The weather was perfect for an afternoon excursion to Beeston Castle. It must be over 20 years since my last visit so most of it was new and surprising to me. The steep arched bridge to the inner keep is my main memory of the castle from my previous visit.

The walk to the inner keep is a steep uphill climb but well worth it for the views that can be seen from there. On a clear day, as today was the Wrekin is visible as are many other distant landmarks.

Whilst in the keep I had a misstep, my foot landed on some dry soil causing me to slide. Rather than slide or fall awkwardly, potentially hurting myself I shifted my balance so that I landed safely on my hands and knees. As I landed there was a loud clunk as my camera (in its case) came in contact with the rocks. I lady quickly rushed to my aid to see if I was alright, followed by a gentleman asking if I needed help to get up. I was grateful to both for caring but a bit bemused by the comment ‘did I need help to get up’. I thanked them both and quickly moved on and as I was ‘carefully’ picking my way along an uneven pathway I was asked ‘if I needed help’. It was a lovely gesture but it left me wondering if I look old and vulnerable!

Safely out of the inner keep we walked through the woods to the amazing reconstructed roundhouse before making our way to the café for afternoon refreshments that included ice cream rather than the usual ‘naughty cake’.