Holiday Cottage Edinburgh

Wild flowers. Meadow Woodland Marsh Bluebell wood

2012-02-10T22:45:00.002Z

Sarah Raven BBC2 8.2.2012 "Bees, butterflies and blooms":-

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b013pw23

Nature's calendar:-
http://www.naturescalendar.org.uk/wildlife/factfiles/flowers/bluebell.htm

Some of our meadow flowers:-

yellow vetch
self heal
3 types orchid
orange hawkbit
clover
scarlet pimpernell

Some of ourWoodland plants:-

lesser celandine
bluebell
snowdrop
ferns
dog's mercury
lesser stitchwort
meadowsweet

Mushrooms:- Puffball, shaggy ink cap, dryad's saddle
http://wildfoodmushroomsfishing.blogspot.com/2011/04/hops-shoots-and-scores-wild-hop.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Dandelions

Many grasses, rushes.
Wild Fruits:-
raspberries, strawberries, brambles, elderberries, gooseberries, white currant.
Wild rose, honeysuckle.
.
These rocks at the base of the silver birch trees were from

the old Donibristle aerodrome runway near Hillend, Fife.
The moss and trees have grown over them in the last few decades
and they form the link from the back Orchid meadow to the upper campers' meadow pitches.

The deer regularly use this route, in fact they were caught on film by a camper 8.5.2010.

Car Hire

2012-01-20T15:38:00.003Z

Hire a car for your holiday, giving you great flexibility to tour.
From Edinburgh, you drive over the Forth road bridge,
parallel to the historic Forth rail bridge,
to your holiday cottage.

Compare car hire. Try this link:-
http://www.vroomvroomvroom.co.uk/

Local car hire Enterprise Dunfermline will deliver car.
01383 723333

Edinburgh airport car hire. Eurohire 0131 333 2573
(don't be caught out with travelling to central Edinburgh
to collect.)

Adverts for holiday cottage near Edinburgh Scotland

2012-01-10T23:09:00.011Z

Half term dates http://www.halftermdates.co.uk/

Find us on :-
http://www.woodlandcottages.co.uk/
http://www.holiday-cottage-edinburgh.blogspot.com/
Twitter@holidayEdinburg
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/yvonne.barley and
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/campingholidaycottagewoodwork

Search Scotland http://www.searchscotland.org/details/1-dales-farm-cottage.html

Trip Advisor http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/VacationRentalReview-g186525-d2012511-Self_catering_holiday_cottage_near_Edinburgh-Edinburgh_Scotland.html

Flikey (Tripadvisor partner) http://www.flipkey.com/edinburgh-cottage-rentals/p267243/

Holiday-rentals http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/property1573

Self catering breaks near Edinburgh http://www.self-catering-breaks.com/Properties/Prop27035.htm

I.H.A http://www1.ihacom.co.uk/Holiday-rental/Scotland/North-east/Fife/Inverkeithing/Cottage/Dales-farm-cottage_46665_1.htm&x=.znqiq:whwhj6D30@jqumv@:j3n@.znqsjxhy@391:hs-sn@m1E2xjtkxy:jsk=1NKU=xijl76=vjul@zq@64C2xjt@@wnmjj67G57BCF.w7qn:@lup4hoq.znqui=v5BC61kkr7I98n9-

My Cottage Holiday http://www.mycottageholiday.co.uk/cottage/dales-farm-cottage/

Simply holiday homes :- http://www.simply-holiday-homes.com/property.html/108

Cottages in Scotland:-
http://www.cottages-in-scotland.com/cottage/Woodland%20Cottages-Edinburgh-City%20of%20Edinburgh

Babystepz:- http://babystepz.co.uk/places-to-stay/woodland-cottages-self-catering-accommodation-dunfermline

Welcome to Scotland:- http://www.welcometoscotland.com/accommodation/self-catering-apartments-holiday-cottage-and-caravans/edinburgh/woodland-cottage-campsite

Trip Advisor review

2012-01-08T22:56:00.000Z

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/VacationRentalReview-g186525-d2012511-Self_catering_holiday_cottage_near_Edinburgh-Edinburgh_Scotland.html

Front of our pair of sandstone cottages

Check Trip Advisor/Flipkey reviews

Abbot House Dunfermline

2012-01-01T22:00:00.002Z

Lovely historic building, 5 miles from the holiday cottage.

Beautiful wrought iron gates.
Interesting garden to rear.
Great tea room.
Only a few paces to Dunfermline Abbey.

Banknotes £ Acceptability

2011-12-18T17:50:00.000Z

Ever been faced with a shop in the U.K. refusing to accept your Scottish banknote?
You may be interested in this article.
http://t.co/nN2pyunO

Area. Attractions. Food. Edinburgh zoo pandas

2011-10-05T21:54:00.002+01:00

Local menus and maps

http://www.welcometoscotland.com/accommodation/caravans-and-camping-parks/fife/woodland-cottages-and-campsite

See links on the above link for local attractions, activities, places to eat, etc

For example:-

http://www.welcometoscotland.com/things-to-do/activities/all?accommodation=6354:25#map_tab
http://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/visiting/panda.html Edinburgh zoo pandas
or food
http://www.welcometoscotland.com/things-to-do/eating-out?accommodation=6354:25#map_tab

See their apps for android and iphone

Aberdour beach

2011-08-09T22:44:00.001+01:00

Silver sands

Paddling, swimming, lifegurards

cafe, home made scones,

beach bar ice creams, buckets and spades.

wheels friendly

Hens eggs Free range

2011-05-18T22:10:00.004+01:00

Ouch.
When you stay at this holiday cottage near Edinburgh,

you can sample the lovely eggs on offer in the rustic onsite gallery in the campers' lane.

(Double yokers are not the norm though).

See the other 2 posts on "Hens..." titled to the right of this page when you scroll down.

Castles Palaces Historic Scotland Hopetoun House

2011-05-17T20:17:00.016+01:00

Lots of maps and guides in the holiday cottage Lots of historical houses and castles
within easy reach of our holiday cottage.

Hopetoun House:-

3 miles south

Enquire of Historic Scotland about Passes for more than 1 castle.
http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/

Aberdour castle
Blackness castle
Edinburgh castle
Loch Leven castle
Stirling castle
Linlithgow palace
Falkland palace
Dalmeny House
Culross Castle
Dunfermline Abbey

Reviews from guests emails cards Trip Advisor

2011-05-13T22:56:00.007+01:00

These guests make the hard work a pleasure.

Thanks Anne. Hope to see you next year.

Thanks also for the mention on FlipKey/Trip Advisor.
Date: 09 May 2011 09:52

Hi Yvonne and Chris,

It was lovely meeting you to,,, i will definately be back, i hope to book
in for the same two weeks for next year.

It was a pleasure leaving you the wine and the Tulips, and also a
pleasure cleaning/ THAT LOVELY COTTAGE.

I was completely rested and feel that it was a total holiday,

I will be passing on your info to every one that is wanting to visit
Scotland....

thankyou for making me so welcome, and enjoy the rest of your summer

My best regards lynn

email address supplied but witheld for privacy.

Historic maps and posters of Scotland

2011-05-08T21:56:00.008+01:00

Map of 1890 - the lower third is 15 acres of our woodland and holiday cottage,
10 miles north of Edinburgh.

Map of the local area around Inverkeithing in 1890

Poster of historic Forth Rail bridge in main bedroom of holiday cottage.

Amazon or www.easyart.com/Railway

Framing by Sam Livingstone at Robertson Fine art Glenrothes.

Historic maps from National Library of Scotland, Edinburgh.

http://www.nls.co.uk/

0131 6233700

Local OS maps in cottage from Masons, Elgin Industrial estate, Dickson Street, Dunfermline.

http://www.blogger.com/www.robertsonfineart.co.uk

Hens Additions 2011

2011-05-03T20:45:00.013+01:00

See previous post "Hens" for other varieties.

The newest birds at the beginning of May 2011 were 6 lomonds.

(The back one looks like she's playing guitar!)

Plus a month earlier:- 2 amber links,1 isa brown, 1 brown sussex,

1 silkie Aurucana cross,

1 blue laced wyandotte:-

Free range hens for your children to watch while they are on holiday here.
They can feed them (pasta, grapes and rice are their favourites)
If they're not in the woodland lane (afternoons)

you can see them, down from the classic caravan.

Fife coastal path

2011-04-03T22:31:00.005+01:00

Footbridge near Inverkeithing harbour, a good place to link up with the Fife coastal path. Several places within 1 mile to join the path from our holiday cottage.

http://scotland4thesenses.blogspot.com/2011/04/early-spring-on-fife-coastal-path.html

Lovely blog including information about Inverkeithing, Dalgety Bay, donibristle and more.

Holiday cottage garden

2011-02-09T10:13:00.004Z

Guest photo of their twins in the back garden.

This garden leads to a gate, beyond which is a path to the woodland lane.

At the bottom of the steps in the lane,

either turn left to go to the rustic gallery or

turn right to start exploring the woodland.

Holiday cottage Scotland Kitchen Replacements

2011-02-07T23:05:00.006Z

A selection of replacement bags & items to make your stay easy.

See other "posts" for other equipment, etc.

Holiday cottage Scotland equipment

2011-02-02T22:44:00.010Z

Ergo Rapido.
We have bought this for the holiday cottage as an extra to the "Henry" vacuum.
Okay you don't need to vacuum on holiday,
but apart from it's good looks and design, it's lightweight and
also has a hand held vacuum built in for your convenience
if the children drop some crumbs that you don't want to live with all holiday..

3 stages:-
1. In it's complete state.

2. Pop the button to release the hand vacuum.

3. Hand held vacuum ready for use.

Of course there's also plenty of other equipment for those unforseen spills.

We've tried to equip the cottage with everything you might need.

See also other blog "post" on Holiday cottage Scotland kitchen equipment.

If there is something you think we should provide, just ask

and if possible we'll get it for the rest of your holiday or at least for next time.

Reviews on Trip Advisor Flipkey

2011-02-01T17:16:00.009Z

Back garden

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/VacationRentalReview-g186525-d2012511-Self_catering_holiday_cottage_near_Edinburgh-Edinburgh_Scotland.html

Be a reviewer. We have just joined this company 1.2.2011.
http://www.flipkey.com/o/267243/ (To make a review).

We're property 267243
http://www.flipkey.com/267243 (To see photos and details).

Food Holiday kitchen herbs and spices

2011-01-31T23:02:00.005Z

12 jar revolving spice rack Maybe you don't want to eat out every single day of your holiday
but want to buy local ingredients to cook,
so we've added these herbs and spices
to the usual seasoning, oil and vinegar, etc.

Of course in the garden in season,

there's fresh herbs and wild garlic

but now there's everything from Chinese five spice powder, through chillies to basil.

Check our other "Food" posts for more information on this well equipped kitchen.

Edinburgh Wild West. Edinburgh Areas

2011-01-03T18:20:00.009Z

http://www.edinburghspotlight.com/2010/06/review-wild-west-edinburgh-morningside/

Near Cuddy Lane, Morningside.

Just down from the Gurkha restaurant.
Also down from and opposite Waitrose.
Also up and accross from the Canny Man's.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morningside,_Edinburgh

Link to all the areas of Edinburgh.

