Abstract castle

On our second day here Gill and I have talked between ourselves and other guests about how the ethos of Stobo Castle Health Spa has changed over the years.

When we first started coming about 25 years ago, the emphasis was very definitely on health and fitness. We were weighed upon arrival and departure, and blood pressure taken; the food, while excellent, was healthy with dishes labelled with the number of calories contained; there was no alcohol on sale, although guests could bring their own.

Nowadays it's called a 'luxury spa' and while the facilities for a healthy lifestyle - gym, swimming pool, exercise classes, etc - are still available, people - lots more couples and groups of young women - are coming to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with wine, spirits and cocktails readily obtainable, as are sumptuous afternoon teas. There is also sticky toffee pudding on the dessert menu! (We both indulged in the latter at lunchtime.)

For Abstract Thursday I have chosen a tweaked view of Stobo Castle taken from the drive when Gill and I went for a walk this afternoon to check out Stobo Kirk.