786), "Auld Lang Syne" (1788), "Flow Gently, Sweet Afton" (1789), "My Luve is Like a Red, Red Rose" (1794), and "Tam O'Shanter" (1790). He is still hailed as the most highly celebrated poem in the world in 2009.
An acrostic poem uses the letters in a word to begin each line of the poem. Thereafter, all lines of the poem relate to or describe the title of the poem. The poem is written with the words formed vertically down the left side page. One letter is used for each line. The words do not have to rhyme. Adjectives, verbs, and other phrases may be used to describe the subject. The following is a contribution to Robert Burns in the form of an Acrostic Poem:
Robert Burns-An Acrostic Poem Contribution
Robert Burns, born January 25, 1759, at Alloway, Scotland near Ayr, poet and song writer of loving love lyrics
Older brother, Gilbert, rented a farm near Mauchline in 17984 after his father died, Burns had to support himself
Burns passionately and freely loved loving ladies, and had 8 children from 5 different one like little elves
Eventually wrote poetry extensively while farming to gain cash to support his kids and pay support he did
Robbie married Jean Armour in 1788, the mother of his child(s), loving ladies he did not quit and did admit
Tam O' Shanter" he published in a volume of "Antiquities of Scotland" an illustration of Alloway Kirk as his works
Burns wrote 114 songs to "A Select Collection of Scottish Airs" by George Thomson, received little pay he says
Upon love for French Revolution wrote "For a' that and a' that," his cry for human equality and quest for equity
Rheumatic fever took his life, on July 21, 1796, buried in churchyard of St. Michael's in Dumfries many cried
Now, "My Love is Like a Red, Red, Rose," the ladies loved to sing and quote as one of Burns favorite toast
Saw fame after his death when many of his songs and poems have become international favorites and aspirates
Joseph S. Spence, Sr. (aka "Epulaeryu Master"), authored "The Awakened One Poetics" (2009), published in seven languages, "A Trilogy of Poetry, Prose and Thoughts for the Mind, Body and Soul," and "Trilogy Moments for the Mind, Body and Soul." Joseph is a Goodwill Ambassador for Arkansas, and is a US Army veteran.
http://www.TheAwakenedOnePoetics.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Spence,_Sr.
Joseph Spence, Sr. - EzineArticles Expert Author
An acrostic poem uses the letters in a word to begin each line of the poem. Thereafter, all lines of the poem relate to or describe the title of the poem. The poem is written with the words formed vertically down the left side page. One letter is used for each line. The words do not have to rhyme. Adjectives, verbs, and other phrases may be used to describe the subject. The following is a contribution to Robert Burns in the form of an Acrostic Poem:
Robert Burns-An Acrostic Poem Contribution
Robert Burns, born January 25, 1759, at Alloway, Scotland near Ayr, poet and song writer of loving love lyrics
Older brother, Gilbert, rented a farm near Mauchline in 17984 after his father died, Burns had to support himself
Burns passionately and freely loved loving ladies, and had 8 children from 5 different one like little elves
Eventually wrote poetry extensively while farming to gain cash to support his kids and pay support he did
Robbie married Jean Armour in 1788, the mother of his child(s), loving ladies he did not quit and did admit
Tam O' Shanter" he published in a volume of "Antiquities of Scotland" an illustration of Alloway Kirk as his works
Burns wrote 114 songs to "A Select Collection of Scottish Airs" by George Thomson, received little pay he says
Upon love for French Revolution wrote "For a' that and a' that," his cry for human equality and quest for equity
Rheumatic fever took his life, on July 21, 1796, buried in churchyard of St. Michael's in Dumfries many cried
Now, "My Love is Like a Red, Red, Rose," the ladies loved to sing and quote as one of Burns favorite toast
Saw fame after his death when many of his songs and poems have become international favorites and aspirates
Joseph S. Spence, Sr. (aka "Epulaeryu Master"), authored "The Awakened One Poetics" (2009), published in seven languages, "A Trilogy of Poetry, Prose and Thoughts for the Mind, Body and Soul," and "Trilogy Moments for the Mind, Body and Soul." Joseph is a Goodwill Ambassador for Arkansas, and is a US Army veteran.
http://www.TheAwakenedOnePoetics.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Spence,_Sr.
