Looking glum

We certainly haven't been glum today. Set out in glorious sunshine this morning to walk the Old Kirk Trail. We went the opposite way around as it finished in the New Town where we were startinf out which caused a few complications but we managed. Went through the familiar villages on the Water of Lieth but on a different route so it was nice to see them from a new angle.

Visited the churches at the bottom of the castle and then on to the Grassmarket and then on to Greyfriars church with of course it's association with Greyfriars Bobby. I have seen this before but not been in the church or church yard. Interesting grave stones right up against the houses on Candlemakers Lane which were apparently built afterwards. The skull and cross bones more prevalent the further north you go. They represent Golgotha and often there is a symbol of the occupation of the deceased as people needed this as they were unable to read.

We took a detour to The Meadows as I hadn't been there before. Found a nice cafe for tea and cake as we needed refreshment and a rest for weary feet. The last part of the walk was down to Holyrood and back along the Royal Mile. A very familiar area so we decided to go to National Museum of Scotland instead as it was nearby. I wanted to see the Lewis chessmen.

Last summer we were on Lewis and visited Uig where the chessmen were discovered. They had been buried for reasons unknown 700 years ago having been made in Scandinavia in the 12 th century. There are 11 on display here and they all have the most wonderful expressions. This section of the museum was called the Kingdom of the Scots. We passed through an area showing lots of active displays about transport and we also visited the fashion section, all on the same floor. It was very impressive and would be well worth another visit sometime and it was free.

My blip today had to be the chessmen, I think they are amazing and there story intriguing.

My feet had certainly had enough by the end of the day (new walking shoes) but we have had a lovely Italian meal tonight with a bottle of red wine. Very refreshing for the feet!