Happy Bank Holiday everyone, which also translates as, “No class on Monday!” Even though exams are approaching, I didn’t do a ton of work this weekend. Instead I decided to enjoy the fullness of London and greater England before things get too crazy.
To celebrate the long weekend, one of my professors took our class on a couple of field trips. Friday, our class got up nice and early and headed to Winston Churchill’s house in Chartwell. At first, I wasn’t too excited about getting up at the crack of dawn to go see historical sites on my weekend, but Chartwell was actually really beautiful! The day was absolutely gorgeous and sunny and the garden was in full bloom.
After touring his house, we all ate lunch overlooking the beautiful hills and gardens of Chartwell. To continue our field trip, we stopped further down the road at Hever Castle, which was home to Anne Boleyn (one of Henry VIII’s infamous wives). The castle contained many famous paintings and artifacts dating back to the early 16th century. Outside of the castle was a large maze and garden. Friday was such a relaxing day out in the sun with fun classmates.
Saturday was a historic day for me, as I attended my first European soccer match ever! The game was Fulham (home team) vs. Reading. I was so excited to go, though I am not an avid fan of the sport. The game was super intense and a ton of fun. Thank goodness rain clouds cleared away just in time for kick off. Only thing to complain about? You couldn’t bring beer into the seating area of the stadium…I probably should’ve figured that out before I bought my pint five minutes prior to the start of the match.
Sunday, I went on a field trip to Eltham Palace with my professor and some classmates. We toured the art-deco interior and furnishings, and walked around the beautiful countryside and even got to pet some English horses. Our professor then bought us some traditional scones and English tea for attending the field trip. After we got back in the early afternoon, I retreated to my room to start homework.
In the early evening, my roommate and I toasted to the official start of “hell week(s).” London adventures will have to be put on a bit of a hold until finals are over. From here on out, our heads will be buried in books, notes, and practice exams.