The Wallace Monument

The Wallace Monument) is a tower standing on the summit of Abbey Craig, a hilltop near Stirling in Scotland. It commemorates Sir William Wallace, the 13th century Scottish hero.
Visitors climb the 246 step spiral staircase to the viewing gallery inside the monument's crown, which provides expansive views of the Ochil Hills and the Forth Valley.
A number of artifacts believed to have belonged to Wallace are on display inside the monument, including the Wallace Sword, a 1.63-metre (5 ft, 4 in) long sword weighing almost three kilograms.


The country dancers had an away day to Stirling. .....and what a day we had. We were dropped by the coach up at the castle, and first of all we went for a snack (naturally). Then started down the hill towards the town.....on the way we passed the youth hostel, and started to talk to the gentleman standing outside, who turned out to be an official of the SYHA. We told him that we had done a lot of hostelling and had actually met at a youth hostel, and he asked if we would like a tour to see how things had changed since the days when we paid 3/6d in old money for an overnight stay. He gave us the grand tour, and what an eye opener it was, rooms with en suite facilities, very modern kitchens, lovely dining room and lounge, just amazing..... and you don't do a chore any more. Mind you it now costs £17 an overnight stay!!!!

We then walked down and over the river to Cambuskenneth Abbey, which is a very impressive ruin. On the way back we passed the village hall of Cambuskenneth and they were having a line dancing class, so naturally being us we joined in for a bit!

Then back to the coach, and we were taken to Bannockburn where we had a meal booked .......while we were waiting for our food we had a wee dance. Never miss an opportunity.

And so home...... tired but happy!


My little cardinal beetle made the spotlight yesterday, I have to thank all you kind blippers, both regular visitors and others, who gave the wee beastie stars and hearts. I am most grateful and highly chuffed!