Live, Laugh, Love, London: At Home with the Royals

On October 6, I took a day trip out to Windsor to visit my friend Sheila and tour Windsor Castle. The train ride is only about 45 minutes, so it makes for a nice day trip. I really enjoyed seeing Sheila again. She's a retired French teacher who has also lived abroad, so we have some common experiences and always have lots to talk about. After a great lunch at a pub (I had a fabulous club sandwich that felt so American. We also each had a "shandy" which is a lager with lemonade--quite tasty, too!), we headed up to the castle. Here's some photos from the day:

Peek-a-boo view of the castle on the walk up the hill.

It was a gorgeous, sunny day in Windsor! I love how the castle is right there in town. So close to the people.

Looking down the hill.

One of the gates. This is actually where you exit. There was a really long queue to get in; it took us an hour and fifteen minutes to get inside. But it was so worth the wait! Plus, the sunshine felt good.

Windsor Castle is still a royal residence!

After we finally made it inside. Here I am with Sheila.

I like the gargoyles guarding the tower.

Above St. George's Gate to the castle.

Here's St. George's gate.

There was a lovely garden space in what used to be the moat.

The Round Tower. We decided to skip the 200-step walk up the tower, but I bet the view is incredible!

St. George's Chapel. We spent a lot of time in here exploring all the audio guide listen points and learn about all the many famous royals who have are buried here, including Henry VIII and Edward VII. Here's a list of the others: http://www.genealogyinengland.com/Information/windsormonarchs.htm Unfortunately, you can't take photos inside the chapel, but it's gorgeous and SO powerful to stand among the remains of so many kings and queens. Chills!

We passed this passageway as we were walking down to see Queen Mary's famous dollhouse, which was incredible (but again, you can't take photos). ER stands for Elizabeth Regina, Queen Elizabeth.