Hampton’s Court . . .
Today, along with our visit to the Tower of London, was the highlight of Jan’s visit to London. And mine, too, I guess.
We Ubered out to Hampton Court Palace, Henry VIII’s home away from home, and were dropped off right at the front of the long walk up to the entrance.
And we had to start out with the obligatory selfie of Jan and I.
Strangely enough, until this Europe trip, I had never actually taken a selfie.
After walking across the inner courtyard, we entered the main building and quickly found ourselves in the Great Hall
and its beautiful stained glass windows.
Ironically Anne Boleyn is credited with helping Henry designed the Hall, his favorite place in the Palace. Though it didn’t seem to help her later in life.
Every room had another amazing, beautiful feature.
And when you’re the King, you have your own Chocolate Room where the Royal sweets were prepared.
We even had a personal audience with the King himself, as he regaled us with tales of life in his court.
And then we came to my favorite part, the room where Henry and my relative, Catherine (Katherine, Kateryn, take you pick) Parr were married.
And she was very pretty, even by today’s standards.
As I’ve mentioned before, I’m descended from the Parr family and Sir Thomas Parr, Catherine’s father. My grandmother, Sarah Jane Parr, was born in England and was directly descended from Sir Thomas. And since he was a direct descendant of Edward III, we’re actually related to royalty, too.
She and Henry never had any children, so nothing from that line.
Hampton Court Palace was a great end to our London visit since tomorrow we head back home to Houston.
