Edinburgh arrived and it got hectic so I will try to catch up in a long post. Prior to our arrival in Edinburgh, we stayed at our hotel in Pitlochry to watch the state funeral. It was an impressive event and we were thrilled to see the RCMP leading the procession. Needless to say we only watched the one funeral and on our arrival in Edinburgh the Windsor events were just finishing. We made one stop after the funeral at a viewpoint appropriately named Queen’s View (for Queen Victoria). It was a lovely site and thanks to one our group we shared a toast the the Queen. Thanks Joe.
Edinburgh was very different than Glasgow. The first difference - it was totally crowded, tourists everywhere! We had 3 days in and around the city so lots of opportunities to see a lot although for me it was mostly from the outside as I seemed to be very busy. So the following shows lots of the sights and streets of Edinburgh- there were no pictures happening without many people or cars or buses in them.
One site that was visited was Edinburgh Castle. When I first saw it high on the hill top I could not imagine climbing up to it but it wasn’t bad. What an interesting structure - so different from all the previous castles visited. It felt more like a fortress. One room gave a glimpse of the Scottish Crown Jewels - sorry no pics allowed. And of course the views of the city were amazing.
We left the city one day and visited the kelpies - what magnificent sculptures they are standing 100 feet high and made from stainless steel.
We also had a chance to stop at a charming little sea side village called Culross. Very quaint and actually some color on walls. Oh yes - my first cat sighting!
We also had a chance to see the Falkirk Wheel in motion. This gadget takes vehicles from the higher water to the lower water, similar to a lock. Interestingly enough it is mostly used as a tourist attraction. The final stop for the day was a visit to Broomhall House. We were guided through the family home by one of the sons. Now I can’t remember was he the Earl of Elgin? No matter what we knew we were among aristocrats as he informed us that his siblings had all participated in the Queen’s funeral. He was a wealth of information and knew more Canadian history than I did and linked all his family connections back to Canada.
Some of us opted to go to the Spirit of Scotland show. The reviews were mixed but we decided to give it a go. Surprisingly it was pretty good. Lots of singing, dancing, pipes and a few corny jokes. The food was even good. We all agree that the 3 and 4 course meals will have to stop when we return to Canada!
With one final dinner together at a local tavern, our trip to Scotland was over. A couple stayed behind, some went on London and the remainder flew back to Canada.
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