On Friday, my partner and I were so stressed out that we almost broke down. But being the positive and outgoing people we are, we handled life the best way we knew how. We decided to take a deep breath, and on Sunday, we made plans to destress at Loch Lomond.
If you're a regular reader of the Melody Jacob blog, you already know how excited we were when we first visited Loch Lomond. So we decided to go back to a place that brought us so much happiness. And yes, we packed a school bag—funny, I know. We also packed food, drinks, and water and set off on the 40-minute drive to Loch Lomond.
I enjoyed the drive, as always. My partner is a careful driver—never rushing, always obeying traffic laws. For me, enjoying the view with music playing as we drive together is always a delight. Sometimes I sing along, and sometimes I fall asleep, especially on the way back.
We met some warm and friendly people at the entrance of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. We also signed up for the monthly subscription, so now every time we visit Loch Lomond—or any location under the same management—we get free parking. And since we often visit different places each month, sometimes even two in a day, the £5 subscription fee is a great deal for us.
When we reached the beach area, we walked to another side where there were some people around. I wanted to take some photos and dip in the water, but the sun kept playing with us—it would disappear, then shine again, and we’d see it glowing from afar. Dipping in the water started to seem like not the best idea, but we were prepared. We brought towels, coconut oil, antiperspirant—everything we needed to feel comfortable and enjoy our time.
I don't know the brand of my pink polka dot swimsuit, but my mom got it for me. I bought this hat on our way to Loch Lomond on Sunday; we stopped by Springburn shopping center, and I saw it on a mannequin inside the Marie Curie charity store. They had four of them, so I got one.
I fell asleep on the way, and later that night, I slept so well. It was truly a refreshing experience.
You should try a cold dip sometime. Or wait—have you tried it before?
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Exploring the Historic Dean Castle: A Step Back in Time
The absolute highlight for me? Stepping back in time at the recently done-up 14th-century Dean Castle. You can just feel the history oozing from the stones. It was the ancestral pad of the Boyd Family for over 400 years (yep, it was originally called Kilmarnock Castle). Inside, they've got these incredible collections—think proper old-school European arms and armour, plus a fascinating stash of early musical instruments. Total history geek-out moment. (The Boyd Family, who were Lords of Kilmarnock, played a significant role in Scottish history after being granted these lands by Robert the Bruce in 1316. Their influence spanned centuries, connecting them to events involving James III, the Covenanters, and even Bonnie Prince Charlie.)
Relaxing at the Treehouse Café in the Visitor Centre
We took a breather at the Treehouse Café in the Visitor Centre – lovely spot with cracking views over the park. The child had strawberry ice cream, which she quickly got tired of eating real quick. I guess she wasn't really hungry for ice cream, just the idea of always getting a treat when visiting a place.
It's an ideal location for satisfying your caffeine craving and engaging in conversation. Plus, it's open daily, so you can always walk in.
Discovering Nature and More at the Rural Life Centre & Woodland Walks
We also had a wander around the Rural Life Centre, which was surprisingly interesting, all about sustainable living and that. Then we hit the woodland walks – so peaceful and a great chance to stretch the legs. And of course, the little one was in her element at the Adventure Playground, burning off all that kid energy. (Things to do with kids Kilmarnock definitely includes this playground!)
Dean Castle: Free Entry and Daily Tours
Dean Castle itself, right in the heart of the park, is free to get in. It's open every day (we were there on a Sunday; times are 10 am-4 pm, last entry 3:30 pm), and you can even join a free tour of the castle. (The castle's collections include a wide array of European arms and armour, offering a fascinating look at historical weaponry. The early musical instruments collection is also extensive and quite unique for a castle of this size.)
