Strait Path

Strait Path

Strait Path provides a link between the two main retail street areas and starts at the junction of Castlegate and High Street dropping down to Low Street. The business premises on the path present themselves rather well I think. I would certainly like to see more shops along here. Nice to walk down and watch people struggle to climb, conveniently forgetting I'll be walking in the opposite direction when the shopping's done!

I often stand at the top looking down wondering what it would be like if there were market stalls along it's length on a Saturday - nice thought but probably impractical

It's a relief when you arrive at the top, though it looks a bit bleak from this position

Low Street Banff

The 'Mercat Cross' or 'Market Cross. was an important sign in it's day. It seems to be in fine condition

The Council offices are impressive and well cared for buildings. Well done Aberdeenshire Council.

I understand the cannon, which is placed in front of the council buildings, dates from the Crimean War.

As I took the photo an elderley gentleman suggested it should be loaded then turned to face the Council building and he would do the rest - no need to worry, he said it with a smile on his face. I know he was only joking, or was he...?

Fine Buildings

click to enlarge

The Council offices are a fine example of quality buildings set in a nice part of the town. I wanted to take a separate picture of the 'Biggar Fountain' but found wherever I stood the litter bin or traffic sign spoiled the shot. What a shame such an historic structure has to be blighted in this way. I think I need to find out about the 'Biggar Fountain' in more detail

Memories

©copyright John Robin

I'm very gratful to John for allowing me to use this photograph here. I have a few more that I will place on the site in due course. I'm not planning to fill the site with historic content, though from time to time I may well go back to the past.

This photo was taken at Banff Station on 22nd August 1963. It's sure to bring back memories for many, perhaps you even know the man walking along the edge of the platform.

When I started this 'Blog' my intention was to concentrate on the good things about Banff because there are plenty but I'm reminded that it isn't all good and the suggestion is that I try to give a more balanced view of the town and surrounding area. Plenty of people tell me that things have changed for the worse, no doubt with some things that's true but not everything is 'for the worse' and so I will continue along with the 'Blog' trying to add content about three times a week if possible and at the same time paint a true picture of the town and what it has to offer...in my opinion

Banff Bridge

Click to enlarge

Banff Bridge with the fast flowing River Deveron flowing into the sea. I've realised since starting this 'Blog' that I have very few pictures of Banff, so I aim to remedy that as and when I can. If the weather holds out and Mrs Blog doesn't find me too many jobs to do I should get more pictures this week. I recently came across some very interesting pictures of the railway here in Banff and I'm pleased to say I've been given permission to use them on this site - so I'll be doing that sometime this week all being well

Lest we forget

Earlier today at the Memorial

Duff House

Duff house, designed by William Adam (1689-1748) and built between 1735 - 1740 - Reputed to be one of the finest Georgian houses in Britain. Close to the River Deveron it's setting is fantastic. Well worth a visit, parking is free and there is a fine woodland walk starting from within the grounds.

click picture to enlarge