July 8 - Canterbury

Today we headed off to the north coast of Kent to a little place called Reculver.  Our stop is at a former Roman Fort (nothing remaining) upon which an old church was built centuries ago.  Unfortunately much of it was torn down a couple of hundred years ago as the eroding cliff was encroaching on the church and it was becoming dangerous.  However, two of the towers were retained as navigation markers and parts of the walls still remain.  

It was on a pretty spot and we could see across the water to the land across the way…and all the wind turbines in between.

Of course there was a conveniently located pub nearby.

Then we decided to go to Walmer Castle near Deal, back across Kent and located very close to St. Margaret’s at Cliff, where we were the day before.  Fortunately the distances in Kent aren’t far.

Walmer Castle is one of the Cinque ports along the coasts of Kent and Sussex that were built as coastal defense against invasion.  They date from the mid 1100’s. 

This castle has a round center building with four round buildings attached.  It allowed for exceptional cannon coverage of the area.  In the visitor's center there was a drawing of how the fort would have looked when fully in operation.  It was bristling with cannon.

It looks much more peaceful now.

Walmer Castle is the official residence of the Lord Warden, the official responsible for the castles at the Cinque Ports.  The position is now ceremonial and was once held by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.  The main garden with its lovely pool was installed for her. 

The castle is surrounded by a dry moat with wonderful garden plantings.

We then took a long walk through the Woodland Walk and across some of the lawns.  

and along the long beds of flowers.

There was a croquet court set up…very different from the American version.  This one has only one stake in the center instead of one on each end.

The grounds also included a large orchard, vegetable and flower garden and green houses.

After lunch we went up to the battlements where there were nice lounging chairs.  We set for a while enjoying the breeze and looking out over the beach and the channel.  Great Day!!!  At one point we saw what had to have been a small fishing boat followed by a very large flock of sea gulls...obviously looking for free food.

To paraphrase that popular song about Catalina Island..."21 miles across the sea, the country of France is waiting for me …"  On a very clear day one can see France – unfortunately, it was not a clear enough day.

Then it was time to head back home to Canterbury.

After getting back to Canterbury we lounged around for a while then went across the street to Zizzi’s, an Italian restaurant chain, where we had dinner in a lovely shaded courtyard.