Merry Christmas All

May I wish all my readers a Very Happy Christmas and a Guid New Year.

Please view the following link on YouTube, it's a lovely musical greeting:  

Youtube White Christmas

Mince Pies

Doesn't that mince pie just look delicious?  Mouthwatering and the pastry, looking so crumbly and light, will surely melt in your mouth within seconds.

No, it's not a photo of my home baking - how I wish it was!  I've been struggling to buy a quality mince meat to bake my own, but yesterday I finally decided to make my own.

Emptying the contents of the baking cupboard it was a surprise to find plenty sultanas, raisins and cherries. Complimented by ground almonds and various spices the fruit was put in a pan and warmed thoroughly using generous tots of rum, amaretto, port and anything else to hand.  This was then cooled and put into the fridge in a covered bowl.  I've stirred it today and added more booze and have to admit, my fridge smells rather festive.  Overpoweringly festive, but at least I'm doing my best to get into the spirit of things (excuse the pun).

I'll leave the concoction to 'mince' ( or is it 'meat') until Sunday then do the pies. Hopefully I can manage a comparison photo with the one above, but I don't intend to 'break' more than two just to improve my photography skills as I would like to offer my New Year guests some.  So keep your fingers crossed!  

Christmas Markets

This photo was sent to me as a Christmas card and it took my mind back to my years of working in Europe.

Christmas in Germany, Switzerland and Austria was a wonderful experience.  The superb Christmas markets where you could buy all your food for the festive season, plus of course gifts for everyone.

Traditions were far more marked than they are here and Christmas Eve was the time to put up the tree which would be adorned with real candles.  I can understand why they've been banned I suppose, but seeing a Christmas tree lit by candlelight is a true joy.

We opened our presents on Christmas Eve too and Christmas Day was the day for food, food and more food.  Goose was a favourite rather than turkey and, to this day, I do enjoy goose for my Christmas meal.

The Europeans don't seem to over-hype Christmas or over decorate, it's all rather subtle and gentle.

Such treasured memories. 

Skiing at Glenshee near Blairgowrie

A heavy fall of snow overnight and now a great possibility of Glenshee opening for business.  As usual it's very picturesque here but cold (-3 outside earlier).  The cold is a 'dry' cold and if you're dressed warmly it's lovely outside.

I didn't take the above photo of Glenshee but I've borrowed it.  Such a wonderful landscape and skiing for all levels of skill.

Why have all the hassle of airports when you can access Glenshee easily.  Blairgowrie is at the south side of the Cairngorms and the last town before the slopes, so do stop and stock up with the painkillers and moisturiser!

Online Booking

The past couple of weeks I have been inundated with emails offering me online booking and/or credit card facilities.  I do hope the following explains the reasons why I do not use these services.

I do not accept online bookings as I find them too impersonal so please email me or telephone.  

Also online booking companies charge for the facility (including visitscotland) and this would increase my standard rate.  Why should a guest have to pay more than necessary?

Credit card companies also charge fees which would have to be passed onto my guests and that is the reason I do not accept them.

It is important to me that my guests receive value for money when staying here and I do my best to keep rates as low as possible.

St Andrews Day, Blairgowrie

Another year, another St Andrews Day.  Had a busy weekend guest-wise so it was a rush to get out to a party tonight.  Everyone had to wear something Scottish and there were some very well turned out people in attendance.  Kilts abound and the question 'why do men usually have better legs than women' sprung to mind - again.  Perhaps it's only men with shapely legs who wear kilts!

Blairgowrie gave a good show of entertainment this afternoon.  The Pipe Band were out in all their glory and the market was doing well.  I didn't manage to spend much time in town and also forgot my camera, so the above picture is from earlier in the year.

The town Christmas lights looked so smart tonight and I'll try to take some photographs very soon.

It's good to meet with friends but also good to be home in the warm.  Very cold again tonight but everyone says they are cosy so that's the main thing.  The new boiler seems to be working well.

Winter Weather Is Here Early.

November Snow

Woke up yesterday morning to a 2 inch covering of snow.  It looked very picturesque from inside the house where it was cosy and warm.  Eventually I did go outside to take some photos and the day was very pleasant, cold but dry and no wind.  Luckily the council looks after the roads well, so there are no problems travelling in this kind of weather.

The garden looked quite sculptural with the snow outlining the shape of shrubs and there's always a peacefulness about gardens and the countryside when it's covered in snow.

I'm being very brave this year.  The cordyline above has been nurtured by me for years, fed in summer and brought indoors once the frost appears.  This year, on the advice of a guest who is a gardening expert, I've left it outside.  He says it's a very hardy plant.  If it survives this snow then I'm sure it will survive anything.

Heathpark Lodge's little piece of European architecture

There is a saying here in Scotland that once you start decorating the process can feel as if you're painting the Forth Bridge.  I know the feeling!  We started decorating our living room this week and the work has gone from a quick coat of paint on the walls to deciding to do the woodwork too. 

I've just finished painting the shutters and realised how unusual it is for a small B & B in Blairgowrie, originally built as a gardener's cottage, to be so carefully designed.  Usually shutters were only for 'grand' houses, but maybe the architect who designed this house, back in the 1840s, had visited France or perhaps Italy and been impressed by the decorative effect and practical uses of them there.  I like to think we have a bit of continental building design right here in Blairgowrie.

When we bought the house in 1991 the shutters had been nailed back with what seemed to be thousands of nails.  My 5 year project was to see if I could make them work again because it seemed such a waste just to have them for decoration.

