Category Archives: Edinburgh

Heriot Watt, Hermiston and Union Canal Winter Walk

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I am still amazed by all the green space in Edinburgh. I swear, no matter where you go I am sure you will find a footpath, or trail, or walkway or park. I kid you not. Love it! I need to say that again: LOVE IT.

As a result, one of the things I like to do, particularly when I have been cooped up for a while but don’t want to venture too far, is to just hop on a bus and ride it to the end of its route. Today was one of those days. I jumped on to Bus Route 25 in the city centre which ends at Heriot-Watt University! I rode through the city centre, through Dalry until I reached my destination.

Driving by Dalry cemetery

I was not disappointed. As we drove further from the centre, the scenery did not disappoint.

Approaching Heriot Watt University

As I arrived, I was thrilled to note a number of footpaths. How wonderful! It is so therapeutic. I decided to walk around the Loch on the university grounds.

The grounds at Heriot Watt

Then I noted a couple of dog walkers.

Hermiston walkway

Tip:

I have learned that when in doubt of what path to take just explore the paths dog walkers take! They always know the good paths. Again, I kid you not! Dogs like trees and freedom, and owners like views LOL! A winning formula!

So my path was decided. I continued on the Hermiston walk and then walked the path the dog walkers just left. Once again, I was so right! It was a lovely path. The path led me to the Union Canal pathway. 7 miles back to the centre and so my return trip and walk were determined.

Walking towards the Union Canal pathway

A leisurely walk along the canal back to Edinburgh’s city centre.

Scenes along the Union Canal

I love exploring! What a wonderful Winter day’s walk.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Edinburgh without the Dressings

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Christmas and New Years celebrations are now all behind us. With that realisation, a stillness is evident in the Bonnie capital. As I walked the streets, I cannot but notice that with many of the holiday dressings removed, the “bones” of the city are truly visible. With very few adornments, the buildings and structures are even more prominent.

As I walked across Waverley Bridge and through Princes Street gardens, the old town still looked amazing.

Waverley Bridge
Princes Street Gardens
Scott Monument

Although the structures look a little monochromatic, they still were a feast for the eyes. The detail in the architecture is wonderful.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Feeding the Birds

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There is a real love affair between the UK and birds. I think it is one relationship that actually defines the culture and yes that includes Scotland! As I mentioned before, although I am British, I have lived many years in Canada and have travelled extensively. However, I have not witnessed this passion to walk to a park armed with a loaf of breadcrumbs, to then spray them around with such intent anywhere else in the world, like they do in this Bonnie land.

Yesterday, while I was taking a quiet stroll I was suddenly interrupted with a sound that rose to a crescendo. I turned to see what I can only describe as a mix of a grand operatic performance and some form of professional wrestling conducted by our featured friends. I was transfixed by the performance and stayed until every last crumb disappeared which for the record did not take long! I could not help myself; I had to take a clip in slow motion.

https://thescottishpearl.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/img_6128.mp4

It continues to put a smile on my face.

My advice to you – do not get between a bird the their breadcrumb! It is an operatic, feeding frenzy.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Edinburgh and Archbishop Desmond Tutu

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What a delight to see and be reminded by this late icon, Archbishop Desmond Tutu!

St John’s on Princes Street, Edinburgh

“No outsiders. No enemies.”

A tribute to Desmond Tutu

As I walked Princes Street and without a doubt, totally in my own world listening to the daily hum of the city, it was a lovely surprise to happen-upon this billboard outside St John’s in the city centre. I had not noticed it before. How was that even possible? But glad to see it now; gracing the city centre in Edinburgh. As I reflected on this painting, a friend came to mind, Kashmir Birk. He had written an excellent tribute and I would like to quote this sentence from that tribute:

“Desmond Tutu reminds us what true leadership is: Compassionate defiance of what is wrong, and fearlessly true to what is human and honest.” Kashmir Birk.

Word!

Thank you St John’s for this reminder.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Bulbs in January?

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It still blows my mind that I can see signs of plant growth in January! Having lived in Ontario, Canada for many years, I have been conditioned that all plants are dormant from November to April with the only colours in my surrounding being white [snow] and brown [bark]! So I am delighted to see signs of growth in my container garden. As I strolled onto my terrace with morning coffee in hand, I saw bulbs poking out of the soil, as if they were saying “Hello”.

It never fails to put a smile on my face to see the first signs of new growth reminding me that Spring is a chance to start again. I think friends must know this about me, as I recently received bulbs as a gift to witness its growth on my sill.

Are you thinking Spring yet? I would enjoy hearing your thoughts.

I think Spring growth in January is a delight.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022