Edinburgh adventures:

Today Craig and I decided to go for a bit of a walk and do some exploring.  We ended up visiting Portobello, among other places, and I took some photos to share.  Even though I've lived in or near Edinburgh for most of my life, I'd never been there before today!

Before we started our adventure, we had a quick lunch at Brown's on George Street.  Choosing which cocktail to have took a long time...

(I should mention that Craig is mid-wink here!)

After lunch (steak sandwich, chips and a Bellini for me; chicken sandwich, chips and red wine for him!) we jumped on a number 26 bus and headed down to Portobello beach.

Even on a grey day like this one, the promenade and beach were busy with people and their dogs.  I always get excited when I'm at the seaside, I love being by the sea!  (It was definitely too cold for any paddling, though...)  I love the colour they've chosen to paint the railings with (they've painted the surrounding benches and bollards in the same shade - nice touch!).

Parts of Portobello are quite run down, but I still found it charming and beautiful in some places, if a little haunting in others.  The area used to be a popular beach resort in the late 19th century, and people from other parts of Edinburgh and Glasgow would holiday there.  Obviously it's far more residential now, but it's still lovely to be able to visit a beach after only twenty minutes on a bus from the city centre!

After walking the length of Portobello and back, we went on the search for some tea and cake.  We passed the Castle from an unusual angle.  It just looks like a well protected house from here, doesn't it?

Lovecrumbs on West Port (between Lothian Road and Edinburgh Castle) was first brought to our attention by Ruaridh, who had seen it reviewed in The Skinny's Food and Drink Survey (click here to read the article).  We couldn't get a seat last time he visited (also a Saturday), but Craig and I got lucky today, as some other customers were leaving just as we arrived.

I had a slice of white chocolate and peanut butter tart (amazing, but so rich!) and Craig chose white chocolate and raspberry baked cheesecake.  We both had tea as well, but my cup and saucer were cooler than his.

Lovecrumbs don't do pots of tea, but their alternative is interesting, and really quite clever.  Your first cup comes with a reusable tea bag, and you are also supplied with a vacuum flask full of boiling water to make as many more cups as you fancy.  The cakes - obviously the stars of the show - look and taste great, are displayed in a wardrobe and come in every flavour imaginable (including bacon... we didn't try that one!).  The decor is homely, but still modern, and the place has a great atmosphere.  I'd recommend stopping by if you're in the area (and if you can get a seat!).