Stratford and Warwick

Today we spent the morning in Stratford touring more of the Shakespeare properties and then it was off to Warwick Castle, one of the best preserved medieval castles in England. It is now owned by the same company that owns Madame Tussauds so it is an interesting combination of true history and Disnleyland-esque drama.

The castle has been set up to represent different historical periods during the time it was controlled by the Earls of Warwick from the 12th century to the early 20th. The state rooms are decorated in 18th century period furnishings. Another part of the living area is set up with wax figures of those who attended a summer party at the castle in 1898. There are also parts of the castle that remain very medieval.

we were able to see one of the bird of prey shows that featured both a bald eagle and a golden eagle. Then Brendon, Makana and James were chosen to help fire the trebuchet by using a medieval pulley system to ratchet back the throwing arm. The necessitated them walking in large wheels somewhat like hamsters.

Once that was over, it was back to exploring the castle. We are now back in Stratford where the students are preparing to play flashlight tag once it gets dark



At Nash house








-The school that Shakespeare might have attended





In Warwick








The Quaker Meeting House in Warwick


the main gate to the castle





Ha ing lunch in the undercroft


Allie and Brooke with Churchill











lots of peacocks














Makana, Brendon and James all ready for work


Makana in the trebuchet



A job well done and the trebuchet about to fire























At the top of the castle ramparts (having climbed hundreds of stairs)









Don't even ask.....



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