Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire

The site has been inhabited since Pictish times, and in the 5th century, St Ninian started a church here.

From the 14th Century, the Castle was home to the Earls Marischal once one of the most powerful families in Scotland. William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, the Marquis of Montrose and the future King Charles II, all visited this place.

However, the Castle is most famous for saving the Scottish Crown Jewels, the 'Honours of Scotland', from being destroyed by Cromwell's army. The Crown, Sceptre and Sword were brought here in 1650 and then hidden beneath the floor of a local church for 11 years, before being returned to Edinburgh Castle.

After our visit here, we travelled to the family castle in Crieff, to inspect the latest renovations. We were very impressed, particularly with the cinematic additions.

And then home to a surprise. Dinner ready to serve : stirfry beef with vegetables and noodles, followed by pancakes tossed and then covered in lemon and maple syrup. A delicious end to our four-day break.

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