Two years, hundreds of hours later (an hour each evening after work), several very small files, the help of a friendly joiner and the advice of a paint expert - et voila! For years now the shutters have been used daily - or perhaps I should said 'eveningly' as they are closed once darkness falls - and at this time of year they are invaluable for keeping out the cold.  

Autumn Weather and Rosy Cheeks

Decided to have a break from painting our living room today and tidy up some leaves.  At the back of the house this wonderful cotoneaster is showing off to its best.  The photo actually doesn't do it justice really as it's a very vivid colour - almost luminous.

This part of the garden isn't often seen by guests unless they're picking apples or plums - and some do.  Oh the advantages of having a B & B in Blairgowrie! I'm always grateful to get help with harvesting the fruit because, especially the plums, all arrive at once and need eating straight away to enjoy the full flavour.

Looking at the photo, perhaps I should have cleared up the leaves before I took it, but I wanted to catch the colour before the light faded.

It's still exceptionally warm for this time of year and my couple of hours in the garden have left me with "rosy cheeks".  When I was a child I hated having rosy cheeks but, now I'm maturing (very slowly of course), I'm beginning to think they're quite attractive.  Saves a bit of money buying blusher!

 

B & B Blairgowrie, Christmas 2008 and Hogmanay 2008/9 opening

Our little red squirrels are still about but I've only seen two recently.  It's quite obvious the autumn is well underway as the bird no longer play in the garden, but arrive, eat, then fly off to their next destination.

Some years we've been open for both Christmas and New Year.  This year I've decided to close for Christmas, mainly because family are coming to join us for a few days and it's hard work juggling my guests as well as family.  Only twice over the years I've done this and I feel I neglect everyone.

So, no guests over Christmas but we shall open for Hogmanay (New Year) this year.  Last year we had a quiet evening and enjoyed cooking ourselves a good meal accompanied by some rather delicious wine.  We had such a pleasant time we've decided to try it again.  Must be my old age catching up with me!  I turned down many enquiries for Hogmanay last year so this year I shall open.  So many businesses close over the festive period and it's a shame if people want to spend Hogmanay with family or friends but can't find accommodation.

I shall put the price for Hogmanay on the website in the next couple of days but it will be £32.50 per person per night.  I will not be taking one night bookings - just in case you ask!

Perthshire Events in 2009

It's been quite difficult collating event dates for next year from the various agencies.  Usually it's easy but for some reason the answer I received was more often 'Sorry we haven't confirmed it as yet but will get back to you'. Thankfully most have so I am able to show the dates of interest.  These are not all the events in Perthshire of course, but I shall post others as I find them.

Events in Perthshire for 2009

1  January           New Year Fun Run,  Blairgowrie

10 - 12 April        Easter

22 - 24 April        Perth Races

13 - 14 May        Perth Races

23  May              Atholl Highlanders Parade, Blair Atholl

24 May               Atholl Gathering & Highland Games, Blair Atholl

31 May               Perth Races

5 - 12 June         Fly Fishing Championships

14 June              Strathmore Highland Games Glamis

1 - 2 July            Perth Races

3 - 5 July            Scone Game Fair, Scone Palace

10 - 12 July        T in the Park, Kinross

11 - 12 July        Scottish Transport Extravaganza, Glamis

31 July - 1 August       Perth Show

8 - 9 August       A Grand Scottish Prom, Glamis

22 August          Strathardle Highland Gathering & Games, Kirkmichael

27 - 30 August   Blair Horse Trials Blair Atholl

29 August          Birnam Highland Games

29 August          Runrig Concert, Scone Palace  (book early very popular!)

4 September     Celtic Rock Glamis

5 September     Braemar Highland Games

6 September     Blairgowrie Highland Games

5 - 6 September         Scottish Countryside Fair Glamis

23 - 24 September     Perth Races

2-8 October Blairgowrie & East Perthshire Walking Festival

                    

Autumn Colours in Perthshire, Scotland

So often recently I've been out and forgotten my camera.  Not today though!  Travelling though Alyth to visit a friend the colours of the trees were just stunning in the sunshine.  Just takes your breath away.

Another trip I enjoy at this time of year is up Glenshee to the Spittal (where you can have a relaxing cup of tea).  The enormity of the Glen is so much more obvious when its colour palette varies from a light gold to a deep deep copper, and all shades in between.  It's rather difficult to describe the intensity of colour and the atmosphere.  It feels as if the trees are making a last attempt to be centre stage before taking to the wings for the winter.

The A93 is one of these roads which has an entirely different vista driving north and driving south.  Definitely a worthwhile trip.

Highland Cattle in Perthshire & New Year BBQs

It's been a very busy few weeks and I feel guilty at not spending a little time writing.  

This photograph was taken locally the other day but the weather wasn't too bright.  I think it's amusing as it was so strange they all turned to face me - just as if they were about to burst out in song!

September was a hectic month, lots of golf finals to be played, fishermen making their last attempts to find the elusive record-breaker trout or salmon and many other guests here for family parties or some type.  More and more people seem to prefer small bed and breakfasts to large hotels these days.  

Barbeques seem far more popular in Scotland these days and party guests usually speak highly of the variety and quality of the food offered.  It no longer seems to be a choice of burgers or sausages.  My favourite BBQ meal is a venison steak, baked potato with courgette and carrot salad (either hot or cold).  Just delicious!

