Edinburgh

Decided the only way to see Edinburgh and save ourselves some stress was to do it by bus.
We could catch the bus to the city out front of our hotel and it was only about 10mins to Princes St in the heart of the new city.
From here there were 5 tour buses that had different routes and for one inclusive cost we could use them all for 48hrs so with that and a ticket to the castle we have filled our 2 days completely.
The history just takes our breath away and to visit the castle where the first part was built in 1100 and is still standing is amazing.
Edinburgh loosly translated means 'fort on the hill' and so appropriate. The castle surrounded by its wall stands high above the old city and would have been very daunting to any intending raiders.
I lined up (Lawrie sat and waited) while I went to see the 'crown jewels' and the Destiny Stone deep in the castle tower.
Scotland's kings could not be recognised unless they had been annointed or crowned sitting on the Destiny Stone. The circlet of the crown is said to date from the 14th century and Robert the Bruce and it was later that arches were added and the crown decorated with pearls. The sword, scabbard and belt were a gift from the Pope and were first used in the crowning of James IV (son of Mary Queen of Scots I think). There has been so many names thrown at us over the last few days that even my notes are getting confused.
We spent a couple of hours up there and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves despite the biting wind. So much to see and absorb it really is great. You just have to do it.
Greyfriars Bobby, Holyrood Palace, Royal Mile, and the list goes on.  One great thing in Scotland is that all public museums and galleries are free to enter so you could have a very cost effective stay if that was your interest.
We have totally enjoyed ourselves to date and sadly leave Scotland tomorrow to head back into England and the last 2 weeks of our UK touring.