Random thoughts from Pencefn

31 December 2023
by Stewart Leave a comment

Round up of 2023

Unlike the beginning of 2022, at the beginning of 2023 we had plans to travel. An autumn visit to British Columbia (including Vancouver Island) was on the cards. Having renewed one of our passports in 2022, the other was due for renewal before we could book our Canadian holiday. Other trips planned included Sheffield, London, Isle of Arran and Porthmadog.

Whitelee Wind Turbines and the Isle of Arran

Isle of Arran from Whitelee Windfarm
2 January 2023

January 2023
At the beginning of January we decided to undertake the 8 mile Lochgoin Circuit at Whitelee Windfarm. During the month, the rhubarb started to emerge. In 2023 we decided not to cover, force, them.

The first Rhubarb Sprout
5 January 2023

Later in the month, we undertook a day trip to the Isle of Arran, visiting the cemetery at Sannox, where there are family plots.

The snow capped mountain, Suidhe Fhearghas, from Sannox Cemetery on the Isle of Arran.

Suidhe Fhearghas from Sannox Cemetery
20 January 2023

Towards the end of the month, was the fourth concert in the Glasgow Bach Cantata Project. Held at St Margaret’s Newlands, it raised funds for the Glasgow City Mission.

More pictures from January 2023

February 2023
February included long weekend trips to the Isle of Arran and Porthmadog

Lochranza Castle on the Isle of Arran, 11 February 2023

Lochranza Castle
11 February 2023

Foggy Porthmadog Harbour platform and signalbox
17 February 2023

More pictures from February 2023

March 2023
The fifth concert in the Glasgow Bach Cantata Project was held in March, and the second trip of the year to Porthmadog. The approach to Easter also meant the baking of Simnel Cakes.

Simnel Cake mixture ready to go into the tin

First Simnel Cake Mixture
4 March 2023

Three round and one rectangular simnel cakes

Four simnel cakes completed
19 March 2023

Three simnel cakes in cake boxes stacked.

Three simnel cakes in cake boxes ready for delivery.
22 March 2023

More pictures from March 2023

April 2023
After Easter we visited Culzean Castle for the first time in many years. Later in the month was the sixth Bach Cantata Project concert. At the end of the month we visited London, which included meeting Hodge at Southwark Cathedral.

Three Oystercatchers in the car at Hunterston B

Oystercatchers in the Car Park at Hunterston B
20 April 2023

Hodge the Cat at Southwark Cathedral. A black and white on the steps of the Southwark Cathedral Tower Space.

Hodge the Cat at Southwark Cathedral
30 April 2023

More pictures from April 2023

May 2023
The month started in London up The Shard, followed by a trip to Arran the following weekend.

Sunset at Ardrossan at MV Caledonian Isles approaches
5 May 2023

Machrie Stones on Arran
7 May 2023

More pictures from May 2023

June 2023
As with 2023 the weather was conducive for an evening walk at Whitelee Windfarm to see the sunset and get the full moon. Later in the month was another visit to the Ffestiniog Railway and the surrounding areas (including Beaumaris on Anglesey and the Llangollen Railway)

Strawberry Full Moon at Whitelee Windfarm
3 June 2023

Blackhorse Horse Drawn Trips in Beaumaris
18 June 2023

DMU at Corwen station on Llangollen Railway
21 June 2023

More pictures from June 2023

Sunset and Moonrise at Whitelee Windfarm – 3 June 2023

July 2023
The second weekend in July we visited the Falkirk Wheel. Later in the month there was a visit to Pollok Park, including Pollok House and the Burrell collection.

Boat coming off the Falkirk Wheel
8 July 2023

Bridge over the White Cart in Pollok Park
24 July 2023

More pictures from July 2023

Falkirk Wheel – 8 July 2023

August 2023
Saturday 5 August 2023 started sunny day, ideal for the Brodick Highland Games, although it did rain at the end of the day when the last ferry to ready to leave.

Arran Pipe Band at Brodick Ferry Terminal
5 August 2023

Later in the month, the Victoria Plum tree was showing the promise of a good harvest.

Prospective Plum Harvest
17 August 2023

More pictures from August 2023

Brodick Highland Games Pipe Bands – 5 August 2023

September 2023
September 2023 heralded a welcome return to British Columbia. We started off in based in Vancouver, prior to going onto Vancouver Island, before returning to North Vancouver via the Sunshine Coast.

Eastern end of False Creek Vancouver, with the Science Centre
16 September 2023

Malahat Tower on Vancouver Island
20 September 2023

Girl in a Wet Suit off Stanley Park, Vancouver
26 September 2023

More pictures from September 2023

September 2023 Visit to British Columbia

October 2023
Early in the month we visited London, seeing the PS Waverley in its final weekend on The Thames prior to returning to the Clyde. Later on we had our October trip to Porthmadog.

PS Waverley going to Tower Bridge at night time
7 October 2023

Sunset over Cnicht
22 October 2023

At the end of the month, retirement from Hunterston B Power Station occured, after over 37 years working for the Electricity Supply Industry.

Sunset over Hunterston
(c) Martin McKerrell

November 2023
November was the first month of retirement. We undertook trips to the Isle of Arran and Sheffield. Also a sightseeing flight from Loch Lomond over the Kintyre Peninsula.

Due to a fault on the main Arran Ferry, MV Caledonian Isles, we had to drive round to Claonaig to get a substitute ferry. It was a glorious afternoon for the drive, however the time pressure to get to the ferry meant we were not able to enjoy the sights, until we knew we were getting on the ferry.

Sunset over Kilbrannan Sound
10 November 2023

The following day we had lunch at the Tee Room as Shiskine Golf Club, were we saw an Oystercatcher on one of the greens.

Oystercatcher on a green at Shiskine Golf Club
11 November 2023

The following weekend we visited Sheffield. On our first day we headed into Derbyshire to visit the Great British Car Journey. Later on we headed to Clumber Park and a Shaun the Sheep Trail,

St Mary’s Chapel, Clumber Park
18 November 2023

In the evening we attended a performance of Elijah by The Sheffield Bach Choir.

