Royal Mile

 
 

We walk all the way up to the courtyard of the castle, which serves as a parade ground.  Many of the buildings along the way are set a few feet apart, creating "closes," narrow, crooked, dark walkways that connect the Mile to adjacent streets- perfect spots for violent crime, of which Edinburgh has seen more than its share.   We check out The Scotch Whiskey Experience, a store and information center, which has an absolutely huge assortment of single malts.