Must tell you about my strangest BBQ.  It was New Year some years ago and we'd invited friends round for a meal and to welcome the New Year.  I'll take the blame for coming up with the idea of having a BBQ, although the food would be cooked outside and consumed inside. Guests were forewarned to bring warm clothing if they wanted to be part of the cooking staff.

Around teatime that Hogmanay the snow started.  Then it snowed and snowed.  The BBQ went ahead amid such stunning scenes of winter and it was a roaring success.  Part of the secret I'm sure, was providing everyone with a whisky mac on arrival, just to warm their insides. 

For quite a few Christmases (weather allowing) we've taken the portable BBQ up into the hills on Christmas Day and thoroughly enjoyed our meal - even though I have kept my gloves on to eat at times!  A thermos of soup, baked potatoes done here at home then wrapped in tinfoil, a decent steak from my favourite butcher and stunning scenery make the event as near to perfection as possible.  Saves on all the washing up a traditional turkey Christmas dinner creates too!

 

Highland Games, Scotland

It's been a busy few weeks with so many events going on in Perthshire. Last Saturday was the Braemar Gathering, possibly the most famous of all the Scottish Highland Games and fortunately the weather was reasonable for all concerned.

Blairgowrie jumps to life during the weekend which locals refer to as 'Braemar Night'.  The town buzzes with hundreds of visitors stopping en route through the Grampians to see the spectacle of Highland entertainment.  There is something for everyone to see including a glimpse of HM The Queen as she is a staunch admirer and visits the Gathering every year.  On the Saturday evening music is to be heard all over the town and a ceilidh is organised in a local hotel for anyone who wishes to have a wee dance or just enjoy some Scottish music.

Every year we are fully booked for this event and this year I had the pleasure of two European couples staying with me - one couple from Germany and the other from Belgium.  The Belgium couple had come specifically for a pop concert which took place at Glamis Castle on the Friday evening and the other couple were intent on visiting Braemar.  In fact, they were so intent they had booked their tickets online 5 months ago!  

The Sunday following the Braemar gathering Blairgowrie holds its own Highland Games. Another success this year by all accounts and the turnout was excellent.  Again the weather was kind.  All in all another pleasant weekend enchanced by the company of lovely guests.  Who says doing bed and breakfast is boring?  It's hard work I agree, but such times make it so worthwhile.

A Visit to Dunkeld, Perthshire

The weather during August has been the worst on record all over the UK.  I've had many visitors from Europe this month and most say it's very similar in their countries so at least I don't feel as if Scotland is unique.  Mind you I think Scotland is quite beautiful in any weather as long as you have the right clothing.  Yesterday was a dry day so I decided I would like a drive to Dunkeld.  It is a 20 minute drive from Blairgowrie along a pleasant, winding road.  Although it was a Bank Holiday weekend parking was available in The Square (see photo) which is the centre of the town.

The wonderful Dunkeld Cathedral is just a few minutes walk away and it never ceases to impress me with its dignified splendour.  What a building.  How many cathedrals are half ruin and half community places of worship?  Over the years I've had the privilege of attending several musical events in the Cathedral and have never been disappointed.  Most events sell out quickly so do book in advance.  The Cathedral website has a programme of most events.

 No visit to Dunkeld would be complete without a walk along the banks of the River Tay.  What a grand river it is although, with the recent rain, it was exceptionally high. The picture is looking east from the riverbank in front of the Cathedral and towards the Dunkeld Bridge designed by the famous Thomas Telford.

The day wasn't very sunny but it was reasonably warm and we ended by having a quick drink at the Taybank Hotel.  This used to be owned by the famous folksinger Dougie MacLean and his wife. The new owners have continued to use it as a centre for Scottish music and culture with instrumental classes, concerts and spontaneous music sessions.  Pop in if you're in town, you may be surprised what you hear!

Vintage Motor Cycle Club at Blairgowrie, Perthshire

Last week the Central Scottish Section of the Vintage Motor Cycle Club held their 34th Scottish National Assembly here in Blairgowrie (in fact just 2 minutes walk from the house).

I was delighted champions Fran and Harry Wiles stayed with us at our Bed and Breakfast in Blairgowrie.  What an inspiration they are to us more mature adults.  They've participated in this sport for many years and what they don't know about motor cycles isn't worth knowing.

Fran rides pillion and I thought her a brave woman, until she told me there's no suspension in a vintage motor cycle, with the exception of a wee bit of springing in the seat.  I'm still wondering if she's brave, a bit eccentric or both!

This is the motor cycle on which they won the Cup.  This was for the best performance on a Sunbeam motor cycle in the vintage class of the time trial. They also won overall second in the same trial. The bike is a Sunbeam 1929 Model 5 which, you can see, has been given much tender loving care for years.

Thank you Fran and Harry for sharing your interest with me.  I enjoyed our chats very much and you can be assured a little of your enthusiasm rubbed off.  Next year I'm going to visit the meeting to see these works of dedication.  Good luck to the two of you for future events.

Fran and Harry gave their permission for the use of their names in this article.

Baby Wipes aren't just for Babies

I must tell you about this before I forget!

This morning a young guest accidently spilt some ground coffee which splashed the curtains and carpet.  I was intent on getting a cloth dampened with cold water, when she asked, "Do you have baby wipes?". 

"Yes," I replied, wondering why she would ask such a question when she was so obviously embarrassed at what had happened.  I tried to assure her it would be fine when she asked me to bring her the baby wipes.  This I did.

