I seem to be making a habit of visiting Edinburgh for my birthday, and getting pretty lucky with the weather too.
It was so nice the first day that I went to the Botanic Gardens, along with my newest companion, Birthday Pusheen! I didn’t want much this year (because Japan!) but everyone needs a cute birthday friend.
Looking back at Flickr, its 11 years since I last visited, which seems impossible but there we are. Spring had just about arrived so I was able to see some flowers, but I really must go back in the summertime one year.
Since it was my birthday, I treated myself to a ticket for the glass houses. This was my first time inside and there’s a lot to see. I especially liked the animal sculptures dotted around for photo opportunities.
There was also a display of orchids and other tropical flowers. This one is just perfect – love those peachy colours.
Even with all that, the highlight was still coming across this cat having a snooze in the picnic area. I don’t get a lot of cat petting opportunities and this one was happy to oblige.
I stayed overnight at the same hotel as last time as it’s so handy being right across from the station. The next morning I saw the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition (v good as always) and then wandered around Greyfriars Kirk until Hannah Zakari was open. I’d never been in here before either and it is proper old and super interesting with great views of the castle.
I did a lot of window shopping too but didn’t end buying anything at all for myself. Got to build up that Japan shopping fund! So here’s another nice photo instead.