We were graciously invited to my sweet friend Julie’s wedding in Gloucestershire at Berkeley Castle and I was thrilled to go! Julie and I have been friends since 7th grade. I didn’t really have any friends at the time, so I will always be grateful for our friendship!

Shawn and I first spent a week in London and then took a train to Gloucestershire for the weekend of her wedding. Now, I’ve never been a country girl, but when I was in the countryside of Gloucestershire, it changed my mind utterly and completely! I’ve alway’s been a big city girl so who would have known that I would enjoy it so much? Certainly not me or my husband! I was instantly smitten on the way to Berkely castle as we passed rolling, green hills scattered with darling sheep and their lambs. It was unbelievably picturesque! We first arrived at our hotel, De Vere Tortworth Court, and I just knew the weekend was going to be great. I honestly felt like I was in a Jane Austen novel, visiting a grand estate of a handsome character, such as Mr. Darcy. I could envision my favorite “I Love You” scene from Pride and Prejudice being played out here. We spent the day strolling through the grounds, exploring the gardens and saw the cutest little birdhouse! After that, we had a traditional afternoon tea. Our table was filled with scrumptious, bite size finger food. If I could, this would be my daily lunch. I’m all for scones and clotted cream with fresh raspberry jam.

Check out this video that we took of De Vere Tortworth Court: 1

I highly suggest staying here for at least one night, if only to visit the grounds!

~Kathryn, The Sugared Lemon