Legend has it that the first fortification of significance on the grounds of Warwick Castle was erected by Ethelfleda, the daughter of Alfred the Great, in the year 914. This almost certainly replaced older wooden fortifications which had proven ineffective against marauding Danes who sacked the town during the reign of her father. This fortification was part of a network built to protect the Kingdom of Wessex. The remains of this ancient fortification can still be seen on Ethelfleda's Mound, a mound of earth at the southern end of the castle's courtyard. As intriguing as this legend is, the majority of the remains date from the period of Norman rule.
After the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, William the Conqueror appointed Henry de Newburgh as Earl of Warwick. During this time of change, a Norman motte-and-bailey fort was erected.
Although the numbers resembled a class trip it was only the Rabjohn, Kennedy and Muru children and parents (except for the 2 taking photo's). 16 in all. The day was great we were worried about being caught in the rain but fortunately the Muru luck was with the families. Highlight of the day was the mock battle based on the war of the roses. The Children were used to represent the English army while all their Dads were the French Army. Ian was chosen out of about 60 Dads to play the part of the French King. Hilarious seeing all the Dads prancing around with their make believe horses 
Cousins Bethy and Ngahuia with the main gate to the castle in the background
Liam disarms a guard at the gate of the castle. In return the guard told us of the origins of the salute, why people shake hands when they greet and why men's shirt buttons are on the right.
Our first shared lunch under umbrellas. Luckily the rain stayed away for the day. Ngahuia and Mathew share chips and an umbrella.
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