A GUIDED TOUR OF MEDIEVAL WARWICK CASTLE, SHAKESPEARE'S BIRTHPLACE & THE OXFORDS PART 1

On our itinerary on this day was a full day tour through the enchanting Costwolds, visiting Medieval Warwick Castle, Shakespeare's Stratford Upon Avon and a walk through the cobbled streets of Oxford (Evan Evans Tours).

The full day tour cost GBP 79.00 or about P 5,700 +. The tour departed from Victoria Coach Station which is walking distance from Victoria Station when travelling via the London Tube.

The tour package included the services of a professional tour guide and riding a first class luxury motor coach.

My friend and I were among the first to arrive in Victoria Coach Station. In fact, we were very early that the check-in counter was not yet open when we arrived. Well, we did not want to come in late and risk being left behind. We were very eager to join this trip not only because of the price we paid for it but also because of the exciting places we will visit as well : ).

The Royal Mews out for their morning exercise. No, this was not part of the tour package. It was a pleasant surprise that we saw this when our coach passed by the area on our way to our first destination, The Warwick Castle.

The scene which was proof that we have arrived at The Warwick Castle

Although it was a long drive going to The Warwick Castle, it was not at all boring as we were treated to very scenic and colorful country side spots along the road.

Our tour guide also kept us awake with her very interesting stories and anecdotes. Our tour guide was a very professional, patient, kind and warm lady. You can still hear the passion in her voice while talking of something I assume she talked about a hundred times already.

Our Tour Guide with the umbrella so we could see her while we explore the place

Entrance to The Warwick Castle

The Warwick Castle grounds

This reminded me of fairy tales like Cinderella and Snow White 

The smoke provided an air of mystery

The mound. This is one of the oldest part of Warwick Castle which was first built in 1068 as part of the Norman castle's defense system. It is the perfect vantage point for defending against marauding troops but today is used for taking in the beautiful views.  Click here to read more, http://www.infobarrel.com/Englands_Premier_Castle

I was thrilled upon seeing the Warwick Castle's grounds. We were taken back 1,000 years in history to a time of bloody battles. 

The grounds of the Warwick Castle are lovingly tended and well preserved

I bet they did not smile 1,000 years ago when put through this!

There were a lot to cover aside from the Warwick Castle's grounds. We had to choose from Merlin: Dragon Tower, The Castle Dungeons and Secrets and Scandals of the Royal Weekend Party. My friend and I chose the latter as we were curious about the secrets kept by The Earl of Warwick and his family.

Inside the Warwick Castle are Madame Tussaud's waxworks display depicting extravagant banquets and a royal ceremony which took place 1,000 years ago.

Helping dress the Earl of Warwick's wife, Daisy

I was invited by some of the guests at The Royal Weekend Party to have tea : )

The secret was revealed. The Earl of Warwick's wife had a lover! They did not mind it then as long as they knew how to behave in public, tsk, tsk...

A handsome knight whom we saw right after we came out of the castle after about an hour of exploration

Originally, the Warwick Castle was built by William the Conqueror in 1608. The castle is often referred to as England's Premier Castle.

The tour of Shakespeare's birthplace and the Oxfords in my next post.

TIPS:

1. Be early when joining guided tours as you would not want to left behind when you come in late.

2. Bring easy to eat foods like sandwiches in case you become hungry and there's nothing available in the places that you will visit. My friend and I bought sandwiches from a branch of Pret A Manger near the Victoria Coach Station before we checked in the departure area.