Map of Truths and Beliefs

Another day, another castle, today we headed south via Exeter to the edge of Dartmoor to Fingle Bridge.  TT had another walk for us, along the River Teign to Castle Drogo.  We seemed to be driving to the centre of the earth along roads which were becoming increasingly narrow and windy, when suddenly we were at Fingle Bridge, where there were lots of cars parked and a pub.  We set off for our walk up river. After a while TT wondered whether we had set off in the wrong direction, as we seemed to be walking much further than he expected.  Eventually we came to the bridge across the river and headed up hill and along a path at the top of the valley.  By this time TT wasn’t sure we were ever going to get to the castle (although a sign had indicated we were going in the right direction, and we had glimpsed it).  Eventually we came to the turn off to the castle and we were there.

We found a lovely picnic sport in the orchard for lunch, which was cut short by a shower.  We managed to shelter in the beautiful garden.

We then headed to explore the castle, which as it turned out is half way through a five year programme of work to make it water tight.  It is the youngest castle in England, but has leaked since before it was completed!

Nothing was as you might expect, with most of the contents packed away.  Instead there were lots of artistic installations in the rooms, telling the untold stories of the castle.  They were all fascinating interpretations and displays.

The weather brightened and the boys  took advantage of the sunshine to play croquet on the croquet lawn – while I explored the Luncheon House.

We then had to continue our walk back to the car.  Another lovely day out. We headed home to have breakfast for tea – at BB’s request!

One of the rooms is currently displaying a magnificent Grayson Perry tapestry - Map of Truths and Beliefs – which is full of images and symbolism.  Here is a flavour of the tapestry.