Joseph Spence, Sr. - EzineArticles Expert Author
Tuesday 18 May 2010
Moffat - Dumfries and Galloway - A Visit of History By Simon Haughtone Platinum Quality Author
Moffat - Dumfries and Galloway is a small township of only about 2, 500 citizens. It was a popular stopping off point on the journey from London and Edinburgh or Glasgow. Before them the Romans came through as did the Knights Templar on the way to or from the Crusades.
Moffat emerged as a spa destination after the water was tasted by the daughter of the bishop and she knew the water contained sulphur. Water was transported down to a specially built bath house in Moffat town centre. Over the next one hundred years Moffat became one of Europe's most fashionable spa towns. A number of prestigious hotels were built and the rich and famous came to take the waters.
Sheep were important in the history and economic prosperity of Moffat. A local businessman thought the sheep industry was so important to Moffat he decided to donate a statue to the town 1875. The state was a ram standing on a pile of boulders. The statue is sculpted from bronze.
The ram has never had ears and there are some stories that the sculptor, William Brodie, was so distressed when he realised he had forgotten the ears that he committed suicide. The ram statue and fountain was restored in the early 2000's as time had not been kind to it and the restoration was a major community fundraising undertaking.
The area around Moffat attracts many visitor for the walking opportunities. 10 miles out of Moffat is one of Scotland's highest waterfalls - Grey Mare's Tail. In winter is can freeze over and climbers do climb it with ice climbing equipment. There is also a corral called the Devils Beef Tub. This is a place where cattle thieves would temporarily hide their stolen cattle. And it had some use holding prisoners from the battle of Culloden.
For accommodation in Moffat check this list of Moffat hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
Moffat emerged as a spa destination after the water was tasted by the daughter of the bishop and she knew the water contained sulphur. Water was transported down to a specially built bath house in Moffat town centre. Over the next one hundred years Moffat became one of Europe's most fashionable spa towns. A number of prestigious hotels were built and the rich and famous came to take the waters.
Sheep were important in the history and economic prosperity of Moffat. A local businessman thought the sheep industry was so important to Moffat he decided to donate a statue to the town 1875. The state was a ram standing on a pile of boulders. The statue is sculpted from bronze.
The ram has never had ears and there are some stories that the sculptor, William Brodie, was so distressed when he realised he had forgotten the ears that he committed suicide. The ram statue and fountain was restored in the early 2000's as time had not been kind to it and the restoration was a major community fundraising undertaking.
The area around Moffat attracts many visitor for the walking opportunities. 10 miles out of Moffat is one of Scotland's highest waterfalls - Grey Mare's Tail. In winter is can freeze over and climbers do climb it with ice climbing equipment. There is also a corral called the Devils Beef Tub. This is a place where cattle thieves would temporarily hide their stolen cattle. And it had some use holding prisoners from the battle of Culloden.
For accommodation in Moffat check this list of Moffat hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
Castles Near Dumfries, Scotland By David Irving
When you travel to Dumfries and the beautiful surrounding areas why not take some time out to visit some of the fantastic castles we have in the area.
We are fortunate to have various castles in all shapes and sizes and in many different states of repair from complete ruins such as "Lochmaben Castle" where it is claimed the revered "King Robert the Bruce" was born in 1247 to the fabulous Comlongon Castle near Gretna which is a beautifully restored 15th century medieval castle that is now a luxurious wedding venue.
The common thread that you find with all these castles in the Dumfries area is that over the centuries many of them have changed hands several times during warring "Auld Enemies" as they regularly locked horns in various battles.
Not to be missed is Caerlaverock Castle - The only triangular castle in Great Britain. Building of the castle began in 1277 and was practically complete by 1300 when Edward 1 ("The Hammer of the Scots") arrived with his knights and 3000 men and took the castle. It's strategic position looking over the Solway Firth and surrounded by sea and deep marshes ensured it was always a most sought after stronghold by the warring nations. The castle is definitely worth a visit as many of the features still remain today including the magnificent Nithsdale Lodgings with fantastic ornamental stonework which were added to the castle in the mid 1600s. For an added bonus look out for the South wall on the Gatehouse where Dumfries's most famous son "Robert Burns" carved his initials and the date of his visit in 1776.
