Day Twenty 1st August 2009 - Runneymede / Windsor

Site of the Magna Carta, Runneymede

 Aboard the Newnham

The magnificent Newnham steam engine

For our final day on tour the group split into two, with one going straight to Windsor and one going to Runneymede and taking the steam boat, Newnham, up the Thames to Windsor.  Runneymede is the site of the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215, possibly one of the most important documents created.  King John could not realise the impact that it would make on constitutions around the world when he grudgingly tried to placate the Barons in this field just down the river from the royal palace in Windsor. 

While we are at Runneymede we look at the memorial to J F Kennedy.  This memorial on an acre of land was donated to the USA in memory of a President whose life was so tragically cut short.

We board the river boat the Newnham, dating from the late 19th century and complete with its steam engine.  It is a magnificent boat to take us upstream to Windsor.  The Thames is the best way to see this part of Berkshire.  We began our journey in London going up the Thames from Greenwich to Westminster, so it is fitting we should end the program back on the river.  We pass through two locks and get our first view of the castle before arriving in the town of Windsor.

Officially on Tour!

Warming hands from the steam engine

We walk up to the castle and it is clear how the town is domintaed by this royal home.  The castle is a wonderful place and although quite busy with people it is difficult not to be impressed by the State Apartments and St George's Chapel, where such monarchs as Henry VIII and Charles I are buried.   The other group get ready to board the Newnham for their trip to Runneymede and we continue our tour of the castle and then into Windsor itself for some last minute gift buying before taking the coach back to Charterhouse.  There we have to pack everything and get ready for the barbecue and dance.

The castle from the river

Windsor Castle

A wedding carriage

There are some tearful goodbyes to be had and it is clear everyone has had a great summer. Thank you ISCA!  Early wake ups tomorrow and journeys home.  One thing is for sure, we will not forget our three weeks or the friends we have made.

 

 

 

  
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