She proceeded to dab the offending stains on the curtains and carpet with a couple of the wipes and within a minute or so there was no evidence of the accident, other than some coffee grounds, which the carpet cleaner easily removed.

I have to admit I was impressed, but also thought outlines of the stains would be left, similar to when you use a damp cloth.  This afternoon I checked the curtains and carpet, in fact I checked several times.  Why?  Because I couldn't even remember where the coffee stains had been, that's why.  Not a mark on anything; it's as if they never had been.

So my thanks to my young guest for such a wonderful cleaning tip which I wouldn't have known about without her wee accident.  My understanding to all mothers of babies if they wonder what these wipes do to babies' bums if they can remove coffee and other stains so efficiently.

Tip:  The stains must be fresh for this to work.  Haven't yet missed my mouth with red wine so can't vouch for them working on that.  Mind you I expect the day will come when I am forced to try!

Red Squirrels, Blairgowrie, Perthshire

The other evening I was sitting in the sitooterie reading whilst I waited for guests to arrive.  My other half had received his new camera that morning and was putting it through its paces.  You know the kind of thing - silly photos of me and zooming in and out of plants with his new 10x lens.  

Red squirrels are frequent visitors to our garden.  They usually appear between 7 and 8am for breakfast and hang upside down for ages on the bird feeders extracting as much as possible.  It was no surprise to see one that evening at 7pm having its last meal of the day from their usual place.

Suddenly though, it rushed across the lawn, jumped up onto a stone by the water feature, then nipped into a nearer stone and had a lengthy drink from the bottom well!  This photo is its arrival at the water feature and the photo of it having a drink has gone forward to a national competition (I'll post that one at a later date).

To think all this happened within half a minute of time was incredible!  Nature is always full of surprises.

A link which may be of interest to you:  Highland red squirrels

Rumbling Bridge near Dunkeld, Perthshire

Having to visit a friend in Crieff yesterday, I decided to take the scenic route.  That's from here to Dunkeld, cross the A9 onto the Sma Glen and Crieff road.  The whole journey takes around 40 minutes and the scenery through the Sma Glen is absolutely stunning at any time of year.

But I'm going to tell you about a hidden gem tucked away on this route.  Once you are over the A9 and into the Crieff road, you pass through a couple of hamlets and around 4 to 5 miles from Dunkeld, there is a small sign of the left hand side saying 'Rumbling Bridge 1/4 mile'.  Turn down here to the right and park in the car park on the right hand side.

Walk down the wee hill to the bridge (you'll hear the noise of the water) and you will see the fall of the River Braan down the gorge.  Look to the right hand side of the bridge first then the left where it is dark, still and deep.

In any weather this is just a lovely reminder of the wonders of nature and definitely worth a visit. Rumbling Bridge can also be accessed from the Hermitage Walk starting at Dunkeld.  There are even picnic places (although just a few) for those who wish to sit and watch the rolling waters.

There is another Rumbling Bridge in this part of Scotland near Kinross and it seems to get all the publicity.  This one is far more interesting - but then I would say that, wouldn't I !

Pier Fire, Weston-super-Mare

How sad I felt when I heard of the destruction by fire of the pier at Weston-super-Mare yesterday.  The photograph says it all really.  

Back in the 60s I started my hotel management training with Trust House Hotels who are no longer in existence.  It was a national company which owned quality hotels of all shapes and sizes.  I was one of the first females the company decided to train in management which was, until then, a male dominated vocation.

My first trainee management post was at the Grand Atlantic Hotel, Weston-super-Mare.  A splendid victorian building it rightly dominated the residential part of the promenade.  In those days it was a 4 star hotel and definitely deserved that status but I see, from some comments on websites, that it has deteriorated badly in recent years.  Such a shame that a building of great dignity should now be denied the tender loving care it received and appreciated for over 100 years. 

At the Grand Atlantic I concentrated on the housekeeping  and function part of my training and it was tough.  Miss Reid, the housekeeper, took no hostages and her standards were exacting. We started work serving morning teas/coffees to bedrooms at 6am (no DIY trays in the rooms in those days!) and were lucky to finish before 4pm.  A few of us had to also work evenings as each floor had to have staff available in case guests required laundry facilities, beverages and many of the other services which have now vanished.  It sounds as if it was all work and no play but, to be honest, there was always time for laughter.  Happy days.

During my time at the Grand Atlantic I met some 'superstars' such as Cary Grant, Patrick McGoohan (he used to use the outdoor pool early every morning and would be sitting in the sun lounge when I reported for work), Jayne Mansfield, Diana Dors and many more.  Most were starring at the Weston Theatre which was widely recognised as one of the 'best in the west', but Cary Grant regularly visited because he still had family in the Bristol area.

What has all this to do with the pier fire yesterday?  Well, the pier was only about 200 yards from the hotel and I have spent many a happy hour, at all times of the day, strolling down the pier just to relax.  I didn't spend much money because I didn't earn much as a trainee and had a car to keep on the road.  I know I received much more from this dignified victorian structure than I gave and I still appreciate that fact.

Thankfully the new owners have decided to rebuild it and I will definitely visit when it's completed.  For me, I'm just happy I had the experiences of its differing atmospheres. The Grand Atlantic set me on a career path with a training which stood me in good enough stead for me to manage large hotels in Europe for some years and the pier at Weston-super-Mare was my therapeutic escape from a greatly enjoyable, although demanding, part of my career.  Oh happy days!

