Windsor Castle

We spent our last free day heading out of London to Windsor castle.  We got there on the train without a problem and saw a high school cadet group march by just before we entered the castle.

We went through security and the scissors that Delaney managed to take through TSA at the airport were confiscated (but fortunately with a number to reclaim them at the end of the day).

The Gardens were my favorite part!

We joined a free guided tour group and learned a bit about the different sections of the castle.  The central tower is the oldest part and was constructed on top of a manmade mound above the river for a clear view of the surrounding countryside.  It  was designed to control traffic on the Thames river and was part of a series Norman fortifications in the region, including the Tower of London.  The  castle was slowly added to over the years, with Charles IV (I think) who decided that the structure did not look fancy enough, so he added the "sticky up parts" (as our tour guide explained).  This wall shows the crenallations that were added.  This is true of the central tower as well.  The  line that runs around the middle was once the top of the wall until another storey was added.

We learned about the Order of the Garter.  An exclusive Order with only 24 living members.  It was founded in 1348 and has had 1008 members in it.  Once inducted, you are a member for life (unless you commit a crime and are removed).  The crests for all of the members are painted on the ceiling in one banquet hall of the castle and those who have been removed have a blank crest by their number.

Delaney's favorite part of the castle was Queen Mary's Doll House.  It was built for Queen Mary and is a miniature of Buckingham palace with furniture and other items that have been custom made by various high end manufacturers.  Real silver place settings, waterford crystal chandeliers (with electricity), etc.  Amazing detail.  (No pics allowed inside)

There was also an exhibit of a fancy doll set for two of the princesses (Elizabeth II?) with day wear, evening wear, etc.  including matching gloves and shoes and bonnets.  The dolls were about 2 ft tall.  Delaney was mesmerized.

We passed through about 20 rooms in the castle that are used on a regular basis.  We  saw a room with displays of different china sets.  One of which had service for 144 people!  The Queen considers Windsor her weekend residence and Buckingham Palace and her 'office'.  She was in residence while we were there, but we did no see her.