Arrived in Scotland

We arrived in Edinburgh, Scotland, after a wonderful week in Ireland.  Meeting us at the airport was Watt, my niece's father-in-law.  Watt is a healthy and slim 70+ year old, who was born and has lived in Scotland all his life.  He is a wonderful host, always making sure that we have all we need and are comfortable.
On our first full day in Scotland, he took us to the city centre and walked the famous Royal Mile.  We learned so much from Watt during the 5 to 6 hours that we walked the length of the Mile.  It was like a history lesson in Scottish history.  We started from Edinburgh Castle and slowly walked towards the other end where the Palace is located.  On the way we added a little Americanism to Scottish history - we stopped at a Starbucks.  If we had come in the summer, this street would be full of tourists.

Royal Mile Street Sign

Costs 16 pounds (about $25) to get in to see the castle

Edinburgh Castle

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde's character was based on Deacon Brodie, a carpenter

Tolls are collected here before you can enter the city

St. Giles Cathedral

Lunchtime concert at the Cathedral

Adam Smith, the economist, born near Edinburgh

Street-level view of the Royal Mile

One of many passageways, called a Close

Greyfrairs Bobby - lingered near the master's grave for 14 years

Canongate Kirk, where Adam Smith is buried

Statue of Robert Ferguson, a famous Scottish poet

Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the royal family stays when in Scotland

A cute cafe on the Royal Mile

The Balmoral Hotel