*Today is the day!*

*Edinburgh. Scotland…here we come..*

July 29, 2024 -

Waking up refreshed and ready for a new day, we packed our luggage before heading downstairs for a English breakfast. We were seated at corner table overlooking the beautiful dining room. Something about ordering breakfast and not having to prepare breakfast is such a luxury to look forward to while traveling.

We browsed the menu… Jeff settled for Eggs Benedict Royal (royal meaning with smoked salmon). Mandy went with Avocado Toast and Téo had a delicious bowl of Porridge, which is one of his favorite foods.. For drinks we went with a Cappuccino, Americana, Grapefruit juice and Orange juice.

Stomachs filled, we three headed outside into the warm sunny weather. Our goal was to take a brisk walk to Buckingham Palace to see the changing of the guards (If we weren’t to late)….Well turned out we were only soon enough to catch the tail end of the ceremony. Plus there was quite a crowd of people to navigate through as well. A glimpse of the horses and soldiers leaving the Palace was good enough to satisfy the curiosities of a little boy. Mandy and I actually had seen the ceremony the last we visited London in 2019. It is an interesting ceremony, the horses are beautiful and music adds the finishing touch..

*Changing of the guards heading back to their barracks..*

What is the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace? The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a ceremonial event that takes place outside of the iconic royal residence in London. Typically occurring daily in the summer and every other day in the winter, this tradition involves the new guard swapping places with the old guard in a formal procession accompanied by music. Spectators gather to witness the precision and formality of the soldiers in their distinctive bearskin hats and red tunics as they march in unison. The ceremony symbolizes the continuity of royal protection, reflecting both history and British pageantry. The event lasts around 45 minutes and concludes with the guards taking their positions at the palace gates, maintaining a watchful presence over the Monarch's official London residence.

Looking at the time, we realized it was now time to head back to our hotel, grab a bite of lunch and then catch a cab to Kings Cross Train Station for our journey to Edinburgh, Scotland!

We ate a quick lunch at the Goring consisting of Berry Smoothies, Fish and Chips, Salad, little avocado sandwiches for Téo. The clock was ticking along, we needed to be at the train station by 1:30 pm or so to catch our LNER train to Edinburgh which departed at 2:00 pm. The concierge called for a cab to meet us right outside the hotel. So many helpful people we feel spoiled already! The bellman loaded our five bags. Away we went, enjoying glimpses of the flower lined streets, people out and about in London..this all made for a scenic along the way to the train station.

There something nostalgic about riding in London black cabs. It seems like the drivers all know London like the back of their hand. Just tell them the name of the destination or the street and with a nod of understanding you’re off! If I remember correctly the fare was around 18 sterling pounds for the 20 to 25 min ride to Kings Cross.

Upon our arrival the taxi driver hopped out and helped unload the luggage. We set Téo in his little seat on top of his luggage. Ready for his ride through the station. It’s a win win for everyone. He loves it and we do to!

(This Mia Milly roller bag is has been such a back saver on this trip. It has also drawn quite a bit of attention. People stop us and say they’ve never seen a bag like this where did we get it etc…)

We collected our bearings and headed inside the train station to view the monitor to see which platform our train was scheduled to leave from.

*We are watching the monitor for the train heading towards Aberdeen...waiting for the departure platform to be assigned...*

One thing to note when traveling by train in Europe the platform of departure is usually only posted 15 minutes before it is to leave. Also knowing the final destination on the train is helpful. Some of the time the town we are visiting will be one of the stops before the final destination of the train like today the we are boarding a train bound for Aberdeen. We will be getting off at Waverley Station in Edinburgh.

*View outside as we leave the station...*

Our train departed on time. We were seated with a table in between our seats. Which ideal for long train rides to have a space for computer work or eat a snack or a meal. We thought maybe we’d have a empty seat beside us but we ended having a friendly Scottish lady sit next to us for the entire trip to Edinburgh. We chatted together from time to time and she would point out landmarks, towns, etc. along the journey. It was interesting to hear her perspective on life as well. While we were visiting I made up a bed on the seat beside me for Teo. He settled in and took a little rest. (I took a thicker toddler size muslin blanket along on the trip for Teo. Rolled it up and carried it in a lightweight bag when not in use. Perfect for quick beds, picnic blanket, and when you just needed a little warmth.)

*Charming English towns we passed through...*

*Relaxing train travel makes for a happy family...*

*The town of York…a place we want to return to one day..*

*Teo curled up on his seat and went fast asleep...*

A bit usual for train travel, from our experiences... We did end up having a couple delays en route today. This made us about 30 to 40 mins late arriving into Edinburgh.

As we were gliding through the changing English countryside and towns we were served a meal of our choice. The menu had a good selection of options. Téo really enjoyed his lunch on the train. It’s worth mentioning the snack options we’re delicious on Lner, including the hot chocolate! As we neared Edinburgh the scenery changed a bit. The track following near the eastern coastline at places. Here we seen rugged cliffs dropping into the sea and rocky sandy beaches here and there.