Botanic Gardens, Dundee University

It's a beautiful sunny day and around 25 degrees.  Too nice to stay indoors, now my work is finished, so I'm going to have a trip to the wonderful Botanic Gardens at Dundee University.  The gardens are just a 20 minute drive from here on a pleasant road.

These gardens are exceptional and so much of the work is done by volunteers.  Unfortunately, owing to the restrictions of the bed and breakfast business, I'm unable to be a reliable volunteer but I can enjoy the results of their toils.

The photograph is of a beautiful climbing, highly scented rose on the front wall of the house here.  It was just coming into flower.  I was told a few years ago it was a very old rose, possibly having been planted not long after the house was built in the 1840s.  So today, I'm taking a stem complete with a flower, in the hope that one of the experts at the Botanic Gardens can identify the rose or at least give some idea of it's heritage.  Doubt if I will get the results back for a while but they should be interesting.

Here in Scotland, there are few opportunities to really use air conditioning in the car, but today is one of them.   It's not so long ago it was thought air conditioning would never be used in a place like Scotland but I have used it for the past few months quite often.  Perhaps we don't get enough days like today but our climate isn't as bad as it is pictured at times.  England often gets far worse weather than Perthshire!

Clunie Loch near Blairgowrie, Perthshire

Had a few hours free yesterday afternoon having completed all the work required for the bed and breakfast, so decided to go for a short walk.  A ten minute drive took me to the Loch of the Lowes, which has been famous for nesting ospreys since the late 1060s, but it was very busy so I decided to drive round  the other side and make my way back via Clunie Loch (doing more or less a circle from Blairgowrie).  

Clunie Loch is charming.  It's a small loch, although trout fishing is permitted, but it's just the right size for a short walk.  I parked by the church and strolled round enjoying the peace and the lapping of the water on a warm summer afternoon.  'Clunie' means 'meadow' in Gaelic I was told today by a friend and I would agree it is in a meadow-like setting.

When I returned to the car a party of cyclists arrived.  They had been practising for a big competition and decided to relax there for an hour before continuing their gruelling training.  Most set off round the loch with gusto although some sensible ones (in my opinion anyway!) sat at the edge of the water and enjoyed the calmness.

My apologies for taking the photograph too far away but I assure you the loch is there!  Just a slither of it shows about two-thirds of the way down right of centre.

Scottish Boys Golf Championship, Blairgowrie Golf Club

It's been such a pleasant week.  Not only has the weather improved beyond belief, we've been basking in sunshine with temperatures well over 20 degrees.  My guests have all been excellent company and I do hope they've enjoyed staying as much as I've enjoyed having them in my home.

The photograph is of James Hendrick who is competing in the 47th Scottish Boys Golf Championship which is taking place at Blairgowrie Golf Club this week and he's been well up the rankings.  James was accompanied by his Dad and I've learned a great deal about the really tough competition there is around for youngsters like James to 'make it' in a sport such as golf.  The odds are unbelievably high but so are the rewards although I'm not sure it's reward that motivates James.  An intense love of the game seems to be his reason for getting up in the mornings plus a natural ability to hit the ball well.

This particular competition is open to boys under the age of 18 and this will be the last one James is able to enter as his eighteenth birthday is not far away.  His Dad was explaining to me the next steps in James' golfing career and it's quite a leap.  I do admire the parents and families of young people who enter this type of popular sport with the intention of making it their career.  The support and care parents give is quite remarkable (and that's without making comment about the financial support required).

So James, you'll be playing your final round and I wish you all the very best  You're a lovely lad with a most pleasant personality and I'm sure you'll go far.  Do wish you'd eat a good breakfast though!

For those of you reading this - golf isn't just for experts and people who luckily have the natural ability for the sport.  Anyone can play. In this area of Scotland there are so many courses to choose from that we're very spoilt for choice.  (I say anyone can play - unfortunately I'm one of these people who couldn't hit a ball even if it was the size of a melon!)

James has given his permission for his name and photograph to be used in this wee story.

Scottish Rainbow Trout

Had the super gift of a rainbow trout from my lovely  fishermen this week (nearly 2lbs).  Their catch was average over the week but not quite as good as last year.  Part of the problem appeared to be the rain and also the cold wind which is most unusual for this time of year. Dull days seem to be best for fishing but chilly winds are not appreciated and neither is bright sunshine I'm told.  

Regardless, my anglers set off with great enthusiasm every morning to tackle (forgive the pun!) some of the surrounding rivers and lochs.  There are so many good fishing destinations in Perthshire that they are completely spoilt for choice, but as they know this area well, they are able to make informed decisions about places suited to the differing weather.

A comprehensive website relating to fishing in Perthshire is http://www.fishingnet.com/.

I love trout and I am always delighted to receive such a generous gift.  All I have to do now is plan a spare hour some evening when I can barbeque the handsome 'catch' and enjoy the pure pleasure of eating it.  Can't wait!

Beech Hedge, nr Blairgowrie, Perthshire

When driving into Perth yesterday on the A93, I was suddenly struck by the imposing splendour of the Beech Hedge at Meikleour near Blairgowrie (see photo).  I have driven past this for the best part of 20 years and just accepted it as part of the landscape, but for some reason yesterday - perhaps the sunlight on it, I realised it really is spectacular.

It stands 120ft tall at the highest point and is approximately 600ft long.  Since 1966 it has had the accolade of the tallest beech hedge in the world and it has a romantic history.  It is said it was planted by a woman named Jean Mercer and her husband Robert Nairne.  Both lived in the small nearby village of Meikleour.  Robert Nairne, it is believed, was later killed on the battlefield of Culloden.  The hedge is now maintained by the Meikleour Trust and it takes 4 men around 5 weeks to keep it looking good.

