Stuff we've done so far -- July 1st (Dave and Maria)

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Since arriving in Edinburgh, we have done several of the things we like to do here, such as: (1) go to Princes Street Gardens, the large park in the center of town, where the boys kick the ball around with natives & tourists alike; (2) tour Edinburgh Castle & its grounds; and (3) take the kids golfing at the Hermitage golf course.

The Hermitage is a neat course, just for kids. It consists of 12 par three holes. It is inexpensive and offers lessons, is usually fairly empty, and there are none of the rules or pressure you find on busier golf courses in the States. So it's a great place for the kids to learn the game and grab a bacon bap after their game to fortify themselves for the nice walk back to the bus lines.

The Castle is the oldest part of Edinburgh and it seemed like there were an awful lot of people there today. Still, it sits high on the Castle Rock, and offers beautiful panoramic views of the city. Tiny St. Margaret’s Chapel is the oldest building in the Castle and dates from 1100. Unlike the rest of the Castle, it was spared in 1314 when Sir Thomas Randolph destroyed everything to prevent (yet) another English occupation. You can't help but pick up a lot of history while touring this fortress.

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Photos

Soccer in Princes St. Gardens
This Japanese tourist wanted to be photographed playing soccer with the boys. We think he thought our kids were Scottish locals.

Edinburgh Castle
approaching the castle entrance from the Royal mile

Castle guards
get to wear cool outfits

Mons Meg
a famous old (and his gigantic) cannon in Scottish battle lore

The dog cemetery
for many hundreds of years soldiers at the castle buried their pets and mascots here.

Comments

[Sahron]

Cool!
It is great to see some of our favorite places in Edinburgh! Michael and Jack look like quite the golfers, too. Keep having fun!