Travel: Edinburgh

Jan 16 2010 by Huddersfield Daily Examiner

EVERY time I step off the train at Waverly Station in Edinburgh near the famous Princes Street my senses never fail to be blown away, not just by the many cultural hotspots the city has to offer but also by its grand and expansive landscape.

This spectacular rugged setting with the volcanic remains of Arthur’s Seat as the ever-dominant jewel in the crown, has kept me going back to the Scottish capital at least twice a year.

You can rest assured that you will experience a different side to Edinburgh every time you visit.

The same can be said of its infamous and changeable weather.

The last time my wife and I visited the city I had to dash off to the nearest department store to get an extra pair of socks to keep the chill out.

This time the city was blowing a gale so much so that Edinburgh Zoo was closed for the day with the keepers presumably worried that the penguins would struggle to find their footing during their famous walk.

However, we soon got over our disappointment, having so many other sites to explore.

First up was the Museum of Scotland with the building itself as impressive as its exhibits.

Its design includes numerous references to Scotland in its defensive architecture, all clad in golden Moray sandstone which is central to the country’s geology.

After swotting up on Scottish history we then walked down the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile and visited the Museum of Childhood which contains a plethora of toys from wartime curiosities to an impressive, if a little spooky, floor full of antique dolls.

The Scottish Parliament is also worth a visit with the controversial Holyrood building far more impressive inside than out.

After a relaxing day of sightseeing we made our way to our hotel and were greeted with a fantastic welcome and a room which was as individual as the hotel itself.

Situated at the west end of Princes Street, The Rutland is perfectly located for those that want to be among the city’s modern shops and restaurants as well as comfortably close enough to the charm of the old town.