Around the World in 180 days - Part 6

The next morning, after a substantial breakfast, we wend our way through some beautiful woodlands to Whitby. We explore the small but fascinating Captain Cook Memorial Museum, housed in the actual building where James Cook lived during his apprenticeship.

Keen to get over the border, we hit the road and arrive in Edinburgh by 5pm that evening.

The Edinburgh Festival has started so Edinburgh is buzzing. Next morning we take the open top bus tour hopping off at Edinburgh Castle. This impressive building appears to grow out of the rock.

Our last activity is to brave the gale force winds up on Arthur's Seat, the land form that dominates the skyline and provides stunning views in all directions.

The Georgian New Town.

Looking toward the Forth of Firth.

We head on up through the Cairngorms.

At Inverness we have an excellent Italian meal, in honour of the Fiat, and enjoy traditional Scottish music in a pub on the way back to our B&B. Everyone else seems to have the same idea as us, to go north, we find it difficult to get accommodation so we decide to head south again.

Next morning we drive along the shore of Loch Ness. A busking piper calls up some Scottish weather for us.

We stop for lunch at Fort William and walk to Old Inverlochy Castle. Then it is on to Oban and our most expensive B&B.

Next day we drive up to beautiful Glencoe, follow a lovely winding road along the River Orchy and gaze out to Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe.

Our next stop is the George Hotel in Inveraray, a great old hotel with large rooms, great menu and tartan carpet. We climb the church bell tower, explore the castle and hike up to the observation tower on the hill behind. At last I get my highland cow photo opportunity!

We head south to Clapham in the Yorkshire Dales.

Next day we trek to spectacular Malham Cove with hordes of other holiday makers.

Belted Galloways quench their thirst at the base of the cliff.

Then it is off for a ride on the Embsay - Bolton Abbey steam train.

I've always wanted to see Stratford upon Avon, Shakespeare's birthplace so we make it our last stop. We stay at a great apartment easy walking distance from the attractions, enjoy a walking tour and see the Merry Wives of Windsor at the RSC.