Haggis, Piper and Robbie Burns

The Royal Mile is a part of old town that runs from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace.

Old Town Edinburgh was the quintessential medieval city behind walls. Built on top of a cliff, it has steep, winding, cobblestone streets. The Gothic churches and mysterious closes are reminiscent of fairy tales. A close is a tiny alley that leads to a courtyard - for the use of the residents around the perimeter. 

In the 1700s, the population outgrew the space, and New Town was created. New Town is an excellent example of urban planning, designed on a grid system with planned green space. The gorgeous Georgian townhouses make you feel like you are in a Jane Austin novel.

Crossing the bridge into Edinburgh Castle, you look up to see William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, standing guard. (not entirely sure which is which, to be honest)

Edinburgh Castle is still a working military facility. The 1:00 Canon fires every day at one pm, so ships near by can set their clocks. This is also how Greyfriars Bobby knew to go to the Cafe and get fed by the owner!

Mary Queen of Scots was well known for her embroidery. Fibre Arts students have recreated her designs with authentic materials and tools. This panel was a gift to her perspective 4th husband, the Duke of Norfolk. The fruitful tree on the right was to represent Mary, the barren tree on the left, Elizabeth I. It was used as proof of his treason, and he was beheaded for her efforts. She probably should have just sent a lock of hair!

You have to love it when a castle puts the loo in the dungeons!

Of course, you can't be in Scotland without enjoying some fish and chips! While listening to a piper, naturally!

Rosslyn Chaple was completed in 1486, as the private chaple of the St. Clair family. 

The carvings contain much mystery. Some are clearly Bible stories and Saints. Some seem to have ties to the Freemasons. There is a cob of corn, carved before the discovery of North America. Many myths and conspiracy theories abound. The most popular is that the Holy Grail is buried underneath the chaple.

"The more you look, the more you see, the less you understand"

Rosslyn Chaple was one of the main locations in the DeVinci Code. Thanks to the books and movies, the increase in tourism paid for restoration of the chaple.

Scones with jam and clotted cream with tea was the next thing on the agenda. Then off to Torphichen for an evening of Scottish hospitality. 

The Inn felt a particular connection to Robbie Burns. Our host quoted poetry, and bagpipes played while a haggis was paraded through the room. In a ceremony called " Addressing the Haggis", the final florish was cutting it open with a dagger and pouring whiskey over it.Then the platter was passed around for everyone to share. I was thrilled. I love haggis!