Thursday in Edinburgh

Our first order of business was to go to the Edinburgh Castle. The castle dominates one end of the Royal Mile up on a hill. The views from the castle truly are spectacular. Inside the castle walls is a very moving war memorial that lists all the names of those who have died in service to the UK since WW1. Also, there are two good exhibits showing how the castle was used as a prison over the last 200 years. Very interesting!
The Scottish Crown Jewels and Sword are kept in the Edinburgh Castle, and the story of where they have been hidden over the last 400 years is very intriguing. Honours of Scotland.

On our way down the hill, we ran into a very nice man who impersonated the Scottish Hero William Wallace (Brave Heart). He was an engaging personality and a lot of fun to talk to.

 

Stirling Plain

Following our morning at the castle, we began the part of the trip that Brooke was dreading....my driving! We headed up the center of Scotland and stopped at Stirling Castle in Stirling. It was here that Wallace achieved victory against the English in the battle of Stirling BridgeWe really enjoyed our visit to Stirling Castle. It felt so much more authentic than Edinburgh which has become a tourist destination. Stirling Castle was built by James the IV, but was never lived in by him. He died just before it was completed.

Throne Room at Stirling