Day Four: Edinburgh

Despite Justine and my good intentions of leaving with the group at 9.30 this morning, we didn’t manage to get out of the hotel until half past twelve. This was partially due to another ring-around with the internet, which still wouldn’t work. So we left the hotel with the hope of actually getting something done and headed towards Edinburgh castle.

First stop was McDonald’s for a brunch break, before we walked it off by walking in the gardens below the cliff face where the castle stands. The gardens used to be the moat, so we dragged ourselves up the hill and were nearly to the top when we came across the “path blocked” sign and had to make our way back down the hill to the street. We then walked back up the street to get to the castle, as the renovations on the street had made it impossible to go in the other direction.

Eventually we walked through the gates and into the castle. The views were spectacular down to the river and across to Arthur’s seat. The canons were lined up against the walls and we walked into one of the regiment exhibitions to learn more about how the soldiers and army operate. Next up was the war memorial, which lists all those lost in the first and second world wars, from soldiers to women to civilians. It was a beautiful memorial building and to flick through the book of civilians, who all died in the same street on the same day, was both horrific and moving.

Next up we headed in to see the Scottish Crown Jewels, laid out in all their glory. While the exhibition was beautiful and strictly secure, there’s always that little thought that says “I wonder how many people have tried to steal these?” I wasn’t going to try and add my name to the count.

We headed out of the castle and down the main shopping street, the Royal Mile. Justine bought herself a Celtic ring and we managed to find ourselves a much needed post office before deciding that the day was nearing its end. As we walked back up the street we caught up with James who had been very energetic and climbed up Arthur’s seat, before we all caught the public bus back to the hotel. It was an included dinner at the hotel before Justine and I called the internet company, to no avail. Eventually, I went to reception and we got our 15 pound back. Nessie enjoyed some Irn Bru, then it was a night in.