July 12, 2024 -- Before I got Covid, I was able to tour Edinburgh, for a day. A day in a city is usually enough for me, though I have to admit I could have used more time in this splendid city. I had taken an early morning train from Northallerton and arrived at the Waverly train station around 9 am. After finding a place to stow my luggage for the day, I set out to tour the capitol of Scotland. Fortunately, Waverly Station was near the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile runs through the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, connecting Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Scottish bagpiper
Statue to Adam Smith
A "close" is a British and Scottish term for a short street or cul-de-sac that ends in a dead end. It often refers to a private, gated, or quiet residential street, and in Scotland, it can specifically describe a narrow, enclosed alley or entrance to a tenement.
Writer's Court
The Great Highland Bagpipe is Scotland's national instrument, recognized by its powerful sound, tartan-covered bag, and role in military and cultural traditions.
Another bagpipe player