A Castle with a Story: The Boyd Family and Scottish History
This place has some serious stories to tell. The Boyd Family got the land way back in 1316. It's linked to some big names in Scottish history – Robert the Bruce, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and even Robert Burns. It's now looked after by East Ayrshire Leisure, and they've done a cracking job with the recent renovations. Oh, and get this – there's a local legend about the head of the 4th Earl of Kilmarnock being kept in one of the towers. Spooky. (History of the Boyd Family is deeply intertwined with Kilmarnock and Ayrshire.)
Accessibility and Facilities at Dean Castle Country Park
It's also important to note that the park offers wheelchair accessibility, despite some limitations in the castle itself. There are lots of parking spaces and a wee gift shop. Honestly, Dean Castle Country Park is an excellent choice for a day out in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire. I enjoy visiting castles. This is not one of my favorites, nor is it among my top three; at the moment, Dumbarton Castle remains at the top of my list.
Here is a summary for 11 fun and interesting activities to do in Deans Castle
Plan your visit to Dean Castle Country Park today! This free attraction in Ayrshire offers a fantastic blend of history, nature, and family fun.
On our way to Largs, Seamill Beach just screamed "photo opportunity!" Seriously, the views across to the Isle of Arran and down the Firth of Clyde are breathtaking. We had to pull over and soak it all in for a good half hour. And if you know me, I can't resist a good beachcombing session – those beautifully shaped stones just call my name. I'm a bit of a stone collector, so I was happily picking out the lovely ones.
Seamill actually gets its name from one of its oldest buildings—the Sea Mill, which is this old grain watermill that was even in a map from way back in 1654, made by Johannes Blaeu in Amsterdam.
The village has a golf club called West Kilbride Golf Club—full 18-hole course and even a putting green if you're just practicing.
For those planning a stop, Seamill Beach is on the Ayrshire coast, near Seamill and West Kilbride. It's a mix of sand and rocks, perfect for a stroll along the Ayrshire Coastal Path. Bird watchers, keep your eyes peeled. Getting there is easy via the A737, or the Glasgow bus drops you right in Seamill. There's a car park at the end of Hyndman Road. Nearby, you'll find the Seamill Hydro with its restaurant and bars. This hotel that opened in 1880, back when “hydropathic” places were super trendy for like health and wellness stuff. West Kilbride, a short drive away, has shops and more eateries, plus a train station with Glasgow links. And for the dog owners out there, your furry pals are welcome year-round. Don't forget to check out the rock pools at low tide.
Photo by Robert Forever Ago
After visiting Devil’s Pulpit, we drove around looking for a place called Queen Elizabeth Park. Unfortunately, the map wasn’t too clear, so we stopped to ask a lady for directions. She kindly offered us her parking spot and drove off, and that's when we noticed Cobleland. At first, we thought it was just another outdoor camping spot. But no—turns out, they have their own tents for rent and even wooden cabins covered with tent material.
We went to ask a man at the mini store, which had all the camping necessities, and he pointed us in the right direction to check out the setup. We did, and I loved it. The campsite is nestled in nature, surrounded by trees and bushes, with a river nearby. There’s even a parking lot close enough for people to park their cars right next to their tents. It felt cozy and peaceful.
While we were there, we saw a couple setting up their tent, and my partner suggested we check out their website to learn more—maybe we could come back and camp here. I agreed; it seemed like a great spot. Plus, the rooms have heaters, lamps, and everything you need—though it’s warm, it’s not too warm to go without a heater. They also provide kitchen utensils, plates, blankets, a toaster, a cooker, a mini fridge, a waste bin, and pillows. There’s even a fire pit area if you want to sit by the fire at night, right in front of the structure.
The vibe was just right. Inside, there are small camping beds—kind of like the ones I had at boarding school (haha, I’ll spare you the memories). They also have running water in the bathrooms, a drinking water tap, and a toilet area. I’ll admit, I’m not sure I could camp in winter, but if you’re into that, I’m certain it would be great. For me, I think summer would be the best time to go.
Curious to learn more, I checked out their website, and here’s what I found: it’s called Cobleland Campsite, and you can enjoy both caravan and camping options. The site sits on the bank of the River Forth, right in Queen Elizabeth Forest.
