The Galloway Hoard

I organised a surprise day out for us to take our minds off worrying about results from tests Mr C had been undergoing.

He had to drive, but we got a bus from the park and ride at Sherrifhall. The weather had been cold and cloudy with a smirr of rain when we left home. It must be a first that I arrived in Edinburgh seriously over-dressed. It was hot with no chilly wind the city is famous for.

We were in time to see the exhibition of the Galloway Hoard at the National Museum.

One of the most important UK archaeological finds of the century, this incredible discovery comprises more than 100 objects, some of which are incredibly rare or unique.

Alongside over five kilograms of silver bullion, composed of arm-rings and ingots, the Hoard includes the largest and most varied collection of Viking-age gold objects known from Britain and Ireland and an unparalleled range of rare materials and unusual objects. These include: a silver pendant cross; a unique gold bird-shaped pin; a decorated silver-gilt lidded vessel; a large collection of Anglo-Saxon metalwork with two examples of an entirely new type of Anglo-Saxon cross-shaped brooch and unique multi-hinged straps; three golden jewels often referred to as 'aestels', in a silken-cord bundle; and a gold-mounted rock-crystal flask or jar contained in a silk-lined pouch.

The Galloway Hoard was discovered by a metal-detectorist in 2014 on what is now Church of Scotland land at Balmaghie in Kirkcudbrightshire. The Hoard was allocated to National Museums Scotland in 2017 and a successful fundraising campaign supported by the National Heritage Memorial Fund and Artfund saved the Hoard for the nation.

We both really enjoyed the exhibition though it was a relief to get outside and get our masks off. We walked up Carlton Hill to admire the view - I had never seen it so clear looking over to Fife.

We had lunch in 21212 - we were given a private room which meant for very safe dining. As always, the food was delicious. They are quite innovative - my pudding had a slice of cucumber and 2 bits of bean sprouts which surprisingly worked.

We took the walk along Royal Terrace up to Regent Road past the US consulate as I wanted to hear the EU tribute with all the nations singing Auld Lang Syne in the Burns Monument. I was disappointed as it closed 3 days ago.

Daughter is feeling rough with Covid and can’t think of how to occupy the children for the next 5 days till they are allowed out. I said they could FaceTime me tonight and read to me.