Blogs from Southwell, Nottinghamshire, England, United Kingdom, Europe

Having seen all the beautiful exhibits at the Nottingham Show Floral Art. We headed to Southwell, our resting place for the night. The Saracen's Head was once known as the King's Arms, established in the 12th Century. The hotel was rebuilt in the 16th Century. King Charles I famously stayed at the Inn during 1642 when he raised the Royal standard at Nottingham Castle to signal the start of the first Civil War. During the Civil War he paid a final visit on his last night of freedom after he escaped from London. The next day he surrendered in Kelham to the Scottish Commissioners. In 1651 the name of the hotel was changed to 'The Saracen's Head'. Believed to be an insult to the monarchy , due to the story that Charles I was beheaded by ... read more

The upper deck of the bus was in full voice. You might be thinking I was on my way to yet another football experience, but nothing could be further from reality. The bus rocked not with enthusiastic alcohol fuelled male voices, but with the sound of hymns. A group of older ladies were struggling to contain their excitement, as they headed towards Southwell Minster. Music books at the ready, they burst into song. The lower deck was probably very confused about events. It had been a strange journey all round, but the Other Half says I am not allowed further on the “nail varnish” so we’ll say no more about that! We alighted at Westgate and walked along towards town. There are a number of impressive residences along Westgate and Church Street. However, the upkeep on ... read more