Arundel Castle and Brighton

While Edgar was "straggling" his way through the English countryside (see post below), Mom, Dad and I headed down towards Brighton. On the way there, Dad said, "Hey, look at that castle!" I'm no stranger to castles, so I thought it was probably just another ruined old castle barely worth a look. Was I surprised when I looked over and saw an amazing structure just off the side of the road! The road signs pointed to Arundel Castle, so we took a little detour and wound up staying there for about 4 hours! This castle is still the home of the Duke of Norfolk and his family (including 5 children). Most of it has been restored, but there are still some anciet towers and pieces from the original build in the 11th century. We had a grand time wandering around the place and finding our way up and down very narrow, winding staircases. When you think of the perfect castle with hidden passageways and random hallways you can get lost in, this is the castle for you.





We finally made our way to Brighton and checked in the Queens Hotel on the seafront. The hotel is located in a lovely, old (imagine that), restored building almost directly in front of the famous pier. We had a quick freshen up in our room and then headed to a well known fish and chips place for dinner. I'm not a huge fish and chips fan, but all our visitors just can't wait to have it! I have to say that these fish and chips were really good and not too greasy. I just stuck with a salad and baked potato. After dinner, we strolled along the boardwalk and up and down the pier. It is full of games, people, carnival rides and all things fun food related, like cotton candy and doughnuts. We had a great time and somehow managed our stroll during the 2 hours it didn't rain that evening. Brighton is a well known party town and brides and grooms to be love to go there to celebrate their imminent end of singledom. Once the revelers went back to their rooms to pass out, we had a peaceful night's sleep listening to the rain and the wind blow. Edgar's finish line was exactly 1 mile up the road from the hotel (we didn't even plan that, it was purely coincidental), so Dad and I set off to cheer his team through the finish line and help him hobble back to the car. Mom stayed back at the hotel so just in case we didn't make it back for check out, she could do it for us. Edgar grabbed a quick shower and we got him home as quickly as possible. It was a very fun weekend! Edgar is walking normally again and we are still talking about that castle!