#edinbrgh

Prisoner's of War, Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Hawthornden dates back to the 15th century, although built by The Abernethies The Drummonds owned the castle from the 1500's until the 1970's when it was sold and restored, it is now a retreat for writers and two most notably J K Rowling and Ian Rankin have used it as such. You can't get a decent view of Hawthornden due to the trees that cover the majority of the glen but I found this picture by Vic Sharp who by shooting separate parts has stitched it together to show how it looks behind all the folliage. I thought I would leave it to the "Great" William McGonagall for a description in his own inimitable style In all fair Scotland there’s no spot within my ken, Like the bonnie classic shades of Hawthornden, Which is a very sweet and solitary seat, And would suit a poet well for a calm retreat. The House of Hawthornden is magnificent to see, Situated on the edge of a precipitous cliff towering majestically, And at the base the river Esk doth smoothly run, Shaded by the copsewood and shrubbery from the sun. And on the south side of the house there’s an old tower, Likewise the Cypress Grove, where the poet Drummond spent many an hour, While composing the Poem called Cypress Grove, A seat in the adjacent rock which the Poet did love. The caves underneath the house are attractive to see, And will help to excite the visitor to a degree, Because they are less rude than other river-side caves in Scotland, They were used by our savage ancestors, whom together there did band. And no doubt they have given shelter to many a refugee, Thankful for a secluded spot to lie in security, For a time at least, from the pursuit of their enemies, Who had hunted them o’er hill and dale, their wicked hearts to please. That was in the reign of David the Second, a long time ago, When the people in Scotland were hunted to and fro: But, thank God! We live in a more peaceable age, And the thought does our trials and troubles assuage. - William Topaz McGonagall

First Class comedy from Darren Walsh "I am a Giant" on every day 4.45 at the Hive until Aug 25th and very funny!

Oor Castle in Springtime taken only a round 5.30 by my wee Sister

Braw.

Perfect music to celebrate the launch of Little Hat Parlour's Little Black Dress Collection tomorrow. First headpiece to be released is called "Martinis and All That Jazz" a feathery and pearl little black number which will be available to buy on Etsy.com from tomorrow xx

This is fantastic, it makes me want to go to see it!!! Featuring Australian Dancers, Greta drums and a live rendition of some of the Brave soundtrack. Bringing the Tattoo well and truly up to date, while keeping the traditionalists happy, enjoy a preview of the 65th Edinburgh Military Tattoo.