Highclere: Visit of a Lifetime

I was at a loss for words or even anything but total elation as I walked up the drive to see Highclere Castle.  I kept thinking “I am really here!!!” The 1.5 hour tour of the castle was worth every pence and the tour guides were lovely older ladies who were informed and entertaining.  We even had a complimentary light lunch and a gift bag in our package. No photos allowed inside, but you may want to join the free “behind the scenes” blog done by Lady Carnarvon. www.ladycarnavon.com   
  
I happened to see her walking some new pups and she said she was going to do something on the filming of the movie in her next blog.  The "Downton Abbey" movie people have caravans in a pasture and are filming each weekday. She was personable and down to earth and even did a warm intro to our large tour group.  The home has at least 250 rooms and over 1,000 acres of beautiful landscape and pastures.  It was truly a fantastic afternoon. We had about 45 in our tour and divided into two groups. During summer they can have up to 1,700 visitors a day!

Newbury was the closest town to stay in and I knew the Dolphin Hotel in Newbury was unique when the 3 printed sheets in the room had the most unusual verbiage of any hotel I have ever seen.  An example: “ Its lovely having you to stay so please relax, unwind and make yourself at home….if you need anything, just pop down stairs and ask….if we have time we love to have a chinwag, but equally, if you want some peace and quiet just tell us.”  It was the perfect place for me

It is a “market town”.  I enjoyed the long walking street and I was surprised to see the major stores found in London.  I enjoyed looking as I have absolutely no room left in my luggage! I even had time to take in a new movie  and smiled at the “Sweet Home Alabama” music playing when I walked in – don't you love it when that happens?

I next returned to London where I enjoyed a few 2018 London Film Festival movies and was next to the red carpet waiting forever to see Hugh Jackman.  He was a "no show" but I did see the Director.  Interesting anyway.  Do not forget the Fairhope Film Festival coming soon!

Near the end of my stay, I was able to obtain a ticket to Hamilton.  It is rare for one person to write the book, music, and lyrics of an original musical, but Lin-Manuel Miranda's amazing hip hop musical in the newly redone Victoria Palace was an experience. Unique casting.

I was delighted to attend a communion service at Westminster Abbey and take a tour of it and the Queen's Gallery.

I am looking very forward to seeing my sister and brother in law at the London airport on Wednesday when we all fly back to Scotland for their too brief visit.