Drumlanrig Castle is now the magnificent home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. This fine example of late 17th century renaissance architecture in Scotland is open to the public and houses some of the finest artwork in the world including Rembrandts "The Old Women Reading". To ensure your day is full you can also look around the Gift Shop, the Cycle Museum, the Gardens and the fantastic Country Estate.
If you have more time to spend in the area take the opportunity to visit Threave Castle, Auchen Castle and if you get the chance pay a visit to sweetheart Abbey to see the substantial remains of this historical building where Lady Devorgilla founded the Abbey in 1273 in loving memory of her husband John Balliol who died in 1268.
David Irving
Glenaldor House
Bed and Breakfast Dumfries
http://www.glenaldorhouse.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Irving
We are fortunate to have various castles in all shapes and sizes and in many different states of repair from complete ruins such as "Lochmaben Castle" where it is claimed the revered "King Robert the Bruce" was born in 1247 to the fabulous Comlongon Castle near Gretna which is a beautifully restored 15th century medieval castle that is now a luxurious wedding venue.
The common thread that you find with all these castles in the Dumfries area is that over the centuries many of them have changed hands several times during warring "Auld Enemies" as they regularly locked horns in various battles.
Not to be missed is Caerlaverock Castle - The only triangular castle in Great Britain. Building of the castle began in 1277 and was practically complete by 1300 when Edward 1 ("The Hammer of the Scots") arrived with his knights and 3000 men and took the castle. It's strategic position looking over the Solway Firth and surrounded by sea and deep marshes ensured it was always a most sought after stronghold by the warring nations. The castle is definitely worth a visit as many of the features still remain today including the magnificent Nithsdale Lodgings with fantastic ornamental stonework which were added to the castle in the mid 1600s. For an added bonus look out for the South wall on the Gatehouse where Dumfries's most famous son "Robert Burns" carved his initials and the date of his visit in 1776.
Drumlanrig Castle is now the magnificent home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. This fine example of late 17th century renaissance architecture in Scotland is open to the public and houses some of the finest artwork in the world including Rembrandts "The Old Women Reading". To ensure your day is full you can also look around the Gift Shop, the Cycle Museum, the Gardens and the fantastic Country Estate.
If you have more time to spend in the area take the opportunity to visit Threave Castle, Auchen Castle and if you get the chance pay a visit to sweetheart Abbey to see the substantial remains of this historical building where Lady Devorgilla founded the Abbey in 1273 in loving memory of her husband John Balliol who died in 1268.
David Irving
Glenaldor House
Bed and Breakfast Dumfries
http://www.glenaldorhouse.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Irving
Friday 14 May 2010
Reivers - Border Marches of England and Scotland By Tom W Moss
Districts Set in Place to Control the Scottish/English Reivers The Border Marches of England and Scotland
The Border Laws were unique to the Border Country of England and Scotland. Initially formulated as early as 1249, they sought to control the clans of the Border territories until the Union of the two Crowns in 1603. Their origin prompted a system of administrative control.
The Border lands of the two countries are a combination of deep and fertile river valleys dominated by the Esk and Tweed and extensive areas of windswept uplands where the lonely Cheviot Hills hold sway. In medieval times to control such a vast area would have been an onerous undertaking. By the early fourteenth century a solution had been reached and the country on each side of the Border Line was divided into distinct districts known as the East, Middle and West Marches.
The East Marches
The East March of Scotland included the town of Berwick (which was to often change hands) and covered most of Berwickshire as far north as the Lammermuir Hills and west to the Hanging Stone in the Cheviots. Its English counterpart to the south included most of north-eastern Northumberland as far south as the river Aln and some of the lands of the Palinate of Durham, namely Norhamshire and Islandshire. A dominant stronghold in this area was Bamburgh Castle.
The Middle Marches
On the Scottish side this included the remainder of Berwickshire and Roxburghshire in its entirety. The principal towns were Hawick, Kelso and Jedburgh. Originally the Scottish Middle March incorporated the valley of Liddesdale within its bounds. It was such a hostile place however, known as the "Cockpit of the Borders", and one of the most dangerous places to live in the whole of Europe, that it eventually fell to separate administration. The English Middle March consisted of parts of Northumberland including Tynedale and Redesdale. The people of these valleys were akin in hostility and belligerence to their opposite numbers of Liddesdale.
