Walks and Coffee Shops

I have been attending a writing group called The Novel Pool for around seven years. Over the last few years several of us have started going walks, whatever the weather (dry if poss) and have visited coffee shops on our travels. During the pandemic we met up but in reduced numbers. We brought flasks and a packed lunch and sat on benches outside, as cafe`s and shops were closed. It seems such a long time ago now.

I would like to share some of our scenic photos and places that we have visited for cake and coffee.

We had a walk round Stirling Castle and visited the old graveyard. Weather was chilly and paths a bit slippy but we were well wrapped up. We then walked to Kings Park Tennis Pavilion (no tennis for us as it was the middle of winter) and sat outside for coffee and snacks which I`m sure included cakes. After eating we headed into Stirling for some retail shopping. We then got the train home, in different directions.

This is Gartmorn Dam in Sauchie. It is approximately 3 miles to walk round and there are some spectacular views. We visited The Dam Good Cafe for cakes and bacon rolls.

That is my car. The one and only...

In January we visited Culross. It is said to be Scotland`s best preserved 17th century town, which stands on the north shore of the Firth of Forth. The preserved buildings and cobbled streets makes it a special place to visit and attract tourism, and these days you rarely find it quiet. The history of Culross is said to go back as far as the 6th century and indeed, Culross Abbey was built in the 13th.

It was a cold but beautiful day with plenty of sunshine.

and the days were short...

It was a long walk of nearly five miles but the scenery was beautiful. A lovely walk with coffee and cake which went down a treat.

In February we went for a walk round Linlithgow Loch.

This is Linlithgow Palace which was built in 1424 through the instruction of James I. The palace was particularly liked by the Stewart queens and became the royal nursery for James V (1512) Mary Queen of Scots (1542) and Princess Elizabeth (1596). Today Linlithgow Palace lies roofless and in ruins on a small hill overlooking an inland loch. The name Linlithgow represents `the loch in the damp hollow`.

Edinburgh`s famous three bridges. Picture taken leaving Linlithgow.

..and we finished our day in The Coffee Neuk where we had amazing hot chocolate, toasties and cake to follow. We then had a walk round the shops and visited a well stocked and most enjoyable book shop. It was a great day out.

May 28th.

Went to Doune Ponds for our walk today. Weather was good so very enjoyable.

It is the first time I have been here and was very impressed by the cleanliness and well instructed pathways/signposts

There were several ponds. A very attractive layout.

If you look closely there is a Heron waiting quietly to catch a fish.

We then headed up the main street in Doune, the next stop being the tearoom to sample their amazing bakery. There is a nice sitting area round the back. It was warm ...so we ended up beneath a parasol. However, it did not stop me having a hot bowl of steaming soup.

Lovely day had by all. Will definitely go back.