On the Sunday we were at Sheffield Cathedral for morning service, and Chesterfield Parish Church for Choral Evensong.

The Crooked Spire, Chesterfield Parish Church
19 November 2023

At the end of the month was a concert – Handel’s Messiah – and a return visit (the first for nearly four years) to Nick Nairn’s Cook School

More pictures from November 2023

December 2023
Early December gave use the first snow of the winter, although it only stayed of around a day or so.

Snow on the Cotoneaster
2 December 2023

Throughout the year, I have attempted to photograph the full moon. most of the time the weather conspires to prevent a clear view. The Cold Full Moon was due in the early hours of the 27 December, and had a thin cloud cover.

Cold Full Moon
26 December 2023

Cold Full Moon Details
26 December 2023

So at the end of 2023, a visit to Balgray Reservoir on a dull Hogmanay. There will be changes in 2024 with realignment of Aurs Road and new walking routes. From there the wind turbine on Cathkin Braes was lit up by the sun.

Sun lit Wind turbine on Cathkin Braes
31 December 2023

So what of 2024?

We are already planning another Ontario visit in the autumn. Over the next few weeks, we will put complete our plans. Visits to London, Porthmadog, Sheffield and the Isle of Arran will also feature.

31 December 2022
by Stewart Leave a comment

What we did in 2022

At the beginning of 2022, we did not have many plans to travel. Our 2021 visit to British Columbia had not taken place and no overseas travel was planned in 2022. With the Omicron variant of COVID-19 wreaking havoc, we started the year taking one month at a time. However, one of our passports was renewed, just in case we decided to visit overseas.

Balgray Reservoir Take Off Tower
2 January 2022

January 2022
In January, a family bereavement meant that we made several visits to the Isle of Arran during January and February. Adverse weather, meant on one occasion we left on the early morning sailing on a Sunday morning to make a morning engagement in Glasgow.

Hebridean Isles at Brodick on a Sunday morning.
30 January 2022

More pictures from January 2022

February 2022
During one of visits to Arran, we made our first visit to the Distillery at Lagg.

Lagg Distillery
15 February 2022

March 2022
In March we visited Sheffield, which included a trip out into the Peak District and nearby stately homes. Whilst we were away, Poppet visited her Island Holiday home on the Isle of Arran, posting on a daily basis on social media, including her new Instagram Account.

Ladybower Reservoir
3 March 2022

At the end of the month, was the first visit of the year to Porthmadog.

Blanche on an Evening Train
26 March 2022

A sunny Monday gave the opportunity to scramble up Moel y Gest, which in the 35 plus years we have been visiting, we have never done.

Trig Point at the top of Moel y Gest
28 March 2022

More pictures from March 2022

April 2022
In early April, the Victoria Plum tree blossomed. We did not realise until harvest time what a bumper crop we were to harvest.

Plum Blossom
8 April 2022

After the usual activity at St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in Glasgow on Palm Sunday and from Maundy Thursday to Easter Day, on Easter Monday we went to a day out to Perthshire visiting Pitlochry and Killiecrankie.

Killiecrankie Viaduct
18 April 2022

More pictures from April 2022

May 2022
A visit to Carlisle meant a visit to a church we had never been to before. St Cuthbert’s Church is located next to Carlisle Cathedral.

St Cuthbert’s Church, Carlisle
21 May 2022

June 2022
At the beginning of June, the weather was conducive for an evening walk at Whitelee Windfarm to see the sunset.

Sunset at Whitelee Windfarm
3 June 2022

More pictures from June 2022

July 2022
At the beginning of July, there was a trip to London by train for the first time in over two years. Staying at a hotel in the London Bridge area, meant that the Chimps are Family, by Gillie and Marc installation around More London could be seen.

Wild Chimp Tree Climbing
Chimps are Family
6 July 2022

After contracting COVID-19 in the early part of July (having dodged it so far), we decided that now was the time to visit Canada in September. Usually we book at least 6 months in advance to get better flight prices. When booking, we found that direct flights from Glasgow were fully booked, and getting rental cars in Canada, at some airports, was not possible for the dates we were after. However we were successful and were looking to our trip to Ontario.

More pictures from July 2022

August 2022
An August Bank Holiday week visit to Porthmadog meant more opportunities to take pictures of the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway. This particular picture at Caernarfon was taken at the end of the day’s service prior to returning to the carriage and engine sheds at Dinas. I sent it to some work colleagues who were en-route to the area for a business meeting the following day. Little did I know until later in the evening (when I was sent a picture) that they had arrived. Just as I was leaving Dinas, they were at Caernarfon station.

Garratt 87 at Caernarfon
30 August 2022

September 2022
For the first time in three years, we left the UK. On this occasion to Ontario in Canada. Our itinerary covered Toronto, Peterborough, Saugeen Shores, London and Niagara-on-the-Lake.

We started in Toronto, we spent a few days there visiting the CN Tower and the Harbour. One evening we sat at Toronto Harbour watching the sunset.

CN Tower Sunset
12 September 2022

Leaving Toronto, our next base was Peterborough where one of the highest lift locks in the world is located. The highest is the Falkirk Wheel in central Scotland.

Peterborough Lift Lock
15 September 2022

In Canada, we have discovered BeaverTails, a fried dough with sweet toppings.

BeaverTail
17 September 2022

Whilst in Saugeen Shores (Port Elgin and Southampton) we always watch for the sunset across Lake Huron.

Saugeen Shores Sunset
18 September 2022

Following a stop off at London ON, our final base for our holiday was Niagara-on-the-Lake. When in the area, a visit to The Falls is a must. We made an evening visit to see them lit is various colours. Whilst for the evening visit, we took the car to The Falls, for the visit during the day, we parked up at the Butterfly Conservatory and took the WEGO transit to The Falls.

Niagara Horseshoe (Canadian) Falls
23 September 2022

Whilst we were visiting Ontario, Poppet once again visited the Isle of Arran.

