“There is a castle nearby,” I told Mr Word Loft the day after attending a wedding in Kent.
Still buzzing from being part of the special occasion, and tired from a late night, we decided to have a restful day before staying with old friends the next morning.
We ventured over the border to Sussex’s Bodiam Castle and were impressed by its majesty as we trudged uphill past a World War Two pillbox. Its strong block lines contrast with the romantic medieval fortress casting shadows into the moat’s water. Reflections in the National Trust pamphlet look serene, but it was windy, and sharp ripples drove over the lake-like moat’s surface, enhancing the location’s drama.
The castle was erected in 1385 as a defence and home by Sir Edward Dallingbridge. It was also a place of business, but he and his family enjoyed life too, as one part of the building is thought to have been a minstrels’ gallery.
I stared down and was fascinated by a shoal of huge silver and gold carp cavorting and gulping at insects as we headed to the Barbican. Its crumbling walls of ancient fortified observation posts along its walkway hint at the architecture and charm inside the stronghold.
The remains of rooms revealing past social activity are incredible as is the scene from the top of the Postern Tower. After mounting fifty-six spiralling steps the superior view over verdant countryside is breathtaking. At ground level, a grand archway is believed to be the private entrance for the Lord and Lady whose chambers are situated close by.
Taking a circular route within the ruins and back through the gatehouse, I noticed an area was closed. The maternity bat roosts are temporarily off-limits to ensure the safety of newborn Natterer and Daubenton bats until they have learnt to fly. With all the elevated ranges within the grounds, the castle must be a perfect habitat for the little flying mammals. As much as I love them, I’m so pleased it was daylight and they weren’t gliding around.
Back outside, I searched the stonework for an engraving of a unicorn I had heard someone talking about – it stared regally down from above an arch as if watching people on the opposite bank.
There we admired wildflowers growing along pathways, and lilies gleaming like pearls and jade at the moat’s edge. It was still blustery, but after the evening before, the crisp breeze was welcome as we nibbled ice lollies and marched back to the car.
Until next time,
Sue. X