Food Holiday Recipes

2010-11-07T21:43:00.006Z

For quick holiday food, using at least one local ingredient.

using holiday cottage free range eggs.

Just break an egg into a bun tin lined with parma ham.

Add seasoning.

Variation:- Add a few drops of cream on egg.

Eggs in parma ham basket

Limekilns

2010-11-05T22:25:00.006Z

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limekilns
Brief overview.

Harbour

Old Lime kilns

Animals Birds Hedgehog Woodcock Pandas at Edinburgh zoo

2010-10-19T17:16:00.016+01:00

Edinburgh zoo Pandas 10 miles from holiday cottage
http://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/visiting/panda.html

Woodcock again 19.1.2.2010 - taking off from the ground.

Woodcock 1.12.2010 - apparently extreme conditions bring these birds into view.

http://fair-isle.blogspot.com/2010/11/waxwings-oct-25th-2010-day-well-always.html
Most brilliant photos of waxwings ever.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/v/vanefarm/seasonal_highlights.aspx
Vane farm bird sanctuary, 10 miles north on motorway from holiday cottage.

Hedgehog found on road today (19.10.10). Brought home, fed crushed nuts and milk.

Then a little 2 chamber insulated home built.

Check the video link below, they're so cute.

http://www.hedgehogs.org/hedgehog-videos

Deer, Badger, buzzard, butterfly, insects, all are plentiful around the holiday cottage.

Dunfermline Fife

2010-10-06T19:33:00.012+01:00

http://www.visitdunfermline.com/view-attractions.php
Good links

http://www.carnegiebirthplace.com/

Andrew Carnegie's birthplace, just 5 miles from your holiday cottage.

http://www.visitdunfermline.com/udayb.php

Make Dunfermline your holiday base.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pittencrieff_Park

Pittencrieff Park Dunfermline. Lots of interest.

http://www.visitdunfermline.com/whatson.php
Free events

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dunfermline
Check this link, it's very informative.

One of the many guide books in the holiday cottage.
This one of walks in towns and country, including Dunfermline, the Fife coastal path, etc.

Plenty guide books in our cottage of surrounding towns and villages.

Shop on site Rustic gallery Food and wood gifts

2010-09-26T20:01:00.009+01:00

In the woodland lane, for the convenience of cottage guests and campers,
a few basic items, free range eggs, jam, etc. (Honesty pot) If the fridge freezer is switched off out of camping season, there are food ans drink cans/packets in the gallery cupboard. You can also ask, as we have food in our own freezer (like sausages, bread, etc.)

Also garden furniture, stools, bowls, etc.

Food to forage

2010-09-17T19:09:00.005+01:00

http://wildfoodmushroomsfishing.blogspot.com/p/wild-food-seasonal-calender-wild-food.html
At the holiday cottage near Edinburgh and Dunfermline,
Among other things there are some Victoria plums
(Please feel free to pick a few as you need them.) Cooking apples
(Pick a few for a pie or apple sauce.)

In their season, there are also brambles, wild raspberries, elderflower and berries.

Herbs, wild garlic, funghi, etc.

Weather in Fife - Autumn

2010-09-10T19:31:00.004+01:00

Reasons to book a holiday cottage in Autumn:
The leaves are changing colour and will be lovely for some weeks to come.

Plenty places open to visit until October.

Introducing Edinburgh
bedandbreakfastworldblog September 10, 2010 at 8:00 am

Although Edinburgh receives most of its visitors either during August for the month of festivals or in December for the famous Hogmanay festivities, locals will tell you that the best time to visit their city is in September or October, when the autumn days are bright and crisp, and the darkening evenings lend a mysterious atmosphere to the medieval turrets and rugged scenery.
Edinburgh holds a rather precarious position atop a landscape of rocky hills and cliffs, but the views from the top make it well worth the climb. While navigating the twisting alleys and narrow stone steps of the medieval city, any corner you turn may bring you unexpectedly to a vista of green hills, blue seas or rusty rock face.
Despite overflowing with history and culture, Edinburgh is a modern, dynamic capital. Among the beautiful old buildings you can find haute couture, gourmet cuisine and world-class entertainment. The 4 universities contribute a total of over 100,000 students to the city’s population and there is an almost-tangible air of vibrancy and creativity at any time of year.
Whether gazing out from the battlements of Edinburgh Castle, walking in the shadows of the Royal Mile’s towering spires or scurrying through the vaults on an underground ghost tour, the atmosphere of the city is always uniquely Edinburgh.

Anstruther

2010-06-12T12:25:00.004+01:00

http://bairdstravel.com/CHIPPIE.aspx

A working fishing town on the East coast of Scotland, 1 hours drive from our holiday cottage.
Great photographic opportunities with the boats.
Sailing to the Isle of May.
RNLI. (This one is at South Queensferry)
Great fish and chips.

Scottish history Dunfermline and Inverkeithing

2010-06-12T12:19:00.010+01:00

Scottish history:-
http://www.holidayscotland.org/scottish-history-timeline/

Inverkeithing has many ancient buildings of interest plus a museum.

Find out answers to your questions:-

http://www.askscotland.org.uk/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pittencrieff_Park

Pittencrieff Park tweeted by VisitDun

List of Monarchs tweeted by VisitDun. http://www.visitdunfermline.com/

Dunfermline has lots to offer by way of history and historic buildings.

Carnegie's birthplace and park.

Abbot house.

The Abbey.

Culross see full blog post.
Abbey and castle

Pubs in Fife and nearby

2010-06-11T13:55:00.004+01:00

The Hawes Inn at South Queensferry
Oak beams, open fires, view of bridges, shops, quaint architecture (crow steps).

Feurs Arms near Kirckaldy.

One of the oldest pubs in Scotland.

Victorian wall tiles. The Feurs is no longer serving food and therefore cannot take children.

Ask for a peek into the gents to see this ancient toilet cistern.

Edinburgh shops Ethnic, continental...

2010-05-31T20:45:00.007+01:00

http://www.nileguide.com/destination/edinburgh/trips/shopping-spree-in-edinburgh/7770608

Asian supermarket next to the mosque near the university.
pickles, breads, designer rice bags,......

Valvona and Crolla, Elm Row

Presents for parents, food for friends, pasta for pals.

Forth Bridges

2010-05-29T15:48:00.005+01:00

http://canmore.rcahms.gov.uk/en/site/50549/details/forth+road+bridge/
excellent historical information & photos

Historic Forth Rail bridge.
http://scotlandinthegloaming.blogspot.com/2010/05/forth-road-and-rail-bridges.html

http://bairdstravel.com/FORTHBRIDGES.aspx

Forth tours ferry.

Maid of the Forth tour boat

Edinburgh Castle

2010-05-27T17:23:00.002+01:00

Edinburgh Castle : Must Visit Scotland

Kirkcaldy Beveridge park

2010-05-26T18:41:00.006+01:00

Kirckaldy Beveridge park - Swan pedaloes and rowing boats.

Skateboard park. Crazy golf. Swings and roundabouts.

Loch Katrine steamship ride

2010-05-11T14:24:00.019+01:00

At least 5:-

1. 2 - 3 miles away at South Queensferry,

running to Inchcolm Island. Good to take a picnic.

Kids approx. £5.

http://www.maidoftheforth.co.uk/index.shtml
http://www.forthtours.com/

3. Isle of May from Anstruther. see the puffins nesting in May.

4. Loch Leven to the Island and tower where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned.

20 minute trip. Can take a picnic & catch any boat back.

5. Loch Katrine - cruise on the Walter Scott. 01877 332000

2 hour sailing, you can also bring a bicycle and cycle back.

There is also a one hour cruise on the Lady of the Lake, partway down the Loch.

Very friendly and helpful staff. Disabled friendly.

The Trossachs is about 1 and a half hours drive via Callender.

Loch Katrine:- On deck

Lunch at Lake of Menteith Lake view restaurant or pub - pricey but nicey!

http://www.lake-hotel.com/

http://tour-scotland-photographs.blogspot.com/2010/05/may-23rd-photograph-boat-loch-leven.html

Woodland and garden in Fife

2010-04-29T14:57:00.006+01:00

Found in the woodland 5.5.2010
the 2nd deer antler of the year.
Lived here 39 years & never found any before. Now 2 in one year! They feel heavier but only wiegh 6oz.
Someone said the Roe deer was 3 years of age because of the 3 slight horns.

26.4.2010 the holiday cottage garden:-Lunch on the lawn with family from China

Wild cherry blossom in the woods is out. (Estimate 50 wild cherry trees).
Saw 2 buzzards.
3 peacock butterflies.

Wild white currants near the caravan.

News for Scotland on twitter

2010-04-27T21:31:00.010+01:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-11938271

http://paper.li/tourscotland/1289304096
Daily by Sandy Stevenson and contributors

Bonnie Scotland Smitten by Britain

http://twitter.com/BAIRDSTRAVEL
Great all round Scotland information.

See link for historic information about Scotland
http://www.askscotland.org.uk/

http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/places.htm
over 300 great days out in Scotland

Weather in Fife - Winter

2010-04-27T20:57:00.014+01:00

Dalgety Bay Fife 7.12.2010

http://travelinescotland.com/welcome.do
Stagecoach bus schedules

Determined to use the steamer chairs throughout the year!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/edinburghandeastscotland/hi/

Weather/road closures
http://www.bbc.co.uk/scotland/travel/

http://www.scotrail.co.uk/
Rail links and information.

Tram on Princes St on Twitpic

Plant Tree Peony

2010-04-23T14:53:00.011+01:00

http://www.gardenshorts.com/blog/tags/Paeonia-lutea-Ludlowii/?blogger=Louis

These are my little black shiny pearls.
I harvest a few hundred a year,
They're extremely hard to germinate, involving storage in freezer
and exposure to heat at the right time.
Then only a few every few years germinate. These germinated in spring 2009, the seeds were 2007.
These are on offer at £5 for our holiday cottage guests and campers.
They can cost several times that from catalogues.
Apparently at one time, only the Emperor of China could grow them.

After 2 or 3 years of these perennial plants, dying back, (so put a marker in the soil)
they start to have a permanent woody stem, growing to about 4'.
Then each year the spectacular leaves bud and unfold.
Around May the single petal yellow leaves give a quick display.
The leaves linger, then die back to the woody stem.
It all happens again each year.
A 4/5 year old plant starts to produce those shiny black seeds
and they increase in number each year.

Solomon's seal - like the shade.

Bed and Breakfast

2010-04-22T16:14:00.016+01:00

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/hotels/ukhotels/8461456/British-and-Irish-accommodation-Ten-top-British-and-Irish-b-and-bs.html

Phone 01 383 417681

You can have D.I.Y bed & breakfast.

Sometimes when our self catering cottage is not booked

(short notice cancellation due to flight disruption),

we can do B & B, usually a self catering B & B option.

I can put in your kitchen any one of several breakfast packs or your mix and match choice:-

1. Usual tea & coffee, cereals.

2. Bread & jam for toast plus either beans or our own free range eggs.

3. A continental pack:-ham, cheese & tomato, rolls, etc.

4. A pack to cook, choose bacon or sausage, etc.

5. The full works, everything mentioned plus grapefruit, yoghurt or whatever you choose.

Or maybe you just want room only at £20p.p.p.n.

Free WiFi.

Too small to take visa so call by a cash line. You will enjoy the experience.

