A School Fit for Princes

Where in the world is Jenny? Windsor and Eton!

Today I ventured outside London on a day trip to Berkshire in order to see Windsor Castle. Y'know, just one of the Queen's weekend homes...

Driving through the English countryside

We also passed Frogmore, the burial place of Queen Victoria and her husband, Albert

Fortification of Windsor Castle was begun by William the Conqueror in 1066. It is the largest occupied castle in the world. Queen Elizabeth spends Easter, part of June, and some weekends at the castle (although it seemed rather cold and uninviting for a weekend getaway destination). Unfortunately, we weren't allowed to see any rooms inside of the castle, but the building itself was pretty amazing.

We have arrived!

Don't mind if I do

That flag indicates that the queen is not currently in residence

We also arrived just in time to witness a changing of the guards. Don't they remind you of the guards from the Wizard of Oz?

Windsor also houses St. George's Chapel, the burial place of famous individuals (like Queen Elizabeth and King George VIII) and a wedding venue for royals (such as the marriage of Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones). I was a rule-breaker and snapped a couple of photos in forbidden areas; SHH!

St. George's Chapel

Illegal photo inside the chapel

A beautifully intricate doll house that was a gift to the queen

More gifts for the queen 

In addition to Windsor Castle, we were also able to visit Eton College situated just across the River Thames. Founded in 1440, Eton College is a British independent school for boys ages 13-18 that has educated people like prime minister David Cameron, Prince Harry, Prince William, and George Orwell.

Crossing over the River Thames

The oldest house in Eton, now an Indian food restaurant I believe 

Eton's campus

The uniform for Eton students is a formal black waistcoat, pinstripe trousers (the word "pants" in Britain refers to underwear!), and a white tie.

Stalkerazzi shot I took of some Eton boys walking around

The air was bitingly chilly, so my friends and I ended the day trip with--what else--a spot of tea.

Random note: Students in Britain are currently protesting the recent university tuition increase. Tuition is being tripled from about £3,000 to £9,000, which is nothing compared to most American college prices. Maybe we should be the ones rioting!