*Beautiful Scottish seaside cliffs merging with farm land...*

*Wheat field leading to a white light house in the distance...*

We arrived into Waverly Train Station around 7:15 pm (19:15). This station is located in central Edinburgh which one of the benefits of train travel over airplane travel. We said our farewells with our by-sitters. Gathered up our bags disembarked and began following the signs for the taxi queue outside the train station.

A quick note about Waverly Train Station - (Waverley Train Station in Edinburgh is the city’s principal railway hub, strategically located between the Old Town and New Town. Opened in 1846, it is distinguished by its stunning Victorian architecture and grand facade, making it a key landmark. The station serves both local and intercity services, connecting passengers to various destinations across Scotland and beyond. With its bustling atmosphere, Waverley also features shopping and dining options, catering to travelers and locals alike. The iconic views of the surrounding hills and the historic edifices nearby further enhance the experience for those passing through this vital transportation center.)

Rolling the bags along the bumpy sidewalk, we arrived at the taxi queue. Hopped in the first taxi in line, told the driver… destination GlenEagles Townhouse. Turns out this hotel is close by the train station but with our luggage and toddler on tow it made sense to hire a taxi instead of walking. (P.S. The drivers do appreciate a tip and are eager to lend a helping hand.) As we rode through the Streets of Edinburgh, we were able to catch our first glimpse of the architecture of Edinburgh’s old world charm. This had us eagerly looking forward to our tour tomorrow morning with our With Locals guide Monica!

What can I say about Gleneagles Townhouse to adequate describe it? It a special place with so much attention to detail. To start with the staff were super friendly and welcoming. After verifying we were who we said we were the girl at the front desk showed us to our room. She gave a quick room tour and left us with a hearty welcome to Edinburgh, Scotland!

Quick note about Hotel Gleneagles Townhouse - Located in Edinburgh, this fine hotel has a rich history that dates back to its original construction in the 19th century. Initially built as a private residence, it reflects the architectural styles of its time, featuring elegant facades and intricate detailing. Over the years, the building has undergone various transformations, including its conversion into a hotel, which has hosted a diverse array of guests and events. Recently revitalized, Gleneagles Townhouse now combines its historic charm with modern amenities, preserving its legacy while catering to contemporary needs, making it a unique destination that honors its past while looking to the future.

Now we would like to invite you on a room tour of the room we stayed in. It was one of the most beautiful rooms we’ve had the privilege to stay at in our travels so far. The impeccable color scheme coordinating and complementing each other perfectly. Plus the added thought of arrival gifts waiting for us all helped us to quickly feel at home. Too bad we will only be staying for only one night. Enjoy the tour!

*Such an inviting foyer to store our luggage...*

*Yes this bed is a comfy as it looks...*

*Hmmm already looking forward to espresso or a tea later...*

*A thoughtful welcome note...these small details can make such an impression*

Beings our train was delayed enroute, we were running behind for dinner reservation at the Hendersons Restaurant. We had mentioned this to our Receptionist and she quickly offered to call the restaurant to let them know we were running a little behind schedule. Ready for the evening we went down stairs to catch a cab to Henderson which was a scenic 15 min cab ride away.

*One of our favorite restaurant we ate at in Edinburgh*

Henderson restaurant turned out to be one of our favorite restaurants. We tried in Scotland. They specialize in fresh plant based options and have an impressive menu with a wide variety of creative dishes to order. We started out with the Nibbles plate which was samples of all appetizers on the menu. Jeff order their version of Scottish Haggis. Mandy went with Red Pepper and Tomato Tartare, Soup of the Day, and Téo enjoyed a Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad. Dessert sounded delicious but we were too full and quite content.

Stepping outside into the cool rainy evening, we waiting for cab to stop by to give a ride back to our hotel.

*Outside waiting for a cab to take us back to the hotel...*

Back at the hotel Mandy and Teo headed for the room while I explored a bit more of the hotel. Made my way to lounge bar area which was located at the top of Gleneagles. There I found some really scenic views of Edinburgh from the terrace.

*A view from the top terrace of the hotel overlooking a Edinburgh ...*

On the way back to our room, I took a quick peek into the Spencer Restaurant. It is located in a large room with high vaulted ceiling all around. Already looking forward to Breakfast tomorrow!

It time to call it a day…its been a great travel day!

*Night time tea to relax before bedtime...*

First a cup of tea before the lights go out. Teo is always happy to flip the switches.

*Teo is always eager to turn the lights off or on...Good Night to All!*

After a long eventful travel day. We are so thankful for a warm shower, cozy room and comfy bed to crawl into. Looking forward to breakfast…sweet dreams!

P.S. The next Scotland Blog post will be posted Tuesday evening November 5, 2024

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