Alloa Tower I managed to make some time to visit Alloa Tower, which according to the records, is mentioned for the first time in 1495. It occupies the ancestral seat of the Erskine family, then later the Earls of Mar and Kellie, and it is the largest surviving example of a medieval fortified keep in … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 90
Inveraray I drove across to Loch Fyne the other week and stopped at Inveraray. Fantastic scenery along with an impressive castle. It isn’t open yet as it’s still the closed season, so I could only walk around outside and take a couple of photographs. It’s on my list to visit later in the year though. … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 88
Culzean Castle I regularly have those wow moments when visiting historical sites, and Culzean Castle is one of the most memorable. When you walk through the Ruined Arch and onto the Viaduct, after having caught a small glimpse of the building and then see the castle properly for the first time, it truly is an … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 77
Pollok House If you read this blog, you will know I spend time visiting places of historical interest and like to flag them up. I’m not going to give you a potted history of these locations as you can easily look up the background online if you are interested to find out more. I like … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 71
Culross I took time out to visit Culross last month. I’ve been many times, but as I’m now a member of the National Trust, it meant I had free entry to the Palace, so I wanted to revisit before it closes for the winter. It is described a a unique example of a merchant house … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 67
Falkland Palace Another popular destination on the Outlanders Trail, fans of the show will recognise the town square from the opening episode of the series. This location is more unusual in so much as the palace is adjacent to the town of Falkland itself. It is right of the main street in as you go … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 66
The Declaration of Arbroath As I’ve blogged previously, I like to go and visit places and see things that are on show. I especially like anything historical. My first degree is in history and my passion for the subject has been lifelong. I enjoy all periods, but I’m particularly keen on Scottish history throughout the … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 51
The Fiction Factory 