South Queensferry, Scotland, UK... Part 1 of 2

Once again, I was up early to get sail-in photos this morning. Leaving the North Sea, we sailed up the Firth of Forth actuary and tendered just off from South Queensferry Hawes Pier...I was able to get a number of nice scenic photos along the way…  We got the first tender and meet up with our tour guide, John for our day in Edinburgh and surrounding area. Our first unplanned stop was in the town of Linlithgow at the Linlithgow Palace and St Mary’s Church…the palace was a once a summer home for aristocracy and the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots…a pleasant surprise stop. Next, we went to the Wallace Monument. In honor of our friend Ian Paterson…  I climbed to the top of the Crown Spire and was rewarded with the 360-degree panoramic views. William Wallace rose from obscurity to become the leader of the Scots to fight against injustice. From here we travelled to Stirling Castle, a defensive castle built in 1500 and home of John V, Mary of Guise and their daughter Mary Queen of Scots. This castle contains a palace within the walls of the castle and has been carefully conserved to the period. After leaving Stirling Castle we had a delicious meal thanks to our tour operator at the Westerton Arms in Bridge of Allan. Following lunch, we headed to Edinburgh. Our guide John parked at the halfway point on the Royal Mile. The best way to appreciate the historical past of Edinburgh is to explore the Royal Mile on foot. We started our tour by walking up to Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh Castle consumes the skyline sitting and is perched on a volcanic rock site high above the city. Based upon the huge throngs of people in the streets is obviously one of the most visited venues in Edinburgh. We then headed down the Royal Mile stepping off into quaint streets. Making our way to St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh’s principal church built in the 14th century and its spire is a key feature of the city’s skyline. We visited the interior with its beautiful stained-glass windows and the stunning architecture and beautiful archways. Behind the Cathedral we walked to Parliament Square, where the buildings now house the Law Courts of Scotland and countless restaurants and shops. Walking back toward our vehicle we came to the Heart of Midlothian set in the pavement on the Royal Mile, constructed from colored granite blocks that form the shape of a heart and cross. Continuing to the bottom of the Royal Mile we stopped at the Holyrood Palace, the Scottish residence of the Queen. Across the street from the Holyrood Palace is the modern Scottish Parliament Building. Our last stop in the city was Calton Hill, an excellent spot for a view overlooking the entire city of Edinburgh. We then made our way back to the ship. Today’s weather was perfect, we got to see many interesting and historical sites. Thanks to John for a great day.