Forth estuary Birds Dalgety Bay

2010-04-20T17:04:00.010+01:00

Resident grey heron having a fishy breakfast. If they catch it by the tail, they flip it round to swallow from the head on , so as not to let the scales stick on the way down.

2 miles from holiday cottage.

Aberdour a further 3 miles.

Lots of lovely vistas.

You can watch the boats going to Inchcolm Island.

Container ships and cruise liners.

Sailing boats and windsurfers.

The Zeebrugge ferry.

January 1st bathers.

Aircraft landing and taking off (usually!).

Trains, steam trains,

Resident cormorant, eider ducks, diver, etc.

logs

2010-04-20T16:46:00.007+01:00

Usually collect our own dead wood but been a bit busy/snow and ice covering woodland.

This is for the holiday cottage woodburner and also the campers campfire trug kits Champfleurie housenear Linlithgow is dangerously close to Champanay Inn, with their fabulous chargrilled steaks.

Or the local Lord Elgin estate.

Steam train

2010-04-18T17:47:00.006+01:00

The Oliver Cromwell (shiny black engine) was seen from our holiday cottage window today.
It's returning through Inverkeithing around 8.30p.m. and over the historic Forth rail bridge.
Will try and get a better photo for you. This one you can just see a puff of smoke at base of tree.

Food for free, funghi, wild garlic

2010-04-16T15:54:00.013+01:00

Funghi in woods:- Some edible as long as you know what you're doing.
This is Dryad's saddle on a tree stump at the top meadows near "Bobtail" campers pitch.
We also have a big puffball half way up the lane on the right (slice off a piece & fry in butter),
young shaggy inkcaps & more -

Lovage (right) on May 1st. Good for home made soups or snipped into a fish sauce.

Holiday cottage wild garlic (among other herbs) Alsace wild garlic & bacon potato dish ready to bake
Worried that the French family are not going to be able to fly in tommorrow, (April 2010) so do what I always do when concerned - cook something.

Other herbs for holiday guests to pick:- mint, lovage,

Wild herbs for salads, soups & stews:- dandelion leaves, young nettles, ransomes garlic, comfrey, etc.

Pick as you n eed them:-

Fruit plums, wild brambles, cherries, elderberries, elder flower, greengage & cooking apples..

Bo'ness town

2010-04-14T18:49:00.007+01:00

Well!

After the steam train journey has fried your brain with excitement,

take a burrrl around Bo'ness.

What a lovely quirky place.

Old buildings, heritage colours.

Bo'ness steam railway

2010-04-14T15:22:00.005+01:00

Just 12 miles from your holiday cottage.
Run by volunteers. £9 p.p.. £7 concessions.
Tea room, shop, disabled facilities.
A one hour exciting burl along the Forth estuary & back.
Also if fit, you can alight at the fireclay mine for a visit underground.
Also railway exhibition museum.

http://www.srps.org.uk/
01506 822298

Weather in Fife - Spring

2010-04-13T15:36:00.004+01:00

Celebrating with event caterers (twitter caterscotland) the success of their venture at Holyrood park on Sunday 11.4.2010. Also a successful few weeks cottage holiday lets . The run of sunny days made us get the steamer chairs out of storage for the guests.

Edinburgh Museums Festivals Events Scotland

2010-04-10T20:17:00.020+01:00

http://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/
http://www.google.co.uk/#sclient=psy&hl=en&rlz=1W1PCTC_en&q=edinburgh+photos&rlz=1W1PCTC_en&aq=3&aqi=g4g-o1&aql=&oq=Edinburgh+photo&gs_rfai=&pbx=1&fp=c639f4593c486cdd

http://www.informededinburgh.co.uk/
Up to the minute events

http://www.facebook.com/doorsopendays
Looking forward to Irn Bru tour and Potato factory tour.

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/fringe/2010-launch
All festivals, Jazz, book, etc.

http://www.bvac.org.uk/thirlestane/
Thirlestan castle motor racing

Edinburgh - INFO – Dates for Edinburgh’s 2010 Festivals Edinburgh Spotlight

http://www.europebudgetguide.com/europebudget/2010/04/top-7-budget-eats-in-edinburgh.html

Edinburgh - Royal Mile and Holyrood Park Cockburn Street

2010-04-06T20:30:00.005+01:00

http://www.visitdunkeld.com/holyrood.htm

Holyrood information

http://www.informededinburgh.co.uk/local-directories/our-guide-to-cockburn-street/

http://www.edinburgh-royalmile.com/

Edinburgh - FEATURE – Highlights of the Royal Mile and Holyrood Park Edinburgh Spotlight

wind power

2010-04-06T17:10:00.008+01:00

How to convert, this holiday cottage pile of linen

Through this

To this
The Elna press donated by a friend is a help.

Average cottage change over produces 20 items of bedding and 20 items of towelling.

We try and harness the power of the wind

by drying all our holiday cottage linens outside

(under a canopy in case it rains).

So even in winter and the most atrocious weather,

it all dries naturally and has that extra nice smell.

Other environmentally friendly methods include cottage guest and campers recycling facilities.

Composting.

Dead wood from our woodland for the logburners

Re-using tins for paint and pigments for all the essential cottage maintenance.

Food scrap containers for the hens (they particularly like spagetti and grapes, followed by rice and other pasta.).

The usual cleaning products, light bulbs, extra roof insulation.

Inverkeithing Shops and Buildings

2010-03-31T22:41:00.007+01:00

See details on more shops on http://www.camping-fife-near-edinburgh.blogspot.com/

Bakers, butcher, fish shop and wet fish shop, pizza & Chinese carry-out,
traditional hardware shop, outdoor camping supplies http://www.blogger.com/www.akelasden.co.uk
cafe, pubs, bank, dentist, doctor, etc. Sad that this good venue pub has shut down.
Maybe it's demise was because of the paper mill closure.

You who know the history, please fill in the details ?

However, when the factory was in production,
the paper pulp waste was deposited on our land (before we owned it).
This proved a blessing to the badgers.
It was a soft mountain to dig their Setts.

Search by date

2010-03-30T15:56:00.001+01:00

Search by date

Free access to important buildings

Glasgow

2010-03-30T15:49:00.012+01:00

Peoples Palace and winter gardens

Near the Barras.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/People's_Palace

Social history of Glasgow.
Refreshments available in beautiful glass building.
Open until 5p.m.
Then a choice of Ashoka Indian ,
in the lovely Ashton Lane in the West End,
or The Ubiquitous chip.

http://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/our-museums/peoples-palace/Pages/home.aspx

................

http://www.glasgowguide.co.uk/images.html

Photos of various areas and events in Glagow.

http://bairdstravel.com/GLASGOW.aspx
Free things to do in Glasgow

http://ynotglasgow.com/default.aspx
Glasgow guide by Bairds travel.

http://blog.ukholidaymarket.com/?p=62
http://ow.ly/1sCoa
Insightful tweet about Glasgow.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2010/apr/06/glasgow-top-10-budget-restaurants?page=3
10 budget eateries in Glasgow

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1x8WXS/www.europealacarte.co.uk/blog/2009/06/12/three-great-reasons-for-a-trip-to-glasgow//r:t

Music. Art. Food

What is agritourism? « BedandBreakfastworld Blog

2010-03-23T22:03:00.004Z

3 of our 21 chickens having a chat.
You can feed them and their eggs are on sale in the gallery.

Our holiday cottage near Edinburgh

What is agritourism? « BedandBreakfastworld Blog

Inverkeithing harbour

2010-03-19T00:30:00.002Z

Preston Crescent, near the old paper mill, which creaqted a pulp landfill on our woodland and the badgers moved in, it's nice and soft for them to dig their Setts.

HomeAway Vacation Rentals: Know Your Travel

2010-03-12T21:46:00.007Z

HomeAway Vacation Rentals: Know Your Travel

Types of travel.

See links:-
How to have the best trip ever by Lonely Planet tweet.
Also 24 hours in Edinburgh.

New sighting on Loch Ness, roll balls by UKseries tweet.

Wi Fi Broadband

2010-03-06T17:20:00.002Z

We have both Wi Fi and hard-wired broadband access and a little work station area by the window. Also a table near it for any paperwork you have to do.
That still leaves a large drop leaf table by the front windows for your meals.

Scottish books, songs and Tourists Tips

2010-03-02T21:54:00.023Z

We have collected some Ian Rankin books and some copies
in German, as "Rebus" is a draw for our European guests.

Some of the books we have chosen for your enjoyment while on holiday at the cottage.

The antique book case is from Glasgow university

There are also lots of tourist leaflets and D.V.D's about Scotland in general and Edinburgh in particular.

http://www.homeaway.com/info/media-center/detourism/vacation-rentals-versus-hotels?cid=SM_tw_text_t_+pr_sf1134586
Compare this chart

http://theworldiscalling.com/2011/02/home-vs-hotel-part-i/
Great interview by couple who travelled the world last year using
http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/properties.

http://tour-scotland-photographs.blogspot.com/2011/01/tour-scotland-bestselling-photography.html

http://tour-scotland-photographs.blogspot.com/2011/01/tour-scotland-kenneth-mckellar-video.html
Skye boat song.

http://paper.li/HomeAwayUK
Daily travel paper on line.

HowStuffWorks "5 Scams Foolish Tourists Always Fall For" - StumbleUpon

It happened to a lovely German family in March 2010.
The taxi fare from Edinburgh airpot was £28.
The holiday maker gave the driver two £20 notes.
Busy getting bags out he put the change in his pocket without checking.
£2. The driver seemed to cream off an extra tenner.

Check your change.

It has also been tried on our family in Pitlochry by a casual worker in a restaurant.
So check your change.

We want our tourists to return, our income depends on them.

It is sad that some few in the tourist industry value £10 over service and honesty.

Forth estuary traffic updates Dalgety Bay

2010-02-27T22:32:00.109Z

7.11.10 - M111 minesweeper heading into Rosyth Dockyard.

W.c 20.9.10-All sorts of sea traffic in and out - Frigate 231 out of Rosyth, Destroyer in, Promitheus oil tanker. Yachtsmen.
These are the last months of the Ferry to Zeebrugge,
and it is not keeping it's normal sailing schedule.
W.c 13.9.10-Hamilton Spirit oil tanker at terminal,
a barge/floating platform, Yachtsmen,
Forth Tours & maid of the Forth tours.
Dredger in, Frigate F231 in and out all week doing sea trials.
Mare Oreaus oil tanker, Helga Spirit and Hildgaarde.
Oil tankers British Eagle (flying red ensign), Chincha & Eagle Torrance.
24.6.2010 - Oil tankers Searanger and Helgar spirit left port today.
20.6.2010 - The 3 tugs are having spray practice today for oil tankers.
2.6.2010 - Oil tanker Bunga Kasturi Empat moored.
1.6.2010 - Minesweeper leaving Rosyth
27.5.2010 - Oil tanker Livia in. New to this area.
26.5.2010 The Vista of the seas in. Tanker "Carolos" arrived. Eider ducks.

Terminal information:- http://www.forthports.co.uk/ports/ports/scotland/marine/ Country ship codes:- http://www.worldatlas.com/aatlas/ctycodes.htm
For bird activity, see blogpost "Birds" at Dalgety Bay.
22.5.2010 Green coloured tanker BW Lake in yesterday again & left today.
British Cygnet moored. Blue canoe launched off the Moorings.

