We arrived at our room a bit early this evening, feeling quite tired from all the walking we did today. Our destination was Liverpool, which I will elaborate on later. Yesterday, we visited Greenock, Falkirk, and Stirling in Scotland.
Day 5 began with breakfast, and if I recall correctly, I had scrambled eggs and toast. Unfortunately, our group got separated during the shore excursion organized by the ship. Our friends’ meeting time was set for 10:55, while Tommy, Kel, and I were scheduled for 8:55. Although we participated in the same excursion, our timings were different. Tommy, Kel, and I met at the Princess Theater to join our group for the shore excursion. We boarded the bus around 9 AM and headed to Stirling to visit Stirling Castle.
The ascent to Stirling Castle was quite the challenge. I should have anticipated this, considering my experience in Germany, where most castles are perched atop hills, overlooking picturesque valleys. By the time I reached the top, my calves were burning! Scottish castles differ significantly from their German counterparts. They tend to have a more rugged appearance, designed primarily for defense during clan conflicts or wars with England. In contrast, German castles often emphasize grandeur and elegance. Ranging from medieval fortresses on hilltops to enchanting fairy-tale structures like Neuschwanstein, many German castles symbolize both power and beauty, as well as protection. While Scottish castles evoke narratives of battle and survival, German castles frequently captivate with tales of royalty and romance.
Stirling Castle certainly lived up to expectations! It played a pivotal role during the Wars of Scottish Independence, with iconic figures such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce engaged in nearby battles. The castle changed hands numerous times between the Scots and the English. It also served as a favored royal residence for the Stewart kings and queens, especially James IV and James V, who transformed it into a splendid Renaissance palace. Notably, Mary, Queen of Scots, was crowned there in 1543.
Perched atop Castle Hill, the panoramic views are well worth the journey, encompassing rolling hills, the River Forth, and the distant spectacle of the Wallace Monument. Inside, the castle is equally impressive. The Royal Palace has been meticulously restored, featuring vibrant recreations that transport you back to the era of James V. The Great Hall, Chapel Royal, and the engaging interactive exhibits vividly narrate the tales of kings, queens, and legendary battles. There’s a profound sense of history in standing where Mary, Queen of Scots, was crowned.
After our visit to the castle concluded, Tommy and I began our trek down the steep hill. Kel opted to stay by the bus while we explored, feeling she might struggle with the walk. We searched for food but soon realized time was not on our side. Eventually, we made our way back to the bus and continued our journey to Falkirk to see the Falkirk Wheel.
The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s only rotating boat lift, connecting the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Observing its gradual rotation as it elevates boats a remarkable 35 meters (approximately 115 feet) is truly fascinating. The boat enters the lower gondola, and with a smooth, silent motion, the wheel begins to turn gently. Within minutes, you find yourself lifted high above, enjoying panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Although the ride is leisurely, it is quite impressive. Upon reaching the top, the boat navigates through a tunnel and then turns around, moving at such a slow pace that people stroll by faster than the boat itself.
After disembarking from the Falkirk Wheel, we spotted our friends waiting in line to board the boat. Tommy and I decided to grab a bite to eat, which we finished quickly, and we ordered a cappuccino to enjoy on the bus. I dozed off briefly during the ride back to the ship. Once our friends returned, we reunited and shared dinner to conclude our day.
Today, we found ourselves in Liverpool, the city that gave birth to The Beatles. Kel decided to stay aboard the ship, so it was just Tommy, our friends, and I exploring the area. Strolling through Liverpool feels like navigating a vibrant playlist of history and music. The waterfront is alive with activity—ferries crossing the River Mersey, street performers entertaining by the docks, and the echoes of The Beatles resonating at every turn. The architecture is a striking blend of old and new, from the iconic Royal Liver Building to contemporary museums. I wandered past colorful street art, charming cafés, and vintage shops nestled in the alleyways.
We visited the Cavern Club, where the Beatles frequently performed during lunchtime. The low brick arches and dim lighting resonate with the sounds of legends. Afterwards, we explored the shop next door for some souvenir shopping. We continued our stroll and made our way to the pier, where we stopped at the Pump House for lunch. I enjoyed a delicious plate of fish and chips. Afterward, we wandered around the pier a bit more. Our friend’s daughter was eager to ride the carousel, so we all decided to join her. It had been years since I last rode a carousel, and it was a fun experience. We then made our way to the Ferris wheel and took a ride, enjoying the breathtaking view of the city from above.
We were feeling weary from our day of walking, so we decided to return to the ship. We settled into a bar with Kel and passed the hour before dinner. For my meal, I enjoyed a rack of lamb followed by a chocolate cheesecake for dessert. It was a delightful day. Tomorrow, we will arrive in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Right now I’m going to head to bed.
