The tour finished in the haunted underground vaults beneath the South Bridge which formed part of the old underground city, a spot not for the faint hearted but with Mr. Wallace as an ally, I survived and it was on to dinner.
Continuing with our
rugby theme, our venue was ‘Hawke & Hunter’ which is co-owned by former Scottish international Simon Taylor and provided a really unique dining experience. Top notch food is expected and was delivered but what wasn’t was a new style of restaurant which boasted a billiard room, whiskey room, four boutique bedrooms, a secret garden and a late night disco bar, perfect for dancing the evening away after a lovely meal. A great spot for a complete evening under one roof.
Of course a weekend away wouldn’t be complete for many without a touch of retail therapy and Edinburgh won’t let you down on that front. The busy Princess Street has all the high street names you would expect of a major city but it is in the little side streets that you can find some real hidden gems. My own shopping experience was confined to designer mecca Harvey Nicholl’s but, as never one to overdo the shopping, I elected merely for lunch at the store’s fourth floor restaurant which takes in some great views of the City.
Suitably refreshed, it was off to the Royal Mile again and ‘The Scottish Whiskey Experience’ - (The things I do in the name of journalism!) In truth, I have never been a fan of the drink and wasn’t sure about the visit but, with an open, mind I ploughed on through a tasting session of six different whiskeys. I am sorry to say the experience didn’t change my views on Scotland’s most famous and lucrative export. I can’t stomach it but even so, our Czech expert (still trying to work that one out myself!) provided plenty of fascinating information and for whiskey lovers; it has to be a must.
With the Six Nations victory over Scotland at Murrayfield under my belt, we went in search of food. ‘The Affair’ on Hanover Street was always going to struggle to live up to the heights of the previous evening’s eaterie but, in fairness, our hosts were accommodating and gracious and the food nice, even if it took a little longer than I would have hoped to arrive.
After dinner, we joined thousands of other celebrating Irish supporters spread throughout the City’s various nightspots. Our particular preference was ‘Bacaro’ in the West End, an upmarket club ideal for any shakers and movers among the party.
So what does Edinburgh have to offer? Well, its a city that spans both ends of the spectrum, going from the deep, rich history of the Old Town to vibrant, bustling new town.