We’ve had a wonderful time visiting with family this past week. Among other things, we went to Warwick Castle, billed as “Britain’s Greatest Mediaeval Experience.”
The site has been fortified since the early 11th century and is quite formidable.
It was used, however, much more extensively than many of the other castles we’ve seen. The Great Hall and the living quarters were very impressive. This castle was designed for entertaining as well as military dominance.
A large section of the castle is decorated in the style of the late 19th century and wax figures depict family and guests gathered for a weekend party. This really brought the place to life and it was easy to imagine people living here.
There were also a number of special events happening while we were there.
We watched an archery demonstration and presentation about the role of archers in the medieval military.
Sage took lots of pictures during the birds of prey demonstration.
There was also a mock joust held on the grounds behind the castle. The kids were fascinated by the battles.
We also watched the trebuchet fire a flaming ball several hundred meters through the air. The kids and I made our own homemade trebuchet last year, so I found it particularly interesting.
We were entertained by some pretty silly jesters!
We also took a break for ice cream.
June 4th, 2008 at 2:11 am
Hi Everybody!
It’s great to see what you were doing with the cousins and the aunt and uncle! What fun you must have had! River and Sagey both described some of the things you were doing when we talked on the phone, and I loved seeing everything they told me about! Love to you all, Grana