The West Marches
The Scottish West March was made up of the Sheriffdom of Dumfries and the Stewartries of Annandale and Kirkcudbright. Dumfries was the major town in the Scottish West which was dominated for centuries by the clans of Maxwell and Johnstone. The March was controlled from Caerlaverock Castle. The English West encompassed the whole of Cumberland and Westmorland (modern day Cumbria). Its centre of operations was Carlisle Castle with garrisons at Askerton, Bewcastle and Rockcliffe.
The Formation of the Marches Sought to Control a Fierce, Warlike People
The clans of the Borders were hard, obdurate people inured to deprivation and incessant loss of livelihood. They answered to neither authority nor monarchy. They lived and died by a far older order, that of allegiance to their clan leader. The promulgation of the English Scottish Border Marches might have sought to bring order and peace to a land in turmoil but they needed men of a special calibre to enforce the Border Law within each of the six districts; men who were all things to all men. They would need the ability to organise and control the inhabitants of their Marches in time of war between the nations and demonstrate a firm yet impartial approach in dealing with the array of crime from theft to blackmail and murder which beset the Border country. These men were known as the March Wardens.
In 1985 I moved to the Scottish Borders and fell in love with the place. It was a surprise to find out that I knew nothing of the Border Reivers, the lawless clans who held sway in the Border country for centuries. I found their history to be absorbing and fascinating and today, twenty-five years later, the enthusiasm and passion shows no sign of waning.
I have written a book about the most infamous Scottish Border Reiver of the 16th century, Kinmont Willie Armstrong. It is called 'Deadlock and Deliverance',
Tom Moss.
For more of the rich history of the Border Reivers see my web-site at: http://www.reivershistory.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_W_Moss
Tom W Moss - EzineArticles Expert Author
The Border Laws were unique to the Border Country of England and Scotland. Initially formulated as early as 1249, they sought to control the clans of the Border territories until the Union of the two Crowns in 1603. Their origin prompted a system of administrative control.
The Border lands of the two countries are a combination of deep and fertile river valleys dominated by the Esk and Tweed and extensive areas of windswept uplands where the lonely Cheviot Hills hold sway. In medieval times to control such a vast area would have been an onerous undertaking. By the early fourteenth century a solution had been reached and the country on each side of the Border Line was divided into distinct districts known as the East, Middle and West Marches.
The East Marches
The East March of Scotland included the town of Berwick (which was to often change hands) and covered most of Berwickshire as far north as the Lammermuir Hills and west to the Hanging Stone in the Cheviots. Its English counterpart to the south included most of north-eastern Northumberland as far south as the river Aln and some of the lands of the Palinate of Durham, namely Norhamshire and Islandshire. A dominant stronghold in this area was Bamburgh Castle.
The Middle Marches
On the Scottish side this included the remainder of Berwickshire and Roxburghshire in its entirety. The principal towns were Hawick, Kelso and Jedburgh. Originally the Scottish Middle March incorporated the valley of Liddesdale within its bounds. It was such a hostile place however, known as the "Cockpit of the Borders", and one of the most dangerous places to live in the whole of Europe, that it eventually fell to separate administration. The English Middle March consisted of parts of Northumberland including Tynedale and Redesdale. The people of these valleys were akin in hostility and belligerence to their opposite numbers of Liddesdale.
The West Marches
The Scottish West March was made up of the Sheriffdom of Dumfries and the Stewartries of Annandale and Kirkcudbright. Dumfries was the major town in the Scottish West which was dominated for centuries by the clans of Maxwell and Johnstone. The March was controlled from Caerlaverock Castle. The English West encompassed the whole of Cumberland and Westmorland (modern day Cumbria). Its centre of operations was Carlisle Castle with garrisons at Askerton, Bewcastle and Rockcliffe.
