Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
May 25, 2012
November 12, 2011
May I introduce you to Sir Nicholas Mander, 4th Baronet — One of my closest friends.
Years ago, Stephanie and I became acquainted with Karin and Nicky Mander who live at Owlpen Mander, Gloucestershire. Caroline, Duchess of Beaufort introduced us, and we have had the greatest friendship–fun times and great laughs! I have taken friends to Owlpen and have recommended the holiday cottages to our London clients in case they would like to stay in a cottage in the Cotswolds for an additional week after London. It is an idyllic setting where time seems to have changed little. Karin is a fantastic chef–it is her hobby, and Nicky is a scholar, antiquarian, and philosopher –there is no other way to describe him. They are my dearest, dearest friends whom I love entertaining at our homes here in the States and at home in London. I thought I would tell you a bit about this amazing couple and about their cottages which you are welcome to consider for a lengthy stay in this magical part of England: the Cotswolds. I love it, and I love them.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
CHRISTMAS DAY TOURS OUTSIDE LONDON
When traveling, Christmas can be a lonely time–especially without lots of family and friends. If you are in London for Christmas, why not take a tour outside London accompanied by other travelers who want to get out of the city with new friends. I think it is a brilliant idea. I assure you, there isn’t a bird chirping in central London.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
November 6, 2011
THE ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM EXHIBITION FEATURES “CLAUDE LORRAIN: THE ENCHANTED LANDSCAPE”
THE ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM in Oxford is easily reached from London. It is a wonderful day-out-of-London, and the treasures of vast. Incredible visit.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
September 3, 2011
August 2, 2011
HEADS UP! The Round Tower at Windsor Castle is open for tours! Fantastic opportunity. Amazing views from the top of the country round.
If you are in England during the period the Round Tower is open, DO NOT MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY. It is a fantastic tour.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 26, 2011
BLENHEIM PALACE: THE PERFECT DAY AWAY FROM LONDON
Blenheim Palace is the crown of the baroque architecture in England. While in England several times, I have gone to Blenheim Palace, at Woodstock, Oxfordshire, for a day away from London. Usually my friend Maureen Walker drives me to Woodstock, but twice I have taken an organized tour from London to Oxford and then on to Blenheim at Woodstock. This absolutely fabulous site is the residence of the 11th Duke of Marlborough who has made the restoration of Blenheim Palace his life’s work. The Palace was built during the end of Queen Anne’s reign and during the first years of the Hanoverian Kings–Sir John Vanbrugh was the principal architect; however, the building was completed under the direction of Hawksmoor. I encourage my readers to make this visit to Blenheim a primary consideration, perhaps even after Windsor Castle. It is simply spectacular. I grew up knowing about the First Duke of Marlborough’s defeat of the forces of Louis XIV at the Battle of Blenheim and about his famous note to his wife: I have no time to say more but to beg you will give my duty to the Queen, and let her know her army has had a glorious victory. I used to play with my grandfather’s lead soldiers and act out some of the old Duke’s battles–I still have the lead soldiers I used to play with. Knowing some of the history is very worthwhile–of course– before you visit the Palace; but the building, the gardens, and the lavish interiors are visually incredible. The palace is open spring, winter, and fall, but the Palace is closed during the winter for maintenance and care. There is a great gift shop, but do have your lunch at the inn in Woodstock which is attached to the grounds of Blenheim. Years ago, my father told me about the small man-made island which faces the palace with the trees placed as were the infantry at the Battle of Blenheim. Everywhere it is history, beauty, and magnificence. Everything is on a grand scale–exquisitely done! When I was in college, I read a book called the GLITTER AND THE GOLD which was Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan’s memories when she was married to one of the Dukes of Marlborough, but after producing an heir and a spare, she decided the Duke was not for her. Really a great read–I can remember it to this day. Thanks, Dad. There are several tours from London for about 65 pounds per person, but I would call Maureen Walker and have her take you. She will drive you through Oxford on the way. PERFECT DAY out of London. I will post a few photographs to stir your interest and enthusiasm.
The Great Library by Hawksmoor
Detail of the Blenheim Tapestry showing the defeat of the French at the Battle of Blenheim
The Duke sending his famous note of VICTORY to the Queen on the back of a dinner bill from a repast the night before the battle
Detail of the red drawing room, showing the lavish interiors of the State Apartments
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