17.5.2010 Oil tanker Mare Salernum looks pretty full and ready to leave.
"Blue Bay" scrap metal ship into Inverkeithing.
Lots of yachts from S. Queensferry.

15.5.2010 Liberian registered Oil tanker "Ligovsky Prospect" in today.
14.5.2010 - Delta sailor half full of oil this morning. The regular "Sarpen" built 2002, has just arrived:-
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/showallphotos.aspx?mmsi=311261000
13.5.2010 - Delta sailor oil tanker. Lots of yachts last night with multicoloured spinnakers, a wonderful sight.
12.5.2010. Danish cruise ship in at 8.30a.m. White. Much smaller, only 2 decks. "Vision of the seas". Maid of the Forth arrived to transport passengers. Back out at 7p.m.
11.5.2010 German cruise liner Mein Schiff. Grey & white. Not seen before. Unusual amount of writing on the side, including http://www.cruises.com/ and Meeresrayschen. Ruhe Delphine.

Also Maid of the Forth and a sailing boat.

From our Salty old sea dog with a bird's eye view -
Guest blogger updates:-
There are approximately 200 oil tankers a year mooring at the jetty at Hound's point, to take in oil .
Mostly different names and countries.
Some regular like Hildegard and Thornbury.
Also many ships all named after birds, Falcon, Eagle, Robin, etc.

9.5.2010 - 1. First passenger liner of the season M.S.C Orchestra, 5 passenger decks. Several boats lowered into water to take people to Queensferry. A tug is keeping it level so it doesn't swing into the shipping channel.

2. Maid of the Forth helping to unload about 2000 passengers.

8.5.2010 -1. BW Lake left with 2 tugs, one of which returned quickly.

2. Ferry tfrom Zeebrugge in at 12 noon and out at 6p.m.

3. SS Harmony, a large container ship left Rosyth.

7.5.2010 - Oil tanker BW Lake in. New to this area.

About fully loaded, should leave today.
Light green - not usual colour for a ship.

Come Try Sailing Open Day at Dalgety Bay Sailing Club (Saturday May 15, 2010) - Upcoming

Bed and Breakfast Caravan or cottage

2010-02-22T21:37:00.014Z

As well as the self catering cottage, we can sometimes offer self catering B and B

or
our little classic 2 berth Castleton caravan, serial number 1338.

Set in the woodland

"Wildo" stove in extension

Can be made into either single or double bed

Also cottage self catering Bed and Breakfast (Approx £25 p.p.pn. upwards).

Choice of breakfast packs for your fridge:- continental, hamper choice cold, packs to cook, etc.

Castles Burleigh to Balmoral

2010-02-19T20:34:00.011Z

http://www.visitdunkeld.com/edinburgh-castle.htm

http://tour-scotland-photographs.blogspot.com/2010/12/tour-scotland-winter-photograph_08.html Huntingtower near Perth by Sandy Stevenson

Burleigh Castle 10 miles north of holiday cottage

Scottish Palaces Balmoral and Holyrood
http://www.ukseries.com/blog/2010/11/discovering-britains-royal-palaces/

Castles near Edinburgh:-
http://www.nileguide.com/destination/edinburgh/trips/the-best-castles-to-see-in-or-near-edinburgh/7517930

A to Z http://www.visitdunkeld.com/scottish-castles.htm
Loads of castles.

Carnegie and famous Scots people places and things

2009-11-18T16:20:00.025Z

http://www.carnegiebirthplace.com/index.html
Andrew Carnegie updates

Literary Edinburgh:- Sir Walter Scott, see link:-
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/gallery/2010/apr/28/literary-edinburgh-ian-rankin?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

http://http//smittenbybritain.com/2010/04/my-bonnie-scotland.html
Bonnie Scotland. See link to well written article.

Athens of the North - Calton Hill Edinburgh

http://scotland.stv.tv/greatest-scot/
Johnny Cash visits Falkland

Visit nearby:-
Charles Rennie Mackintosh - Glasgow School of Art
Andrew Carnegie - Dunfermline Birth place and Pittencrief Park
John Muir - Country Park
John Logie Baird
Adam Smith
Sir Walter Scot - Scot monument Princes Street Edinburgh
Robert Louis Stevenson
JM. Barrie (Peter Pan) - Kirremuir
Forth Road Bridge
Hills and Glens

Castles and palaces - Edinburgh and Stirling castle. Linlithgow and Falkland palace.
Famous Scots things:- Kilts
Higland dancing
Highland games

Famous Scots food and drink:-
Haggis
Clutie Dumpling
Crannachan
Porridge oats
Whisky

Photographs of local villages

2009-11-11T12:19:00.003Z

St. Abbs
Historic villages.
Day visits from our cottage near Edinburgh.

architectural features and energy saving at holiday cottage

2009-11-11T11:51:00.022Z

Local joiner making frames for secondary double glazing in our 2 cottages.
Using Scottish oak. Nov 2009.

Original features of holiday cottage:-
Sandstone walls.
Slate tiled roof.
Wooden floorboards (living room )
Wood panelled doors - (most rooms)
Sash windows (originals kept whilst adding secondary double glazing started November 2009) Joiner and apprentice planing fanlight for double glazing during the annual schedule of works, maintenance and improvements.

Character features:-
window seat
Organic wooden facings - bathroom - recycled wood from our own woodland
Solid wood work surfaces - kitchen - made by the owner

Some antiques:-
Ceiling height bookcase from Glasgow university
Edwardian breakfast table

Further works in November 2009
1 foot more of new recycled glass loft insulation
Reed Insulation , unit 2, Riverside Court, Cupar, Fife KY15 5JY
Tel: 01334 655669 Fax: 01334 655669
Email: reed.insulate@btconnect.com

Holiday accommodation to suit all

2009-10-03T17:29:00.006+01:00

Covered area with chimanea

Some who have stayed at the cottage:-

David Drummond, musical director. (Featured on the BBC electric proms 5.11.10, with Robert Plant, directing the London Oriana choir- a rocking performance by David!)
http://video.stv.tv/bc/catchup-thehour-part4-20090928-1741/
Lyn Paul and the cast of blood brothers playing at the Alhambra in Dunfermline.
A masterchef finalist.
Pilot from Bournemouth.
Maltese pig farmer.
American millionaire.
Golfers.
Bagpipers.
Edinburgh festival goers.
Recording artists.
T.v. reporter.
French, Canadian, South African, Australian, New Zealand, Spanish, French, Welsh, English, Scottish, Irish, German & more.
Racing drivers at Knockhill circuit.
Most of all...lovely families!

Campsite:- Will Self - writer.

See blog http://www.camping-fife-near-edinburgh.blogspot.com/

for others

Edinburgh bus tour Walk tour. Pictures of

2009-09-30T20:58:00.003+01:00

http://paper.li/HowToEnjoyEDIN/tourism-travel-walks Twitter daily paper. A great way to acclimatise and learn about a city http://bairdstravel.com/PICTORIALVISTTOEDINBURGH.aspx

Dunfermline

2009-09-29T13:50:00.006+01:00

http://dunfermline.info/
Dunfermline Alhambra -This week Lynn Paul of the New Seekers is performing in the
Blood Brothers. She has been interviewed for the One Show on Monday 28th September.
See t.v.Hour show link in 2 blogs above "accommodation to suit everyone"
Two of the cast have been interviewed today for local radio.
An article will also be written for a local newspaper about the crew & cast camping.
http://www.dunfermlinepress.com/whatson/alhambra/articles/2009/09/10/391688-kenwright-puts-dunfermline-on-musicals-map/

Carnegie Hall Dunfermline - Fiddlers rallies, etc.

Cinema Duloch Leisure Park - 10 screen cinema.
2 miles north of holiday cottage

South Queensferry

2009-09-17T13:48:00.011+01:00

Historic Forth Rail bridge
We can see this from the holiday cottage window

2 companies operate boat trips on the Forth.
This one is Maid of the Forth, you can get off at Inchcolm Island, have a picnic & catch one of the sailings back when you are ready.

A lovely commentary about the sea life. Well worth a trip, we take all our visiting friends and relatives on this outing.
The other is Forth cruises which we have yet to try.

This historic pub serves real ale.
"Harviestoun" is a good one.

Lifeboat station

D.V.D. library for cottages

2009-09-03T10:39:00.010+01:00

A selection of films are in the cottage but if there are any specifics, particularly off the following list, just ask & we'll try & reserve them for you We love films…

We’re continuing to build up a collection of films, it’s our second decade and the library is getting bigger.

At this point we’ve bought loads of old classic foreign language films, mostly with subtitles.

Also kid’s, modern classics, current films and so on.

The DVD’s are distributed between 2 cottages, but any film can be requested for your stay if you tell us in advance.
The list below is in no particular order.
And will change as the postie brings them.
Latest additions are a lot of Foreign Films.

Pickpocket… (PG) Robert Bresson France 1959
Miracle in Milan… (U) Vittorio de Sica Italian
La Terra Trema… (U) Luchino Visconti Italy 1948
L'Aventura... (PG) Antonioni 1960
Le plaisir... (PG) Max Ophuls
La Grande Illusion (U) Jean Renoir 1937
Last Year in Marieenbad (U) Alain Resnais 1956
I Vitelloni (The young Calves) (PG) Federico Fellini 1953
Au Revoir Les Enfants (12) Louis Malle
Le Quai Des Brumes (PG) Marcel Carne 1938
L'Eclisse (PG) Michelangelo Antonioni 1962
Casque D'Or (PG) Jaques Becker 1952
Jules and Jim (PG) Francois Truffaut 1966

Touch of Evil (12) Orson Welles 1958
The Outlaw (U) Howard Hughes
Masked and Anonymous (12) Larry Charles (with Bob Dylan, Jeff Bridges, Penelope Cruz)
Australia (12) Baz Luhrmann (Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman0
Priceless (12) Pierre Salvadori (Audrey Tautou)
Vicky Christina Barcelona (12) Woody Allen (Javier Barden, Penelope Cruz, Scarlett Johansson)

Reviews from My cottage holiday listing

2009-07-15T21:21:00.017+01:00

http://www.mycottageholiday.co.uk/cottage/dales-farm-cottage/

Reviews for property i.d. 397.

Some of these are for the next door cottage to the one on our advert.
Also see blog post for www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/1573 review.

These 2 photos are of the cottage next door to the main advertised one.
This is offered when the advertised one is in the process of being booked.

Falkland Palace and Pillars of Hercules

2009-07-06T17:48:00.010+01:00

A short drive from your holiday cottage.
On the way back, the Pillars of Hercules organic shop and cafe are interresting.

Bo ness railway

2009-07-01T22:35:00.003+01:00

http://www.srps.org.uk/railway/where.htm

Several bridges from a few metres up the road along to Burntisland, see enthusiasts waiting for steam trains.
http://www.edinphoto.org.uk/0_edin_t/0_edinburgh_transport_railways_forth_bridge_034503.htm
http://www.lochalsh.com/steam_train_kyle/

Transport in Scotland

2009-06-26T15:50:00.020+01:00

http://www.edinburghspotlight.com/2011/04/photo-edinburgh-from-above/
Flights into Edinburgh

http://twitpic.com/1iu498 Tram on Princes Street, Edinburg. Airport.

Open top tour buses.