The Formation of the Marches Sought to Control a Fierce, Warlike People
The clans of the Borders were hard, obdurate people inured to deprivation and incessant loss of livelihood. They answered to neither authority nor monarchy. They lived and died by a far older order, that of allegiance to their clan leader. The promulgation of the English Scottish Border Marches might have sought to bring order and peace to a land in turmoil but they needed men of a special calibre to enforce the Border Law within each of the six districts; men who were all things to all men. They would need the ability to organise and control the inhabitants of their Marches in time of war between the nations and demonstrate a firm yet impartial approach in dealing with the array of crime from theft to blackmail and murder which beset the Border country. These men were known as the March Wardens.
In 1985 I moved to the Scottish Borders and fell in love with the place. It was a surprise to find out that I knew nothing of the Border Reivers, the lawless clans who held sway in the Border country for centuries. I found their history to be absorbing and fascinating and today, twenty-five years later, the enthusiasm and passion shows no sign of waning.
I have written a book about the most infamous Scottish Border Reiver of the 16th century, Kinmont Willie Armstrong. It is called 'Deadlock and Deliverance',
Tom Moss.
For more of the rich history of the Border Reivers see my web-site at: http://www.reivershistory.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_W_Moss
Tom W Moss - EzineArticles Expert Author
A Brief Guide to Gretna, Dumfries and Galloway By Simon Haughtone Platinum Quality Author
Gretna is a small town in the region of Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland. The even smaller town of Gretna Green is right on the doorstep of Gretna, meaning that the two towns are often counted as just one. Gretna is close to the Scotland-England border and is a popular destination for many visitors.
The town has been a settlement for over 300 years and was the post for collecting taxes when passing from Scotland to England. The town was expanded during the First World War and was home to one of the largest munitions factory ever built.
Many couples in love elope to get married in Gretna Green every year. This is because it is legal to marry at the age of 16 without parental consent in Scotland; English law states that you have to be 18 or over to marry without parental consent.
There are several attractions of interest in the town of Gretna. Visitors flock to the Old Blacksmith's Shop Center. Not only can you pick up some great souvenirs, the center details the history of Gretna Green and the romance of runaways getting married. The town also has a dolls museum which has over 1,000 dolls in its collection, dating as far back as 1830. In the immediate area, visitors can enjoy pursuits such as fishing, walking, cycling, horse riding, golf, tennis, clay-pigeon shooting and quad biking.
Shopping opportunities exist in Gretna and are quite extensive considering the size of the town. The Gretna Gateway Outlet Village is a shopping center offering a range of goods from tartan scarves to Celtic jewellery, traditional confectionary to whiskey. There are also smaller, traditional family businesses offering a range of items for sale.
There are several restaurants in Gretna for eating out during the day and evening. Most of the establishments offer a menu with traditional Scottish fare as well as some international dishes. Restaurateurs in Gretna pride themselves on using local produce and fresh ingredients, guaranteeing a sumptuous and tasty meal.
For a wide selection of Gretna hotels just click here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
The town has been a settlement for over 300 years and was the post for collecting taxes when passing from Scotland to England. The town was expanded during the First World War and was home to one of the largest munitions factory ever built.
Many couples in love elope to get married in Gretna Green every year. This is because it is legal to marry at the age of 16 without parental consent in Scotland; English law states that you have to be 18 or over to marry without parental consent.
There are several attractions of interest in the town of Gretna. Visitors flock to the Old Blacksmith's Shop Center. Not only can you pick up some great souvenirs, the center details the history of Gretna Green and the romance of runaways getting married. The town also has a dolls museum which has over 1,000 dolls in its collection, dating as far back as 1830. In the immediate area, visitors can enjoy pursuits such as fishing, walking, cycling, horse riding, golf, tennis, clay-pigeon shooting and quad biking.
Shopping opportunities exist in Gretna and are quite extensive considering the size of the town. The Gretna Gateway Outlet Village is a shopping center offering a range of goods from tartan scarves to Celtic jewellery, traditional confectionary to whiskey. There are also smaller, traditional family businesses offering a range of items for sale.
There are several restaurants in Gretna for eating out during the day and evening. Most of the establishments offer a menu with traditional Scottish fare as well as some international dishes. Restaurateurs in Gretna pride themselves on using local produce and fresh ingredients, guaranteeing a sumptuous and tasty meal.
For a wide selection of Gretna hotels just click here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Haughtone
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