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My final full day in Scotland - though I've got a pretty full day lined up for tomorrow! Back to today, it dawned bright and stayed that way most of the day, with just a little rain.
I first headed into the town of Dunkeld, for an appointment at the Cathedral! The Cathedral was hidden away off the main road, but I found it. One half of the Cathedral is ruined and in the care of Scottish Heritage, though currently closed for renovation. The other half is a fully functioning church, and had some interesting exhibits, including a memorial to all who served in the Scottish Horse Regiment, of which my Grandpa was one.
It turned out my appointment was in the Community Archives round the corner. There I met David Arbuthnott and we had an interesting discussion about Scottish Horse, and I passed on a digitalised copy of all my Gramps notes on the campaign.
While in Dunkeld, I popped into the Country Bakery where I enjoyed a naughty Black Pudding, Sausage and Bacon Roll, and Hot Chocolate.
Now that the roof was totally dry, the Minx and I drove topless to Castle Menzies in Weem. This is a restored 16th century castle that belongs to the Clan Menzies. Unlike other restored Scottish Castles, it's not fully furnished so is different from the rest. The guy on reception was very welcoming and chatty, and imparted a load of information. The castle itself was fascinating to wander around.
Next, we went back on ourselves to The Hermitage. This is an area next to the River Tay near Dunkeld that is owned by National Trust for Scotland. There are a number of paths. I followed a woodland trail that ran alongside the Tay to a spectacular waterfall. Very pleasant.
Then it was up the road to Blair Castle, where I arrived at the end of a short sharp shower. The castle, in village of Blair Atholl, is the ancestral seat on the Clan Murray. The castle was very impressive with lots of information in each room. The gardens are also worth wandering around.
Then I popped into the town of Pitlochry for dinner. Spotting a Fish and Chip Shop, I couldn't resist another helping of Haggis, Cheesy Chips and Gravy - after all, it is my last night in Scotland. Unlike other chippies I've enjoyed, the haggis wasn't a large sausage but three battered platters - like burgers. Still nice, but I prefer the sausage variety. Then I filled up the Little Minx as she was getting thirsty.
Then I embarked upon a twilight drive around Loch Rannoch. Naturally, I didn't go the direct route, but left Pitlochry on the B8019, B8079, B847 and B846 to drive along the north shore of the loch. Then I returned along the south shore and continued along the minor road through Tempar to link up with the B846 to Aberfeldy, then on to Strathtay. That little jaunt was 70 miles and took about 2 hours. I did get some lovely photos though, two of which are attached.
That final fling took the total amount of miles driven today to 151.
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