Welcome to Edinburgh

Our travels in the U.K. have brought us to Edinburgh in Scotland.  

As is our custom, we began our visit today with a walking tour of the Old Town.  We learned about Edinburgh’s and Scotland’s long history, which is characterized by periods of fierce independence and reluctant union with England.   Our entertaining and knowledgeable guide shared the stirring words of Robert the Bruce: “We fight not for glory, nor for wealth, nor honour but only and alone for freedom which no good man surrenders but with his life.”

During our tour, we strolled along the Royal Mile, walked around St. Giles cathedral, and learned about several famous Scots like Adam Smith.  We also saw where J.K. Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book and the graveyard from which she borrowed names for characters.

We also learned about the fierce animal that represents Scotland.  It’s not lion or a dragon.  It’s a unicorn.  Once we learned that surprising fact, we started noticing unicorns everywhere—on statues and on the national coat of arms.  Who knew.

Below is a view of the Old Town.  

Here is a photo looking up the Royal Mile. 

St. Giles is pictured below, with a crown-like cupola.  The French Consulate sits to the right.  

Our guide shared a story about Bobby, a famous dog who was companion to a night watchman in a nearby cemetery.  Supposedly, rubbing Bobby’s nose brings good luck.  

Along the way, Greg spotted an ice cream stand that looks remarkably similar to Dr. Who’s TARDIS. 

Thanks for touring the Old Town with us.