I do apologise for what may seem confusion regarding 'A', 'B' and 'other' roads yet, unless you have a guide, it is necessary to understand where to turn etc. My suggestion is to be armed with either of the following well before you even decide to visit England.
a. Purchase a Motorist's Atlas and study it in regards to where you would like to visit. There are so many interesting places once you begin to look. The Atlas I used many, many times is 'Philip's Motorist's Atlas 2004 Britain'
b. Use the internet to study a route planner such as Michelin and print out the route plan. Very, very useful.
Motoring in England is a very pleasant and mainly stress free experience. Most drivers are extremely courteous and will let you join the flow of traffic when entering from side streets etc. Be sure to thank them with a wave. After a while you will find yourself doing just the same thing. Also, be aware that country lanes and lesser roads are shared by horse and rider so slow down and simply enjoy the experience of not being rushed. It is quite calming and well enjoyable.
Having arrived in Warwick it is time to park the car in the ample car park, pop your pay and display ticket on the dash and go explore the Castle.
Warwick Castle is a wonderful example of a medieval castle and was completed in the 14th century. It is now owned by the Tassauds therefore lifelike displays play a vital part of one section of the castle. Cross the draw-bridge and enter a world of wonder as you travel back in time. The castle is full of turrets, great halls, dungeons, amazing displays and, at the right time of day, live shows.
Climb the ancient stone stairs spiralling up one of the main turrets and you will have an amazing view of Warwick and surrounding countryside as well as a commanding view over the grounds of the castle. Imaging you are one of the soldiers defending the castle from invaders and get an idea of what it must have been like back in the 14th century as you did battle with your long bows and other weapons at hand.
Cross over the draw-bridge and wind your way back down the stone staircase making your way down to the display of the instruments of torture. Have a go at lifting a sword and be surprised at the weight. One thing though would be not to imagine what it would be like to be placed in one of the cages and lifted up on high to be left to die a terrible death.
Enter into the great hall and make your way through the display rooms which are simply fascinating and so realistic and lifelike. I had to, on occasions, stop and stare to see that the people in the displays were not real. Truly amazing.
Be sure to take in a live performance in the courtyard. It could be jousting, knights fighting or something as simple as an amazing fire-eating display. There is always something to see.
Explore The Mound and take in the views.
Finally, have some lunch and a coffee at the Coach House Family Restaurant on your way out. There are other eating places so really the choice is yours.
The main thing is to enjoy the complete experience of visiting this amazing castle. This is a 'blokes' castle yet anyone can and, I am sure, will have a wonderful time exploring.
Part 3 will be the canal staircase.
No comments:
Post a Comment