Unless you know it is there, it's quite easy to miss.  On the A93 from Blairgowrie it is just at the end of the long straight on the right hand side.  Coming from Perth on the A93 it's not so easy to see.  Once you're over the Isla bridge (with the traffic lights) continue along and round the slight right hand bend.  You will see a small lay-by on your left.   Park there if you can.  The hedge is above you but the best view is from the north side.  There is a pavement which you can use to walk the length of it.  Shame it does not have a larger sign, as it has such a 'claim to fame' with a world record, but now you know where it is at least!

Scone Palace Annual Game Fair

Another lovely day of sunshine!  The weather forecasters have certainly been wrong this week.  The predictions of rain and heavy showers just haven't materialised and we have had lovely warm weather.  This weekend (today, tomorrow and Sunday) is the annual Game Fair at Scone Palace.  It is attended by thousands, lots of whom are from the farming and agriculture communities.  So much to see and do it's no wonder it lasts three days.

I'm not going this year but I was there 2 years ago.  The final day (Sunday) was my choice and, you've guessed it, it rained.  Walking in wellies isn't something I do regularly, or even non-regularly, but it was a challenge which was certainly worth it. Everyone seemed to just ignore the weather and get on with the fun.  That kind of attitude is infectious and, truth be told, I had a wonderful day.

It's another warm, sunny summer evening right now and I await the company of my lovely Irish friends who visit regularly.  Both the men are gamekeepers, one now retired, although his hobby of fly fishing is now his full time job, (according to his wife).  They have never missed a Game Fair for many years.  The forecast is decent weather for tomorrow and Sunday and I sincerely hope the professionals are right this time.

Tracing Your Ancestors in Scotland

This afternoon I had a couple of hours free as tonight's guests weren't arriving until 5pm. They're now settled and getting ready to go out for an evening meal so I've time to tell you about my exploits.

In August I have visitors from New Zealand arriving. They're on a tour to trace their ancestry in Scotland.  Now I know lots of Scots emigrated to New Zealand back in the 'old days' and many continue to do so because of the quality of life offered, but my visitors are young New Zealanders and both are of Scots descent. The amazing fact they themselves have discovered is that both their great-great-grandparents came from this area of Scotland and both were named Robertson! Both were single when they arrived in New Zealand.

What a work they've put into this research but it appears neither great-great-grandparent knew each other before they emigrated and it's still not known if they knew each other in New Zealand. Mind you, they started sheep farms quite a few hundred miles apart (still in existance today) so they may well have 'heard' of each other without meeting. The woman emigrated with her brother and, of course, it's her brother's name that is on the documentation for the land purchase!

Back in those days Blairgowrie was a small and successful town with farming being one of the strong industries.

Anyway, back to my activities. I've been wandering around the old Blairgowrie cemetery at the top of the town but with little success. Many of the stones have been vandalised since the ground was deconsecrated but also a majority of the stones are readable.

I did have success at Bendochy churchyard though and have forwarded them photos of 7 gravestones with the name Robertson. Hopefully they will help in some way even if it's only to eliminate some leads.

These young people want to do a joint 'Ancestry' book and video to present to their respective parents later this year as a thank you for helping them purchase their new house.

I can see tears in the eyes of four parents already and all because a young couple want to trace their ancestry to the Scots and Scotland!

Seasonal Breakfast Delights

This morning I felt rather sad because I grilled the last of the locally grown asparagus for two guests (the other two had the quality bacon and sausage of my local pork butcher.)  Only bought yesterday at the farm near Glamis (Eassie farm) it was the last of their asparagus crop which has only around a 6 week season.  I hadn't realised until yesterday that the time had flown so quickly.

During summer I offer guests a variety of 'specials' from local producers in addition to the regular 'specials' not on the main menu.  This year so many people have been grateful to have such an exotic choice as grilled asparagus (which I serve with a side dish of chilled lemon butter) that I think Eassie farm ought to offer me shares in their business!  Although I've suggested some tasty Belfast ham along with the asparagus I've had no takers, but I shan't tell Belfast as I've no wish to offend their ham.

Forgive me if the photograph is not one of my own but I didn't have time this morning to take photographs.  I believe this photo is the nearest to the reality of mine.  

On a cooking note, I've been a consummate eater of asparagus for so many years I can't quite remember.  I've had the inedible, the tough, the cremated, the average and the best.  The best, in my opinion, is grilled.  On the BBQ just a minute either side is fine. For breakfasts and certain foods I use a Foreman grill and 2 or 3 minutes inside that machine, after the bottom inch is chopped off and the remainder washed, is just perfection.  Gourmet food indeed!

More Castle information plus Distillery visits

I've just returned from a wander round the grounds of Glamis Castle - something I do often as I find them just wonderful at this time of year.  It's like having my own grand estate more or less on my doorstep! (Well ok, within 15 minutes drive).

Upon leaving I picked up a leaflet entitled 'Treasure Ticket'.  This ticket is just great value as it allows visitors into the 3 castles I've already mentioned (Glamis, Scone and Blair) plus entry to both the Famous Grouse and Bell's Blair Athol distilleries. All this for the super price of £18 for adults, £16 for seniors (that's me!) and £45 for families.

