Heart of Scotland Holidays

01/11/2024

I took a phone call, yesterday, that reminded me just how far we still have to go, as a society, in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The call was from a potential guest, checking whether, since they're gay, we'd be happy to have them and their partner stay. It's been weighing on my mind ever since.

At Heart of Scotland Holidays we welcome anyone who puts positive energy into the world, especially those who are marginalised. As a nod to this, our logo is a rainbow (tartan) heart, and each of our units has a colour theme drawn from the pride flag (we'd go with the progress flag, but there's only six units).

I find it upsetting that the call was felt necessary, because of what it implies: presumably this person (or someone they know) was, at some point, made to feel so unwelcome that it still affects them. I hate the thought that they carry the creeping fear that they're not welcome, and that the lack of welcome could turn into something darker. If you've never personally experienced that, count yourself lucky. This world is a hard enough place without people intimidating others just for living as their true selves.

For the avoidance of doubt, we welcome bookings from everyone who treats others with decency and respect.

21/10/2024

First time needing our art easel and one of our highchairs! Took me an embarrassingly long time to build them both, but it's nice to see them getting used.

11/10/2024

Last night's Aurora was pretty spectacular and visible with the naked eye from the garden, in spite of being so near the lights of Grangemouth. I took these on my mobile phone about 23:30, standing in the site. Admittedly, the show was much more vibrant in areas with darker skies, and we saw a fabulous display in Fife earlier in the evening (I'll post some of those pictures in the comments), but we were delighted to be able to see it from the garden at all.

23/09/2024

Hard to believe the Kelpies have been there for 10 years already!

Numerous draft horses gathered at the renowned Kelpies sculptures in Scotland to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the installations.

Unveiling the Majestic Kelpies: A Symbol of Scotland’s Rich Heritage

Standing proudly as a modern marvel against the picturesque backdrop of the Scottish landscape, the Kelpies sculptures have captured the hearts and imagination of visitors from around the world. In this blog post, we embark on a journey to explore the awe-inspiring story behind the famous Kelpies sculptures, delve into their symbolism, and unravel the cultural significance that makes them an iconic representation of Scotland's rich history and heritage.

The Magnificent Kelpies: A Glimpse into Scottish Mythology

Designed by artist Andy Scott, the Kelpies sculptures are an embodiment of the mythical water horses that are said to inhabit Scotland's lochs and rivers, captivating travelers with their majestic appearance and enigmatic presence. Standing at a towering 30 meters high, these larger-than-life equine sculptures pay tribute to the importance of horses in Scottish history, symbolizing power, strength, and endurance.

The Artistic Craftsmanship Behind the Sculptures

Crafted with intricate detail and precision, the Kelpies sculptures showcase a seamless blend of artistry and engineering prowess. Constructed from stainless steel plates, each weighing a staggering 300 tonnes, the sculptures reflect the interplay of light and shadow, creating a mesmerizing effect that changes with the shifting skies of Scotland. The intricate design of the Kelpies captures the essence of movement and vitality, symbolizing the spirit of Scotland's industrial past and vibrant cultural heritage.

Exploring the Cultural Significance of the Kelpies

Beyond their striking visual appeal, the Kelpies sculptures hold a deeper meaning that resonates with Scotland's history and folklore. As guardians of the waterways, the Kelpies symbolize protection and strength, embodying the resilience and spirit of the Scottish people. The sculptures serve as a reminder of the enduring bond between humans and nature, honoring the legacy of Scotland's artisanal traditions and the timeless connection to the land.

Visiting the Kelpies: A Journey into Scotland's Past and Present

For travelers and art enthusiasts alike, a visit to the Kelpies sculptures offers a captivating experience that bridges the gap between the past and the present. Whether admiring the sculptures from afar or embarking on a guided tour to explore their intricate details up close, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the history, mythology, and cultural heritage that the Kelpies embody.

Conclusion: A Timeless Tribute to Scotland's Heritage

In conclusion, the Kelpies sculptures stand as a testament to Scotland's enduring legacy, blending art, history, and folklore into a captivating tribute to the country's rich heritage. As symbols of strength, resilience, and unity, the Kelpies inspire all who gaze upon them to embrace the spirit of Scotland and cherish the timeless traditions that define its identity.

Experience the allure of the Kelpies sculptures and embark on a journey of discovery that celebrates the artistry, mythology, and cultural significance of these magnificent equine guardians. Stand in awe of the Kelpies and witness the magic of Scotland's past and present intertwining in a symphony of steel and spirit.

May the Kelpies forever reign as icons of Scotland's majestic heritage and enduring legacy.

15/07/2024

Looking for ideas for things to get up to over the school holidays? Or need inspiration for outdoor adventure this summer? ☀️🌳

Take a look at some of our suggestions for a great day out across Falkirk here 👉 https://bit.ly/3W4GDIf

22/04/2024

Apparently Falkirk's famous horse-head sculptures, the Kelpies, have been around for ten years today!

25/12/2023

Happy Christmas, folks. Hope you all have a fabulous day!

04/12/2023

Falkirk area looking like a winter wonderland at the moment!

Paul Richardson📷 Callendar House

03/11/2023

Faw Kirk was the first church erected in the town of Falkirk, and is believed to have given rise to the town’s name! ⛪️

The grounds are the resting place of William Wallace’s finest knight, Sir John de Graeme, whose body is said to have been carried from the battlefield and laid to rest in the kirkyard by William Wallace himself! ⚔️

📍Falkirk Trinity Church
📷 IG/scotdrone

03/11/2023

Scooping leaves out of the pond seems like a never-ending task at this time of year. It's a beautiful morning for it, though!

03/07/2023

We got a rainbow for watching the Flying Scotsman cross the Avon Viaduct by Linlithgow, on her centenary tour! Not photoshopped, I promise!

09/03/2023

Lovely photo of the Wallace Monument from earlier this week - the hill we're on the lower slopes of is at the back right of the picture.

The Wallace Monument at Causewayhead, Stirling 😍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

09/03/2023

The build is progressing well and even a building site looks good in the snow! Some photos taken, this morning, around the site and the grounds of the listed building next door, whose renovation and maintenance it will fund.

03/02/2023

Kids go free for February half term at Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway! Enjoy a scenic ten mile return train journey to Manuel along the Forth Estuary, through woodlands, past waterfalls and over the mighty Avon Viaduct. There's nothing like a departure by steam, especially when children can travel for free when accompanied by a fare paying adult or senior! 🚂 https://www.bkrailway.co.uk/page/halfterm

03/02/2023

Still quite a way to go until we're ready for guests but the units are coming on and I love the new external cladding that's going to be on all the units - it really helps to integrate them into the garden and given them a common look

02/11/2022

It's a soggy morning in Polmont, but after years of challenges, heartaches and frustrations, it's amazing to have lots of activity on-site. So exciting to see progress being made!