London Day Five

On Tuesday, we tried again to go to Windsor Castle. This time we were allowed in and showed up right as they were having a changing of the guard ceremony, complete with brass marching band. After watching that for a bit we went through Queen Mary’s Doll House exhibit and toured the staterooms. We got to walk through where the Queen hosts parties and meets with heads of state. It turns out that she was actually staying there at Windsor Castle while we were touring. We missed seeing her drive away, but the flag flying above the castle meant that she was residing there as she does most weekends but you usually cannto see her. We were very disappointed as she did make an appearance and many got to see her and wave to her.

We had a nice lunch outside the castle, then went back in for a guided tour. There we learned some of the history of the castle (it was originally founded at that site in 1066 by William the Conqueror). We were also able to walk through St. George’s Chapel and see were several royalties are buried (including Henry VII–Jenn’s favorite). It was incredible to hear the history of the buildings and to know that they are still used today as a royal residence for Her Majesty the Queen herself.

Windsor Castle was probably one of our favorite things we saw in London. The processions, the parade, the changing of the guard ceremony were all so royal and amazing to view so close.