Introduction

This morning, we departed Edinburgh about 9.15 am and then proceeded on an East Lothian tour.. Object was to visit castles at Dirleton and Tantallon, East Lothian.

Summer Colours, Herbaceous Border, Dirleton Castle

Information on the tour of East Lothian

We duly arrived at Dirleton about one hour later in dry, but overcast conditions. Here, there are three major facets:

The very extensive herbaceous border  which was at it’s peak in terms of seasonal maturity and richness of colours. Refer image above.

The Dovecot (or pigeon house) which was responsible for an important source of food in medieval times. This specimen is exceptionally well preserved.

Dovecot, Direlton Castle, Scotland

The castle itself  which has a history dating back to the 1200s when built by the Norman, de Vaux family. Subsequently owned by the Halyburtons and Ruthvens. It’s military function came to an end in 1650 when destroyed by Cromwellian troops. Nevertheless the ruins are substantial and provide a useful insight into this once magnificent, high status power base.

Main Entrance, Direlton Castle, Scotland

Next we departed for a short drive to nearby Tantallon Castle  which is located on a coastal position. This castle dates from the 1350s when constructed by the powerful William Douglas. For most of it’s existence as a functioning fortress-residence Tantallon was owned by the ‘Red Douglases’, earls of Angus.This was one of the most powerful baronial families in Scotland. The castle’s military role ended in a similar manner to Dirleton’s-destroyed by the forces of England’s Oliver Cromwell (in 1651).

Tantallon Castle, East Lothian, Scotland

After concluding our visit to Tantallon the weather progressively deteriorated resulting in extremely heavy and persistent rainfall.Consequently, we elected to curtail the rest of the planned tour and return to Edinburgh. Upon arrival we went to Leith where the group visited the (now retired) Royal Yacht Britannia. Thereafter we undertook a short tour of Edinburgh. At conclusion the group returned to their lodgings and fond farewells after a rewarding twelve day tour of Scotland.

Royal Yacht Britannia, Leith, Scotland

Summary

Overall, Edinburgh and the east of Scotland has much to offer the visitor. Options include a short, within–the–day trip or an extended sojourn lasting a week or longer.

For more information on Edinburgh and environs please refer to the Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This book is also available via Kindle.