Europe 2016 Sept 7th Day 10 Edinburgh

Well this morning someone in the group had a little bit of trouble getting up early, so after we finally got under way it was down to the centre of Edinburgh (two blocks) to get tickets and onto the hop on hop off bus. Much better system in Edinburgh as one ticket does all 4 bus routes. Jane of course lost her cardigan in those two blocks so now we have to get a new one.
Finally on the bus and in lovely weather if was a lovely trip on one of the routes getting our bearings and seeing some of the notable sights; Castle included of course. We stopped for lunch at a pub where we introduced ourselves to haggis, neeps and tatties and some scallops on black pudding. Both lovely meals, not what we expected and the beer to wash them down wasn't bad either.
It was then a walk down the Royal mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse for a visit. Much different than Buckingham Palace and smaller but absolutely delightful and to be able to walk around the ruins of the Abbey and the gardens afterwards made it even more enjoyable. More of the Queen's dresses and hats on exhibition here as well and without the crowds was great. After this an enjoyable walk back up the Royal mile to see all those ancient buildings and alleyways. It was then back on another bus route which took us out to the docks area to see the Royal yacht Britannia. This was a bit of fun and though not expecting to do it was good. It is an old vessel built in the 50's but so beautifully fitted out for the Royal family for holidays, oops I mean Royal duties. After this caught the bus back and walked back to the flat via Sainsbury's for a few necessities for dinner.
Quick freshen up and then off to The Dome ( originally the Commercial Bank of Scotland) to have a drink on the recommendation of a few and wow wasn't this good. An old bank that has been transformed into a bar, restaurant. A fantastic example of repurposing and was lovely just to sit and sip with a cheese platter and reflect on the day. Then back to the flat for a bit more cheese, bikkies and wine before finishing the night with a magnum; ice cream of course. Luxury. ;-)