Sundial – Saughton Park Rose Garden

It was such a beautiful sunny day that I decided to have a walk around Saughton Park Gardens before bowling.

The sundial at Saughton Park is perfectly positioned in the rose garden.  Until the early 19th century sundials were the main instrument used to tell time.  If they are correctly placed, sundials can still be used to accurately tell time down to the minute.

This sundial dates from the 17th century and was restored in 1899.  The dial itself is a remaining vestige from the 17th century villa, Saughton House, that burned down in the mid-20th century.  Around the centre are four cherub's heads below the four sundials.  The dials face the four points of the compass and each one has its own new specially designed gnomon (the part of the sundial which casts the shadow acting as the clock hand).  There are inscriptions around the four sides of the base - these often reflect the sentiments of the maker or owner.  The one in the photo says “how quickly the pleasant days have passed away” seeming to suggest life is short so make the most of it!

The semi-finals of the bowls singles competition ended in my losing 11 – 21.  And I didn’t even get a bronze medal!

Consolation at the allotment when I harvested two humongous courgettes!  They might have won a competition!