The Black Rabbit, Arundel Castle & Brighton Beach

Greg's friend Andy found a castle with a moat for us to explore on our way to Brighton to see the coast.

When we arrived we were very disappointed to find the castle and grounds were closed to the public until March 31st. Greg will have to go back then and take pictures for me.

We hiked along the banks of some wetlands to check out the "Black Rabbit Pub" (also recommended by Andy). It was a scenic hike and we weren't disappointed with the Pub and the splendid view of the castle. Also the rolling hills with cattle grazing and the waterways full of birds.

We had a wonderful lunch in the quaint building with sunshine coming through the leaded panes of glass.

After lunch it was so sunshiny and warm that we had to remove our coats for part of the walk back to the car.

On to Brighton on the very edge of England where huge waves crashed on the pebbly beach. I had to hang on to my pashmina for fear it would blow away but the sun was shining and the sea was bright and magnificent. I don't think I've ever seen so much ocean before in my life. It just went straight to the horizon in each direction.

The city comes right to the water edge with huge piers and paved walkways for the thousands of tourist that will be there in the spring and summer. The city is full of sky scrapers and buildings tall enough to block out the sun on the narrow streets.

We walked around some of the maze of shops and pubs but the most amazing part of the city is the replica of the Taj Mahal (smaller scale but impressive) that is in Brighton. It was a favorite of George IV and built in 1783 with Indian style domes on the outside and Chinese style interior. (The general architectural style of Brighton is Regency)

We had an interesting moment on our way back to the car. An old lady was feeding the sea gulls by a fountain. See the video to laugh with us.

We had a delightful supper with Greg, Sam, and their friends Rob & Sarah who took us to a North African style restaurant. It was like stepping into another world and the food was amazing. What a lovely last day in England to remember for the rest of my life.

Thank you Greg and Samantha for the most wonderful holiday I could imagine.

Off to the airport now, Greg says he will post again when I am on the plane.

See you all soon.

Sharon