It was a chilly and slightly overcast morning when we left Bristol to
set out on our journey to the Royal Borough of Windsor for a visit to
Windsor Castle -the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world!
As we neared our destination we could see the silhouette of the castle
from motorway, looking majestic and mighty. Soon we were confronted
with many views of the outer walls and an impression of it's sheer
size as we drove through the town of Windsor. Upon arrival in the
coach park, with the castle in full view, we walked as a group through
the train station, through the shopping arcade, across the road and
into the groups entrance of the castle. Anticipation was rising! Here
we were in the grounds of Windsor Castle, one of the royal residenced
of HM Queen Elizabeth II.
While some collected audio guides and headed straight for the state
apartments, others joined a warden for a guided tour of the castle
precinct before proceeding inside. First to see was Queen Mary's
Doll's House - a 1:12 scale model of the Queen's house which included
running water, electricity and even a miniature version of the crown
jewels! Next was the Drawing Gallery, with a current display to mark
the 60th birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Charles: The Prince of
Wales. Thereafter we were led through room after room and saw ornate
decorations, fine furniture, artwork by Rembrandt and Van Dyke, fine
displays of swords and armour, including the suit of armour worn by
Henry VIII -nearly as wide as it was tall! (Apparently he was a large
man!). The castle interior was vast and extensive, it just seemed to
go on and on. No expense spared.
When outdoors again, some of us spotted the Queen's Corgi dogs being
taken for a walk, others watched the guards march up and down, others
still set off for some lunch outside the castle, having collected a
wrist band from the shop first. St. George's chapel was well worth a
visit where the tombs of King George VI and the Queen Mother could be
seen, and the grounds themselves were picturesque. Many a photo was
taken throughout the day.
On our journey home, our Windsor quiz was won by a Czech, one of the
17 nationalities represented on board, who was the first to answer the
tie-breaker question. It was a good day out and we trust was enjoyed
by all. We hope to see you again soon at BISC or on the next coach
trip on 21st February to Salisbury Cathedral and Stonehenge.
