Best surprise stay in a castle!

Off in morning with still no idea where I was going. Took train from Paddington and all I knew we were heading west with the line finishing at Cardiff. I was off train at Bristol and bundled into a cab.

A short drive brought us to the grounds of Thornbury Castle Hotel! The penny dropped!

                             Thornbury Castle entrance

Well I was impressed. It is the only Tudor castle hotel that you can stay in, and was started in 1509. Henry viii stayed here with Ann Boleyn.

Lady Eleanor room

We had a coffee whilst I took it all in and then we went for walk around the gardens.

                              Tudor gardens

Magnificent and was possibly a reason that Lord Buckingham lost his head in 1521 so that the crown could take it for themself.

We idled around taking it all in and had a short rest before walking up town for dinner. Perfection followed us and we went to Piazza Italian restaurant which was simply the best. Food was fabulous, presentation divine and service happy.

Strolled back to castle and had an evening drink in lounge before retiring.

                              It did feel unreal

Well that was such a good day, I look forward to this one.  We will make our way back to London some time.