This week is half term for my children. So today we have come to Nottingham Castle in Nottingham, not too far from where we live. The castle that stands today is not the original, (the original having been built out of timber in 1068). Neither is it the ducal palace that once stood here. No, it's a bit of a mish mash. We came here, and took our time in the beautiful grounds, which yesterday morning were awash in mist and fog. Inside the castle, we looked at all the beautiful objects that have been collected, the war memorabilia from every war that Britain took part in...and even found the 100 year old mouse, standing to attention with his rifle ! The boys entered a competition in which they had to draw a picture of a futuristic Nottingham Castle. Needless to say, the castle looked like someone medieval, but then buildings built in the past were made to last, unlike today. While they were drawing, I had a chance to quietly look at the paintings in the gallery. There is some beautiful work there, however I do prefer 'fine art', rare than modern work.
Tomorrow, we are off to Warwick Castle, and I am really looking forward to this. The King Maker's home, Anne Neville, Richard III, and a spot of BBC's Merlin. It's a great place to go, and since I last visited, they have just this year, opened more of the castle, so I have great expectations.
