Stirling Castle

We drove to Dunblane in the pouring rain to visit Nick's parents - Granny and Granpa. The wood burning stove was on and roast pork was sizzling away. After a very delicious lunch, we decided to visit Stirling Castle to see the newly opened Royal Apartments. Everything was a real feast for the eyes, the great hall was magnificent, but I was struck by all the small details. Every wall, inside and out has wonderful stone carved heads and figures. Monsters and mythical creatures leer at you as you pass. This mermaid was tucked away and I almost walked past. She apparently dates from the 16th century when mermaids were regarded less romantically and were believed to be real monsters tempting seamen to their deaths.