After exploring the campsite, we found out there are a few extra perks that really caught my attention. For starters, they offer a Pamper Room, so you can indulge a little while you’re out in nature. There's also a laundry service if you need to freshen up your clothes during your stay, along with towels and bed linen—though these do come at an additional cost.
For the BBQ lovers, you’re in luck! They offer BBQ facilities, along with gas hobs, and you can rent crockery and cutlery—again, for a small additional cost. They also provide electric hook-ups at many of the pitches, so you can stay connected if you need to, but it’s still very much a nature retreat.
Drinking water is readily available at various points around the park, with a filling station for motorhomes and tourers, along with waste disposal facilities. It’s clear they’ve thought of everything to make your stay comfortable.
For the little ones (and adults who love a bit of fun), there’s a play area with swings, climbing bars, and a small assault course. It’s a great spot to let off some steam if you’re not busy relaxing by the fire.
And yes, dogs are welcome at Cobleland, as long as they’re kept on a short lead and under control. So, feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
For those who need extra convenience, there’s 24-hour access to freezers where you can re-freeze your ice packs. Plus, the on-site shop has everything you might need from basic camping gear to BBQ supplies, snacks, drinks, and even local info to help you explore the area.
The washroom facilities are modern, with two purpose-built blocks that include laundry and drying services. It’s worth mentioning that these facilities are kept really clean, and they make sure you have everything you need to feel comfortable while camping.
Cobleland Campsite is beautifully located on the River Forth in Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, which is just 13 miles from Ben Lomond (remember when I shared our adventure there? That’s the place!). The park’s natural beauty is breathtaking, and there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Be sure to check their social media and news pages for updates on upcoming events, too!
Water activities near Cobleland are a must. If you’re into kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, there are plenty of spots nearby. Loch Lomond, just 15 miles from the site, is a great place to launch your boat, and if you don’t have one, there are cruises and boat hires available. Lake fishing is also popular at the nearby Lake of Menteith, where you can hire a fishing boat.
For walkers, there are several trails directly from Cobleland. The Doon Hill and Easter Trail lead into Forestry Land Scotland, while the Aberfoyle Cycle Path is perfect for cyclists. If you’re more into relaxed strolls, the Woodland Walk is a peaceful path down to some stepping stones.
If you’re up for a bit of water fun, there’s even an open water swimming spot at the end of Loch Ard, just a short distance from the campsite.
For those into more challenging activities, there’s mountain biking, hiking, and even river fishing on the River Forth. Cobleland is also close to some incredible hill walks, with stunning views of Ben Lomond and other surrounding peaks.
When you’re ready to venture off the site, there’s plenty to explore nearby, like the Blair Drummond Safari Park, Doune Castle, and Glengoyne Distillery. Go Ape is just 10 minutes away if you want to challenge yourself with some high-wire fun.
The William Wallace Monument is only a 30-minute drive, and if you’re looking for more family-friendly activities, the Peak Sports Village and the Play Trail are nearby.
You can book your stay via Booking.com, and one of the things I really appreciate is that the photos on the website are exactly what you’ll get—no misleading edits. What you see is truly what you get, which makes the whole experience feel even more authentic.
Price per night: £125.00
So, if you're looking for a charming getaway in nature with all the comforts of home, Cobleland Campsite is definitely worth considering.
I wouldn’t recommend Devil's Pulpit—I honestly believe it should be closed to the public. This is one of those posts where I had to sit down and really reflect. I believe that nature has a purpose and we must sometimes allow it to unfold naturally. I understand that people love to take a walk and enjoy the views, but even the slightest misstep here can lead to disaster.
