Sept 16 - Edinburgh

Big day in a big medieval city, Edinburgh.

We start the day with a drive to Dunblane railway station to catch a train into Waverley Station, Edinburgh and arrive at 10am. 

The two couples split up to enjoy their own tour of the city, so Fran and I head off to find "The Milkman" coffee shop near the train station, and enjoy an excellent Cortado and Cappuccino.

Then up dozens of very steep stairs to the upper courtyard where churches and the Royal Mile await some exploration before we enter the castle for our timed entry tickets at 12:30pm.

Dunblane Train Station

Waverley Station, Edinburgh

St. Giles Cathedral

The Norse heritage is quite evident everywhere

The entrance gate to the castle is guarded by two famous Scots warriors from past centuries, William Wallace on the right and Robert the Bruce on the left.

Through the Portcullis Gate and along the battlements of the castle with amazing views of the city.

The second part of our day included a tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia, docked at Edinburgh, and a short tram ride from the train station to the port. The tour was 2 hours of detailed information delivered with audio guides and access to all 5 floors of this amazing royal yacht. This ship served the Royal Family and Britain for 44 years (launched in 1953 and decommissioned in 1997) by circling the world 44 times to visit commonwealth countries.

The Royal Rover was brought on board for every voyage for the Queen and family to tour the countries they visited

The Queens private office

Crew Quarters

On Board Laundry

High Tea on board the Royal Yacht Britannia

We make our way back to Waverley train station and marvel at the amazing architecture of this ancient city

National Art Gallery

Walter Scott Tower - you can climb to the top of this from the inside!