Learning Curve

Although I've  been in and out of Edinburgh all my life and have built up a fairly good picture of the city, I've quickly discovered huge gaps in my knowledge.

Arguably the best way to get to know a city is to walk through it.  Transport for Edinburgh have produced a series of On Foot By Bike maps showing walking and cycling routes, complete with helpful features (parks, schools, libraries, places of entertainment, museums/art galleries, public toilets etc).  I had no idea these existed but they've been a complete joy, enabling us to get from one place to another swapping busy roads for tree-lined birdsong-filled corridors.  They say that 20 minutes per day spent in a green space improves your mental health.  In which case mine's looking good!

But it would be a shame to ignore the built up bits of Edinburgh, especially the secret places hidden down side streets, wynds and closes.  We've invested in Edinburgh's Hidden Walks, by Stephen Millar to help us 'walk, explore, discover'.  I can't wait.  This afternoon we were lured through the
Stockbridge Market gateway to St Stephen Street, home to quirky boutiques and restaurants, and another wonderful independent book shop (of which Edinburgh boasts an encouraging number).

Referring back to my patchy knowledge of the city, last week I posted a photograph of the Edinburgh skyline from the Botanic Gardens.  I was able to identify the obvious landmarks (Arthur's Seat, the Castle, the Scott Monument etc) but was stumped by the rest and bemoaned the lack of an interpretation board.  Well today, on our walk through Inverleith Park we came upon one, and I'm proud to say that I can now identify and name all the prominent buildings in that panorama.  We have also made a mental note to take ourselves down the park on the night of the Festival Fireworks as it offers a spectacular view of the Castle ramparts from where they're lit.  I wonder if the BBC radio broadcast the music to accompany them?  Fingers crossed for a warm dry evening.