We had a little time to kill before dinner after our arrival, so we headed out to a place that had been recommended to us by a couple we met in one of the hides at Vane Farm. It's called Arthur's Seat, and it's in Hollyrood Park near Hollywood Palace. It's a hill that yields beautiful views of the city. But the car park at the bottom looked like it would be a very steep climb, and our B&B hostess had told us that there was parking near the top, so off we went. While there was a lot of parking, we couldn't quite figure out where the trails would be. So after completely circumnavigating it, we took another pass and just headed up a hill that looked like it had received some foot traffic.
The views were incredible from the top, with 360 degree views of the city and the ocean. As you can tell from my hair, it's a little bit windy up there.
The next morning we got up and went to a place that we had just stumbled on while we were looking for Arthur's Seat the day before, Dynamic Earth. It's a science museum, and while most of these don't do much for me (they seem aimed at a grade school crowd), this one was really interesting. The only disappointment was that they had a room that talked about the Antarctic, but they kept it so cold (there was actually an ice sculpture in the middle of the room!) that we couldn't stay in it long enough to read all the plaques!
After that we headed back to see Edinburgh Castle. But first we had to cross the hurdle of trying to find a parking spot. In addition to how hard this usually is in a European city, there was a lot of road construction going on, and the parking lot that we wanted was closed. But we did manage to find one, and after walking around the Horn, finally managed to find the castle.
And being a Scottish castle, the had to have a statue of William Wallace.
I'm fascinated by the ornate coat of arms they have. This one if for James VI of Scotland, James I of the United Kingdom (son of Mary, Queen of Scots).
Always fascinated by their weapons. Can you imagine what it would take to actually swing this sword in a fight? I'd have about one swing in me, then I'd just give up.
And then there's the early 17th century weapons of mass destruction (this one is called Megs Mon).
I swear we're really over here. This shot looks like I've been Photoshopped in!
By the way, this "cathedral" is now a festival center and cafe!
On the way back we say this building, but we weren't sure exactly what it is. There are so many huge, old buildings over here. I think they should dismantle a couple of them and send them to us, they wouldn't miss them and we'd really appreciate them.
We thought the "crowns" on this building were pretty interesting.
We had passed by this building on the way to Dynamic Earth, but I couldn't stop to take a picture. Then when we were walking back to our car park, we ran into it again. This if for Ben and Gary. They'll understand.
So tomorrow we bid a fond farewell and catch a plane to Ireland. So the next post will be from the Emerald Isle!
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