Kindred Travelers: Castles and Cadence

Kindred Travelers: Castles and Cadence
Day 4 – Edinburgh

Today was all about one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks—Edinburgh Castle. We trekked through the city, winding uphill to meet our walking tour group. After a few hiccups courtesy of Apple Maps (which apparently enjoys sending tourists on scenic detours), we found our guide and began our journey through centuries of history.

The castle grounds have been home to a settlement for more than 3,000 years. The fortress itself, built roughly 900 years ago, has served as a garrison continuously since then—and still does today. Standing atop Castle Rock, we were treated to a sweeping 360-degree view of Edinburgh, its rooftops and spires stretching to the horizon.

After the tour, we hiked back to our lodging for a much-needed nap. We were resting up for the evening’s main event: the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

I knew it would be impressive, but nothing prepared me for the sheer scale and spectacle. Bagpipes, drums, precision marching bands, dramatic lighting, fireworks, and even an illuminated drone air show—it was a feast for the senses. Thousands filled the stands, and the thought that they perform this show every single night for the month of August was astonishing.

When it ended, we joined the flow of happy, buzzing spectators. Flashlights in hand, we made our way back along Edinburgh’s cobblestone streets, ready to sink into bed after a day steeped in history, music, and magic.

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