Nigel's Photo Blog

  Castlemilk Stables, Glasgow , Scotland Introduction  This evening, I am posting information on a restored stables block from 1800. This sits, somewhat incongruously, in a high density, 1950s era, social housing development in Castlemilk, South Glasgow.  I nformation on Castlemilk Stables   Incredibly, this building provides multi-faceted links with Scotland’s past. Such links include  Scottish Borders region, the Royal House of Stuart, Siege of Orleans (France) 1429, Mary Queen of Scots (1542-1587), David Hamilton (famous architect) and the Battle of Langside 1568 . Summary information as follows: Named after Castlemilk in Dumfries-shire in the Scottish Borders region from whence the Stuarts of Castlemilk originated. This family was connected with the Scottish Royal House of Stuart and acquired lands in Glasgow from around 1474. Two members of the Stuart family fought in France against the English in the 15th century. This military service is co...

 Introduction This evening, I am posting information on Maryhill. This is a division of the City of Glasgow located in the City’s North West. Population is about 52,000 with a strong multi-cultural element, particularly Chinese.  Maryhill Road, Maryhill, Glasgow, Scotland Information on Maryhill  The 2nd century AD Antonine Wall runs through the area. However, the catalyst for development was construction in the late 18th century of the Forth & Clyde Canal , linking East and West Scotland. The route of the canal ran through lands owned by one Mary Hill who gave her name to the area. The new canal acted as a catalyst for various industrial activities, including a boatyard, in the area. These activities in turn triggered population growth and development. In 1877 a large military barracks was opened but this was demolished and replaced by social housing in the 1960s. However, parts of the former exterior wall of the barracks remain. Maryhill is ...

Introduction This morning I attended an excellent 'Potfest' at Glasgow 's Briggait Galleries which are part of a Category A listed building of architectural merit.The Briggait building dates from 1873, thus the building and art exhibition are over 150 years apart. Location is Glasgow's Merchant City close to the Clutha Bar. Originally, the Briggait building was Glasgow's fish market but is now used for arts events and cultural activities. The building was designed by architects Clarke & Bell in the French Renaissance style, with painted stone facades and, inside, a galleried market hall of cast iron and glass.    Information on the Pottery Festival   A three day event with 73 exhibitors from all around the U.K. I was very impressed by the range, quality and scale of the exhibition which benefited from a large throng of visitors.Here was an extensive collection of talented ceramic makers creating work that highlights the diversity of clay. Below is a por...

  This morning, benefiting from bright autumn sunshine and absence of rain, I ventured out to nearby Rouken Glen Country Park where light conditions provided some useful photo opportunities. Here is a record of a similar trip from 2024. Above is a popular waterfall where the Auldhouse Burn (river) starts it's journey through the local gorge. River scene in heart of the glen (valley)      Another riparian scene  Preening swans at boating pond On return trip home I captured this image of Glasgow reflecting in the sunshine with Campsie Fells (hills) in background. Overall, a pleasant and rewarding trip.   More Information   For more information on Scotland’s landscapes, it’s cities and much more please refer to the Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This book is also available via Kindl e.       

  Introduction This evening, I am reporting on the Mar Hall Hotel which is rated five stars and located about 15 miles NW of Glasgow city centre. It is correctly known as as a Golf & Spa Country Hotel. Information on Mar Hall Hotel This Tudor-Gothic mansion dates from 1845.It was originally built at the behest of the 11th Lord of Blantyre, one of the Earls of Mar. Locally quarried stone was used in construction. Specific Facilities and Information: Comprises 41 bedrooms and 12 suites. Popular as a weddings venue. Features luxury interiors.  Set in 240 acres of woodland overlooking the River Clyde.  From 1916 on (then known as Erskine House) the building served as the Princess Louise Scottish Hospital for Limbless Sailors and Soldiers. Later is became the administrative offices of the Erskine Hospital. Home to a par 70 championship golf course.  In 2004 a £15,0M re-fit converted the building into a 5 star hotel.  Ownership of the hotel now rests with with th...