Cotswolds and Castles
The last couple days I’ve been left to my own devices and decided to explore the English countryside a bit. I headed out early to the Cotswolds, those quintessential stone roof cottages that dot the landscape outside London. They were just as adorable as advertised. Although I must admit to being very uncomfortable with all the tourists posing in front of peoples houses for photos. I tried to remain respectful but I have to imagine the locals hate it.
The countryside was gorgeous and I’m happy I made the trip. But in general everything felt a bit on the touristy side to me. Getting to see the Downton Abbey church was a highlight though! And did you know that a thatched roof can last 30 years!?! Blows my mind.
Besides the countryside I also visited some amazing palaces. Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill and Hampton Court Palace, built by King Henry VII. I must confess that I haven’t been to any castles yet...just palaces. But I love alliteration more than my commitment to journalistic integrity, hence the title of this post. And let’s be honest, they serve a similar purpose and have a castley feel to them, so whatever.
Blenheim was over the top impressive. It was hard to take it all in but I thoroughly enjoyed my two hours of wandering in and around it. It was a fun, although intimidating, place to start reacquainting myself to my camera. The story of this house reminded me a lot of the Downton Abbey house and family, it was amazing being transported back to a very different time.
And then there was Hampton Court. I wish I had another couple hours here as I didn’t see all the things I wanted. While actually less impressive than Blenheim on the onset it was built 200 years before and was the seat of the Tudor kings. It was also central to the era of my fav CW tv show, Reign! #NoShame #LongLiveQueenMary #YesIKnowSheDied500YearsAgo #CantWaitForScotland
But in all seriousness the palace was immense. I got lost even with all the signs they have posted everywhere. And the gardens were unbelievable. The exhibits were also well done and the quality of the guides and staff top notch. Kitchen demonstrations, performances, era relevant games available to learn and play, it was awesome. I’m hoping to return one day!
Ok, longer post than I intended but I do have to mention that over the last two days I learned I am just as terrible with public transportation as I have ever been (turns out this isn’t all on Tommy) and I’m still terrified of situations where I don’t know the protocol. I thought I had gotten over that in NYC but it just turns out I got used to that city and now I have to get used to another.
Anyway, mom and Lolo showed up this afternoon and I am so excited to explore the country with them!
Already having a great time! Cheers!