UK Day 6
On our last day, we visited Edinburgh Castle, the iconic fortress perched high on Castle Rock, and were immediately struck by its commanding views over the city and its deep historical significance. As we entered, we passed between towering statues of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace—Scotland’s legendary heroes, both brought to life in film: Wallace famously portrayed by Mel Gibson in Braveheart, and Bruce featured in Outlaw King. The castle, with roots dating back to the Iron Age, offered a fascinating journey through centuries of Scottish history. We explored the Crown Jewels, the ancient Stone of Destiny, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, along with grand halls, military museums, and atmospheric dungeons. It was a powerful reminder of Scotland’s resilient spirit and royal heritage.
After visiting the splendid Edinburgh Castle, with its commanding views and centuries of royal history, we delved into a very different side of the city—its hidden underground. We joined a guided tour that took us beneath the bustling streets of the Old Town into the Blair Street Vaults, a series of chambers built in the late 18th century beneath South Bridge. Originally intended for workshops and storage, the vaults quickly deteriorated into overcrowded, unsanitary dwellings for the city’s poorest residents. As we wandered through the dark, narrow passages, our guide recounted chilling tales of crime, hardship, and the ghosts said to haunt the space. It was a powerful contrast to the grandeur of the castle above, revealing the stark divide between Edinburgh’s rich and poor in centuries past. The tour offered an unforgettable glimpse into the city’s layered history—both majestic and macabre.
We booked a reservation at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Castle Terrace, for our last dinner in Edinburgh. Known for its exceptional culinary offerings, the restaurant combines contemporary British cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Each dish was a masterpiece, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, showcasing the skill and creativity of the talented chefs. The impeccable service and attention to detail made our final meal in Edinburgh an extraordinary highlight, a perfect way to cap off our unforgettable journey.