Day #133 - London to Edinburgh

City view of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle high on the hill

Scott's Monument in the foreground and the Balmoral Hotel in the background

Scott Monument

Edinburgh Castle

Sunday, July 25th

Today I took a long train ride out of London back to Edinburgh, Scotland. Although my buddy Randy and I spent 4 nights in Edinburgh during our golfing experience, we didn't really get to see the town. We used it as a place to sleep - arriving after 11pm most evenings.

I'm really glad I came back today to spend some time before going further north. Edinburgh is great. It's arguably one of my favorite cities in Europe (strong statement - but true). It has a great atmosphere and a ton of history. Bagpipes are being played on the streets, small cafes and bars selling Scottish whiskey, the Edinburgh Castle sitting up on the hillside, the Scott Monument right off Princes Street, and the prestigious Balmoral Hotel at the very east end of Princes Street. I'm a big fan of how a city feels - this place has it.

I spent a few hours in late afternoon until early evening just walking around. The Edinburgh Castle is the showcase landmark in the city. It sits atop a collapsed crater of an extinct volcano. It's earliest traces date to the 12th century Chapel of St. Margaret - the oldest structure in Edinburgh. The castle has played many roles: fortress, military garrison, state prison, and royal palace. The royal chambers were used until the king permanently moved to England in 1603.

The Scott Monument sits off Princes Street honoring the Scottish author - Sir Walter Scott. The Tower is 200ft tall and has a series of viewing decks reached by winding narrow staircases. Just walking the 1 mile length of Princes Street is something all by itself. There is a new and old part of Edinburgh - it helps give the city a unique flavor.

The city is home to a couple of big festivals each year. During mid-August to early September, the Edinburgh International Festival is celebrated. An extravaganza of music, drama, and dance. Also, Hogmany is celebrated at the very end of the year. The goal is to bring in the new year on a high note. It's celebrated throughout Scotland, but with special fervor in Edinburgh.

I've heard alot of good things about this city and I was not disappointed. A must-see place on your trip to Scotland. Actually, it's a great place to use as your 'home base' for day trip excursions.

Tomorrow I'll go further north.