Airdirect bus or train to Inverkeithing station runs every few minutes,

Inverkeithing bus park and ride

01383 420197,

then taxi to holiday cottage. (make sure he takes you to old Duloch,

1 mile north of Inverkeithing and not the new Duloch, near Dunfermline.)

Taxi to use normally 01383 410088,

quote which holiday cottage at bottom of Masterton road.

Historic Forth rail bridge with regular trains to Edinburgh.
http://www.scotrail.co.uk/content/which-ticket-is-right-for-me
British rail 0845 748 4950

Traveline 0870 608 2608

Calmac Ferries Highland to Islands. Walking and cycling. Fife coastal path is near the holiday cottage. Gliding near Loch Leven, 10 miles from our holiday cottage. Leuchars airshow neat St. Andrew.

Dunfermline Fife Leisure Park, Duloch, Scotland

2009-06-13T21:26:00.010+01:00

http://www.visitdunfermline.com/whatson.php?page=21

3 miles north of holiday cottage:-
Bowlingplex, golf, 10 screen cinema, Kentucky chicken, Nandos, Chinese buffet, Pizza, Dobbies cafe, Italian restaurant, burger, Mexican, etc.

Edinburgh Festivals and Eating. Events Hogmanay Glasgow Fife Perth

2009-05-09T21:29:00.051+01:00

Interesting vegetarian restaurant

http://www.hendersonsofedinburgh.co.uk/index.php

Hotel du vin

http://www.google.co.uk/#sclient=psy&hl=en&rlz=1W1PCTC_en&q=hotel+du+vin+edinburgh+&aq=4o&aqi=g4g-o1&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=&pbx=1&fp=d2392c0f61e1d755 =hotel+du+vin+edinburgh+&aq=4o&aqi=g4g-o1&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=&pbx=1&fp=d2392c0f61e1d755

Hotel Du Vin, Bristo Place, Edinburgh, near the Bedlam theatre.

This building was once the lunatic assylum.

It now has a lovely atmosphere.

The Cigar bothy:-

Our starters included novelty bag of whitebait to salt and shake,

cut lemon tied up in muslin bag.

Petit fours of Irn Bru Turkish delight anddeep fried mars bar bites.

http://ht.ly/4GJ9X http://grantourismotravels.com/2011/02/04/a-guide-to-eating-and-drinking-in-edinburgh/Our

Edinburgh cafes

http://www.europebudgetguide.com/europebudget/2010/04/top-7-budget-eats-in-edinburgh.html

http://www.edinburghshogmanay.com/content/free-rbs-night-buses/3757/

http://www.edinburghspotlight.com/2010/10/info-dates-for-2011-festivals/

http://www.royalhighlandshow.org/
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/trade-passport

http://www.bvac.org.uk/thirlestane/

http://autumn.visitscotland.com/things_to_see_and_do/food_and_drink/whisky_week_and_whisky_galore.aspx?dm_i=3U5,1R0Q,8A5X7,5OXB,1

Open buildings dates http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/opendays/areas.aspx?subid=55 See also http://www.camping-fife-near-edinburgh.blogspot.com/ event blog for more events.

http://www.edinburgh-festivals.com/
Science festival in Spring
Film festival in June
Book festival

Gardening Scotland
Fringe festival
Main festival, etc.

Open door buildings in September

Fife Agricultural show June

Big tent festival at Falkland

http://www.bigtentfestival.co.uk/food.php

Knochill racing circuit - year round events.

http://www.knockhill.com/

Whisky week September.

Scottish food anddrink festival September.

Merchant city festival September.

The Perth show from July

Knockhil racing circuit, different events all year round.

http://www.foodiesfestival.com/christmas-chefs-theatre/

Golf open St. Andrew http://sodexo-ai.sc3.spirahellic.com/newsletteronline.aspx/LkqOKYdFeXzDVHBBomEtCZMtYdMBZZohv0aHjHbTgvFL7KW1AB6YJtxWSkF3Dm7j

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> http://news.visitscotland.com/3U5-13XU-8A5X7-A4JB-1/c.aspx> Refer a friend

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Perfect Day in Scotland> Glasgow Festivals > June in the Scottish Borders > Plus much more...
Discover your Perfect Day in Scotland

Breathe in Scotland's spectacular scenery, sample the perfect culinary tour or experience the thrill of teeing off in the 'home of golf'. Discover all this and more with our handy itineraries packed full of inspiration for your Perfect Day in Scotland.

Glasgow West End Festival and Glasgow International Jazz Festival June
Make sure you're in Glasgow this summer as the streets come alive with a week-long carnival and some feel-good jazz music.

Taste of Scotland May Plus much more...

Edinburgh Links Glasgow Places to visit in Scotland Parks

2009-05-09T21:27:00.023+01:00

Edinburgh zoo Pandas http://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/visiting/panda.html

http://www.whatson-scotland.co.uk/

http://www.thisismyedinburgh.com/going-out/attractions/

Great pages above

http://www.scotlandinaweek.com/

http://news.stv.tv/scotland/230284-edinburgh-castle-tops-scotlands-visitor-attraction-list/

top visitor attractions

http://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/camera_obscura/camera_how.asp

360 degree panarama of Edinburgh.

http://www.edinburghspotlight.com/2010/11/preview-edinburghs-chrismas-wheel-2010/

http://bairdstravel.com/SCOTLAND.aspx

http://www.nileguide.com/destination/edinburgh/trips/the-best-of-edinburgh-your-first-visit/6881112
Good guide for first visit to Edinburgh.

http://www.nileguide.com/destination/blog/edinburgh/2010/08/03/5-hidden-gems-in-edinburgh/
Insightful write up.

http://www.edinburghspotlight.com/2010/06/review-wild-west-edinburgh-morningside/
Wild West in Edinburgh!

Arthur's seat

http://www.edinburghguide.com/tags/edinburghparks
Leith Links holds many events throughout the year.

Botanical gardens.

Glasgow:-

M & D's Theme Park

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=m%26ds+scotland&sll=53.666612,-0.039139&sspn=0.278674,0.617981&ie=UTF8&t=h&latlng=55801953,-4050329,11529842851194603085&ei=qdxESs6KI9POjAf1ieDOCQ&cd=1

Edinburgh and Fife restaurants and pubs Loch Fyne restaurant

2009-05-08T17:56:00.008+01:00

Loch Fyne restaurant at Leith harbour.

http://www.hendersonsofedinburgh.co.uk/

http://www.taste-of-scotland.com/

Really local:-

South Queensferry

http://www.vintageinn.co.uk/thehawesinnsouthqueensferry/gallery/

North Queensferry

http://www.theweerestaurant.co.uk/
Chris made the wooden butter & roll platters for this restaurant.
The cauliflower soup was ambrosial.

Fife Leisure park:-

http://www.bellaitalia.co.uk/menu/main-menu/7

Recommended. Hamburger has that lovely chargrilled taste.

Pizza thin & they let you choose extra toppings (artichokes).

McDonalds, Nandos chicken, Chinese buffet pub, Dobbies cafe, Mexican, Pizza hut.

Inverkeithing

Burgh Arms -real ale.

Landward Scotland

2009-05-08T17:08:00.015+01:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006m994

Scottish affairs
Loch of the Lowes Osprey 29.4.2011

Scottish chef Nick Nairn
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nick_Nairn
presents a catering award to my sister on Monday 11.5.09 at Perth concert hall.
Some of their event surplus is donated to our cottage & campers, in the gallery.

http://guide.visitscotland.com/vs/guide/5,en,SCH1/objectId,ENT59589Svs,curr,GBP,season,at1,selectedEntry,home/home.html

Scottish news warns that spring is a time to watch for danger on the roads in the form of young deer, running from their mothers.

Food Stovies Haggis Scottish recipes Takeaway

2009-05-08T16:56:00.022+01:00

Only 2 miles from our holiday cottage.

http://www.macsween.co.uk/recipes/

Haggis recipes.

http://www.visitdunkeld.com/cullen-skink-soup.html

http://www.visitdunkeld.com/border-stovies-scotland.html

1 of many "Stovies" recipes.

http://www.macsween.co.uk/veghaggisinaminute/
Haggis - vegetarian or meat.

http://www.visitdunkeld.com/mince-tatties.htm

Mince and Tatties

http://www.macsween.co.uk/recipes/traditional-haggis/haggis-tacos

http://www.scottishrecipes.co.uk/haggis2.htm

http://www.scotlandforvisitors.com/recipes.php

http://eatscotland.visitscotland.com/food-drink/traditional-dishes/default.html

http://www.puddledub.co.uk/

Our local butcher.

http://www.scotlanddirectory.info/category/farmshops.html

farmers' markets

Towns Villages. Stirling Falkirk wheel. St. Andrews Perth Edinburgh Dunfermline Places to visit Museums

2009-05-06T10:25:00.026+01:00

http://eatscotland.visitscotland.com/eating-out-guide/establishments/the-greengrocer-down-the-pend.html?pi=24&ii=6&pc=94&ci=0&op=rd
Stirling The Greengrocer 81 Port St, Stirling.
Criffle cheese, Strathdon blue, vegetarian Isle of Mull cows, veg. Inverlochy goats,
fresh figs,Vinci olives crackers for pungent cheese,

http://www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk/visit/trip.html

An interesting ride for £7.95. 08700 500 208

Links the Union canal and Edinburgh to Glasgow canal.

Excellent help from staff, especially grateful as we had disabled people in our group.

Allow extra time for badly signposted disabled carpark.Holiday cottage situated between

Rosyth & Dalgety Bay (West & East) and
between Inverkeithing & Crossgates South & North), also
10 miles north of Edinburgh & 10 miles south of Perth.

30 miles to St. Andrew's.

http://concierge.fairmont.com/location.process/OID_8C536BEE/OLID_18785/MID_881/

St. Andrew's guide.

http://blog.standrews.co.uk/2011/01/5-must-see-spots-in-st-andrews/

http://www.lightstalking.com/scotland

24 images of Scotland

http://twitpic.com/377ht0

Dunmore pineapple

Museums:-

http://www.nileguide.com/destination/blog/edinburgh/2010/11/10/the-best-museums-in-edinburgh/

http://www.snapscotland.com/photo/albums/scottish-photos?id=6270794%3AAlbum%3A10&xg_pw=&commentPage=&page=2
Stunning Scottish photos

Falkirk wheel
http://www.ukseries.com/blog/2010/07/the-unique-falkirk-wheel/

Day trips to Stirling, Trossachs, Dunfermline.
Lochs, Glens, beaches, East coast fishing villages, etc.
Linlithgow A few miles south of the historic Forth Rail Bridge.
Great Castle, lake and 4 Mary's pub.
(See "Bagging Scotland" on Twitter and "scottishroutes").
Glendeavon (Old Tormaukin Inn).
Castle Campbell near Stirling (see Tour Scotland website with great photos.)
Hopetoun house..Antiques road show televised 21.3.2010

Edinburgh guide. Places to visit and eat.
http://www.2edinburgh.co.uk/edinburgh/edinburgh-guide.htm

Food. Farmers' market. Local. Edinburgh. Anstruther. Cupar

2009-05-05T17:20:00.041+01:00

Pack a picnic. Ask about the hamper.
Inverkeithing Burgh Arms.

http://www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk/
Local deals:-

http://www.grabagreatdeal.com/?goback=%2Enmp_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1%2Egde_2419236_member_82114580

Kirkcaldy, Dunfermline, etc.

