A window on Autumn...

College of Saint Nicholas, Wallingford Castle, Oxfordshire

"...the site of one of the strongest and most important castles in England. The building of the castle began in 1067 on the direct instructions of William the Conqueror who had crossed the River Thames at Wallingford on his way to London to take the throne. The castle was expanded in the 13th century after which it became a royal castle, closely associated with many medieval kings. In 1502 the castle was inherited by the future Henry VIII, but he preferred his manor house at nearby Ewelme. The castle fell into disrepair and was robbed of stone and lead which was shipped down-river to help with building work at Windsor. In the 17th century Wallingford Castle enjoyed a renewed and final glory. During the Civil War it was refortified as a Royalist stronghold but, realising its potential danger to their cause, Cromwell's Council of State ordered its demolition on 17 November 1652." www.wallingford.co.uk


Despite the forecast for a dry day, it's been bit of a soggy day, with very low cloud and raining on and off. But pootling through the lanes of south Oxfordshire, we've still seen our share of golden Autumn colours...

First stop of the day was Wallingford for a walk around the castle ruins, and a drink in the sixteenth century pub. Known as the original Causton in Midsomer Murders and the home of Agatha Christie, the town is a beautiful Oxfordshire market town situated on the River Thames.

A short drive took us to Nuffield Place, the home of one of the most remarkable men of the 20th century. Despite being one of the wealthiest people in the country, Lord Nuffield, founder of the Morris Motor Company, and his wife led surprisingly down-to-earth lives. During his lifetime, Lord Nuffield gave away his entire fortune to good causes. His home and personal possessions are just as he left them when he died in 1963, the decor and furnishings intact. This has to be one of the most fascinating National Trust properties I've ever visited, learning about one of our greatest philanthropists. (Photos of Nuffield Place to follow in one of my inevitable memory collages...)

And now, after three busy days, I think I might just nod off!