Day 12: June 19, 2011 - Rest Day in Richmond

Richmond is the largest town on the C2c path. The town and its market square grew up around a castle, which was constructed after the Norman Conquest by a French nobleman who had been given the lands of Yorkshire for his loyal military service.  Parts of the castle still stand.  The streets in the oldest parts of the town are narrow spokes radiating out from the market square and its church.  Here is a photo of the castle grounds and some of the old walls:



And here is a photo of the old town from the top of the castle tower:




Richmond is also the home of the Georgian Theatre Royal, the most complete theatre from the Georgian period in England.  It was built in 1788, then closed in 1848 and was used as a storehouse for more than a century until being rediscovered and reopened in 1963.  We were fortunate to join a tour of the original building, along with its modern addition.  Here's a photo:

There are many lovely old buildings on the side streets, especially on Frenchgate, the street where our B&B was located.  Stepping into one of these from a busy modern road, there is the sense of entering a medieval village.  Here's another photo of the old and new:

 

The town today is receptive to tourists, including Coast to Coast walkers.  This pharmacy window was amusing, presenting a variety of products for the sore feet of C2C survivors:

The best part of Richmond from Laura's point of view was this French bistro where we had a delicious dinner at a bargain price.  Check out "Rustique" the next time you're in Richmond, and tell the restauranteur Marc that Laura sent you.