Dalgety Bay -Dalgety fish bar, Simon's kitchen- Chinese, Indian.
All consistently good take aways.

Fife leisure park 3 miles. Bella Italia, Pizza hut, pub, Nandos' Portugese chicken, Mexican, McDonalds, Dobbies cafe, Chinese buffet.
Duloch Park 1 mile, Deep blue fish and chips, Subway, Greggs, Tesco, Aldi, Inn, Pizza delivery, Bombay Brasserie,.
On site Cottage and camp gallery:-
Free range eggs, grocery and fridge staples, garden and grocery surplus sale and freebies.

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2zwMkt/www.europebudgetguide.com/europebudget/2010/12/5-places-to-eat-in-edinburgh-for-under-5.html

http://www.fifediet.co.uk/source-locally/

http://www.smartcommunityfife.org.uk/food/whats-happening-food-fife/

Forth road bridge (Fife to Edinburgh)
http://www.welcometoscotland.com/article/events-in-scotland
Free guides to Scotland and Edinburgh in English, Deutsche, Francais, etc. at bottom of link.
See our camping blog for local information.

Local:-
http://www.champanyinn.co.uk/ Linlithgow. 20 minutes from the holiday cottage.
If ever you get chance for a very special treat (quite expensive),
either the chop house or the extra special restaurant next door,
grills the best rib-eye steaks.
Starters of scallops in hollandaise sauce, prawns piri piri, chicken liver parfait, oysters, etc.
Further afield:-
Perth ice creams - http://www.stewart-tower.co.uk/

Glasgow - crabshack

Anstruther fish bar - see link to Tour Scotland
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4DzLbV79i7g/S5lMw4UfvCI/AAAAAAAAfg8/bEvRLtN1jiA/s1600-h/Street+View+Anstruther+Fish+Bar+Scotland.jpg

Anstruther fish bar again by Scottish Tour guide blog
http://catswhiskerstours.com/2011/01/best-fish-and-chips-in-scotland/

http://www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk/

Edinburgh Loopylornas cafe sounds good, am getting there as fast as I can.
http://www.loopylornas.com/da/86375

Donald and Fisherson in Cupar Fife have really good fudge doughnuts.

Ceres - Kingarroch Inn, Craigrothie Fife. 01334 828237

good fresh baked bread, great hand made chips to go with really fine battered fish.

http://www.kingarrochinn.co.uk/

http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2010/apr/06/glasgow-top-10-budget-restaurants?page=3

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/9pzpSh/www.seriouseats.com/2011/01/dumpling-factory-tour-noodles-asian-bushwick-brooklyn-ny-tmi-food-groups-twin-marquis.html
Just because I love factories in general.

Scottish highland dancing kilts Clans tartans Fair Isle Shetland

2009-05-05T16:49:00.016+01:00

http://pinterest.com/caroleg/tartans-and-tweeds/

http://www.visitdunkeld.com/scottish-clans.htm

Excellent clan information tweeted by tourscotland

Shetland hat. Fair Isle pattern history.
http://shetlandmylove.blogspot.com/2010/12/fair-isle-pillbox-hat.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ShetlandMyLove+%28SHETLAND+MY+LOVE%29&utm_content=Twitter

http://www.kiltmakers.co.uk/
http://www.stewart-christie.com/ Edinburgh

Highland fling lessons

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emCIxAJCe2g

Oban gateway to the Scottish Islands Possible day trip

2009-04-17T16:40:00.010+01:00

Buzzing Oban, the fishing port & Caledonian MacBrayne ferries to the Islands, including Mull

http://www.oban.org.uk/

As the cottage is 10 miles north of Edinburgh a day trip takes about 3 hours each way.

Scenic, sometimes snow capped mountains.

Road sign in Gaelic:-

Viaduct at Glen Ogle is worth looking out for.

Old fashioned corrugated garage just after the viaduct is worth looking out for on the way up.

The pier has a marvellous fish stall with langoustines, dressed crab, own smoked salmon ( & tasters) lobster tails, prawn sandwiches etc.

Holiday Cottage near Edinburgh

2009-03-21T16:02:00.017Z

Holiday Cottage near Edinburgh

Woodland Cottages are two stonebuilt country cottages with views of the Forth Road Bridge, 2 miles away.

Advert also on Zoopla and Holiday-rentals

http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/Scotland/holiday-cottage-Edinburgh--Lothians/p1573.htm?uni_id=3871&cid=l_zoopla_1

Often, we get asked if we know of any other accommodation owners:-

Edinburgh apartments http://www.annehouse.co.uk/
Isle of Harris http://www.luskentyreholidays.co.uk/ phoneAgnes or Bill Cross 07917 432865
Arbroath, Crail, etc. http://www.castawaycottage.co.uk/
Aberlour Speyside http://norlaggan.co.uk/

Activities Sports Walking Cycling Fishing Swimming Karting Fruit picking Hobbies Ski Fly Golf Boat Lochore Meadows

2009-02-23T16:52:00.042Z

http://www.fife.gov.uk/atoz/index.cfm?fuseaction=facility.displayNew&facid=0B6823E1-ACDA-943D-A0D046DA0CD23C31
Lochore Meadows activity park

http://www.scotoutdoors.com/

http://www.fifecoastalpath.co.uk/

Walking and Cycling.
Walk and cycle path is near the holiday cottage.

Start of Fife coastal path is opposite
Sandy Wallace cycle shop in Main street, Inverkeithing,

leads to harbour and then along coastal path as far as you like.

See camping blog post "sports..." for more cycle links.

http://www.camping-fife-near-edinburgh.blogspot.com/

Fishing
Updated fishing information 12.1.2010
with information provided by a local fishing enthusiast:-
Loch Ore, The Meadows - boat and bank fishing.
http://salmon-fishing-scotland.blogspot.com/2011/01/salmon-fishing-scotland-prospects-for.html

Kinghorn Stenhouse Loch,
Loch Leven- not re-stocking, reverting to natural.
Kirkcaldy - Raith Lake (5 fish only).
More information in cottages.

http://trout-fishing-scotland.blogspot.com/2010/10/willowgate-fishing-school-alan-and-adam.html
http://www.kartstart.com/karting/open_track_night.htm
http://www.knockhill.com/

A few of the activities you can indulge in while staying at http://www.woodlandcottages.co.uk/

Charter a 4 seater light aircraft from Cumbernauld.

Book a flight at Glenrothes airport.

Gliding near Loch Leven, 10 miles from our holiday cottage.

Fruit picking
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ninian_reid/3806501399/

Fly over your accommodation.

Bowling, Crazy golf, Bannatynes gym at Fife Leisure Park.

Horse riding - Westerdeanhead equestrian centre.

Swimming and Sauna at http://www.dunfermlinepress.com/news/roundup/articles/2011/01/28/409595-carnegie-leisure-centre-to-be-hit-by-further-delays/
Burntisland (closed until end of June 2010), Perth, Kinross or Cowdenbeath.

Boat trips - Loch Leven and Maid of Forth.

Golf - http://www.standrews.org.uk/
Ski - Dry ski slopes http://adventure.visitscotland.com/providers/midlothian-ski-centre/
Indoor climbing Edinburgh
http://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/list-291

Leuchars airshow near St. Andrew.

Food Holiday Recipes

2009-02-22T20:05:00.030Z

http://wildfoodmushroomsfishing.blogspot.com/2010/06/wild-strawberry-queen-of-wild-fruits.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

When you stay at our holiday cottage, use our garden herbs, etc. to cook with.
Our free range eggs make a delicious Nargissi Kofta (Indian not Scotch)

Or make yourself a food experience,
like this wild garlic omlette.

Colour shells from white, cream, pink through light brown, dark brown and Jade green and pale green (Auracana ).

Perhaps if you do not have a car, their might be some basics in the camp shop in the lane. (Honesty pot).

If you like to eat out, or buy local or find cooking therapeutic, then this is the cottage for you. (See "Kitchen" blog about range of equipment.)
It doesn't have to take a long time or a lot of effort to produce a holiday meal and you may have more time for experimenting, whilst waiting for some of your "relaxed" family to get ready.
See the travel recipe section at holiday rentals.
We are www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/property1573

We have a good collection of recipe books, so just ask if you want specific types of cookery books.
I've got everything from Vegetarian, Scottish, through French, Indian, Jewish andMiddle Eastern.

Or just browse through the collection we put in your cottage.

There's herbs like mint in the garden as well.

Wild garlic & comfrey.

young beech leaves & dandelion leaves for salad.

Nettles for soup and beer.

Plums and greengages, cooking apples.
Robert Burns ode to a haggis.

A little Scottish hospitality hamper, to start you off.

We just want you to feel welcome.

Although the cottage is ideally suited for self catering,
it is possible to arrange in advance for self catering B and B or various food options to be in your kitchen, such as a meal to heat, soup and sandwich for your arrival
or breakfast/lunch packs or purchase of local foods.
Or Tesco delivery.

Ask and we can discuss options and prices.

Please continue to scroll down if there is a gap:-
Keep reading:-
More blogs to follow:-
Another one of Christopher Trotter's Scottish recipe books.

http://www.yorkshireprovender.co.uk/
Lovely blog also. I like the suggestions for extra special soup toppings.

Holiday cottage Scotland Kitchen facilities

2009-02-11T16:34:00.014Z

American style ice making fridge.

Washer/drier

Dishwasher

Microwave

4 ring hob on double oven, includes grill

Wi Fi access from kitchen

Slow cooker http://ht.ly/2WdYt

Dualit toaster

Fish brick

hand electric blender

electric juicer

electric food processor

spice rack

Several sets of glasses

2 sets of crockery

Lots of stainless steel pans

Double stainless steel roasting pans

All the usual oven trays, baking dishes, childrens' pastry cutters

Cafetiere, T. pot, etc.

Recipe books

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p1573

Events Scotland. Forth Bridge tours

2009-01-05T15:49:00.008Z

Stay at this lovely cottage which is near enough Edinburgh but has the best of both worlds by being out of the city with nature & woodland on your doorstep.

http://www.forthroadbridge.org/news/frb-open-week-planned-june-2011

Translations and nationalities

2008-12-13T19:38:00.006Z

German market:-
disabled parking Edinburgh German market - Web search - Virgin Media
Extra attraction during December & early January, stalls with food, hats...
Hogmanay - wheel, ice rink, etc.

We welcome (wilkhomen) our many German tourists & have collected some German translated tourist leaflets, etc.
http://www.fewo-direkt.de/ferienwohnung-ferienhaus/p1573/

http://international.visitscotland.com/de/inspiration/online-broschueren/

Try free translation on line - http://www.google.com/language_tools

We have also bought a tourist guide in German - Die kleine Schottlandfibel by Hans-walter Arends.

http://www.schottland.co.uk/

Scottish holiday cottage, near Edinburgh, United Kingdom

2008-12-12T18:33:00.006Z

Traditional Cottage front (left hand side of the pair)

http://www.woodlandcottages.co.uk/

e mail chris.barley@virgin.net

phone yvonne or Chris 01383 417681

Just tell us the type of things that interest you
or what you want from your holiday
( i.e. touring, history, childrens' activities, ancestry search,
shopping, golf, whisky distilleries, photography,
Lochs; Glens, fishing villages, etc. )
and we will help you to achieve it
and provide all the brochures and information we can.)
For instance "Fishing" a local fisherman recommends:-
Loch Leven or Stenhouse Loch.
Wi- Fi (Ask for range details) and bring your laptop and dongle.
Also broadband access if you bring your laptop and ethernet cable.
Just let me know the things that are important for your holiday
and we'll help as much as we can.

