Easter Sunday was so special at Thornbury Castle in England. What a beautiful castle, over 500 years old. As we entered the long driveway past the vineyards, we approached the inside wall where we dropped the car in the quad. We were then greeted by Jonathon, a lovely English gentleman who processed our arrival with gracious appeal. It was as if we were transported in time.
He led us up a narrow winding stone staircase and into our beautiful "Bed Chambers." The room had a 4-poster bed dressed in thick fabrics cascading down each post. The bed faced directly upon a 5 ft. open fireplace framed with fleur de les candlesticks & angels. The fire was blazing warming our room. The 10x14 ft. wall tapestry dated back hundreds of years as this castle was over 500 years old and previously occupied by Henry VIII.
There were two picture windows that let in the morning sun outlined in heavy fabric. Each wall was made out of stones set in a melodic unmatched rhythm. The artwork adorning the walls appears to be that of a palace in Venice and a famous painter. The farthest wall is heavily dressed in dark wainscot adorned with two candelabras.
The bathroom is beautiful with modern day conveniences, limestone heated floor, marble sink encased in dark wood pillars descending down to the floor. The shower wall has stone tiles like that of a piazza in Rome. The entire shower is framed in dark wood as if it were a picture frame. Our "Bed Chambers" couldn't have been more lovely and well exceeded any expectations we may have had.
We dressed for a formal dinner that began in the Library with drinks. This room itself boasted artwork that took my breath away. The girls ordered Shirley Temples and Rob and I celebrated with a bottle of Champagne. We were then escorted to our intimate formal dining room where we were dazzled by this five star chef's creations. Rob had Venison and I had Salmon. Fresh does not begin to do justice to the taste of these dishes. The presentation of the dishes were pure perfection. I only wish I had the courage to snap a photo of his workmanship, but proper manners deemed my wishes mute (although I did take a few at Brunch the next day). The twins behaved like little princesses and enjoyed their meals.
Easter Sunday we attended church services at the Parish church on the grounds of the castle. It was The Church of England's, St. Mary's, also over 500 years old. The Vicar invited our girls to carry in candles during the procession. The Service was beautiful and gave glory to God as we celebrated Christ's Resurrection. Afterwards there was an Easter Egg Hunt in the gardens surrounding the church, Cadbury Eggs. This trip will forever be etched on all our hearts and this experience marked as one of our favorite memories.
