Sterling Castle

Went for a run with David in the picturesque local tracks. Packed a lunch and headed for Sterling castle.
An impressive castle on a large rock rising out of the river plane of the Forth river. Strategically placed this castle has been very important in Scottish history and has seen a lot of action and a lot of different owners.
We took the self guided audio tour which was very good, visiting the Great hall. It looks out of place being of painted Cream/yellow exterior compared to the stone finish of the other buildings. My favourite was the castle kitchen. Apparently the royal/ court diet consisted largely of meats, fat and beer. Up to 3 Scottish pints per day for a man. There are 3 English pints to a Scottish one. Wow. No wonder they didn't live much past 50. The Kings and Queens apartments were interesting, there were staff in character in the rooms. The Jester was particularly informative. Bridie is still talking about him. She liked his claims that washing was bad for you and that you need to built up a good layer of humus to protect you from miasmas that caused illness. We finally got her into the bath today! Hannah was described as a fair maiden and was deemed suitable as one who may capture a unicorn as only a fair and pure maiden can.
It was great fun.
We then had our picnic in the graveyard and walked around the headstones after. The oldest was 1690s'! It was a long day. The kids rested and Lyn and I went into Bridge of Allan for a shop, walk and drink.
Great day.
Warren