Scottish Bagpipes

When talking about Bagpipes, one may think of the Scottish Great Highland Bagpipe. Why? Because for common people, it is not only music instrument itself, but also a representative of the traditional culture of the Scottish Highland. It is said that the local tribes started using the Bagpipes to make the friendly contacts with each other in 17th century, in order to combine their powers together to resist invasions of other nations. The Great Highland Bagpipe has been an indispensable part of Scottish culture for a long time and still plays an important role of the whole society today. Thank you very much Joan for sending me the nice card via Postcrossing! The stamps is one of the set issued in 2013 devoted to the bicentenary of the publication of Jane Austen’s most famous novel Pride and Prejudice.

Old and New Towns of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle is a fortress which dominates the skyline of the city of Edinburgh, Scotland. It is in the care of historic Scotland, and is Scotland's most-visited paid tourist attraction. As the backdrop to the annual Edinburgh Military Tattoo it has become a recognizable symbol of Edinburgh and of Scotland. The Castle is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site “Old and New Towns of Edinburgh” inscribed in 1995. Thanks to Jean from China, who lives in Edinburgh and sent me this beautiful postcard!

(Updated on 26/11/2013) Another card received from Jean which shows Dugald Stewart Monument and view from Calton Hill. Thanks again!

Durham Castle and Cathedral

Durham is a city sits on the River Wear in north east England. It is well known for its Norman cathedral (as shown on the top right of the card) and 11th-century castle (as shown on the top left of the card), both designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO list named “Durham Castle and Cathedral” in 1986. The castle has been the home of Durham University since 1832. Thank you very much my friend Lindsey Lee, for this great postcard featuring some of the principal landmarks of Durham. The special Christmas stamps and London Tower cancellation are appreciated too!

The British Isles

Thanks to my friend Lindsey Lee, who studied in UK, for this great card of the British Isles. The stamp and special postmark are devoted, by Royal Mail, to Roald Dahl, a famous British story writer especially for children. Much appreciated!

More information about the stamps can be found here.