This area is experiencing rapid erosion, seemingly consuming the land. From what I saw, the government tried to set up protective barriers, but the relentless erosion keeps eating away at the soil. They kept extending the barrier away from the erosion but nature is not giving up. There’s even a sign warning visitors about the danger, not just from the unstable ground but from the falling trees as well. Trees are toppling over every day, and loose stones are tumbling down. It’s a natural disaster in the making, because no one can truly stop nature.
The Devil’s Pulpit & Waterfall in Finnich GlenI felt a mix of fear and unease, like I might fall if I got too close—the drop and the unstable footing made me very uncomfortable. Normally, my partner would be the one urging me to explore further, but this time he was already ready to leave. For the first time on our adventure, my partner said, “I don’t like this place—let’s go.”
We managed to find a safe spot near the water, well away from the Devil’s Pulpit, and took some photos from a distance. The climb was exhausting—we were out of breath and had to stop to rest because we had to climb a fallen tree to get a bit close to the flowing river. We avoided taking too many photos of the Devil’s Pulpit itself because the ground is so soft and treacherous that if you get too excited, you might end up falling. Plus, the wind and scattered debris only add to the risk.
To anyone planning a visit, please consider another spot in Scotland. There are plenty of beautiful natural areas that are much safer. As the name implies, the Devil’s Pulpit is dangerous—it can kill you with a single fall. This place gave me a really fearful vibe, but I can’t fault nature for that; it wasn’t inviting us in—the danger was just there, and we found ourselves in it. Honestly, we never expected to stumble into such a perilous zone. It’s not a place you’d ever want to bring a child.
The photos we saw online have enhanced colors, but they don’t accurately capture just how dangerous this place is. If you insist on visiting this location, be sure to go with someone. This spot isn’t a hidden secret. Thanks to its appearances in TV shows like Outlander and films like the 2019 Pokémon movie and Outlaw King, it's become a bit more popular. It’s easier to find now, but be warned: for safety reasons, it can sometimes be closed off. This address is A809 &, B834, Glasgow G63 9QJ. It is located near Drymen in Stirlingshire, Scotland, approximately 15 miles northwest of Glasgow. Getting there is straightforward. The nearest city is Glasgow, and from there it's roughly a 30-40 minute drive into the countryside along the A809 road. However, due to ongoing maintenance work, the traffic light at the maintenance area added a few extra minutes to our journey.
Now, you might wonder: is it illegal to walk down to the Devil’s Pulpit? Not at all—but keep in mind that this is private land. In Scotland, you’re allowed to wander on private property, but that doesn’t give you a free pass to treat it like your personal playground. Unfortunately, some visitors have littered, damaged property, left behind BBQs, and even started fires. Remember, when you’re out in nature, the best thing you should leave behind is just your footprints.
When’s the best time to visit? Frankly, Finnich Glen is no longer a secret treasure. It gets pretty busy, especially during peak seasons and weekends. When we visited, it wasn't so busy because we visited on a Monday. If you’re after some solitude for photography or just a peaceful escape, aim for early morning or late afternoon. In Scottish summers, daylight can stretch until around 10 pm, which means sunnier, drier, and safer conditions for your adventure. Just don’t plan to be there too late—it’s not the kind of spot you want to be navigating in the dark! I can only imagine how scary this place would be at night. No wayyyy!
Before you head out on your Devil’s Pulpit hike, here’s a quick packing guide based on my own choices:
- Footwear: I wore my sneakers; don't be like me; you need proper hiking boots or waterproof shoes.
- Clothing: I dressed well, but I did not layer as much as I always did—next time, I will stick with proper hiking attire.
- Torch/Headlamp: Some sections of the hike—like Jacob’s Ladder—can get really dark. Trust me, if you ever find yourself in the gorge after sunset, a headlamp will be a total lifesaver. Honestly, visiting a spot like this really teaches you the importance of being prepared for anything.
- Water Bottle: While you might think the Devil’s Pulpit would have fresh water, no, you cannot drink the water; I don't think it is safe. We carried our own water. Carry your own water.
