It was cold, wet and festive Saturday afternoon in Scotland’s capital city. I had caught up with a friend over lunch and we were heading to the train station where he had a train to catch. It was my fourth day in Edinburgh (principally to visit my brother who lives there) and already I felt like I had seen enough to get a good feel for the city.
But as my friend and I traipsed through streets and alleys from where we had lunch, we happened across a steep, winding street replete with tall, brightly coloured buildings. My curiosity and imagination were immediately stirred and I began making a mental note of where it was located to return to later with my camera. With darkness falling even earlier north of the border, I knew time was limited to get in some good daylight shots.
And so I saw off my friend and made a hasty to return to what I now know as being the historic and highly photogenic Victoria Street. Thankfully I was able to get in a few photographs before night began to settle in.
I had to smile at the whole episode. I had bought a guidebook and had a vague idea of what I wanted to do and see whilst visiting Edinburgh. And until that Saturday I thought I’d covered a good deal for a first trip. But if it wasn’t for a brisk walk to the train station with a friend I’d have missed out on an importance slice of Edinburgh’s history and charm. When it comes to travelling, it’s good to make room for both planning and spontaneity.
Some of the shots from Victoria Street are below, as are a few others from the trip. Enjoy!
