Rosslyn Chapel & Edinburgh
Rosslyn Chapel* has always been mysterious. Scotland's best-kept secret has now achieved worldwide fame since the publication of ‘The Da Vinci Code'. An architectural gem, it's superb stone carvings are still not fully understood. Many visitors leave with their own theory but all are amazed. The short walk through the glen to ancient Roslin Castle is also fascinating.
Given the The Da Vinci Code's subject matter, it's no surprise that the beautiful and highly ornate 15th-century chapel features in it. It has long been the subject of much theorising and conjecture about its origins and the meanings of its famous stone carvings. Many of these are amongst the best of their kind in Europe, with many depicting symbols relating to Old Testament texts and characters, the mysterious medieval order of the Knights Templar and to Freemasonry. Incredibly, some carvings even seem to show American plants such as maize and aloe vera, carved fifty years before Columbus's voyages, while others have thus far defied interpretation.
Edinburgh is a hugely enjoyable city to visit and we will start our tour with the Georgian splendour of the 'New' town. A magical drive along Princes Street, Edinburgh's main thoroughfare. To our right there are views of Edinburgh Castle, sited atop a volcanic plug-but more of that later. We'll tour through St Andrew's Square with it's many financial institutions then drive along George Street to Charlotte Square, the home of Scotland's First Minister.
Next we'll drive to the Grassmarket, with it's many grizzly stories of the executions that once took place there. The delightful story of Greyfriar's Bobby, the little dog that stood guard over his masters grave for 14 years, will be told as we make our way towards Edinburgh Castle.
The Royal Mile is the primary street in the medieval 'Old' town. We will drive along part of this famous route as we hear of the many characters who once lived here. Next we will see the New Scottish Parliament building and the Palace of Holyrood house, HM The Queen's official residence in Scotland. There will be panoramic views over the Queen's Park as we make our way back to the city centre in time for independent shopping and sightseeing.
Palace of Holyrood
Departure times - 2009
Departs from Glasgow Only
Every Thursday - Departing at 09.15 and Returning at 17.30
Standard Ticket - From £26.00
Departs from outside the Tourist Information Center, George Square
PLEASE NOTE THIS TOUR STOPS RUNNING FROM THE 3rd SEPTEMBER 2009 UNTIL APRIL 2010.
*Admission to Rosslyn chapel is not included - payable locally (admission: adults £7.50, concessions £6.50)
Call 07528602101 for Bookings and Information