What more could you ask for?  If one of your party isn't keen on castles then I'm sure they'll be keen on visiting a distillery and with this ticket everyone is happy! Have a look a Glamis Castle's website for more details.  Click tickets on the right hand menu.  Enjoy!

The Missing Ring

This past week I've had great pleasure enjoying the company of two couples who have visited me for many of the past 13 years.  Usually both of the husbands play golf each day, but as this was the Ruby Wedding Anniversary of one couple, golf was off the agenda for once (how the wives managed that I don't know)!

One evening prior to them going out for dinner, we were all sitting talking in the sitooterie, when suddenly the Ruby Wedding wife said to her husband, "Where's your wedding ring?"  Now, I'm sure the Ruby Wedding husband will forgive me if I describe him as rather a laid back sort of man, who likes an easy life.  He looked at his finger and stated quite calmly, "It's not there."

As the Ruby Wedding husband had only just finished entertaining us with details of a young Dundee schoolteacher he had met the previous evening whilst outside for an after dinner smoke, (he enjoys this forbidden pleasure), the comments started to flow.  "When you took it off chatting to the Dundee teacher you missed your pocket," and other similar witty remarks. Fortunately the Ruby Wedding wife took all the remarks with amusement but she was obviously upset.  

The following day there was an in depth enquiry as to the Ruby Wedding husband's actions since the previous weekend when he knew he was in possession of this sentimental token of love.  Several times he mentioned it had never been off his finger for 39 years, 11 months and 364 days (the actually date of the Ruby Wedding was the following day).

I then had the 'pleasure' of giving the house another spring clean in search of the missing ring.   Truthfully I would never have forgiven myself if it was in the house somewhere and hadn't been found and this exercise was completely voluntary!  Suffice to say, after a couple of hours work, nothing was discovered.

The following evening we were all going out for a pre-arranged celebration.  During the 'winks and drinks' prior to leaving the Ruby Wedding husband took some flack about the ring again and how it would be the talk of their golf club when the word went round.

Our evening was brilliant - good food, good wine and most of all superb company.   The following morning I felt a little fragile and the others were subdued but, as they were returning home, we all managed fond farewells and 'see you soon' sentiments.

I received an email from the Ruby Wedding wife two days later.  When I saw the address I assumed it was a thank you for the hospitality as she is always very kind at showing her appreciation.  The email was brief.  'He found his ring, inside his golf glove, inside his golf bag' .

Phew!  What a relief!  Seems the Dundee teacher is completely off the hook ...

(The couple in this story have approved the accuracy and say their sides are still sore from laughing)

Perthshire Major Events 2008

29 June - 4 July        Scottish Mixed Foursomes Golf Week.

4 - 6 July                  Scottish Game Fair Scone Palace.

6 July                       Elton John at McDiarmid Park Perth

11 - 13 July              T in the Park, Kinross

12 - 13 July              Scottish Transport Extravaganza, Glamis Castle

9 -10 August            Scottish Prom Weekend, Glamis Castle

6 September            Braemar Highland Games

6 September            Braemar Night, Blairgowrie

6 - 7 September       Scottish Countryside Fair, Glamis Castle

7 September            Blairgowrie Highland Games

3 - 9 October           Walking Festival Blairgowrie/East Perthshire

Member of Ancestral Tourism

Ancestral Tourism is an accredited qualification given to a small number of Scottish bed and breakfast or guesthouse businesses who have proved their ability at helping visitors with the time consuming and enjoyable interest of tracing their ancestors. Indeed I am most fortunate to be a member of this initiative and learn something myself most days.

Genealogy (the tracing of ancestors) has become most popular in the past 5 - 10 years and as a 4 star bed and breakfast in Blairgowrie, Perthshire, Scotland I have attracted my share of these most delightful guests who pursue their interest in a most enthusiastic and cheerful manner. The tenacity of most would shame lesser mortals!

Being a member of Ancestral Tourism ensures any guest staying at Heathpark Lodge will be given as much help as possible with regard to places (such as graveyards, record libraries etc) and at times help finding people. It's so much easier to speak to people local to an area than attempt to find details even on the internet.

Most of my guests have done a great deal of research prior to visiting Scotland, or indeed Perthshire, but usually there are one or two loose ends which can be tied up to make a picture complete. Perhaps I'm lucky because guests from as far a field as Australia, New Zealand, Canada plus the US have stayed with me and before their trip I've known about their quest thanks to the technology of email. Of course that helps me because I can do a little research of my own prior to their arrival and at times save them hours of slogging round churchyards.

So if your desire is to trace your Scottish ancestral roots, do try to stay with someone who is a member of this initiative as they could be quite valuable in your search. I never knew so many of Scottish descent worldwide are still so deeply interested in their roots. It's a pleasure to be part of their quests.

Pets can Bed and Breakfast in Perthshire too!

Don't you shake your head in despair at times when you realise a problem, which seems very complicated, is easily resolved.  The answer may be staring you in the face as in this case.

Owning a bed and breakfast in Blairgowrie, Perthshire, a good many of my guests are people from all over the UK.  Many enquire if I would take pets, usually dogs, but I've also had enquiries for cats and one rabbit, which I was pleased to accommodate as he arrived with his own portable flat (or apartment if you prefer). 

In recent years many bed and breakfasts and guesthouses have stopped taking pets.  I can understand why as the cost of carpeting and furnishings are expensive if you are a 4 or 5 star business but I also understand why visitors don't want to leave their adored pet behind.  Having been a dog owner for some years leaving a dog behind is a wrench.  Leaving a dog behind for a week or more can be emotionally upsetting to all concerned.