More pictures from September 2022

October 2022
At the beginning of the month, we took a detour on a trip to Edinburgh to visit The Kelpies near Falkirk.

The Kelpies
8 October 2022

The following weekend we visited London which coincided with Luke Jerram’s Installation Gaia, consisting of a 7 metre diameter earth, at Southwark Cathedral. A business trip to London a few days later also gave the opportunity to see the installation at nighttime.

Luke Jerram’s Gaia at Southwark Cathedral
18 October 2022

At the end of October, we visited Porthmadog for the final time of the year.

Merddin Emrys leaving Porthmadog
28 October 2022

More pictures from October 2022

November 2022
In November, we had another trip to the Isle of Arran.

Arran Cheese Shop Tractor
12 November 2022

December 2022
Throughout the year, I have attempted to photograph the full moon. most of the time the weather conspires to prevent a clear view. On the 7 December, the cloud effects at sunset gave a hint that it might be possible.

December Sunset
7 December 2022

Six hours later, the sky gave a clear view of the Full “Cold” Moon.

Full “Cold” Moon
7 December 2022

So 2022 comes to an end, with a brief visit to Whitelee Windfarm on a driech Hogmanay.

Whitelee Windfarm
31 December 2022

What will 2023 bring?

2023 will be more like 2022, with trips to the Ffestiniog Railway in Porthmadog, seeing friends in London and visits to the Isle of Arran.

We are already planning another visit to Canada in the autumn, this time to the West Coast. Over the next few weeks, we will put together our itinerary, only time will tell whether we manage to get there.

31 December 2021
by Stewart 2 Comments

Reflections on 2021

After 2020, we did not have many plans for 2021. As mentioned at the end of last year’s roundup, our long term holiday plan for 2021 had included visiting Alberta and British Columbia, travelling between the two on the Rocky Mountaineer, however travel restrictions meant we got never got close to detail planning or visiting the travel agent.

At Church, St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in Glasgow, the year started without face-to-face services, a situation which continued until Palm Sunday. We managed several trips to North Wales and a week on the Isle of Mull. Several walks around Glasgow and further afield were undertaken.

The on-line photographic gallery regularly had new pictures added. This blog has been used to document two of our travels, Hong Kong in 2007 and the Outer Hebrides in 2011 (a project that was started and never completed in 2011).

January 2021
New year snow gave the opportunity to take pictures of snowy landscapes, starting at Whitelee Windfarm on New Year’s Day.

Goat Fell from Whitelee Wind Farm
1 January 2021

Following on from 2020, baking continued, with the featured recipes in January was Marmalade Brownies.

Marmalade Brownies ready for the oven
17 January 2021

During the year we have been taking pictures of the moon, when the cloud cover allowed.

Afternoon Moon
24 January 2021

More pictures from January 2021

February 2021
Following an appointment on the north west of Glasgow, I stopped off at the Maryhill Locks on the Forth and Clyde. I walked down to the Kelvin Aqueduct where the canal crosses the River Kelvin. To the east of the Kelvin at this point was the site of the former Caledonian Railway Dawsholm engine shed. Very little evidence of it now exists. Only piers in the river of branch to Anniesland Gas Works and a short branch across to the west of river.

Kelvin Aqueduct
26 February 2021

More pictures from February 2021

March 2021
March featured several trips to Pitlochry in the Highlands of Scotland. It was a town I had not walked around much before.

War Memorial in Pitlochry
2 March 2021

On the cooking front, a batch of Lemon and Orange marmalade was made.

Making Orange and Lemon Marmalade
15 March 2021

Towards the end of the month, one of the cars was taken for its MOT. Walking to the railway station to get the train home, I crossed over the former Glasgow & South Western Railway near to the remains of Strathbungo station. If you look under the bridge, you can see the line which used to go straight on to St Enoch station. Now relegated to a short link to the West Coast Main Line at Larkfield Junction, the line to the left heads to Glasgow Central station. This site, including the footbridge I was standing on is to change drastically in the coming months as the line to East Kilbride and Barrhead is electrified. The former station building is derelict and its future is uncertain.

Strathbungo station
25 March 2021

April 2021
During another trip to Pitlochry early in April, we took advantage to see some of the various Pitlochry in Bloom sites and the hydro electric dam.

Pitlochry Dam
2 April 2021

A glut of fruit from the garden resulted in preserves being made. Early in the month, it was plum jam with the 2020 grown Victoria Plums and Fairtrade soft brown sugar.

Plum Jam
5 April 2021

A week later there was a fall of snow, providing some contrast with the flowering hyacinths.

April Snow
10 April 2021

Towards the end of the month, another batch of jam was made, this time Rhubarb (forced rhubarb from 2020) and Ginger.

Rhubarb & Ginger Jam
24 April 2021

More pictures from April 2021

May 2021
May heralded the first of several trips to the Ffestiniog Railway in 2021.

Earlier in the month, a squirrel cam to visit and sat on the fence.

Squirrel on the fence
12 May 2021

Good weather also presented the opportunity for some walks around the Porthmadog area and visiting Glosters

Moon through the Porthmadog Home signals
24 May 2021

Whilst in Porthmadog, the Glosters window display had to be admired.

Window display at Glosters
24 May 2021

Returning to Scotland, a day trip to the Highlands resulted in a visit to the Blair Atholl Watermill where I buy my flour from. On the day of our visit the river level was so low there was no water to turn the wheel.

Blair Atholl Watermill
29 May 2021

At the end of the month a lemon sponge cake was made and decorated with jelly diamonds.

Lemon Sponge
30 May 2021

More pictures from May 2021

June 2021
June featured some more walks around the local area. Apparently there was a significant football match on 18 June, so I took the opportunity to walk around the Barrhead Dams (there was even some brief trainspotting).

Balgray Reservoir
18 June 2021

More pictures from June 2021

July 2021
July started with another visit to Porthmadog and end with another walk around the Barrhead Dams. Whilst in Porthmadog, the summer window at Glosters was on display and on the way home there was a brief stop at Shap Wells to do some train spottings. In the middle of July, the centre of Glasgow was transformed into New York for the filming of the new Indiana Jones film.

