Wednesday, July 09, 2008

Highclere Castle - 6 July 2008

Highclere CastleAfter our trip to the Valley of the Kings at Christmas, we thought it only right and proper to visit Highclere Castle, the home of Lord Carnarvon who financed Howard Carter’s Egypt expeditions.

Highclere Castle gardensLord Carnarvon was an early adopter of the new fangled motorcar and was even cited by the local bobby for travelling downhill with reckless disregard for others at speeds up to 25 mph. As a result of this wanton speed he suffered a few motoring accidents and, consequently, was advised by his doctor to spend the winters in warmer climates.

So he chose Egypt, became interested in archaeology and the rest, as they say, is history.

A lovely SS 100 Saloon in front of Highclere CastleClosing the motorcar – Highclere - Egypt – Highclere – motorcar loop was a Jaguar day in the grounds celebrating the XK Jaguar register’s 40th anniversary. Unfortunately it was an absolutely awful day for the owners to have their open top sports cars out for a spin as it rained most of the day.

We enjoyed a small patch of sunshine against the black foreboding skies as we left.

No comments: