Edinburgh Castle
There is so much that could be said about Edinburgh Castle, I’ve decided to put down some random thoughts instead, rather than trying to outline its history. I’m a member of Historic Scotland again, having been with the National Trust over the last year, so visiting Edinburgh Castle and then for example Stirling Castle, you more or less cover your joining fee.
Needless to say, I’ve been visiting Edinburgh Castle since I was a lad, but never tire of it. The last time I visited was on my birthday, during the pandemic. The castle had opened again, but social distancing was still in place as was the wearing of masks. It was a surreal experience. There was practically no one around with only the occasional tourist appearing as international travel was severely impacted at this time.
It was nice though, to be able to wander about, on my own, with no crowds to negotiate. It gave me time to study what is a very familiar place to me, and reflect on years gone by and the impact the pandemic was having. It was a bright, sunny day and the views from the castle esplanade were as stunning as I had ever seen them. I ended up in the great hall on my own. The only one in the place. I took a couple of photographs, with the Christmas Tree at one end and posted it online. Later on folk from the Castle picked up on it and asked if they could use it to further publicise the site and of course I said yes. It was so nice of them to ask.
The weather was again bright and sunny for this latest visit, and the crowds were already gathering soon after opening time. It’s great to see the tourists are back in their expected numbers, though I do think about the time I had the place more or less to myself and in an odd way, I miss it. Although this was a quick visit, I made time to see the Great Hall, St, Margaret’s Chapel, Mons Meg (which is a canon) the National War Museum, the Royal Palace, the Honours of Scotland (the oldest Crown Jewels in Britain) and the Scottish National War Memorial. I will be visiting several times this year, focussing on particular aspects of what is on display, taking full advantage of my membership.
The Fiction Factory 