Forty-three intrepid members of Hucknall U3A, including 39 from Hucknall and four from Ashfield and Mapperley, set off on Wednesday for our Scottish adventure — and, thankfully, nobody was left behind!
Our first stop was the stunning Georgian market town of Richmond, where some of us enjoyed a picnic lunch by the waterfall before continuing on to the beautiful town of Melrose, which was to be our home for the next few days.
Thursday brought our first excursions, taking us to see the magnificent Kelpies. These enormous horse-head sculptures certainly gave us something to admire — and provided plenty of opportunities for photographs.
We then headed to the impressive Falkirk Wheel, a remarkable feat of engineering. Some of us understood how it worked; the rest of us were happy just to watch it go round!
Friday was our big day in Edinburgh. There was plenty to see and do, with members exploring the city’s many attractions and enjoying the wonderful atmosphere. But the main event was still to come — the world-famous Edinburgh Tattoo.
And what a spectacular evening it was! The music, dancing, military precision and sheer atmosphere made it an unforgettable experience.
Saturday was designated a day of rest, although clearly someone forgot to tell some of our members! Many took the opportunity to enjoy a lovely walk along the River Tweed into Melrose, taking in the magnificent ruins of Melrose Abbey and visiting the Roman Museum.
We had hoped to visit the National Trust gardens, but unfortunately they were closed because of a wedding. However, we weren’t completely disappointed. We were lucky enough to see the wedding party, including the beautiful bride being piped into the gardens by a piper dressed in full Highland regalia. Now that’s how to make an entrance!
All too soon, Sunday arrived and it was time to say goodbye to Melrose and head for home. We stopped briefly at the Metro Centre in Gateshead, before making another important photographic stop — this time at the Angel of the North. At such a towering structure, we naturally had to get the cameras out!
Eventually, we arrived safely back home, tired but happy, and with plenty of memories to share. A huge thank you goes to our lovely driver, Leyton, who kept us safely on the road throughout the trip.
It was a fantastic few days filled with friendship, laughter, sightseeing, music and plenty of Scottish scenery. The Edinburgh Tattoo was certainly the highlight, but the whole trip was a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable break. And, as always with U3A trips, the best part was good company, good fun and lots of stories to bring home!
Christine West