Walking out of Edinburgh’s Waverley train station, the medieval streets and Georgian period architecture took my breath away. I stood in awe as we looked out to the coastline and realised that between us and the sea stood lush green gardens, Gothic architecture and cosmopolitan glass structures – a truly inspiring combination!
Climbing up a narrow cobbled staircase set into the beautiful surroundings, we couldn’t help but wonder where it would lead. We miraculously found ourselves upon the Royal Mile! Among the scotch, tartan and cashmere stores was the apartment to which we would lay our dreary heads after long day of exploration. We scouted the back alleys in search of the main entrance… and there it was, positioned opposite the famous Writer’s Museum – perfect!
Our Scottish adventure began with a brisk walk along the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle. It wasn’t long before we were looking down at the exceptional views from Castle Hill, watching the changing of the guards and admiring their full highland dress!
First stop; The Rose Street Fry – We headed across town to Rose Street in search of a traditional fish and chip shop, we were eager to try a battered Mars bar (the conception of which is Scottish – apparently). The mixture of sugary sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth batter made it worth the wait!
Second stop; The Abbotsford pub (also located on Rose Street) – stepping into this traditional Edwardian pub I was amazed by its authentic features, including a classic island bar made of rich Spanish wood, which certainly contributed towards its cosiness. Having sat and looked at the menu, we were in search of one thing and one thing only… haggis! And we weren’t disappointed (they had vegetarian haggis too).
Third stop; Regent Gardens – we clambered down another of the city’s twisty stone staircases to discover a Victorian graveyard, otherwise known as the Old Calton Burial Ground. This strangely unique graveyard with ancient tombs made it eerie yet exhilarating. We saw the likes of philosopher David Hume and publisher William Blackwood’s gravestones!
Fourth stop; Wellington Café – a touch on the breezy side, it was time for a hot chocolate, so I directed us to a delightfully narrow looking coffee house on the corner of George Street. Amidst all the top notch fashion stores, this wee independent coffee house was neatly tucked away and boasted a delightfully cosy terrace to sit and sip our indulgent froth.
Fifth stop; Victoria Street – this elegantly curved street which struck me with its vibrant atmosphere and quirky selection of shops was certainly a worthy contender on our whistle-stop tour of Edinburgh, if only we’d had a little more time to explore it! A definite ‘must-see’ for those of you planning a trip.
After a night on the tiles on the Royal Mile, I was awoken by the sound of beautifully playing bagpipes! From the apartment window I could see St Giles Cathedral and watched intently as the Sunday marching band moved powerfully down the Royal Mile – a fascinating sight to end our 24 hours in Edinburgh.
