Scotland 2th---6th July 2018


Our Trip to Edinburgh 2nd July – 6th July 2018

On a bright sunny morning, 30 members excitedly set off from Ballinasloe to Dublin to get an early flight to Edinburgh. We were greeted by our pleasant tour guide, Mary ,who made all our travel plans and sightseeing so easy for us. We quickly settled into the comfortable Westerwood Hotel nr. Glasgow.

On Day 2 we were whisked off to Edinburgh Castle. Climbing those steps up to the Castle was a challenge for our aging limbs, however, when we did reach the top it was well worth it - there was so much to be seen in this mighty fortress which has dominated the skyline for centuries. We marvelled at the nation’s Crown Jewels and we could smell the gunpowder after the One O’Clock Gun fires. We visited St. Margaret’s Church, which holds only 16 people and is very popular for weddings. We went to the National War Museum and learned more history than we ever did at school. We enjoyed lunch under blue sky skies as we admired the panoramic views. We were pretty tired by the time we got to walk down the Royal mile and Princess St. There were many tired ,but happy, bodies glad to get back to a nice dinner in our Hotel that evening.

On Day 3 we went to see Glengoyne Distillery, Stirling Castle followed by a guided tour of the Battle of Brannockburn. This is where Robert the Bruce and Edward 11 changed the path of Scotland’s history in 1314. A great experience.

On Day 4 we had a lovely relaxing day cruising on the amazing Loch Lomond. Met many lovely people and even had a little sing-song!! We then visited the conservation village of Luss where the pretty streets bedecked with flowers were a sight to behold. We enjoyed lunch in many of its pleasant restaurants before returning to our Hotel.

On Day 5 , we prepare for Home. On our way, we were treated to a guided tour of the Kelpies. Never having heard of them before, we were amazed to see the world’s largest equine breath-taking sculptures up close. We went inside and marvelled at the sheer size of these fantastic pieces of art.

After that, we enjoyed the highlight of our trip – the Falkirk Wheel Cruise. The Falkirk wheel is a rotating boat lift that connects two canals. It links the Forth and the Clyde Canal to the Union Canal above. A wonderful experience indeed.

Our weary bodies were glad to board the coach to take us to the Airport and home. We had a wonderful, enjoyable full schedule of adventures in Scotland. Our organisers, tour guide and driver made it all very easy and pleasant. Many thanks to all concerned.
 
 
 
 
 


 
 
Chris O’Flynn (P.R.O) July 2018

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