We had an uncharacteristicly organised morning, and were actually away in good time. Traffic was also good, so much so that Fiona had to comment on what good time we were making. Literally around the next bend the brake lights came on as we hit the back of a 3 mile tailback going through roadworks.
Changing our plans slightly, once we got through the roadworks we diverted into Dunblane to get sandwiches before resuming on to Doune.
It is a spectacular looking castle. Sadly there was a wedding reception just starting so there was no way to get anyway near the castle. The tiny car park was overflowing and cars were beginning to be abandoned on the narrow road. We just about managed to get back out before the whole area jammed solid. (Run away! Run away!) A quick consult of the Historic Scotland handbook showed that Inchmahome Priory was a suitable alternative visit.
This is a ruined 13th century priory located on an island in the middle of Lake Monteith. To get on, you turn a signal and a boat comes across from the island to collect you. Once you get to the island you either buy your admission with free boat back, or buy a boat ticket back with free entry - a perfect business model - free admission, pay to exit. Of course, the last boat focuses the mind so we didn't stay too long but once we started to criticise the "artists impression" on the information boards we knew it was time to go.
