We were able to sleep in today - bags out by 8am, but not on the bus until 9:30am.
We drove through the countryside, but field crops and small villages until we arrived at our first stop - St. Andrews. St. Andrews is known for its golfing! Today was the final day of the Alfred Dunhill Links Competition, so the area was quite busy. We were dropped off near the golf course and were given three hours to explore the town. Bob and I weren't interested too much in the golf, so we wandered down by the seashore. St. Andrews is on the east coast of the Fife. We watched the birds for awhile, and walked along the rugged coastline.
We wandered up through the town to the University of St. Andrews, currently ranked the top university in the British Isles. It was amazing to wander through the campus with its ancient buildings. We walked past Purdy's, through the church courtyard, and down to the University Library. It had a strong "academic" feel to it.
Later we walked down Market Street, which is where the stores... and tourists are. There, we stopped for a cup of coffee and watched the bustle.
Back on the bus, we drove to Edinburgh and on to Holyrood Palace. This was absolutely fascination. Holyrood Palace is the official residence of the King of England in Scotland. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos inside the palace. We were provided with audio headsets which described the palace as we walked from room to room. It's hard to believe that some people can live in such opulence.
After the palace, we checked in to our hotel, and had the rest of the day to ourselves. After a short rest, we dropped by the bar for and drink and then set out to find a hamburger joint. Which we did.. Byron's. The burgers were great, and the recommended cheesecake was sooo good. It was good to get some down home food. Our waiter was a young fellow with a twinkle in his eye. He has been to Canada once - to Banff to ski.
Back in our room, we are settling in as tomorrow is an early day again.
Hotel: Hilton Edinburgh
Weather: Sunny and warm high 18c
No comments:
Post a Comment