WALKS 2026

Forget the Tartan Army. Think instead of the Scottish Navy and Admiral Wood. Andrew Wood began his naval career as a privateer under James III (reigned 1460–1488), and flourished under James IV (reigned 1488–1513). By 1489 he was master of the king's ship the Flower[12] and the Yellow Carvel. The Scottish ships fought and captured five English ships offshore near Dunbar. In response, the English launched a larger expedition the following year under Stephen Bull, which attacked Wood's ships in the Firth of Forth. The fight lasted two days (stopping only at night) and was watched by crowds in Edinburgh. Wood eventually triumphed, despite being outnumbered in ships and guns, and Bull's ships were captured.[13] James IV knighted Wood following this battle, and allowed him to impress some of the captured English sailors, who later were put to work build the castle at Largo. Local history indicates that he ‘ utilised’ the captured English sailors to dig a canal between his castle and the local Kirk. On Sundays he had them row him along the canal to church. Wood's victory against Bull Sir Andrew was the first Captain of James IV's carrack, the Great Michael, which when constructed was the largest ship in Christendom. Today’s club walk followed in Admiral Wood’s path. We even tried to dowse for water and the canal. We failed, nor could any local or curious visitor locate the site of the canal. Our walk leader J Hogg related this fascinating local history along with the tale of Alexander Selkirk , as seven of us trekked nearly four miles for a well earned repast at the Crusoe Hotel Lower Largo culminating in a return uphill walk to base near Largo Kirk. A walk well done. Thanks too to Wikki.