Scotland Day Three: Melrose Abbey, Edinburgh Castle

After an elegant and delicious breakfast at our B&B, we headed out to Melrose to see another abbey from the 12th century. This one was founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks, built in the Gothic style, in the form of a St. John's cross.

A lead container believed by some to contain the heart of Robert The Bruce was found in 1921 below the Chapter House site. The abbey is also known for its many gargoyles and other ornate figures.

After Melrose, we visited Fred's cousin Morag. Unfortunately, she was ill and couldn't receive us. So we had a brief chat at the door, then left for Edinburgh. Once we were checked in and settled, we set out on foot for Edinburgh Castle.

St. Margaret's Chapel from the outside

We started out with a little guided tour, so we would know what areas we wanted to see in depth. We saw the Stone of Destiny and the Crown Jewels (no photos allowed), and the wonderful Scottish National War Memorial, which is a solemn and beautiful building that houses books containing the names of those who fought and died for Scotland in any wars. Fred looked in the book for the Gordon Highlanders and found his relative's name.

St. Margaret's Chapel -- the oldest building on the castle site -- was beautiful inside, with delicate stained glass windows (added in the 1920s) and a small altar.  It dates to the reign of King David I (1124-1153), who built it as a private chapel for the family and dedicated it to his mother, Saint Margaret of Scotland, who died in the castle in 1093. The chapel is still used for religious ceremonies, such as weddings.

Next, we walked through the prisons of war and the National War Museum. It was a super interesting visit!

On the way back to the hotel, we stopped at the Theatre Royal Bar and had some dinner. Keeping my promise to have haggis every day, I ordered delicious spheres of haggis stuffed with camembert. Crispy on the outside, molten on the inside, and so delicately flavoured -- delectable!!!

Here are three stained glass windows from the St. Margaret's Chapel. They were added some time in the 1920s.