A bit like that other bear with the red wellies, Barnaby Bear has been around a bit.

His home is with Class 1 at Greenhill Primary School in Wakefield but, whenever possible, he accompanies his classmates and teachers on their travels, and captures his adventures on camera to share them with the class when he returns.

This time he had stowed away with Mrs Hardy (aka my sister Rose, with husband Dave!) on her Easter visit to Balliemeanoch Farmhouse and Steading. It was his first trip to this part of Scotland, so he was keen to see all the sights – and of course we were only too happy to show them off!

It was a pretty packed itinerary, but here are some of Barnaby’s highlights:

Leaving snowy Yorkshire on the train

Oban – buying some fresh fish at the harbour

Inveraray town and its spectacular fairytale castle

Tarbert, a pretty fishing port on Loch Fyne

Taking the ferry from Tarbert to Portavadie

Kilchurn Castle, on the shores of Loch Awe

                                  Checking out the views at Balliemeanoch

Looking down the Kyles of Bute, from the viewpoint above Tighnabruaich

Watching the shinty at Strachur’s new playing field (Strachur won 2-1 – go Strachur!)

Dinner at our favourite local restaurant, Inver Cottage, next to old Castle Lachlan on Loch Fyne. Just re-opened for the season!

Taking the ferry from Dunoon

I’m pretty sure Barnaby had a great time – the rest of us certainly did.   We hope he will spread the good word, and come back soon!