The Water of Leith

Look down towards New Town

Having braved the crowds of the Royal Mile yesterday, we were very happy to follow the suggestion of Susie to walk along the Water of Leith today and see another side of Edinburgh. What a poetic way to describe this small river that winds its way through Edinburgh to the Firth of Forth.

Before finding the river, though, we took advantage of the momentarily clear blue skies and climbed Calton Hill to take in the grand 360 degree views of the city. To the north lay the Firth of Forth and the Castle was to the south. The New Town was to the west and the views gave a great perspective on how the city was laid out.

No idea what this building in the park on top of Calton Hill might be

We found our way back down to the footpath that followed the river and soon found ourselves removed from the noise and crowds of the city. There were just a few others on the path, and most were dog walkers. My, what well trained dogs so many people have here. Most were off leash and all were perfectly well behaved.

By the time we reached Stockbridge, we were somewhat in need of a water closet. It was about lunchtime, so we found a small cafe that would relieve both needs. Afterwards we walked around the area a bit. We noticed a profusion of charity thrift shops, like maybe every third or fourth space. This must be known as the thrift shop center of Edinburgh. It would have been fun to poke around in them, but we still had some distance to cover. On the other hand, Tami was not able to prevent Mike from checking out a couple bike shops we also encountered. Mike proudly emerged with a Bowmore distillery bike jersey.

Stockbridge, near the public restroom we finally discovered right after lunch

Wish the market was still there

Further on we came to the small scenic area of Dean Village. We got a few pictures and then started heading back.

Coming into Dean Village

I swear there used to be a door around here somewhere

Plumbing added later

Water of Leith

Bridge into Dean Village

The New Town area of Edinburgh was built beginning in the 18th century as a solution to the overcrowding of the Old Town (medieval) area of Edinburgh. This planned part of the city featured Georgian architecture for the grand houses where the well-to-do preferred to live. We visited a beautifully restored residence, the Georgian House, where we got a glimpse into what life was like for both the owners and servants at the time. One notable item we learned about the original owner was his habit of spending beyond his means and putting himself further into debt. What was even more interesting was that most of his neighbors were in the same situation. They lived on inherited money and the income from their country estates and the appearance of wealth in Edinburgh high society was very important. The owner wanted to make sure his daughters found good (wealthy and respectable) husbands and that his son was well educated.