Its the Central belt today and an area full of ancient Scottish History.
Usually, when hires ask for help with route planning, I try to gauge their interests. If they like the Historical side, Bannockburn, Robert the Bruce for example or even the slightly made upside but very popular Outlander or Braveheart this wee tour is for you. I say tour, today, we are just stopping in at a few points but also highlighting the beautiful Cathedral City of Dunblane.
The first stop for us, however, was to visit The National Wallace monument just out the back of Bridge of Allan. I'm quite sure everyone knows the story of William Wallace, his place in Scotlands History. It's an iconic landmark when driving up or down the M9 and can be quite a sight very early morning covered in haze or at dusk with low light.
We didn't go in as it wasn't opened. I think it's around £10 per adult ticket and I am told it is a good trip with great views from the top and of course the legendary Wallace Sword. We had arrived early just for a wander and a quick stop into Bridge of Allan for some supplies. We pop in here quite often when passing. It's a great wee town with top drawer charity shops, great fun.
Onward and it's a short drive over to Dunblane, the home of our Tennis hero Andy Murray, Wimbledon Champion and all-round good guy. Our Andy is a big bag of emotion and can often be seen crying his eyes out on live TV. :-)
Now I have to admit I have a good pal who lives in the area, so we have the low down on what do to and where to go. First stop a visit to 'Another Tilly Tearoom', the original being in Tillicoultry, for breakfast. This colourful wee cafe was absolutely perfect for a great breakfast and an excellent coffee. Super friendly staff with huge smiles I only just managed to drag Lorna out before we could consider the home baking. A great recommendation Fi.
So first up was a wander over to the Cathedral, a beautiful gothic building at the bottom end of the High street. It really is gorgeous inside and bursting with History. The building is open for visitors and tours can be arranged. The memorial windows of the First World War by Douglas Strachan who was considered the most significant Scottish Designer of stained glass windows in the 20th Century. The larger of the two Church of Scotland parish churches the other being St Blane's church, a category B listed building. This hosts a memorial window to the children and their teacher whose lives were cut short by the tragedy of 1996. A horrific day Scotland will never forget.
From here we head back up High Street, and you can't really miss the Gold Post box, painted in 2012 to celebrate Andy Murray's victory in the London Olympics. It’s a great local touch and there are a few dotted around the country. That really was a fantastic games.
We quickly nip across the road to Bennet's butchers, again an insider tip, and purchase a steak pie for later. You can't beat a real butcher for quality. In any big supermarket, you would pay a premium for this.
I know the High Street well from visiting local solicitors in a past job, a lovely traditional feel, full of locals gabbing. There are plenty of small independent shops, and a few things caught our eye as we wandered in and out, in particular, Charisma for small nick nacks, and the Sue Ryder charity shop has potential along with the local Mary's Meals Charity Shop.
Another place of a note to visit is the Dunblane Museum which holds a collection of artefacts, photographs and paintings about the History of the town and area. Also a nice walk around the city along the River Allan with the War Memorial which commemorates the residents of Dunblane who were killed or missing in World War I and World War II.
The Tappit Hen was the pub recommended, and it was a great wee place full of character and very friendly for visitors. This is the place for live music from local musicians, this is a place where old and young congregate to catch up with each other, watch the sport and enjoy the atmosphere.
There are many options if eating out for the evening, including the Riverside, with offering good choices. Still, our intention was India Gate on Perth Road, the food here was excellent with plenty of options for vegetarians and great service. I do love curry!
We pack up for the day and head along the B824 towards Doune and on to our next destination for the night. We have one final stop into the David Stirling Memorial - founder of the modern-day Special Air Services (SAS) giving the best views around the area over to the Trossachs. A great way to finish up and a perfect wee city to spend the day with.
Onward to our secret Campervan spot at ……….
