City Streets
Our driver Kevin M from Tours By Locals picked us up at our hotel Double Tree City Center for a full day tour of the City of Edinbaugh. From our hotel we had views of the Edinbaugh Castle while driving through the city to our first stop which was Arthur’s Seat. Our tour in a private car was perfect. We could stop whenever we wanted. We spent the day picking and choosing what sights to spend time touring. All the while obtaining information on the sights from Kevin who was very knowledgeable on Edinbaugh and Scotland.
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is located behind the city of Edinbaugh and is an old volcano site. Today it is a park with a winding road to the top with views of the city and beyond. There are hiking trails and lots of joggers and bikers along the road. Our day basically started out from this location. It provided a good overall view of the city of Edinbaugh and the surrounding country side.
The Royal Yacht Brittania
Our next stop was spent at the Royal Yacht Brittania. Our car was parked right at the entrance to the Royal Yacht so we had easy access. The tour is self-guided with a head set and number system. We started off in the museum portion of the yacht before boarding. We entered via the bridge with a birds eye view of what action happened on the bridge along with a full explaination of the equipment. We walked the decks, visited the Queen’s chambers, parlor, and restaurant. The restaurant is full service offering breakfast, lunch and tea. We also visited the crews quarters, crew bar, kitchens, and engine room. We spent about two and half hours on the yacht. There was a store as you exited the yacht and we met our driver outside the store. It couldn’t have been easier.
Forth Bridge
On the outskirts of Edinbaugh is the new Forth Bridge which replaces the very old bridge. There is also a rail bridge. We were able to view all the bridges both old and new.
Forth Bridge Pub
The Forth Bridge Pub was a delightful surprise. The pub was a combination pub, food and snack location as well as a gift shoppe and art gallery. The menu was so Brittish and was exactly what we were looking for for lunch. Oh, we had a few beers too! Kevin M. made a wise choice for us.
Water of Leith Walk
On our way back to Edinbaugh City Center we drove down a very narrow cobblestone street which ended in the Water of Leith Walk. The stream ran though the walk with old Scottish buildings. We watched a teenager lay her coat on a rock so she could take a picture and she proceeded to knock her coat into the stream. She followed the walk and we never found out if she got her coat back.
Whiskey Experience
Our last stop was the Whiskey Experience on the Royal Mile before heading back to our hotel after a wonderful fun packed day. At the Whiskey Experience we took the ride and learned all about making Scottish Whiskey. At the end of the ride we had a Scotch tasting. This was my first time properly tasting the Scotch Wiskey. Next was the retail store where some great hard to find purchases were made.
