I slept in today and when I got up and checked my e-mail I saw that Gilmerton Cove had a spot for a 1:00 tour today. So I got ready as fast as I could and looked up how to get there via Lothian Buses. I was much more successful traveling via bus today - it's not so scary anymore. I made it to Gilmerton Cove just in time for my tour, only to find out everyone else on the tour bailed and I was by myself. No big deal though. The lady in charge let me in for free and let me guide myself in the underground mystery that is Gilmerton Cove. I had to wear a hard hat, but I totally pull it off.
Archaelogists and historians cannot figure out what Gilmerton Cove was made for - all they can do is take guesses. This room may have been used as a baptismal font? Anyway, it was interesting and the price is great, so make a reservation to see it if you come to Edinburgh.
While I was there I found out that I was very close to Craigmillar Castle, so of course I had to go! So I hopped back on a Lothian bus for the short journey. Craigmillar Castle was only 5 pounds for an adult and it was a hell of a deal! It was my favorite castle I have been in thus far (including Edinburgh, Stirling, Dunlace, and Alnwick). It was well kept but not commercialized. I enjoyed how the rooms were all connected by different staircases and how the top was easy to get to. I did not get too scared walking up any staircases either - they were much wider with rails or ropes to hold onto. So if you are ever in the Edinburgh area, do yourself a favor and visit this castle.
When I left the castle I headed back to the city centre. I decided while I was having a big day I might as well stop at the Scott Monument and cross that off my list. It is my favorite building in Edinburgh. Even though it's covered in soot, I still think the architecture of it is amazing - until I decided to climb up it - geesh! Can you tell how windy it was? Probably not, but it was nearly 30mph so I thought I was going to blow right off and die. Do this, but do it on a sunny wind-less day if possible. It's only 3 pounds to go up and you get a "certificate" saying you climbed the 287 steps to the top. The Wallace Monument needs something like that! I had to climb up one of the "legs", then through the middle all the way to the top. Scary.
Despite the crazy wind, I had a wonderful day exploring this glorious city and I managed to cross 3 more places off my list! Living the life. Back to school tomorrow.
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