A medieval castle in Westminster – the Jewel Tower

A medieval castle in Westminster – the Jewel Tower

The Jewel Tower is the sole remaining structure of the medieval Palace of Westminster, still easily accessible to the public on most days. Built for King Edward III in 1366, it was originally designed as the king’s private treasury before becoming a store for parliamentary records in 1600. A channel brought the river to it’s [...]

A weekend in medieval Girona

A weekend in medieval Girona

Girona is an historic city in Catalonia in north eastern Spain, close to the Costa Brava and Barcelona.   It has a warm climate, a fascinating history and fine restaurants.   And the city is served by an international airport with frequent, quick and inexpensive flights from London.   All these factors make it ideal for a short [...]

48 hours in ‘The Athens of the North’

48 hours in ‘The Athens of the North’

Earlier this year, we set off to 'The Athens of the North' to visit some of my old haunts, see the key sights once again - and watch a rather important rugby match. In the early 1800's Edinburgh re-branded itself 'The Athens of the North' to reflect its growing importance.  It has been the capital [...]

Where the Normans landed in 1066!

Where the Normans landed in 1066!

In September 1066, Duke William II of Normandy landed a French force at Pevensey, intent on taking the English throne from King Harold II.  Two weeks later, the English forces were defeated at the Battle of Hastings.  And in December 1066, William II was crowned in Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day - so called William [...]