So, your bed and breakfast or guesthouse refuses your lovely, well behaved pet. "I'll find somewhere else then," you think to yourself.  After ringing umpteen places you still haven't found somewhere who would cherish your pet as much as you.

Solution:

Why don't you bring your pet with you and arrange accommodation in a local kennel or cattery?  That way you can see your pet every day, even have them with you all day and both of you will sleep well at night.  Here in Blairgowrie there is a cattery just yards from my door and a kennels just over 5 minutes drive away.  As I haven't used either of these for some years I am hesitant to recommend them, but it shouldn't take long to check them out.

One thing I know, the local two are very busy, so book early.  There are quite a few others within 30 minutes drive so you do have a good choice.

Do away with all the stress of taking your pet to kennels or the cattery prior to your holiday.  All come together and enjoy yourselves in Perthshire, Scotland!

The Grandest Castles in Perthshire Scotland

My favourite castle in Perthshire is Glamis Castle. Situated between Coupar Angus and Forfar it is tucked away in a typical Scottish village which grew around the castle. The castle is inhabited by the Earl of Strathmore and family which makes it particularly interesting and its gardens are just a pleasure to wander through. Ensure you have a few hours to spend here to really enjoy what there is to offer. It is such an intriguing place you just want to see more.

Another most interesting castle is Scone Palace (pronounced Scoon Palace and not like the teacake!). It is just outside Perth and the Palace has the most wonderful history which no visitor could ignore. Many events are run here throughout the year such as the Scottish Game Fair which attracts thousands from all over the country. Very well worth a visit and another castle which, to do it and yourself justice, requires a visit of a few hours.

My third choice is Blair Castle, north of Pitlochry and just off the A9 towards Inverness. Blair Castle nestles in the hills like a fairy castle in story books and it certainly is worthy of a story book. The castle is owned by the Duke of Atholl but it is not inhabited by him. The Duke of Atholl is the only Duke in Scotland to have his own Pipe Band and an excellent one it is too. This castle has also played a strategic role in much of Scotland's history involving the Highlands of Scotland. Not to be missed!

The History of Heathpark Lodge, Perthshire

The History of Heathpark Lodge

The following has been compiled from research done since 1991 when it became of interest to me.

Heathpark Lodge is situated in Rosemount, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, Scotland and in 1745 the whole area was open grazing land. Coupar Angus Road was a one lane road built for the use of coaches and horse traffic connecting the towns of Coupar Angus and Blairgowrie.

According to historic records the Duke of Cumberland's (known as the Butcher of Cumberland) cavalry camped on the actual site of the Heathpark estate for a period of around 6 weeks, before their final push to Inverness, where they won the battle of Culloden against the 'rebel' Scots. The Duke himself did not stay here but enjoyed the more sumptuous accommodation of Newton Castle set at the top of the town!

Heathpark estate is thought to have been built between 1837 and 1841. Records show that the land was bought in 1837 by John Thain, a ship owner from Dundee and the very first census taken in 1841 lists Heathpark Lodge and the occupants. In the mid 1850s the owner of R & R Clark, a very reputable printing and publishing firm in Edinburgh, purchased the whole estate. His family occupied the 'big house' during holidays and the estate manager, his wife and children lived here in the then three roomed Lodge. The back of the original house is evident in the present hallway.

Soon after Mr Clark arrived, others purchased land, built houses and this resulted in the village of Rosemount.

The Clark family kept the house for a number of years until Mr Clark died (he is buried under an impressive headstone in the old churchyard at the top of the town). Early in the 1900s the whole estate was sold to a lady who was Lord Lt. of Perthshire; namely a Miss Guthrie. Records show she employed a gardener and wife who lived here in the Lodge. (The appointment of a female as Lord Lt. was extremely unusual - it is still a male dominated post today, so she must have had something going for her!)

When Miss Guthrie died in the late 1930s the whole estate was bought by the local veterinary surgeon who ran his surgery (including large operating theatre!) from the back of the 'big house' and resided in the front part. His mother lived here in the Lodge and we have been told there were many fine musical evenings here as both the vet and his mother were talented fiddlers.

In the late 60s the vet's mother died and he sold the Lodge to a private buyer; thus the division of the estate commenced. In 1980 the then owners of the 'big house' sold off much more of the land, including a wonderful walled garden, to a property developer but fortunately this did not affect the Lodge in any way.

Since the house was first privately owned and therefore nothing whatever to do with the 'big house' there have been 3 owners. We purchased the house in 1991 and extended it to its present size in 1992, trying our very best to ensure the extension was sympathetic to and in keeping with the charming original property.

The garden has evolved in the past years since we took over - then it was just grass and stones. The beech hedge seen at the roadside was over 15 feet high when we arrived and it also ran along the back of the house. Thankfully it is now a manageable size and hopefully compliments the garden rather than buries it!

Note of interest: When we were digging to install our flagpole many years ago now, we discovered a blue bottle which was intact. It has since been inspected by both Dundee and Perth museum staff and it appears to be a hand blown medicine bottle, which would have belonged to an army officer, and dates around the mid 1700s.

Some Historic References in the 1850s

Queen Victoria ascended the throne in 1838

David Livingstone explored Central Africa

The sewing machine had just been invented

Lord John Russell (Whig) was Prime Minister of Britain - 1846 to 1852

Russian threat to Turkey leads to Crimea War (1854)

Population of Britain set at 27 million

Great Exhibition (1851)