Today we visited Windsor Castle, the official home of the Queen. We took the train to Slough, the closest station to Windsor and Eaton College, the high school that Prince William and Prince Harry (and Eddie Redmayne) attended.
Once we arrived, we walked through the charming town surrounding Windsor to pick up our tickets, and Philippa then took us into the grounds of Windsor.
We parted ways with Philippa after seeing St. George’s Chapel, since tour guides with large groups aren’t allowed in certain places in order to keep the flow of people moving.
We continued on throughout Windsor Castle on our own, guided by an audio tour. It was really very informative, and we got to see many cool rooms like the room dedicated to the Order of the Garter, the State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Doll House, and more.
Windsor Castle is the oldest castle still occupied in the world, and the history was so tangible throughout each of the rooms. You could even see personal design touches that each monarch added to the rooms when they were in power.
After the tour of Windsor was over, we walked around the grounds a little more, looking at the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.
Gardens at Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle
After lunch, we met back up with Philippa, and took a brief trip down to Eaton. We couldn’t see much of it, but Philippa told us all about the history of the college, which was very interesting. One thing that stood out to me was that Eaton, which would be considered a really prestigious private school in America, is actually called a public school in England. Likewise, public schools in England are known as State schools. I always think it is so cool learning about the little differences between us and England. Many things are so similar, and yet there are so many differences as well.
Eaton College
Once we took the train back from Windsor and Eaton, a group of us went to a Fish and Chips place that Philippa recommended, called the Rock and Sole Plaice. As Philippa told us, you need to buy fish and chips from an actual fish and chips restaurant, preferably one that you can take away your food. A pub just won’t cut it. After eating at Rock and Sole Plaice, I can tell you that Philippa was absolutely correct – the fish and chips were fantastic!
After dinner, we went to see our second show in London, Memphis. I had actually seen Memphis a few years ago in New York City, but I was really looking forward to seeing it again and with a different cast.
Memphis is a great musical. It tells the story of the rise of “race music” among young audiences, led by a fictional radio DJ and his soul-singing girlfriend. The music was so energetic, and the whole audience was moved by the incredible emotion throughout the show.
Memphis
Overall, it was a night filled with great music, theater, and dance – three of my favorite things. It was an amazing way to end the day!