- Camera/Phone: Of course, you want to capture the memories—it’s better to have a waterproof cover over your phone but I did not have that.
- Wear your garment of awareness. Don't be carried away. I mean, be conscious and don't be too free around here.
There are places you visit, and all that will come to your mind is—what a mighty God we serve! You will look at God’s creation, and no matter how many pictures you take, you will never be able to fully explain the feeling. It is simply indescribable! Look, God created the heavens and the earth, and there is no doubt about it!
As we drove from Glasgow towards Glencoe yesterday, the views were so breathtaking that all I could say was, “What a mighty God we serve! You are worthy, Lord!” If you want to feel God, just open your heart, and you will. The towering trees, the majestic mountains with mist hugging their peaks, and the countless waterfalls cascading down like liquid silver—it was pure magic. The fields stretched endlessly, shifting from golden brown to lush green, creating a calming, humbling effect as we drove through the heart of nature.
When we reached the massive rocks, I could almost feel them breathing—these things are alive, watching over us. It was an overwhelming sensation, something beyond words, and oh, I thank God for this day! My partner and I had planned this journey together, and when we finally arrived, I was completely overwhelmed—it was just too much beauty to take in at once! We lost count of the waterfalls; we saw over 30, but I’m sure there were many more. Every turn, every stop, revealed another hidden gem waiting to be captured in a photo. We walked around, snacking on green grapes, chips, and chocolates, just soaking in the moment.
As we drove from Glasgow towards Glencoe yesterday, the views were so breathtaking that all I could say was, “What a mighty God we serve! You are worthy, Lord!” If you want to feel God, just open your heart, and you will. The towering trees, the majestic mountains with mist hugging their peaks, and the countless waterfalls cascading down like liquid silver—it was pure magic. The fields stretched endlessly, shifting from golden brown to lush green, creating a calming, humbling effect as we drove through the heart of nature.
When we reached the massive rocks, I could almost feel them breathing—these things are alive, watching over us. It was an overwhelming sensation, something beyond words, and oh, I thank God for this day! My partner and I had planned this journey together, and when we finally arrived, I was completely overwhelmed—it was just too much beauty to take in at once! We lost count of the waterfalls; we saw over 30, but I’m sure there were many more. Every turn, every stop, revealed another hidden gem waiting to be captured in a photo. We walked around, snacking on green grapes, chips, and chocolates, just soaking in the moment.
Worshipping in the car added an entirely different dimension to the experience—it was a whole spiritual encounter! I kept wondering, “Who says there is no God? Just look around you; He is everywhere. The evidence is right in front of us!” Glencoe felt like an endless adventure. As you drive, there are designated stops to take in each stunning view—it’s like driving through a living, breathing masterpiece, with every stop telling its own unique story.
Oh, and let me tell you about the famous Scottish Highland cow! I got so close, and it was the cutest thing ever! I absolutely adore cows, and this one was so fluffy and brown—like a real-life teddy bear! The crystal-clear water flowing from the rocks was unlike anything from a tap; you could see the purity in its color.
Glencoe is not just a place—it’s an entire experience! It reminds me of the Nanka erosion site in Anambra State, Nigeria.
We drove for over 2 hours and 30 minutes to get there, but the journey back took less than 2 hours. And let me tell you, both directions offered equally spectacular views. One tip I have for traveling to Glencoe—if you have a personal vehicle, you’ll get the best experience! The beauty of Glencoe is that all the must-visit spots are right along the road, so driving allows you to stop wherever your heart desires, making the journey even more fun and adventurous.
There are professional photographers capturing the landscape, and I might never be able to fully express just how happy, grateful, and blessed we felt during this visit. But I hope these photos and the smiles on our faces tell the stories our hearts can’t put into words.
There are professional photographers capturing the landscape, and I might never be able to fully express just how happy, grateful, and blessed we felt during this visit. But I hope these photos and the smiles on our faces tell the stories our hearts can’t put into words.
