Nottingham News

More news on travelling! I went up to Nottingham two weeks ago to visit Chiah, and we had a great time. For lunch, she taught me how to make casserole, as you can see from the photo below. Later that day, we went for Enrique Iglesias's concert.

Casserole

Though this may come as a surprise to you, that was the first live concert I've been to. What did I think about it? Well, first thing's first, he's a good live performer, which made the experience a whole lot better. And considering how often his songs were being played, I'd say it was a fantastic first time. Most of the songs were the newer ones- 'Tonight', 'Heartbeat'- although he did perform songs like 'The Ping Pong Song' and 'Taking Back My Love'.

Concert

 'Hero' seemed to be a crowd- pleaser. Thank you, Chiah, for helping me get the tickets!

The next day, we went to Nottingham Castle where, just outside, are Robin Hood related statues.

Robin Hood's Lair

Now, just in case you are not familiar with Robin Hood, he is the famous outlaw in English folklore that resides in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. Along with his band of "Merry Men" (as I recall there's Little John and Friar Tuck), he stole from the rich to give to the poor during the reign of King John of England. Yes, if you notice, most of my knowledge on the outlaw is based on stories I've read as a child. But I don't believe many people have read the original accounts and probably only know as much as I do.

Whether or not he really existed is another matter. There are supposed historical evidence for both cases, but for the most part of it, Robin Hood's story has been passed down from generation to generation so much so that he's more of a legend than a historical figure.

Nottingham Castle Entrance

Nottingham Castle is similar to that in Norwich in terms of their modification into museums. The difference is the garden in the Nottingham Castle grounds is much bigger. It looks like a proper, well-kept part on its own. Possibly good for lazing about or studying, as Chiah noticed.

With a lovely park/garden inside

Picturesque?

Reminds me of the garden scene in 'The Sound of Music'

Lord Byron

Lord Byron was the Romantic poet and author who wrote Don Juan and close friend of the Shelleys (They had a famous "contest" among themselves one stormy night to write the best horror story. Mary Shelley won with Frankenstein).

Red Riding Hood

Tea House

Chiah brought me to a quaint little tea-house hidden away in the city called 'The Walk'. The most popular order from the menu is the tea set where you get snacks, both savoury and sweet, on a three-tier cake stand and a pot of tea. The snacks vary depending on what is available. We had tarts, scones and sandwiches that day.

Yums!

Definitely a place to look out for when you're in Nottingham.

Three-tier cake stand

Did I also mention that I adore the tiered cake stand? They give a classic vibe to desserts.

I'll be back in Nottingham another time; I'm sure of that. Hopefully I'll get to go for the Cave Tours the next time!