Edinburgh

We had a few options of things to do today, but we settled upon a trip into Edinburgh as this would be our only chance to visit it. So glad we decided to do this as it is one of my favourite cities.

The weather was overcast with the hint of rain in the air. An easy trip up, which took just over an hour. It is such an easy city to drive into, and parking was a breeze.

Our intention was to just stroll and not do any touisty stuff. Kate had been before and done all of that, but she hadn’t seen the New Town part which is full of planned Georgian terraces around parklands. It is a huge contrast to the Old Town with its narrow lanes and jumble of buildings.

We had a few spits of rain but nothing major. There was a bit of retail therapy, mostly on Kirsty’s part. We found a great place for lunch in the revamped John Lewis building which had a great many “smart” shops. The idea of the lunch area is that you can order your drinks via the table app and then go and choose from about 6 food outlets for your lunch. It was open, airy and very welcoming. It was called Scottish Marketplace. Very enjoyable.

After that we headed out in the car to go to Blackford Hill where the Observatory is located and from where you get the most amazing, and not often seen, views north over Edinburgh. On a trip one time to promote his winery, Alasdiar was photgraphed sitting in a large leather lounge chair atop Blackford Hill. Kirsty and I tried to recreate the photo….not too successfully.

Next it was a drive by Kirtsy’s grandmothers (Gran Sutherland) old place. Kate has certainly been given the tour of Kirsty’s Scottish history this holiday.

Back home we then headed out again, this time to dinner at Trish and Harry Frew’s place. Trish is Rob’s sister. Both of their kids were there, being Cass and Al. Cass’s husband (Paul) was also there and his daughter (Page), plus their (Cass & Paul) baby who was alseep and we didn’t see. Both Cass and Al have been to Aus and stayed with us, as have Trish and Harry. It was a great catch up before the wedding…..oh, and Rob dropped by as well. A fantastic night.

Tomoorrow, The Wedding !!