Kat Crichton

I went to Crichton castle while researching my family history in Edinburgh. Unfortunately the castle interior is only open during the summer months.

The castle is set on a the side of a hill, in the rugged rolling landscape of Midlothian with majestic views across the valley. This place really feels like it’s away from civilisation.

Behind the main structure is a ruined stable building that looks more like a church. Apparently servants lived on the floor above the animals.

One day I’ll have to try to get back there when the place is open, but I’d still recommend visiting for it’s beautiful location.

I’m in an internet café in Edinburgh, finding out about the Crichton family roots.

It’s a beautiful city, somewhat reminiscent of italian hill towns. As a result of the usual British planning authorities, disasterous 1970’s carbuncles sit cheek to cheek with the stunning ancient architechture. Its reputation as the Athens of North Europe is however fully justified (although Athens seems much more poluted.

I’ve discovered that the Crichtons wear the Royal Stuart tartan and are entitled to also wear the Edinburgh tartan in acknowledgement of their services to Edinburgh. We plan to visit Crichton castle soon (in Midlothian) to find out more.

My partner Penny is looking into the roots of the Ramage family which are also reputed to have links with Edinburgh as well as Perth.

If your feeling rather flush and want some fantastic food and service, visit the Witchery just outside the castle gates. The wine menu alone beggars belief and the environment is magical.

Overall, I’d certainly recommend Edinburgh, small enough to walk round and filled with wonderful historical sights and sounds.

This part of Poole has a lot more character than the rest. Poole harbour is the second largest natural harbour in the world (after Sydney) and is currently home to Bayliner motor yachts’ boatyard.

Along the quay are some good traditional pubs as well as more contemporary bars and restaurants.

There are currently plans to redevelop parts of Poole quay, but the work is stalled at the moment due to a combination of liquidation and planning problems.

I visited Cork several years ago, but would love to go back again.

It’s the most wonderfully green and pleasant place and the natives are the friendliest people I’ve met anywhere in my travels.

Tintagel, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur has a slightly eerie feel to it. The ruined castle is spread over the top of a large craggy rock formation. The beeches and cliffs are foreboding and there are many walks around the area with breathtaking views.

The first time we went, it was the week before Halloween and we arrived at the same time as a witch’s convention. I can’t imagine a more appropriate place. Visit out of season and you’ll experience even more of the character of this desolate corner of Cornwall.

My gf and I have visited a couple of times as artists in residence at King Arthurs Castle Hotel, which has views over the ruins from the next headland.

Make sure you visit King Arthurs Hall, which has some of the finest stained glass in europe.

Visit Assisi to see the Giotto paintings. They mark the change in depiction in art from two-dimensional symbolic religious icons to lifelike human figures and portraits. The two-level Basilica of St. Francis is covered in world-renowned art.

This is a beautiful medieval city in a stunning location, but parking is a bit of a nightmare – so arrive in the morning if you can.

A wonderfully diverse country with an agreable climate. South Africa has beautiful mountains, game reserves (the Kruger National Park is the same size as Wales), long beautiful beaches (garden route) and friendly people.

Your money is worth more than usual here thanks to an exchange rate that makes it hard for the locals to travel to the rest of the world.

I wouldn’t recommend Johannesburg, which has unreasonably high crime rates, but have travelled around the rest of the country with no problems. I last visited about 3 years ago.