First Monday of my holiday – husband at work and children occupied so I went out with my camera. I pass Craigmillar Castle every day on my way to work and have visited it several times before.

Craigmillar Castle is one of the most perfectly preserved castles in Scotland. Situated on the southern part of Edinburgh – a mile outside the old city walls.

Building began in the early 15th century, and over the next 250 years the castle became a comfortable residence surrounded by fine gardens and pasture land. The castles history is not only closely involved with the city, but plays an important part in the story of Mary Queen of Scots who fled to Craigmillar Castle after the murder of Rizzio. It was in the castle the plot was hatched to murder Marys  husband, Lord Darnley. Source – Visit Scotland.