We'll answer any questions to help you achieve the best from your holiday:-

maybe levels of disability access requirements
suitability of sleeping arrangements for your particular party.
local transport in more detail

Child Interest & baby facilities

2008-12-12T17:54:00.009Z

http://www.travelmamas.com/wordpress/child-friendly-activities-in-edinburgh-scotland/

http://www.nileguide.com/destination/edinburgh/trips/family-fun-in-edinburgh/7850054

10 reasons to choose our cottage to rent, self cater or B & B:-

1. It's child, baby, toddler & family friendly.

2. The cottage has character.

3. It's got a lovely garden.

4. It backs on to 15 acresof woodland.

5. It's very well equipped.

6. It's 10 miles from Edinburgh.

7. In a day trip, you can see lochs and glens, beaches, fishing villages. etc.

8. Within 10 miles you can play golf, fish, horse riding, falconry, boat trips.

9. Great local facilities for children, Deep Sea world, swimming baths, crazy golf, 10 screen cinema.

10. Many local restaurants, 8 alone 3 miles away at Fife Leisure park.

The Woodland - Parents should accompany children beyond the garden. Kids love it here, there is so much space to muck about in. Bring wellies in the winter. Explore the woods, special campfire just for you, bridge over the stream, basket ball hoop, badger hide. The woods are enchanting.

The enclosed garden of the cottage to the rear has outdoor games.

We can often hear children giggling with delight.

The cottage has cupboards full of games suitable for babies, toddlers, children, teenagers & big kids over 30!

Nearby areas - Lochore Adventure Park, 10 screen cinema, 2 miles at Duloch Leisure Park, along with all their favourite eateries.

Lots to explore & delight the children, even in

wet weather:- Deep Sea World a couple of miles away, swimming baths with flumes, etc.

Babies & Toddlers - Lots of equipment free, request at time of booking i.e. microwave sterilizer, bouncy cradle, baby bath, mat, cots & high chairs.

Outdoor toys, including a Triang rocking horse, Chris restored, when he found it 40 years ago in our loft.

Reviews and Listings holiday-rentals

2008-12-12T16:20:00.013Z

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/place?cid=9055290237137983850&q=dales+farm+cottage+fife&gl=uk&view=feature&mcsrc=web_references&num=10&start=0&ved=0CIMBELUF&sa=X&ei=FsQsTeT8L8XPjgf2paEL Listings - a sample for cottage and camping.

Living room wooden arch over sliding door to kitchen

These guest reviews are taken from our advert with:-
http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/Scotland/holiday-cottage-Edinburgh--Lothians/p1573.htm#photos-bar

4/5
feeling like home
porridge Germany/Weser.Date Submitted: November 13, 2008 Date of Stay: October 2008
Allthough we travelled with a little child (always an unpredictable adventure!) we felt very comfortable because we found everything we need in this charming ,well equiped cottage. Every family member (at age from 18 month up to 52 years old) felt like home and we were very satisfied with the choose of this property. Nice atmosphere, decorated with much loving care and a good base for many day-trips.... Ich wäre froh, wenn es so herrlich bequeme Matratzen auch in Deutschland gäbe, ich habe herrlich geschlafen! Unser 8-jähriger Sohn hat beim Abschied heiße Tränen vergossen und wir mussten ihm versprechen, wieder zu kommen. Braucht es da noch weitere Empfehlungen?
Recommended for: Age 55+, Sightseeing, Families with Young Children, Romantic Getaway, Families with Teenagers
Owners Response: Always delighted to have appreciative families.

5/5
Upgrade Cottage (next door)
Mandyp Mansfield Woodhouse.Date Submitted: October 30, 2008 Date of Stay: October 2008
We have just spent 5 wonderful days in the upgraded cottage. It is a beautiful cosy traditional cottage with lots of wonderful old features and a delightful wooden conservatory, my husband had a great time lighting the log burning fire each evening. The cottage has every amenity you can imagine, there is also an excellent selection of books and games and lovely gardens. The owners are very friendly and helpful and are well informed about the local area. The property was very clean and had some lovely touchs like fresh flowers, fruit, wine and a hospitality basket. The cottage backs onto woodland that belongs to the owners and the children had a lot of fun exploring this, definately take your wellies though. This property is a short drive from the centre of Edinburgh, parking was easy but we managed to get lost driving out of Edinburgh every time, the train was much more relaxing and stress free. The Edinburgh Bus Tour was worth doing, this is a hop on hop off bus that takes you around the main tourist sites in the city, the ticket lasts for 24 hours and entitals you to discounts off other attractions. This cottage is a wonderful find, you would be daft to miss it.
Recommended for: Age 55+, Sightseeing, Families with Young Children, Romantic Getaway, Families with Teenagers

5/5
Woodland Retreat
peasonsea Norwich, Norfolk.Date Submitted: September 27, 2008 Date of Stay: September 2008
This is our second stay at this cottage and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone. It's location is ideal for visiting Edinburgh, plus many other locations (this time we visited Edinburgh, Dunfermline, Stirling, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs). But the location of the cottage in an amazing woodland plot is perhaps it's best feature. We have two young sons and they love adventuring around the woodland. There is a brilliant badger hide (although the boys wouldn't sit still long enough to spot anything!) and also a playing field (where we did see a stag on our last visit). The owners, Yvonne & Chris have made this property extra special with the bespoke wood fittings and they will go out of their way to ensure you have everything you need. The weather was pretty poor when we visited but we didn't feel that this distracted too much from having fun - although you will need wellies for exploting the woodland! The cottage was warm enough but there are two gorgeous woodburning fires in the lounge and in the wooden conservatory and we lit the woodburner in the lounge 'for effect'! We only stayed 5 days on this occasion but it wasn't long enough. Because of the property and the location (in relation to touring) two weeks would be about right and I think we'll try for that next visit as there are still so many places we didn't get to see.
Recommended for: Sightseeing, Families with Young Children, Romantic Getaway
Owners Response: Thanks Peter & family. Look forward to having you return. This description is for the cottage next door which is an upgrade/spillover you might say.

5/5
Rustic, cosy and well equipped.
Polly46 Northumberland.Date Submitted: August 25, 2008 Date of Stay: August 2008
Myself, husband and two young daughters have just returned from our first visit to this wonderful ' home from home'. When we were looking for a place to stay near Edinburgh, we were all drawn to the description and facilities on offer here and can say we weren't disappointed. The back garden is a safe & secure environment for children, with lots of things supplied to keep adults and children entertained, this is before we ventured into the wildlife paradise!!! Going for a walk, exploring was thoroughly enjoyed by us all, (even though it was very muddy - wellies to the rescue), we were ultimately looking for the sports area but rambled slowly and the girls were so excited when we found Hansel & Gretel's cottage (the Badger Hide) and were most amused at the outside loo's. The cottage itself has everything you could ever need and the flag system is a great idea for attracting Chris/Yvonne's attention, although we didn't have to use it. We hope to return, when hopefully the weather is not so tempremental and look forward to be given another friendly welcome.
Recommended for: Age 55+, People with Disabilities, Sightseeing, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car, Romantic Getaway, Pet-friendly, Families with Teenagers
Owners Response: Thank you to another lovely family. Just let me clarify the woodland, in case you worry! The cottage has a normal flushing toilet. The two dotted about the woodland are the environmentally friendly, sawdust composting toilets. We have a flickr photo site that I send a link of when you book. Or ask for it beforehand if you want to whet your appetite even more. What can we say about the week of monsoon rain. Well we've dug extra ditches to cope with that if it ever happens again. It's drying out nicely now.

5/5
I'm from Scotland first time experince
whatelse switzerland.Date Submitted: August 05, 2008 Date of Stay: July 2008
What else to say, but fantastic will go back again soon first class, like home from home with the holiday feeling. Could'nt ask for more. First time experince, but will not be the last at the colttages. Fantastic place to be, everything you want and more. Close to everything plus being in the middle of nature. Great views, public transports close by. what more can you ask for? Welcome by the most charming people, Loved it would go back again tomorrow so if you get the chance go it really is beautiful. Take my word for it. Sheena and Co. Enjoy nothing else to do........ Thanks again for everything
Recommended for: Age 55+, Sightseeing, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers, Families with Teenagers, Girls Getaway

5/5
Book NOW
happy to help Mansfield, UK.Date Submitted: August 02, 2008 Date of Stay: October 2007
We stayed here when my eldest son was in two plaster casts following surgery because Yvonne told me when I enquired that “Dales Cottage” was accessible for a wheelchair and the price seemed right. What she did not mention was it is IDEAL for a wheelchair user with some mobility issues and the cost was great value for money. We had all modern facilities in a location second to none for a visitor to Edinburgh. The cottage has an in depth local directory but our advice would be use the local train service, they are so helpful especially to a disabled visitor and the local library were helpful too when homework had to be done!!). The local amenities are easy to access but you will need a car. We HAD to return as our boys were upset that they could not visit the woodland when we first visited and after a second visit we realised we could have missed a great adventure. Alas the woodland would be difficult to access for a wheelchair user, but to an able bodied visitor a treat not to be missed. As you may have guest we cannot say anything but positive comments about "Dales Cottage". If you want any detailed, further comments feel free to contact Yvonne and she can pass on my E-mail address. If you haven’t booked after this review WHY NOT. Ian, Mansfield
Recommended for: Age 55+, People with Disabilities, Sightseeing, Families with Young Children, Romantic Getaway, Families with Teenagers, Girls Getaway

5/5
Best of the Best
ktscam Angels Camp, California USA.Date Submitted: July 19, 2008 Date of Stay: July 2007
The description of the property does not do it justice it a a magical place and the wizards Chris and Yvonne are the driving force behind the cottages. The property and grounds (wonderful nature walks) are impeccably clean and well maintained. Chris and Yvonne provide everything you would expect a friend, not a land lord, to provide. Their knowledge of the area and the information they provide in the cottages will keep you as busy as you like for as long as you stay, As a three time renter I would and have, with out reservation, recommended the cottages to friends. The location of the cottages is the best in Scotland, 15 minutes by train to Edinburgh, within an hour to the best golf in the world. The Union Cannel, the Falkirk Water wheel and some of the finest dinning ( the Railroad Bridge Inn South Queensferry, The bridge Inn Ratho) in Scotland are all with easy drive of the cottages. We will be returning in 2010 for another 3 week stay to enjoy the local golf and The open at St. Andrews.
Recommended for: Age 55+, People with Disabilities, Sightseeing, Families with Young Children, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers, Families with Teenagers, Girls Getaway

5/5
Great Home near Edinburgh
GuyR Comox, BC, Canada.Date Submitted: July 10, 2008 Date of Stay: November 2007
My wife and I stayed for a week in November 2007. The description was very accurate. The place was spotless. We really appreciated the fully equipped kitchen. A mega grocery store is only a few minutes by car or 15 mins by bike. I would highly recommend this property. We used it as a base to explore Edinburgh, St Andrews and the southern Highlands. For our purposes we used a car, but the train station is quite close and offers good connections. The property has a network of short walking trails through a pleasant woodland.
Recommended for: Sightseeing

5/5
Comments from Owner Guestbook
E-mail addresses are available on request. Many are returning for their second & third holiday. From Malta 'Felt really at home in your cosy cottage.' From U.K Lancs 'Delightful cosy surrounds.' From English 10 year old girl 'When I stepped in, I knew I was warm & safe.' From Canada 'Enjoyed the golf.' From Vic. Australia 'Simply paradise.' & 'stocked from top to bottom with everything we ever wanted & more, it was magical.' From London. U.K. 'Stunning place.' From Aberdeen, Scotland 'Woodland was pure magic.'

