Often when we go sightseeing at the weekend, we end up in Dorset, either around the coast or inland. Last weekend we went to Corfe Castle, described as a "romantic ruin". I thought that the approach to castles and stately homes in the UK is interesting. Some (Windsor Castle or Wilton House (near us), are maintained at enormous expense. Things that need fixing, are fixed (eventually). I guess the Queen's properties are repaired at public expense. Some may be fixed privately, or with the help of charities such as English Heritage or the National Trust. Others like Corfe Castle or Old Wardour castle are left in a ruined state. This ruined state seemed to be usually caused by fighting (some things never change!). However, Corfe Castle is now undergoing work to prevent even further deterioration. This deterioration is being caused naturally. Presumably people want to see a "ruin" not a total ruin or heap of rubble. Of course Roman ruins are usually just an outline of where a villa or something just stood, maybe with a glimpse of some beautiful floor tiles. I don't know quite where the dividing line is between: fix it up, leave it as a ruin in its present state or let it fall apart totally.
This weekend, we are on a flying visit to Scotland, for a 60th birthday party. I'll try to add some comments and photos to that IF I have time on Monday, before I fly off to NZ
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