Summer display at Glosters
2 July 2021

Pendolino 390 153 heading north at Shap Wells
9 July 2021

Glasgow as New York
16 July 2021

Waulkmill Glen Reservoir
31 July 2021

More pictures from July 2021

August 2021
Form April 2021 to the end of August 2021 a friend of ours has been walking from Lands End to John O Groats. By the beginning of August she had reaching the central belt of Scotland. As well providing accommodation for two nights and laundry facilities, I accompanied her for most of her walk on between Kilsyth and the West End of Glasgow along the Forth and Clyde Canal. Blisters prevented me from completing the stage then. Three weeks later I went back to complete the section of walk. A third visit to Porthmadog started at the end of the month.

Swan stretching their wings on the Forth & Clyde Canal
2 August 2021

My drive to work takes me past several farms, from time to time I have to wait for the cows to walk from the milking parlour to their field.

Cows crossing at Lugton
4 August 2021

Milepost on Forth & Clyde Canal at Maryhill
22 August 2021

The drive to Porthmadog usually takes us past Llyn Celyn. This was created in the 1965 flooding the Afon Tryweryn valley and submerging the village of Capel Calin. A memorial chapel has been built using many of the stones from the original village chapel. Some of the gravestones from the cemetery have been relocated. A memorial board for all those buried in the village in inside the chapel. The chapel is being restored by Dŵr Cymru / Welsh Water.

Capel Celyn memorial chapel
27 August 2021

Swan on Llyn Bach, Porthmadog
27 August 2021

Glosters Late Summer Window
29 August 2021

More pictures from August 2021

September 2021
September started in North Wales and finished on the Isle of Mull, with more jam made earlier in the month and in the middle of the month a trip on the PS Waverley and a visit to PS Maid of the Loch.

Sunset over the Cob
2 September 2021

The Victoria Plums were ready for harvest, and a batch were made into jam the following day.

Plums ready for harvest
4 September 2021

PS Waverley, the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world concluded its 2021 season in mid September, and we took a trip from Largs to Loch Fyne.

PS Waverley leaving Largs
15 September 2021

There is another paddle steamer in Scotland, the Maid of the Loch on Loch Lomond. We saw it in its cradle on the slipway at Balloch.

Maid of the Loch at Balloch
16 September 2021

And so to the end of the month, when we visited the Isle of Mull. most of the island was visited, including Tobermory, and three associated islands, Iona, Ulva and Staffa. The latter is the location of Fingal’s Cave.

A visit to the Isle of Mull, the first for several years.

Tobermory
19 September 2021

Fingal’s Cave, Staffa
20 September 2021

More pictures from September 2021

October 2021
At the end of October, we visited Porthmadog for the final time of the year. Earlier in the month more marmalade was made.

Red Grapefruit and Lemon Marmalade
5 October 2021

St Asaph Cathedral
24 October 2021

More pictures from October 2021

St Asaph Cathedral – 24 October 2021

November 2021
22 months after previously visiting London, we got the chance again in mid November. We were staying near London Bridge, visited ZSL London Zoo and had a long walk along the south bank of the Thames prior to watching the Lord Mayor of London’s procession.

Sculpture by Jaume Plensa at London Bridge
11 November 2021

Pillar Box with Tiger stripes at ZSL London Zoo
12 November 2021

Flaming Tuba at Clink Street
13 November 2021

Lord Mayor, Vincent Keaveny, in his ceremonial carriage
13 November 2021

Looking out of Heathrow Terminal 5
14 November 2021

More Pictures for November 2021

December 2021

In November it was initially decided that our street would repeat the exercise of putting up festive lights. On the 1 December a reporter from STV came to see them, with the feature broadcast a few days later.

STV come to visit our lights
1 December 2021

Lavender Lights 2021
1 December 2021

Unlike 2020, it was possible to hold face-to-face Christmas Services at St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in Glasgow

After the Carol Service at St Mary’s Cathedral
24 December 2021

Finally, as the year came to the end, a picture of the Dalry Fountain and Christmas tree on a wet Hogmanay morning, which I pass on my way to work.

Dalry Fountain and Christmas Tree
31 December 2021

What will 2022 bring? Will mass vaccinations and the boosters allow our lives to approach more what we think of as normal? Or is this the new normal?

2022 is likely to be like 2021, we hope explore more of Scotland as travel restrictions allow, and visit Southwark Cathedral and Sheffield Cathedral. It is hoped that visits to Porthmadog and the Ffestiniog Railway will be possible.

Looking into the future, we plan to make another visit to Canada, however it is not likely to be until 2023.

13 July 2021
by Stewart Leave a comment

Hebridean Hopscotch 2011 – Heading Home – 13 July 2011

Ten years ago we undertook a Hebridean Hopscotch, starting at the north end of the Isle of Lewis, working our way south through the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Barra.

Day 8 – 13 July 2011 – Barra to Brodick

On day 8 we left the Outer Hebrides, taking the 07:00 ferry from Castlebay via Lochboisdale to Oban, then driving down the Kintyre Peninsula to Claonaig to get the ferry to Lochranza on the Isle of Arran. Highlights included passing some tall ships in the Sound of Mull.

MV Lord of the Isles
Our CalMac ferry to Oban was MV Lord of the Isles (LOTI), which had berthed at Castlebay pier overnight.

MV Lord of the Isles at Castlebay 13 July 2011

Leaving Barra
We missed our breakfast at the Castlebay hotel due to the early check-in for the ferry. However we got breakfast on board, but not before getting some pictures of the departure from Castlebay.

Leaving Castlebay 13 July 2011

Stop off at Lochboisdale
Before heading south east to Oban, MV Lord of the Isles headed north to the South Uist port of Lochboisdale.

LOTI leaving Lochboisdale 13 July 2011

Sound of Mull
Leaving Lochboisdale, LOTI headed south east for the Sound of Mull at Ardnamuchan Point.

