We did our first ‘tourist’ event two weeks ago when we made a trip to Windsor castle. The town of Windsor is beautiful and according to some of our new neighbors, it is the place to go shopping.

Throughout the village, that surrounds the castle, are these old, multi-color buildings that have been converted into restaurants and shops. I marvel at how the below building is commonplace in the UK but steeped in history. Imagine what it would have been like in the 1400s?

I walked through the building while we waited for our food and was amazed at the huge wood beams and brickwork that was hundreds and hundreds of years old. That being said, the food was awful (smile).

We spent the afternoon touring the castle and the boys loved it. After all, who would not love touring a castle with the arrow slits, huge walls, guards and myriad of sites?

At the entrance to the castle you are handed a listening device (With 2 tracks, one for children – one for adults). As you tour through the castle you see numbered spots (Approximately 35) where you stop, hold the device to your ear and listen to the history. It was fascinating as it talked about the history of the castle, the defense benefits to being on a hill, what each room held and was used for (i.e. Where the king or Queen would dress) and the lore of the castle. It brought the castle to life and allowed us to avoid standing in one of those huge crowds while straining to hear a tour guide slowly (and painfully) guide you through.

Inside the castle apartments, no pictures were allowed, which is too bad. It is spectacular, filled with armor, weapons and priceless treasures (Collected over the century as the British Empire expanded). It was also fascinating to learn that all areas of the castle remain in full use. When dignitaries come, it will all be rearranged and used to host dinners and parties. Imagine being hosted at Windsor castle by the Queen?

All in all, a great start. We spent 3 hours there and plan to go back again in 6 months. We did not get through it all.

St. George’s chapel was closed, it was Sunday ….. I will catch a service there one day.

Notice the crooked house on the right ….

A cannon from an old ship …