Bur-weed

We took a stroll, after a good lunch in the cafe, round the grounds of Callendar House, near Falkirk, starting at the lake/loch, where we noted the variety of planting. This is the seed-head of ( I think) branched bur-weed (Sparganium erectum), my entry for Flower Friday. Thanks to BikerBear for continuing to host.

Following the map provided we sought the Forbes Mausoleum (extra) in a walled enclosure hidden in the woodland, surrounded by yew trees, broken glass and burnt wood, amongst other debris. We had been warned that we might be disappointed at the condition, apparently graffiti is a constant challenge. However, the building is most impressive, as the cost of £2,370 would indicate. According to the link there is space for 21 bodies to be stored therein, the first being William Forbes I in 1816, a year after his death and for whom the mausoleum was built. I understand that the servants were buried within the walled enclosure but their headstones have been destroyed by vandals.

On our way back to the car our umbrellas were deployed and we were safely in the car driving home when the heavens opened. Heavy rain arrived at home later, soaking the ground and refreshing the plants.