Yesterday, a good neighbour and I lunched at Amberley Castle, just three miles from my home. This 12th Century 'pile' has been a private home for many years but, a few years ago, was opened, after much interior refurbishment, as a luxury country hotel, since when it has gained many accolades and awards and has even been listed as one of the world's top ten hotels for sheer luxury and personal attention. [Much as one might expect at the Ferintosh in Dumfries!]

Here I am in front of the castle:
The 3 ton oak portcullis is still lowered at midnight every night!

And whilst there I could not resist 'doing a Hamish', just for the record. As you can see, it was very windy in that exposed location!


PS: Scotland and Wales are not the only places to find great castles! This one is in good condition in spite of it having been knocked about a bit by Oliver Cromwell in 1643!