Ardnamurchan Lighthouse 13 July 2011

Passing along the Sound of Mull, to the south is the Isle of Mull and the towm of Tobermory.

Tobermory 13 July 2011

Leaving the Sound of Mull, Duart Castle can be seen on a headland on Mull.

Duart Castle 13 July 2011

Tall Ships
Passing through the Sound of Mull several Tall Ships were passed including Pelican of London

Pelican of London in the Sound of Mull 13 July 2011

Oban
Arriving in Oban, MV Clansman, MV Eigg and MV Isle of Mull were passed heading out and several more Tall Ships were seen berthed at Oban North Pier with MV Isle of Arran at the Railway Pier.

MV Clansman heading to Barra 13 July 2011

MV Eigg heading to Lismore from Oban 13 July 2011

MV Isle of Mull heading to Craignure 13 July 2011

Sailing Ships at the Oban North Pier 13 July 2011

MV Isle of Arran at Oban Railway Pier 13 July 2011

Leaving LOTI, we headed to fill the car with fuel before heading south onto the Kintyre Peninsula and our next ferry at Claonaig.

Claonaig to Lochranza
Arriving at Claonaig we waited for MV Loch Riddon to arrive.

MV Loch Riddon arriving at Claonaig 13 July 2011

Crossing the Kilbrannan Sound our next ferry terminal was Lochranza on the Isle of Arran

Approaching Lochranza 13 July 2011

On arrival at Lochranza, we saw MV Loch Tarbert berthed at the pier.

MV Loch Tarbert at Lochranza 13 July 2011

It was a short drive down the east side of Arran to Brodick, where we were re-united with Cosmo, our Ginger British Shorthair cat, at this island holiday home.

Epilogue: Day 9 – 14 July 2011 – Home from Brodick

MV Caledonian Isles

Having collected our cat from his island holiday home, we got the 08:20 ferry from Brodick and headed home.

MV Caledonian Isles at Brodick Pier 14 July 2011

Leaving Brodick

And so we left our last island of our holiday.

Brodick Castle and Goatfell 14 July 2011

Conclusion
And so our holiday came to an end, with a few statistics:

Nine Islands
Six CalMac ferries sailed on
Six other CalMac ferries seen
2,536 photographs taken
Twelve churches visited
One island airport with a beach runway visited
…and Countless other memories

More pictures of:

12 July 2021
by Stewart Leave a comment

Hebridean Hopscotch 2011 – Barra Airport and more Churches – 12 July 2011

Ten years ago we undertook a Hebridean Hopscotch, starting at the north end of the Isle of Lewis, working our way south through the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Barra.

Day 7 – 12 July 2011 – Barra Airport and more churches

Day 7 saw us undertaking some plane spotting at the only airport in the UK where aircraft land on the beach. We also visited more churches on the island and took in some more views of Kisimul Castle.

Barra Airport
Barra Airport is unique amongst airports in the UK, in that the aircraft land on the beach.

Twin Otter G-BZFP at Barra Airport
12 July 2011

Twin Otter G-BZFP taking off from Barra beach
12 July 2011

St Vincent de Paul Church, Eoligarry
Between the departure of the Twin Otter for Benbecula and it return we went to two local churches on the northern peninsula of Barra at Eoligarry, firstly St Vincent de Paul, one of the newest churches on Barra, being opened in 1963.

St Vincent de Paul, Eoligarry
12 July 2021

Cille Bharra (St Barr’s Church), Eoligarry
Also in Eoligarry is one of the oldest church buildings on Barra. Surrounded by a graveyard, there is a building with artifacts in and other buildings are ruined.

Cille Bharra, Eoligarry
12 July 2011

Our Lady Star of the Sea, Castlebay
Returning to Barra, we visited what looks like the largest, in use, church on the island of Barra. Our Lady Star of the Sea came to the attention of the TV audience by the TV series Island Parish in 2010 & 2011, featuring the Barra parish priest, Fr John Paul McKinnon, whom we had seen a few days earlier at the Fisherman’s Mass.

Our Lady Star of the Sea, Castlebay
12 July 2011

Our Lady Star of the Sea, Castlebay – from across the bay
11 July 2011

More can be read about the Roman Catholic churches on Barra at the Barra Catholic Web Site.

Kisimul Castle and Barra
Coming down the hill into Castlebay from the east, you get a glorious view of Kisimul Castle

Kisimul Castle from the east
12 July 2011

Our last full day on Barra did not disappoint with more little gems to see.

Barra Compass
12 July 2011

The evening sunset gave Kisimul Castle an orange glow.

Kisimul Sunset
12 July 2011

MV Lord of the Isles
In the evening, MV Lord of the Isles arrived from Oban and Lochboisdale to berth overnight.

MV Lord of the Isles arriving at Castlebay
12 July 2011

Compilation of Day 7 pictures

11 July 2021
by Stewart Leave a comment

Hebridean Hopscotch 2011 – Kisimul Castle and Barra Churches – 11 July 2011

Ten years ago we undertook a Hebridean Hopscotch, starting at the north end of the Isle of Lewis, working our way south through the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Barra.

Day 6 – 11 July 2011 – Kisimul Castle and Barra Churches

On Day 6 of the Hebridean Hopscotch we visited Kisimul Castle and then sought out the churches of Vatersay and Barra.

Barra is the southern most point were a ferry can be caught to the Scottish Mainland. South of Barra is Vatersay, which has been connected to Barra via a Causeway since 1991. To the east of Vatersay is Muldoanich. South of Vatersay is Flodday and Sandray, then Lingeigh and Na h-Eileanan an Iar, followed by Pabbay, Mingulay and finally the southernmost island of the Outer Hebrides, Barra Head.

Kisimul Castle
The first place we visited on Day 6 was Kisimul Castle. Built on a small rocky outcrop in the bay, it gives Castlebay its name. The castle is built on a rocky islet in the bay, just off the coast of Barra. It can only be reached by boat. Kisimul has its own fresh water wells. Legend has it that was the stronghold of the MacNeils since the 11th century.

