My primary goals today were to visit two extraordinary structures: The Forth Bridge, a rail bridge inextricably linked with Scotland’s identity, and The Falkirk Wheel, a boat lift which united east and west Scottish canals for the first time in centuries. However, if I was going to be out-and-about on a BritRail pass then I could do more.
Choosing the loosely defined theme of “bridges” I looked in to where else I could go. Perth offered three(!) bridges with pedestrian paths I could cross. Adding this to my first two choices could result in a loop … and what more could be found on the loop? Stirling lay between the first two cities and I remember fondly its amazing castle and the “visual bridge” (aka “view” … yes, it’s a stretch) to the Wallace Monument. Dundee lay between the final two and it had two bridges across the River Tay. What developed was a five-city circuit trip with many bridge hikes.
“Five cities in one day?” Yes, with careful planning and the right tools it can be done. I managed the complete loop in 13 hours but it was only possible because of my iPad with its O2 wireless data plan and a few great apps. I referenced the ebook “Britain by BritRail” on my iPad to set priorities. Google Maps was crucial to anticipating how I’d navigate to get the most from my time once I was off the train. Lastly, TheTrainLine app made looking up rail schedules easy and was always at my finger tips. Together they helped me plan to get the most out of my limited time.
An exciting day on-and-off trains and walking across bridges!
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