Day 1 in Scotland

I love Edinburgh! After a tasty breakfast in our hotel, Apex Waterloo, we headed out for the day. We decided to take a double decker sight seeing tour bus to get our minds around the layout of the city. We stayed on the bus for the whole tour, and then stayed on again to be brought to "The Palace of Holyroodhouse."

This is known today as Queen Elizabeth II's official Scottish residence. It was built in 1498 by James IV on the grounds of an abbey. This abbey was built in the 11th century. What is left is actually a ruin.

We were not allowed to take photos inside the palace, but we were able to visit the old King and queen's bedrooms and sitting rooms. The throne room and the royal dining room, which we were able to visit, are used today when Queen Elizabeth II visits the palace. She visits for two weeks every summer. 

The clock tower at the palace is in the shape of a crown.

The lanterns are ornate.

The gardens are lovely, even though it's still early.

We had a great time walking up "Royal Mile", which is a stretch of four ancient streets which formed  the main thoroughfare of medieval Edinburgh. It links the Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The cobblestone streets are now lined with little pubs, cafés and shops. I loved it!

We had lunch in this pub:

Saw kilts and cashmere scarves everywhere!

Later we found The Grand Mason Lodge of Scotland for Bill. He was psyched!

Can't wait to explore more tomorrow and to meet more people. People are very nice here. Friendly!