Today was more showery, but I managed to dodge most of them. I started with a short walk along Glen Sannox. Ahead of me was the might of Goat Fell shrouded in mist. In the Glen itself the sun came out. There are a number of small waterfalls along this picturesque Glen, and some ruins that act as a reminder of the mining of the barytes that took place here. These were used in various industrial processes and mining continued in the Glen until after the First Worl...

Today dawned dull and drizzley, but it was forecast to clear up so I took my time before leaving. Eventually I headed to Kildonan where the hills were still shrouded in mist so I stopped in the village for a short walk along the beach and back up to the sparse remains of Kildonan Castle. This is in private hands and it's not possible to get up close to it, but the few remaining bits of the tower can be seen. By the time I rejoined the Minx the mist had cleared...

The first day of my Arran Adventure was dry and sunny. After a brief stroll through Lamlash with beautiful views across the bay to Holy Island, we took the roof down and drove across the island to the King's Cave car park. From there the walk went through a forest and down to the beach. Here there are a number of caves to explore but the King's Cave is easily spotted due to the metal gate at the entrance, though it is usually left open, and I'm glad to report ...

Today I resumed my journey to Arran. After leaving the Travelodge, I stopped at the Bamber Bridge Sainsbury's where the petrol was about 25p per litre cheaper than at several services. The Minx having been fed, further up the road it was my turn at Tebay Services with a large cooked breakfast including sausages, bacon, black pudding, haggis, beans, hash browns and egg. I also took the opportunity to buy a bacon and brie sandwich and crisps for later. Eventuall...

Today was the start of my latest Scottish holiday - so I ventured east to Oxford! Why? All will be revealed... Upon arrival in the City of Dreaming Spires, I made for the castle. An entertaining guided tour that was included in the £11.50 admission price revealed its fascinating history. The impressive stone St. George's Tower was built by the Saxons in the time of Ethelred the Unready. The Normans then added their trademark motte and bailey castle, of which ...