Kisimul was abandoned in 1838 when the island was sold, and the castle’s condition subsequently deteriorated. Some of its stone was used as ballast for fishing vessels, and some even ended up as paving in Glasgow. The remains of the castle, along with most of the island of Barra, were purchased in 1937 by Robert Lister MacNeil, the then chief of Clan MacNeil, who made efforts at restoration.

Courtyard of Kisimul Castle
11 July 2021

Barra & Vatersay Memorials
Heading out of Castlebay, the War Memorial is reached.

Barra War Memorial
11 July 2011

Once across the causeway to Vatersay, the wreck of a Catalina Flying Boat can be seen on the slopes of Heiseabhal Beag. A memorial to the crew of Catalina JX273 has been erected.

Memorial to Catalina JX273 on Vatersay
11 July 2011

Some pieces of the wrecked aircraft can be seen.

Wreck of Catalina JX273
11 July 2011

Our Lady of the Waves and St John, Vatersay
Continuing onto Vatersay we visited the Roman Catholic church of Our Lady of the Waves and St John. The church was opened in 1913. Prior to the construction of the causeway, accommodation was provided in the event the parish priest was unable to return to Barra.

Our Lady of the Waves and St John, Vatersay
11 July 2011

More about Vatersay
Prior to 1991, the only way to reach Vatersay was via a ferry. Since then a causeway has linked Barra and Vatersay.

Vatersay Causeway
11 July 2011

From the north side of the island, Castlebay and Kisimul Castle can be seen.

Castlebay with Kisimul Castle
11 July 2011

St Brendans, Craigston (Eaglais Naomh Briannan)
Leaving Vatersay, we headed round Barra in a clockwise direction. The next church we reached was another of the Barra group of Roman Catholic churches. The present-day St. Brendan’s Church at Craigston, the “mother church of the island” was built in 1857 during the time of Father William MacDonnell.

St. Brendan’s Church, Craigston
11 July 2011

Barra Church of Scotland
Although there are a number of Roman Catholic churches on Barra, there is a Church of Scotland presence.

Barra Church of Scotland
11 July 2011

St Barr’s Northbay
St Barr’s at Northbay dates from 1906 and is situated by an old natural harbour.

St Barr’s, Northbay
11 July 2011

More can be read about the Roman Catholic churches on Barra at the Barra Catholic Web Site.

Barra
Travelling around the Isle of Barra you cannot not fail to appreciate the picturesque coast line.

Barra Coastline
11 July 2011

MV Clansman
MV Clansman paid two visits to Castlebay during the day, firstly in the morning having arrived from Lochboisdale enroute to Oban, and later on the return from Oban.

MV Clansman at Castlebay in the evening sunshine
11 July 2011

More pictures of:

Compilation of Day 6 pictures

10 July 2021
by Stewart Leave a comment

Hebridean Hopscotch 2011 – To Barra – 10 July 2011

Ten years ago we undertook a Hebridean Hopscotch, starting at the north end of the Isle of Lewis, working our way south through the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Barra.

Day 5 – 10 July 2011 – Benbecula to Barra

Day 5 of the Hebridean Hopscotch meant continuing our journey south. This second stage was heading off Benbecula to South Uist, then acroos the causeway to Eriskay before getting the ferry to Barra. At Castlebay we arrived as the annual Fisherman’s Mass was underway at the pier. In the evening MV Clansman arrived from Oban.

South Uist
Leaving our hotel, we crossed the causeway to South Uist between Creagorry and Ardmore. Not far across South Uist, near the south east end of Loch Bi is the Hill of Miracles, Rueval, where a granite statue of Our Lady of the Isles has stood since 1957, sculpted by Hew Lorimer.

Our Lady of the Isles, South Uist
10 July 2011

St Michael’s Church, Haun, Eriskay
Heading south, we reached a t-junction at the south of island and turned right along the south coast to the causeway across the Eriskay. St Michael’s Church (Eaglais Noamh Mhicheil) was built at Haun on the island of Eriskay in 1893 by Fr Allan McDonald. Outside the church is the ship’s bell from the German battleship Derfflinger, which was scuttled at Scapa Flow. Inside the base of the altar comes from the bow of a lifeboat from the aircraft carrier Hermes.

St Michael’s, Haun, Eriskay
10 July 2011

Eriskay to Ardmhor with MV Loch Alainn
After visiting St Michael’s church, we arrived at the ferry terminal in plenty of time of our trip across the Sound of Barra on the MV Loch Alainn.

MV Loch Alainn arriving at Eriskay
10 July 2011

After MV Loch Alainn had unloaded its vehicles and passengers from Barra, it moved off the slipway to undertake crew training with the rescue craft. Once the training was completed, the ferry moved back to the slipway for loading of the vehicles and passengers heading to Barra.

Crossing the Sound of Barra, Barra Airport, where the aircraft land on the beach came into view.

Barra Airport from the ferry
10 July 2011

At Ardmhor, we left the ferry for the drive round Barra to Castlebay.

Ardmhor Sea Otters
10 July 2011

Fisherman’s Mass, Castlebay
On arrival at Castlebay, the annual Fisherman’s Mass was underway on the pier. Fr John Paul McKinnon was celebrating, and as in 2010 the Island Parish film crew were present.

Annual Fisherman’s Mass at Castlebay
10 July 2011

After the conclusion of the Mass, the boats were blessed by Father John Paul and sprinkled with Holy Water before motoring round the bay.

Boats in Castlebay
10 July 2011

Castlebay
With the Fisherman’s Mass over, we went for a walk around Castlebay.

Castlebay
10 July 2011

MV Clansman
Soon the MV Clansman arrived with the afternoon sailing from Oban.

MV Clansman at Castlebay
10 July 2011

After unloading the Barra traffic, MV Clansman headed off to Lochboisdale on South Uist for its overnight stop.

Compilation of Day 5 Photographs

9 July 2021
by Stewart Leave a comment

Hebridean Hopscotch 2011 – To Benbecula – 9 July 2011

Ten years ago we undertook a Hebridean Hopscotch, starting at the north end of the Isle of Lewis, working our way south through the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Barra.