Relevant to the upgrade next door:-

http://www.qype.com/place/1061173-Dales-Farm-cottage-Dunfermline?

lang=en

Please add a review:-

http://www.mycottageholiday.co.uk/cottage_info.php?cottage_id=397

Holiday cottage near Edinburgh description Bedroom

2008-12-08T13:28:00.007Z

http://www.lupain-holiday-rentals.com/search-result/mode/mainsearch/Scotland/Edinburgh-and-Lothians/property_bedroom/7

Main bedroom

2 bedrooms, main bedroom with double & single, small twin room.

Ideal for a family - 2 parents & 1 or 2 children.

Maximum 2 adults & up to 4 children/babies.

Cots & z bed can be requested before hand.

Also high chair & baby equipment.

From £290 low season to £490 per week in high season, based on 2 adults & up to 2 children.

Also classic 2 berth caravan for hire.

A handful of individual pitches with camp fires for family campers.

Out of season self catering B & B.

http://www.woodlandcottages.co.uk/ or e mail chris.barley@virgin.net or phone 01383 417681

Holiday cottage Scotland location

2008-11-27T15:28:00.005Z

View of bridges from living room window

10 miles north of Edinburgh
Just a couple of miles north of the 19th century historic Forth Rail bridge. Take a train from Inverkeithing which is a mile away & travel over it. Very good park & ride for coach as well as train.
Just a few paces from your door, you can join the cycle path to Inverkeithing, then it's harbour & then as far as you want to cycle on the Fife cycle path.

2 miles east is St. David's Bay, Dalgety Bay & a couple of miles on is Aberdour beach.
30 miles to Perth & Stirling.
Lovely places to visit like Dollar Glen, Aberfeldy, Crieff, Kinross & Loch Leven (cycle path & boat ride).
Great for touring Lochs & Glens, whisky distilleries & fishing villages.
Historic cities & castles, Linlithgow palace, Blair Atholl, Falkland palace (King James), Dunfermline Abbey (Robert the Bruce & Queen Margaret. Andrew Carnegie's birthplace.
Inverkeithing 1 mile away has library with e mail facilities, shops, pub, , post office, phone box, bank, take away food, doctor, dentist, etc.
Local hospital 3 miles away off Halbeath road.
Nearby childrens' activity park, swimming baths, Deep Sea world, etc.
Local restaurants 2 miles, Nandos, Mexican, Chinese buffet, Pizza hut, burgers, Kentucky chicken, etc.
2 miles to 24 hour supermarket.
http://www.woodlandcottages.co.uk/

http://www.shaggycomputers.co.uk/dave/scotsmill.htm Scots mill Hillend by Inverkeithing - the ruins can be seen from the front of the holiday cottage.

Logs and woodland management

2008-11-27T15:25:00.004Z

Logs for the woodburning stoves
Cutting up dead trees for the fires at the cottages and camp.
I've been taking firewood out of the various parts of the woods since 1971.

A lot of it is elm, hanging around dead for maybe thirty years.
There's a little oak, plenty of sycamore and ash.
What I really like is that I'm cleaning up the land and getting free heat at
the same time.

This year I've finally made a decent store place under cover,

so it's worth cutting up green wood like elder and cherry, expecting to not to use it until next year.

Logs and coal at £5 tub/bucket in your fuel bunker or tubtrugs in the gallery - or leave a note and cash on your 'flag' gate and we'll deliver.

Family activities Deep Sea world Fife Animal park Pick fruit. Lochore meadows

2008-11-17T17:36:00.011Z

http://www.fife.gov.uk/atoz/index.cfm?fuseaction=facility.displayNew&facid=0B6823E1-ACDA-943D-A0D046DA0CD23C31 Lochore Meadows activities.

http://www.odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s87/Dunfermline/

http://fifeanimalparkandpetcentre.com/animal_park.html

http://www.deepseaworld.com/default.asp?css=1

See link to Edinburgh zoo.
Original wooden floorboards at holiday cottage
From £295 - £495 per week.
Please quote "blogspot" when enquiring.

Family, toddler, child and baby friendly.
(Cot, high chair, bouncy cradle, microwave sterilizer and lots more f.o.c. request in advance).

All on one level so suitable for elderly and some disabled.
Ideal also for a couple.
Single parent and children welcome
( single mothers have the comfort of knowing there is a married couple in their fifties on call nearby if needed - very practical owners to solve any problems.)

Also suit cyclists (Fife cycle path a few yards from the door).

Plenty to occupy the children in the garden:-

Outdoor toys, croquet, toddler rocking horse.

One family from Australia, focused on decorating the horse chestnut tree.

Some keep a scrap book and identify the wildflowers.

Shopping Scotland

2008-11-17T15:11:00.020Z

http://antiques-perth-scotland.blogspot.com/2011/03/gourmet-foods-destiny-antiques-cafe.html

http://antiques-perth-scotland.blogspot.com/p/coffee-stop-cafe.html

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=6320401&l=b89759c191&id=107644972472
Shop St. Andrews (Twices)

http://www.nileguide.com/destination/blog/edinburgh/2010/11/24/souvenirs-in-edinburgh-holiday-and-bargain-shopping/
Souvenir shopping

http://www.nileguide.com/destination/blog/edinburgh/2010/10/20/shopping-spree-in-edinburgh/
Brilliant listing of Edinburgh shopping

http://arbroath-cottage.blogspot.com/2010/10/bill-spink-fish-smoker-arbroath.html
Arbroath smokies World famous and recommended by us also.

http://www.goldenspurtle.com/
porridge making championship 10.10.10. Tweeted by VisitScotland.

Tesco have half price offers each week at the butchery counter.
Chickens one week, pork joints another. Sirloin joints become affordable at half price and so do racks of lamb.

Golf near Fife

2008-11-17T14:37:00.012Z

Pain is good!

http://blog.standrews.co.uk/2011/01/playing-the-old-course-at-st-andrews-scotlands-home-of-golf/

http://www.standrews.org.uk/News/Latest-News/Book-tee-times-during-Open-week.aspx
The Castle course is the only one open for play during the Open 2010.

http://blog.standrews.co.uk/ open theme blog. History of golf, etc.
Fife Golf Courses - Fife golf course guide

This July will see the following guest return for the 22nd week-
Chris and Yvonne Have asked me to write up some of the golf courses I have played in the surrounding area. In hopes it will help you make your choices of where to play easier. Most of these courses are listed in the booklets Chris supplies to you.

Aberdour
A poor man’s Pebble Beach the first 8 holes play along the Firth of Forth.
Extensive views from all around the course of Edinburgh. Short but tricky
A good test for the average golfer.

Balcome Links
This is a spectacular golf setting and a testing challenge. A classic links
Course set up with good character built in each hole.

Leven Links
A classic wind swept seaside links a true test of your golfing skills. The
final qualifying course for the Open at St Andrews. If you are not hitting
them straight bring lots of balls

Pitreavie Golf Club
I did not get around to playing this one but any course designed by
Alistair McKenzie (Angusta National) is a must play. I ran out of time.

St Andrews Links Old Course
No more need be said. We got on the third time my son-in-law and I called
In for the lottery. Shot an 86 !!!

Braid Hills #1
The best £8 investment you can make in golf. The best views of Edinburgh
anywhere and one of the true tests of golf within the city. Be in good shape
before trying to climb this course. If your are a mountain goat try Braid Hills #2.

The Glen Golf Club (North Berwick)
Marvellous views, a challenging test of golf in a spectacular location.

All you have to do is look at the booklets and choose one to play and I don’t think
You can go wrong.

Hit long and prosper
Eric Mackintosh

http://sodexo-ai.sc3.spirahellic.com/newsletteronline.aspx/LkqOKYdFeXzDVHBBomEtCZMtYdMBZZohv0aHjHbTgvFL7KW1AB6YJtxWSkF3Dm7j

Animals Birds Badgers and Insects in woodland. Vane farm

2008-11-16T20:27:00.011Z

http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/v/vanefarm/seasonal_highlights.aspx
http://www.welcometoscotland.com/about-scotland/wildlife-around-scotland

Straw bale badger hide.
Area called "Brockfield".
The grass meadow paths are a favourite with the badgers,
as well as their well trodden ash paths,
passing over in to the farmer's field for a bit of straw for their bedding.
Although they are usually a dusk & dawn sighting, we have seen a mother and 2 cubs at 3 p.m. in early summer, meandering home.
What else you might see:-
Roe deer (Seen regularly in groups up to four.)
Fox ( also seen with the cub in her mouth.)
Grey squirrel.
mink, voles.
3 types of bat.
Birds:-
Buzzard, sparrowhawk, peregrine falcon, etc.
Treecreeper, green woodpecker, long eared owl, lapwing, oystercatchers, yellowhammer,
song thrush, robin, dunnock, magpie, blackbird, chaffinch, great tit, coal tit and blue tit,
linnet (nests in front garden), woodpigeon, goldfinch, greenfinch, pied wagtail on the cottage roof,
unidentified warbler.
Swallow and swifts in summer, fieldfare and redwing in winter.
Curlew in the field in front of the front garden & common gull, geese, the odd skylark.
Pheasant nest each year & several young can be seen following mum up the grassy path to the far away orchid meadow.
December, we've seen 2 pairs of bullfinch & some long tailed tits.
Butterflies & moths.
Bugs and insects:-
Dragonflies, beetles, ants, worms...
Dormant Hawthorn shield bug spotted December 2009 http://sodexo-ai.sc3.spirahellic.com/newsletteronline.aspx/LkqOKYdFeXzDVHBBomEtCZMtYdMBZZohv0aHjHbTgvFL7KW1AB6YJtxWSkF3Dm7j
No bears!

Woodland trees

2008-11-15T20:06:00.004Z

Steps from your garden in to the 15 acres of our woodland.

Thousands of trees to spot, among which is a grove of White Poplar, an area of silver birch, scots pine, wych elm, sycamore, lime, hawthorn, horse chestnut, wild cherry, rowan, wild privet, holly, beech, sessile oak, etc.

Elm trees on original pony & cart track.

Wild flowers, wild fruit.

Birds & butterflies. Insects & cute animals.

You could spend the whole holidays up the woods, there's so much of nature to explore.

A valley & a stream, rustic bridge, dens, walks, picnics, camp fire & pitch (you could even bring a tent & camp a night during your stay & do a bit of that bush craft!).

Basketball post, bats & balls.

Lots of walks through trees or meadows.

Campers individual glades & environmentally sawdust composting "dunny".

Badger hide built from straw bales.