Since reading the Davinci Code in 2006 I have wanted to visit Roslyn Chapel……….A bright winter’s January day…………….perfect for light through stained glass windows!
The Chapel lies south of Edinburgh in Midlothian. Founded in 1446 by William St Claire, the Chapel took over 40 years to complete. Roslyn has survived turbulent times, reformation, part demolition, and general disrepair. Initial restoration was carried out in 1736 and then in earnest in the early 1880′s by the St Clair family. By 1862 the Chapel was once more a working Church.
Our friendly, informative guide was a pleasure to meet………..the most fabulous carvings and stonework I have ever seen. Detailed figures, angels, flowers and vines adorn every surface. Well worth a visit, but plan well……………since the Davinci Code was released visitor numbers to this small village have shot from around 30 thousand each year to around 260 thousand www.rosslynchapel.com
Another cold snap is upon us and I have been out in the crisp air splitting Ash logs for the fire. The Ash tree is not only a towering beauty admired in our woodlands and hedgerows, but produces a hard wood that burns bright and gives off a great heat………………………reminding me of the old Woodman’s poem.” Logs to burn” Find it on Google!
The photographer that caught my eye this month with his atmospheric image of a solitary Ash tree in a winter hedgerow was Chris Charlesworth. See more of his work at www.chrischarlesworth.co.uk
This years Masters Snooker is from Alexander Palace in London. Great tournament and some surprises behind the scenes. This was the players lounge………………very grand. The little Lynn in the middle gives you some idea how huge these murals are!
