'Adventuring in Mid-England'
Nowadays some of the most money making movies are about historical people, places and events. Dating back to the original 1920's Ben Hur, through the adventures of Braveheart and The Kingdom of Heaven, we can trace the tremendous appeal of dashing young men rescuing damsels in distress, conquering heroes and the ever running theme of good over evil.
Of course Hollywood has a habit of distorting truth and immense make-believe but as long as moviegoers, me included, enjoy the excitement and glorious Technicolor, why not, after all it is a respite from the more obvious deceits practiced on us today. It's rather interesting that Sir Thomas More who was Lord Chancellor at the time of King Henry VIII defined government as being "a certain conspiracy of rich men procuring their own commodities under the name and title of commonwealth" - so things haven't really changed that much!
Not too far distant is Nailcote Hall with its roots in the 16th century when it was described as 'one of the small stately homes of England'. It has a rather interesting history that includes a hidden room on the ground floor where refugees from religious persecution and the Civil War would hide. In fact it was used by Oliver Cromwell as a staging post before his assault on the Elizabethan stronghold of Kenilworth Castle. Nowadays it is a superb top class country house hotel offering a wealth of antique furniture, gorgeous stained glass windows and truly gracious hospitality. The Oak Room restaurant offers a high standard of international cuisine but stays true to its roots with the use of local meats and produce. The bedrooms are elegantly furnished in period style with beautifully appointed en-suite bathrooms. Recently a spectacular leisure center complex with gymnasium and full-size indoor swimming-pool decorated in a lovely Roman style opened, and guests can enjoy the Mediterranean style bistro with its tropical plants and 24' atrium. For the young at heart, no matter what age, there's lively nightly entertainment in Rick's Bar where great names in show business are busy 'putting on the Ritz'. Last and truly first is the hotel's own 'olde worlde' courtesy coach which will pick you up from Birmingham International station or the airport - a very special way to travel!
Warwickshire in the heart of England is filled with history, fascinating people and places of interest. Shakespeare, born and bred in Stratford-upon-Avon, has kept us in touch with many of the characters. His hunchback, Richard III, has gone down in history as the king who killed his nephews in the Tower - a most controversial subject especially if you visit York and talk with some of the locals there.
In nearby Kenilworth, the ruins of Kenilworth Castle are definitely worth exploring. The amazing Light and Sound Show is a visual epic of how the castle looked after the restoration by Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester, and so-called lover of Elizabeth I. To entertain her he spent thousands of pounds creating an exquisite place for her and her courtiers to stay, entertainment that cannot be matched even today and banquets with 50 courses or more - high living at its very best.
Another fascinating place to visit is Coventry whose roots are steeped in antiquity but nowadays is an exciting and upbeat city. You can see Lady Godiva riding naked on her white charger and Peeping Tom doing his scurrilous best not to have his eyes blinded by Lord Leofric. Here, too, you will find one of the largest sports complexes in the country and Coventry City Football Club to cheer on. Quite recently film production started on the story of Lady Godiva so fans will soon be able to do some peeping themselves. read more