In photos: Walking up to Arthur's Seat

I didn't make it all the way.

A cold wind, fading light and a rumbling tummy saw fit to make me turn back on myself after a speedy 30 minute climb. It's a testament to my commitment to hill climbing that low light and the approach of dinnertime dissuaded me from continuing.

But I feel there was enough time.

Enough time to understand precisely why Edinburgh Castle was built where still it sits, watching over the city.

Enough time to gaze across the grey, fairytale spires, turrets and chimneys of Edinburgh inspiring the writer in me like it has so many scribes.

Enough time to see the flat diamonds of the Forth Road Bridge.

Enough time to see the icy blue of the Firth of Forth expand away into the horizon.

Enough time to take some photos.