The Portcullis

On the way back from Bridge of Allan today, I took a detour into Stirling and headed up to the Church of the Holy Rude. I meandered through the cemetery and came out near the Portcullis Hotel.

I love the shadow created by the railings from the cemetery onto the path as you look towards the Portcullis.

The Portcullis was built in 1787, its original purpose in life was to serve the commumity as a school for boys.  It stands on the site of the previous school, which was demolished when larger premises were required.  Indeed within the former building, King James VI of Scotland was educated - more than five centuries ago.

The Old Town of Stirling is a photographers dream. Much of the ancient town still survives today and this is what gives Stirling its distinctive and historic appearance.