4/4/92:
Saturday - up early and on the road with sandwiches, drinks and coffee by 8:30 a.m. Drove SW to Warwick Castle in the northern reaches of the Cotswolds. Mile after mile of hedged grazing fields with sheep and new lambs. Doug parked the van and we proceeded to step back in time thru an arch into the perimeter grounds. Enormous rhododendrons, a formal rose garden and two black and white magpies were at the gate plus two very English gentlemen, one to sell the tickets and one to take back half. The exterior with its towers, high crenelated wall is impressive in size alone. Descending narrow stone steps worn deeply and requiring careful steps to reach the dungeon under Caesar's Tower. Built in the 14th century.
The body hanging apparatus (like Robin Hood's father died in - in the movie) wall rings and chains, hole and surface scratching in the wall attest to unbelievable misery and unspeakable brutality on the part of the ones authorizing the imprisonment here.
The interior of the castle had been redecorated lately in the 1800's. With Victorian furnishings, window dressing and floor coverings. In a so called Blue Room, the guide said the ceiling was carved oak that in the late 1800's had been painted gray, highlighted with gold! What a shame.
The grand hall with armor displayed on all four walls and a large stuffed black bear by the hearth was very impressive. The bear is the sign on the Warwick shield. We viewed it from a balcony walk along two sides.
In many of the rooms there were wax models depicting people who frequented Warwick as well as family.
We stopped for lunch in a restaurant on a lower level of the castle. I had a BLT with coffee and a bit of salad with fresh watercress on the side. L 3.50p. Purchased post cards, booklet and souvenirs.
After lunch we toured the formal gardens inside the Castle walls, next to beautiful conservatory. Peacocks wandered among the tourists and screeched their bloody heads off. The topiary on the perimeter of the gardens were clipped in the shape of peacocks. Garden benches dotted along the paths and gave out on a view of the river.
Since we wanted to see a small Cotswold town, we drove 20 miles further south to Stowe-on-the-Wold. Remnants of old buildings and the square remain, but it was definitely a tourist trap. After so much authenticity I think we were all a bit let down by it. But, the ride back to Ramsey included thatched cottages, rollings and a pretty day with the last of the sunlight painting a blush on the western sky.
Unloaded, relaxed, watched "Robin Hood" (the mood goes on). We talked to Mir. All seems well at home --except it was starting to snow again. Dad managing very well and had Mir and 'Lan bearing gifts of donuts for coffee with him this morning. Mir will let Dad and all know I'm fine, busy and enjoying every moment. Bought map of old Suffolk in art shop in Stowe, post cards and some chocolates.
Everyone in bed and probably sleeping as I will be shortly now that this is down.
Tomorrow leisurely a.m. plans - Going to Alconbury AFB where they are having a bazaar. Will be interesting, I'm sure.
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