So, what are the best places to stop? Using a map and having a fully charged phone is key! And don’t forget to screenshot the emergency rescue number—just in case!
If there’s one thing I love, it’s the countryside. I know it’s not for everyone, but for me, there’s nothing better than being surrounded by nature. The peace, the open space, and the freedom of living away from the constant noise—it just feels right. I dream of a life in my own little big town, tucked away from the world, with a farm, a horse stable, cows, goats, elephants—yes, elephants—and all the joys of country farm life.
So, when we visited Pitlochry as part of our pre-Valentine's adventure, I was excited. The drive there was just as enjoyable as exploring the city itself. Pitlochry has its fair share of attractions, but what truly captured my heart was the quiet, the vast green landscapes, and, of course, the animals. It felt like a perfect escape.
Pitlochry is a charming town located in Perthshire, Scotland.
First Stop: Pitlochry Kinnaird
Our journey began at Kinnaird, a charming village in Perthshire, Scotland, known for its deep history and breathtaking scenery. The name “Kinnaird” comes from the Scottish Gaelic words ceann ard, meaning "high headland"—which makes sense once you see the views.
One of its gems is the 15th-century Kinnaird Castle, a four-story stronghold once home to the Threiplands of Fingask, a Jacobite family. It was impossible not to stop and take countless photos—the landscape was like something out of a postcard. The fresh air, the rolling hills, and the sense of history all made for a moment worth capturing.
Second Stop: Pitlochry Moulin
Not too far from Kinnaird, we arrived at Moulin, where we made sure to snap a picture with the famous signpost that welcomes visitors with a burst of flowers. Pitlochry is known for its Pitlochry in Bloom initiative, and you can tell they take pride in their floral displays. Every corner felt like a painting, with colors that popped against the green countryside.
Not too far from Kinnaird, we arrived at Moulin, where we made sure to snap a picture with the famous signpost that welcomes visitors with a burst of flowers. Pitlochry is known for its Pitlochry in Bloom initiative, and you can tell they take pride in their floral displays. Every corner felt like a painting, with colors that popped against the green countryside.
It’s been a while since I posted a travel update—or has it really been that long? I’m not so sure. Either way, on October 10, 2024, I found myself ready to explore a part of the city I’d overlooked for too long: the Glasgow City Chambers, right in the heart of George Square.
The building had always intrigued me, so I decided to step inside. A friendly receptionist greeted me and, sensing my curiosity, mentioned that a tour was about to begin. He handed me a pass and invited me to join, a golden opportunity to see the inner workings of this historic building.
Each space showcased architectural splendor that seemed timeless yet perfectly in the bustling city center.
The City Chambers, or the Municipal Buildings, as they’re also known, have been at the heart of Glasgow's government since 1889. Designed to reflect the city’s civic pride, this Category A listed building has served as the headquarters of Glasgow City Council since 1996, standing proudly on George Square’s eastern side, a landmark to locals and visitors alike.
The tour itself was a delight. Our guide had a wonderful sense of humor, mixing fun facts with a genuine passion for Glasgow’s history. It was clear he enjoyed sharing these stories, and his enthusiasm pulled us all in.
As we explored further, I learned how the need for a grand city chamber had been growing for over a century. By the 18th century, the old Glasgow Tolbooth at Glasgow Cross was struggling to keep up with the city’s expanding governance needs. In 1814, the council moved to public buildings near Saltmarket and later, in 1844, to the City and County Buildings between Wilson Street and Ingram Street.
However, City Architect John Carrick didn't find a suitable, purpose-built location for Glasgow's civic operations until the early 1880s. Carrick ultimately chose George Square’s east side, and the rest is history—one that lives on vividly in the intricate details of this building.
The tour left me with a renewed appreciation for the city and its layered past. The Glasgow City Chambers isn’t just a building; it’s a storyteller, keeping the legacy of Glasgow’s transformation from a bustling town to a proud metropolis alive.
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