On Friday, 13 November, I bade farewell to Windsor; my work assignment ended and I have temporarily returned to London. Until the next adventure!

I spent a last few hours strolling along the River Thames, admiring the birdlife – the path I took to reach The Long Walk, from Windsor Castle, George IV gateway, along the double avenue of trees to The Copper Horse on Snow Hill. I didn’t quite make The Copper Horse as time eluded me, which caused a silent curse. I don’t know why I didn’t enjoy the 4.25 kilometers walk earlier, when I had more time.

King Charles II had the double rows of Elm trees, over 1600, planted the entire length of the route. The king desired to remodel Windsor in a renewed style and The Long Walk was a tick from his lengthy list of improvements.

In 1710, Queen Anne had a road constructed down the centre of the tree lined avenue to ensure the coaches enjoyed a comfortably smooth surface. The royal carriages still use The Long Walk every year as part of the route from Windsor Castle to the Ascot Races at the start of the summer social season. Other than that it is free from all traffic, including cyclists, but except people by foot, of course.

I ended my last few hours in Windsor walking the main streets, already with its Christmas decorations in full swing. Should such decorations be up before December is even on the horizon? Don’t get me started on this one – swiftly moving on…