Edinburgh and Home

Three days in Edinburgh, not long enough to see everything although we managed lots of the main tourist things. We returned the rental car, but the Royal Mile was just round the corner from our hotel so very central. We had a great room. After arriving late Friday afternoon we went for a walk, the Royal Mile was just teeming with tourists, then found an Italian bistro for a quick meal.

Next day we walked off down The Mound in bright sunshine to the Scottish National Gallery to view beautiful medieval triptychs, amazing paintings by El Greco, Titian, Raphael and many others, plus marble sculptures. 

Then walked Princes Street, viewing the Scott Monument, St Andrews Square and into New Town where we came across a house where Robert Louis Stevenson once lived; and found Rose Street, full of pubs and restaurants so had to stop and have a beer at the Rose and Crown! Walked on through Charlotte Square, past the Albert Memorial, Princes St Gardens ...so many sights and beautiful old buildings everywhere.

Constant sightseeing over the next two days - Greyfriars Bobby statue (many tourists touch his nose, so it is much shinier than the rest of the statue!); Greyfriars Church; National Museum of Scotland with all its wonderful displays and exhibitions (including the Lewis chessmen, 12th-century pieces carved from walrus ivory); Calton Hill with the unfinished National Monument, Observatory, Nelson Monument, Burns Monument and views to Arthur's Seat; the Palace of Holyrood House; and of course, Edinburgh Castle and all its contents, including the Scottish Crown Jewels. We even managed to see the firing of the One O'Clock Gun in the castle grounds. 

Finally off to the airport and the long flight back to NZ. We had a wonderful holiday, but its great to be home. We are now looking forward to the summer season of Highland Games and piping competitions.