The Milkman Building in Edinburgh

It was such a beautiful day in the capital yesterday. It was so good to see people enjoying the Old Town. A resemblance of pre-COVID days. As I passed the Milkman cafe on Cockburn street I had to take a photo …. Yet again! It looked majestic in the morning sun. I love that building and am glad that it continues to grace our city.

A reference from the conservation project states that “The Milkman forms part of the group of buildings, dating from 1859, and its significance lies in the part it played towards unifying the frontage of the serpentine Baronial styled terrace of the street.”

Well, it certainly does that! The architecture is wonderful.

Edinburgh’s Craigmillar Castle

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I recently wrote a post on the panoramic view of Craigmillar Castle. As it is Thursday, as part of #ThrowBackThursday, I thought I would search my archives for photos I took of that castle! These were taken in January 2020, just before COVID lockdown.

It truly is a hidden gem! I would venture to say that of the four castles I know of in Edinburgh, Craigmillar castle is a good second to Edinburgh Castle.

As you walk towards the castle, you definitely get a sense of grandeur. It is quite an imposing structure.

The lands upon which this castle stands were granted to the monks of Dunfermline Abbey in the 12th century. The castle was built in the 14h century.

It is well documented that Queen Mary stayed at the castle on at least two occasions. As you enter the castle’s courtyard you cannot miss the trees; two yews. It is thought that one is connected with Queen Mary’s visit. Quite incredible. Wow! If trees could talk.

I remember slowly climbing the stairs to the rooms but I am struggling to remember the layout. I need to visit again to get better acquainted.

However, I do remember the view! It was wonderful.

Another visit is definitely required. It is on my list!

Winter Blooms in Edinburgh

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When I am wandering around villages, cities, trails or whatever, I tend to stop and enjoy any spot of colour I meet on the way; which inevitably is a bloom of some form.

I take the quote “stop and smell the roses” to a whole other level. It usually lands me in a little trouble when I am with hiking groups as I always want to “soak up” my surroundings which does not fair well with a team that wants to keep a certain pace.

Anyway, I digress. This time of year, I tend to savour any flower I see. In fact any plant that looks interesting to me. Yes, including grass!

I continue to be in awe when I see Winter flowers in the city.

Here are a few snapshots of the flowers or berries I saw in January and February.

So the next time when you hear that Scotland is grey, wet and cold, think about this post and all the splash of colour that exists in the Winter! In the Scottish capital! Just wonderful.

Here they are once more in a clip!

Thank you Edinburgh and thank you Mother Nature.

Walking Calton Hill

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Walking Calton Hill is my quick fix for elevated views. It is such a gem and a gift to have this park in the city centre.

I usually walk the hill at sunrise but this time I decided to do a sunset walk. The colours were not as vibrant as I know they can be but still worthy of taking a collection of pics. So feast your eyes on these.

Calton Hill’s views never disappoint. 360-degree views of the city are amazing. Views that truly never tire 🙌🏾

February 2022 Scottish Pearls Highlights

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I prepared a snapshot video of posts shared in January and you liked it!

So here is one for those shared in Feb!

It may have been a short month but it was packed! Thank you for all your support!

Jacob’s Ladder in Edinburgh

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I realised after writing the post on Hidden Lane in Edinburgh that I should write about Jacob’s Ladder. After all, I have already taken the photos!

Jacob’s Ladder is a steep pathway that connects Calton Road with Regent Road in Edinburgh. This is a historical pathway that first appeared on a map in 1784. Originally the path led to the Old Calton Burial Ground and was used as a funeral processional route. Given how steep the route is, I cannot imagine how they did the actual procession.