EDINBURGH
the Capital of Scotland, steeped in history, is a sightseeing
paradise. Edinburgh Castle perched on top, of what was, many
years ago, a volcano was used as a fortification for well over
2000 years. The Castle has been in constant use for a good many
years and its military presence is evident, a massive tourist
attraction with the Edinburgh Military Tattoo being an annual
event. From the Castle proceed down the Royal Mile ( actually
107 yards from the entrance of the castle to the gates of the
Palace of Holyrood House), an interesting street offering some
insight about the history of Edinburgh.
The Palace
of Holyroodhouse was built outside the city walls in 1501 by
James IV who at that time was King of Scotland, the Palace was
also used by Mary Queen of Scots, in fact, her marriage to Lord
Darnley took place here. Queen Victoria became a regular visitor
in the 19th century and thus it regained its status as a Royal
Palace, the Palace is now the official residence in Scotland
of Queen Elizabeth II. Holyrood Abbey ruins stand alongside
the Palace. Another historic place to visit would be Greyfriar’s
Churchyard, the churchyard contains a collection of monuments
of many famous people including the faithful dog “Greyfriar’s
Bobby”. Princes Street Gardens lies beneath the Castle,
the Scottish American War Memorial and the Ross Bandstand can
be found in the gardens themselves along with beautiful flower
beds and pathways for those who just want to relax.
The Gothic
monument in memory of Sir Walter Scott is also situated in the
gardens, it is adorned by 64 statuettes illustrating many characters
from Scott’s novels, and for the fit, 287 steps to the
top rewards you with magnificent views across the Edinburgh
skyline. The first road off Princes Street on the south side
is The Mound, near the top you will see twin spires, once the
Church of Scotland Assembly Hall and was the temporary home
of the Scottish Parliament. The famous Floral Clock stands on
the other corner of The Mound, the whole clock including it’s
hands and face is planted every year. There is something for
everyone in Princes Street, view the historic castle across
the gardens whilst gazing in the shop windows, or pop into one
of the fine restaurants or coffee bars. There are many museums
and galleries for you to visit such as National Gallery of Scotland,
Scottish National Portrait Galley, City Art Centre, Museum of
Childhood, National Museums of Scotland to name a few. The Royal
Yacht Britannia, having served the Royal Family and our country
for the last forty four years is now moored in the historic
port of Leith permanently and is in the hands of The Royal Yacht
Britannia Trust, visitors can go aboard and get an idea of what
life was like on the Britannia.
Lauder Travel 