Day 4 – 9 July 2011 – Stornoway to Benbecula

Day 4 of the Hebridean Hopscotch meant heading south. The first stage was heading down Lewis towards Harris. Initially, we followed the road down the east side of Harris, along the side of East Loch Tarbet, and then to the west side and its sandy beaches, on the journey to Leverburgh for the ferry to North Uist. During the journey two tour buses were encountered. Taking the ferry across the Sound of Harris, we reached North Uist, stopping at two churches on our way to Benbecula.

Harris
Although the Isle of Harris is a distinct entity, it has a land connection to the Isle of Lewis. The scenery did not disappoint both on the east and west sides. On the east side, the road gave a great view.

Single Track Road, with Passing Place, and sandy beach in the background
9 July 2011

As with a lot of the roads on this trip it was a single track road, with passing places. At one of these passing places we met a coach from Wales.

Tanat Valley Coach on Harris
9 July 2011

MV Hebrides
On the way to the ferry terminal at Leverburgh, we took the road through Scadabay, where we stopped to see MV Hebrides passing the Isle of Scalpay heading into Tarbert, from Uig on the Isle of Skye.

MV Hebrides passing Isle of Scalpay heading to Tarbert.
9 July 2011

Harris Half Marathon
Back on the main road, we reached Seilebost beach, were we encountered the start of the Harris Half Marathon.

Seilebost beach
9 July 2011

Start of the Harris Half Marathon
9 July 2011

Sound of Harris
We reached Leverburgh in plenty of time for our ferry trip to Berneray on North Uist, where we encountered the second tour coach of the day as it was taking the same ferry.

Shearings Coach at Leverbourgh
9 July 2011

Loch Portain at Leverburgh
9 July 2011

The ferry does not the shortest distance as the Sound of Harris is shallow in places, with rocky outcrops.

Sound of Harris
9 July 2011

North Uist
The ferry does not land on North Uist but on Berneray which is cinnected to North Uist via a causeway. Following the main (only) road to Benbecula we stopped at Scolpaig, where there is small building on an island in the middle of a small lake.

Scolpaig, North Uist
9 July 2011

Kilmuir and Paible Church of Scotland, North Uist
The first church we encountered was at Kilmuir. Unfortunately as it was locked we were only able to view the outside.

Kilmuir and Paible Church, North Uist
9 July 2011

Free Presbyterian of North Uist, Bayhead
A few miles further south at Bayhead is the Free Presbyterian Church. Again this was closed, so we were limited to viewing it externally.

Free Presbyterian Church of North Uist
9 July 2011

Benbecula
North Uist is connected to Benbecula via a series of causeways between small islands. Our overnight accomodation was towards the south of the island. Following checkin, we went for a drive around the island, which is quite flat.

Boats on the west side of Benbecula
9 July 2011

Benbecula War Memorial
9 July 2011

More photos from:

Compilation of Day 4 Photographs

8 July 2021
by Stewart Leave a comment

Hebridean Hopscotch 2011 – Around Lewis – 8 July 2011

Ten years ago we undertook a Hebridean Hopscotch, starting at the north end of the Isle of Lewis, working our way south through the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Barra.

Day 3 – 8 July 2011 – Around Lewis

Day three of our Hebridean Hopscotch dawned bright. Our initial target was the Butt of Lewis and the weather promised to be favourable. Following advice from a colleague, the intention was to follow the north west coast of Lewis to Gearrannan and then to the standing stones at Calanais before returning to Stornoway.

Butt of Lewis
Our first port of call was the Butt of Lewis. We parked by the lighthouse. The lighthouse is around 37 metre high, and situated on the cliff were it is 52 metres above sea level. It was built to a design of David and Thomas Stevenson in 1862. The windiest lighthouse in the UK, it was staffed continually until 1999 when automated.

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

From the lighthouse, we went for a walk along the cliff top. Waves could be seen breaking on the rocky outcrops out to sea, and the water at the bottom of the cliffs were clear. Not many seabirds were seen, however there were a few on the wing and some roosting in the cliffs.

Rocks off the Butt of Lewis

More pictures of the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
More pictures of Our cliff top walk at the Butt of Lewis
More of the lighthouse in our blog

Eoropaidh
Heading south from the Butt of Lewis, the first village is Eoropaidh. The first stop was the beach and sand dunes. From parking the car the walk to and through the sand dunes saw the sand getting softer and softer. At the beach, the end of the cliffs from the Butt of Lewis could be seen to the north.

"Fisheye" view of a sand dune on Eoropaidh beach, with the rocky cliffs in the background.

Returning from the beach we stopped off at the Eoropaidh tearoom, enjoying some excellent home baked fare.

More pictures from our walk in the sand at Eoropaidh

St Moluag’s Church, Eoropaidh
After stopping for a snack at Eoropaidh tearoom, we walked up to St Moluag’s Church. The church does not have any electricity and relies on candles and paraffin lamps for lights.

Interior of St Moluag's Church, Eoropaidh

More pictures from St Moluag’s Church, Eoropaidh
More of our visit to St Moluag’s Church

Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln
Leaving Eoropaidh we retraced our steps down the north west coast of Lewis. At Barabhas we parted with the A857 road to Stornoway, continuing along in south westerly direction on the A858 towards the Standing Stones at Calanais. Just beyond Siabost (Shawbost) we encountered the Norse Mill and Kiln.

Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln

More pictures from our visit to Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln
The blog on our visit to Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
Having visited the Norse Mill and Kiln, the next place that caught our interest was the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. People had lived in the village until the early 1970s. The village was restored in the 1990s

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village

More pictures from our visit Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
More of our visit to Gearrannan Blackhouse Village

Calanais Standing Stones
Leaving Gearrannan, the road turns south and east on our way to Calanais. Although we did not appreciate it until we got there, the visitor centre stays open until 9pm during the summer. Dating from around 2700BC, they were hidden for many years, until discovered during peat cutting.

Calanais Standing Stones

The nearby Calanais farm was gifted by Edinburgh University in 2007 to the community, and are now vested in a trust.

