Last Wednesday turned into a memorable adventure for Allyson and me as we embarked on a long-overdue cycling journey. Despite some initial setbacks with Allyson’s bike and the ever-unpredictable Scottish weather, we managed to enjoy a splendid and brief ride that was only a short train trip away from Edinburgh. Our destination: the picturesque village of Aberdour and the historic Saint Bridget’s Kirk.
Setting Off: The Start of an Adventure
It was a splendid summer morning when we mounted our bikes and headed to Edinburgh Waverley Station. Waking up early at 6 a.m. and setting out by 8 was quite a feat for us, but it was worth every bit of effort. The train ride to Aberdour was a mere 30 minutes, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Crossing over the iconic red Forth Bridge offered breathtaking views of the expansive water beneath. The mix of anticipation and excitement was palpable as we glimpsed the picturesque bridges. Booking the tickets was a breeze, and with a train running every half hour, there was no rush.
The Coastal Path: A Symphony of Sights and Sounds
As we cycled along the Fife Coastal Path, we were greeted by the rhythmic sounds of seagulls and the gentle rustling of leaves. The path was intermittently shaded, perfect for a hot day. Occasionally, we passed through open spaces where we could enjoy the sun, but most of our ride was under the cool shade of the trees. During our journey, we encountered vibrant wildflowers, charming homes, and friendly locals, making the ride both diverse and engaging.
An interesting feature along the path was a quaint book-sharing box nestled in the forest. It piqued our interest, and to our delight, we found a Jack Reacher novel inside. This was quite amusing because while I love collecting Jack Reacher books, Allyson often finds it a tad annoying due to the ever-decreasing space on our bookshelf at home. Nevertheless, it added a fun element to our ride, much to Allyson’s chagrin.
Adapting to the Path: From Smooth Tarmac to Scenic Gravel
The path itself presented a delightful mix of terrains. Starting with smooth tarmac, it soon transitioned into scenic gravel trails. While the gravel added a layer of adventure, I would recommend some stronger tires for anyone looking to take this path. Allyson’s bike had 25mm tires, whereas I had 35mm tires, which provided a bit more stability on the rougher sections. Despite the few dirt paths, the compact gravel made it quite manageable. For those preferring a smoother ride, sticking to commute routes on asphalt would work just as well.
As we rode, the scenic beauty was ever-present. We passed by lush green meadows, glimpses of the sparkling water, and even a few cows grazing peacefully. Each turn of the path revealed new sights, making the journey continuously captivating.
Stumbling Upon History: First Glimpses of Saint Bridget’s Kirk
The closer we got to Dalgety Bay, the more tangible history became. The ruins of Saint Bridget’s Kirk emerged, cloaked in ivy and exuding an aura of forgotten tales. Built in 1178 and later altered in the 17th century for Protestant worship, the Kirk is now a hauntingly beautiful ruin maintained by Historic Environment Scotland.
Taking a moment to absorb the majestic sight, we dismounted our bikes and set up the camera equipment. The Kirk, with its roofless structure, stands in a splendid clearing with a stunning view of the water. Surrounded by trees, it felt like stepping back in time. Despite the restrictions on drone flights, I managed to capture some fantastic footage and performed a 3D scan of the ruin using Gaussian splatting, creating a detailed model of the site.
Exploring the Kirk: Unveiling the Tails
Wandering through the grounds of the Kirk, we were captivated by the historical remnants. The Dunfermline Aisle, built in 1610, houses the burial vault for the Earls of Dunfermline. Intricately carved gravestones, some from as early as the 1600s, silently shared stories of past inhabitants and timeless rituals. The site also features a smaller English Aisle and a late 16th-century addition known as Fodel Aisle. One particularly intriguing element was the piscina, a stone basin used for ritual cleansing, remarkably well-preserved by the altar.
Adding to the historical charm were the gravestones adorned with skull and crossbones, which piqued both our interests. Allyson, with her knack for storytelling, explained the connection to body snatchers and burial practices of the time, making the exploration even more fascinating.
Wandering through the grounds of the Kirk, we were captivated by the historical remnants. The Dunfermline Aisle, built in 1610, houses the burial vault for the Earls of Dunfermline. Intricately carved gravestones, some from as early as the 1600s, silently shared stories of past inhabitants and timeless rituals. The site also features a smaller English Aisle and a late 16th-century addition known as Fodel Aisle. One particularly intriguing element was the piscina, a stone basin used for ritual cleansing, remarkably well-preserved by the altar.
Adding to the historical charm were the gravestones adorned with skull and crossbones, which piqued both our interests. Allyson, with her knack for storytelling, explained the connection to body snatchers and burial practices of the time, making the exploration even more fascinating.
Adventure and Miscellaneous Moments
Our ride wasn’t without its share of delightful interruptions. Along the gravel path, I expertly manoeuvred the camera, capturing sweeping shots of the coastal beauty. At one point, we almost ventured into someone’s private property, averting an awkward encounter just in time. This brought back memories of a previous adventure where we ended up in someone’s estate, guided astray by our GPS.
The nature surroundings provided plenty of amusing distractions. We spotted cheeky dogs crossing our path and pigeons startling out of bushes, adding a touch of spontaneity to our ride. Friendly locals greeted us with smiles and hellos, and we even interacted with curious children watching us from the roadside. It was delightful to see the community’s warmth and hospitality.
Reflecting on the Ride: A Journey Well Pedalled
As we circled back to our starting point, there was a collective sense of fulfilment. Despite Allyson getting tired and both of us feeling quite hungry, the ride had been immensely rewarding. We took a lunch break at a beautiful café next to a Tesco in Aberdour, relishing the deliciously spicy food and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Our trip to Saint Bridget’s Kirk was a perfect blend of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and the simple joys of cycling. The discovery of ancient graves, the laughter shared over minor navigational hiccups, and the tranquillity of the coastal breeze were all testaments to the adventure. Each turn of the pedal brought us closer to history while grounding us in the present moment.
A particular highlight for me was using the drone to create a 3D scan of the Kirk. Although we couldn’t fly directly over the building due to restrictions, capturing the site from various angles allowed me to produce a detailed model with new perspectives. Sharing these with Allyson added an exciting technological twist to our historical exploration.
Conclusion: An Invitation for Future Adventures
Our trip to Saint Bridget’s Kirk is a reminder that every ride holds the potential for discovery and wonder. As we rode back in time, uncovering stories and embracing the landscapes, we were constantly reminded of the endless beauty and history lying just a train ride away from Edinburgh. The little piece of land stretching into the sea offered the most gorgeous scenery, right in front of the bridges, making for some stunning drone shots.
So, the next time you find yourself with a free day and a bike, remember that there’s always a new journey waiting to unfold. Keep your wheels turning, your curiosity alive, and discover the enchantment in your own backyard. Join us on more adventures—stay tuned for more cycling escapades and historical discoveries. Until next time, happy riding!
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