31 October 2007

Warwick Castle

Before heading home to London, we took a bus to Wariwkc Castle, also overlooking the River Avon. Legend has it that the first fortification was erected by Ethelfleda, the daughter of Alfred the Great, though the majority of the remains are Norman. Indeed, William the Conqueror appointed Henry de Newburgh as Earl of Warwick, during which the motte-and-bailey fort was erected.

Terry posing with some musical peasants. The one on the left is playing a hurdy-gurdy...

Now run as a museum, the castle has engaging exhibits run by Madame Tussauds. There are some of her famous wax dummies throughout (including a young Winston Churchill), which do a great job of evoking the historic atmosphere.

We had a great time exploring the castle, climbing the turrets, wandering in the grounds, visiting the tropical house, and watching an archery demonstration. There were also additional exhibits from the Warwick paranormal investigation group. Waste of time if you ask me, but then I'm a skeptic.

On the ramparts:

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