More of our pictures taken at the Calanais Standing Stones
Web site for Calanais Visitor Centre
More on the stones at Wikipedia

Lews Castle
Lews Castle is a major feature of the Stornoway vista as you approach on the ferry entering the harbour. Built in the mid 19th century by as a country house for Sir James Matheson, it was bought by Lord Leverhulme (of Port Sunlight fame) in the 20th century, which he gifted to the people of Stornoway. During World War II it was accommodation for a local air squadron. After the war it was used as accommodation for Lews Castle College.

Lews Castle from Stornoway Harbour

It is now had structural problems as can be seen from these pictures, with parts of the building held together with steel beams, and parts barriered off as masonry has fallen.

More pictures we took at Lews Castle in Stornoway
The history of Lews Castle from Stornoway Historical Society
Wikipedia entry on Lews Castle

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
Cliff top walk at the Butt of Lewis
A walk in the sand at Eoropaidh
St Moluag’s Church, Eoropaidh
Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln
Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
Calanais Standing Stones
Lews Castle, Stornoway
The compilation of all pictures from Day 3.

7 July 2021
by Stewart Leave a comment

Hebridean Hopscotch 2011 – Ullapool to Stornoway – 7 July 2011

Ten years ago we undertook a Hebridean Hopscotch, starting at the north end of the Isle of Lewis, working our way south through the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Barra.

Day 2 – 7 July 2011 – The ferry to Stornoway and HMS Iolaire Memorial

Day 2 of our Hebridean Hopscotch dawned sunny, and early. We had been staying at The Ferry Boat Inn. Our room looked south east down Loch Broom and the morning sun was glinting of the water.

Morning Summer Sun on Loch Broom – 7 July 2011

After breakfast, we had around 45 minutes to pack the car and move it down to the check-in for the ferry. Whilst packing the car the Coastguard tug Anglian Sovereign came into the harbour. At around 09:50, MV Isle of Lewis approached the pier. Since this holiday, MV Isle of Lewis now operates the Oban to Castlebay route, having been replaced by Loch Seaforth in 2014.

MV Isle of Lewis in Loch Broom – 7 July 2011

Our first ferry of our holiday. Compared to our experience of the loading of the Arran ferry MV Caledonian Isles, the loading took longer, to ensure the vehicles were loaded in the most appropriate manner. We were on the mezzanine deck.

Loaded vehicle deck on MV Isle of Lewis – 7 July 2011

Although the vehicle deck was full, there was plenty of room in the passenger areas. We found some seats in the recliner area, just behind the observation lounge. A quick visit to the Coffee Cabin for tea/coffee set us up with hot drinks. Whilst still in Loch Broom, the voyage was calm. Outside, there were some nice views of the hills either side. However once we were in The Minch, the ship started to roll more, and I found that a motion sickness remedy was needed. The voyage across the Minch was mostly dry and sunny, however there were some nice cloud effects, and at one point thee was a brief shower of rain.

Eilean a' Chrotaich off the Eye Peninsula — Eilean a’ Chrotaich off the Eye Peninsula – 7 July 2011

The approach to the Isle of Lewis was heralded by views of the Eye Peninsula, with some of the rocky outcrops, including Eilean a’ Chrotaich. On the approach into Stornoway Bay on the right side was the site of the wreck of HMS Iolaire and on the left the lighthouse at Rubha Airnis.

In the harbour was MV Muirneag, which operated a nighttime freight service to Ullapool. Since 2014, MV Loch Seaforth has operated both the daytime passenger service and the night-time freight service.

On the hill above the inner harbour is Lews Castle, which we had a closer look the following day. First thing we did upon leaving the ferry was find or hotel for the next two nights – The Cabarfeidh Hotel – located to the north of Stornoway where the roads north to the Butt of Lewis and south to Harris part company.

After checking in and sorting out our luggage, we headed out to the Eye Peninsula to the east of Stornoway. To get there it required heading back to the harbour and then onto the airport and the a narrow isthmus. The first location was the end of the road at Port nan Giuran on the north west side of the peninsula, and the first siting of a decorative boat display.

Decorative boat display at Port nan Giuran – 7 July 2011

Retracing our steps we then headed to the north east point at Tiumpan. One of the Isle of Lewis lighthouses is located here.

Tiumpan Head Lighthouse has been in operation since 1900. Designed by David Stevenson the lighthouse was staffed by a Principal Lighthouse Keeper and two assistants, with their families, until 1985 when the lighthouse was automated.

Returning to Stornoway, the next stop was the location of the HMS Iolaire.

Memorial to the HMS Iolaire – 7 July 2011

In the early hours of 1 January 1919 HM Yacht Iolaire floundered on the rock in the entrance of Stornoway Bay. Of the 284 on board, 205 perished. Many owed their lives to John F MacLeod who managed to get ashore with a line along which over 30 survivors managed to get ashore. As well as the memorial, a marker is on the rocks where the yacht ran aground.

Looking back towards Stornoway, the War Memorial for the town in seen on the hill to the north of the town.

In the evening we went to HS-1 Cafe Bar for an evening meal. Although busy, we were able for to get a table, and enjoyed the food so much, made a booking for the following evening

	Stewart on Reflections on 2021
	Irishpisky on Reflections on 2021
	Reflections on 2021… on 2020 and all that
	Hebridean Hopscotch… on Gearrannan Blackhouse Village,…
	Hebridean Hopscotch… on Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln,…

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Day 8 – 13 July 2011 – Barra to Brodick

Epilogue: Day 9 – 14 July 2011 – Home from Brodick

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Day 7 – 12 July 2011 – Barra Airport and more churches

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Day 6 – 11 July 2011 – Kisimul Castle and Barra Churches

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Day 5 – 10 July 2011 – Benbecula to Barra

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Day 4 – 9 July 2011 – Stornoway to Benbecula

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Day 3 – 8 July 2011 – Around Lewis

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Day 2 – 7 July 2011 – The ferry to Stornoway and HMS Iolaire Memorial

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