Culloden Battlefield and the Kelpies

Back in September on our tour of Scotland we visited Culloden Battlefield and the Kelpies. You could not really get any further apart in age, stucture or reason, I loved both places.

A National Trust of Scotland property the Battle of Culloden is significant in Scottish history, its popularity increased by the Outlander TV series. The battle took place on 16th April 1746 between the Red Coats (British Government) and the Jacobites (those wanting to restore the House of Stuart). The Duke of Cumberland's army won the battle with 300 wounded or killed soldiers; the Jaobite loss was far greater, 2000 killed in a battle that lasted just a few hours.

The visitor centre tells the story from both sides, I must admit although this was our second visit I still find it a little confusing and have to remember who's side I'm reading from. The Battlefield itself really makes you think of what happened in the past, it's silence, it's openness, the remaining stones ... it made me shudder at times. 

Our final visit on our tour was to see The Kelpies, I have seen them many times on TV and always wanted to see them in person. The two 30 metre high sculptures are the centre point of The Helix, a park for everyone to enjoy with waterways, cyclepaths and wide open spaces. 

I loved their juxa construction, such soft shapes and lines made of riveted metal. They seemed so lifelike, really amazing and I'm delighted to have stood along such powerful structures.