falkirk and linlithgow, scotland

For our next stop we headed to Falkirk for some street entertainment, shopping and lunch.  We had to walk through a shopping mall to get to the town center.  Outside the shops two men had set up a display of owls.  We made a stop so Autumn could hold one.

Out on the streets there was a lot of music, entertainers and monuments to see.

This structure marks the old water and well supply from 1817.

The Steeple of Falkirk built in 1814 stands out as we walk around town.

We made a quick stop for lunch and coffee before we headed out to Linlithgow.

The Linlithgow Castle was one of the principal residences of the monarchs of Scotland in the 15th and 16th centuries.   Mary, Queen of Scots, was born at the Palace in December 1542 and occasionally stayed here during her reign. 

The grounds around the castle are picturesque.

This fountain in the middle of the castle must have been absolutely beautiful in it's hayday.

I read it was painted in gold when fully functional.

The boys and I wondered around a bit before climbing to the top of one of the towers.

 

The castle is huge and has a lot of nooks and crannies to explore.

The best views were at the top.

After spending a good two hours at the castle we were ready to head back for some dinner.  Linlithgow is a nice town. 

Bennett took a nice nap on the ride home.  Running around a castle makes someone very tired.

Autumn and Bennett watched "The Gruffalo" when we got home to relax before dinner.  The story is a classic in Scotland.  Bennett loved it.

Today was a very busy day, we saw a lot and we will miss Scotland.  Tomorrow morning we are headed to the Netherlands to visit with the Damianis.