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factinhistory · 3 months ago

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What Happened on September 11 in British History?

September 11 is a date that carries significant weight in British history, marked by pivotal military victories, cultural events, and international achievements. From the Battle of Stirling Bridge to Florence Chadwick’s swim across the English Channel, each event offers insight into the historical and cultural influence of Britain. This article delves into key moments that occurred on September 11, offering a comprehensive overview of the country’s military, cultural, and political contributions.

What Happened on September 11 in British History?

Battle at Stirling Bridge (1297)

On September 11, 1297, the Battle of Stirling Bridge took place, where Scottish forces led by William Wallace achieved a decisive victory over the English army. Wallace, along with fellow leader Andrew Moray, used the terrain and tactical ingenuity to defeat the much larger English force under John de Warenne, the Earl of Surrey, and Hugh de Cressingham. The narrow wooden bridge over the River Forth played a crucial role in the Scots’ success, as the English were forced to cross in small numbers, making them vulnerable to attack.

This battle was a turning point in the First War of Scottish Independence, with Wallace’s triumph inspiring further resistance against English rule. The victory at Stirling Bridge elevated Wallace to a national hero status and solidified his reputation as one of Scotland’s most significant historical figures. For England, the defeat was a humiliating setback and marked the beginning of a protracted struggle for control over Scotland.

New Model Army Occupies Bristol (1645)

On September 11, 1645, the New Model Army under the command of Thomas Fairfax occupied Bristol during the English Civil War. Bristol, one of the wealthiest cities in England at the time, was a strategic stronghold for the Royalists. The capture of the city was a significant blow to King Charles I’s forces. After a prolonged siege, Fairfax’s army, characterized by its discipline and organization, successfully breached the city’s defenses.

The occupation of Bristol was a major turning point in the war, weakening the Royalists’ control over the West Country. It demonstrated the effectiveness of the New Model Army, which would later play a pivotal role in the defeat of the Royalists and the eventual execution of King Charles I. Fairfax’s leadership, combined with the army’s discipline, contributed to the Parliamentary victory in the English Civil War.

Massacre of Drogheda (1649)

On September 11, 1649, Oliver Cromwell’s forces committed the Massacre of Drogheda in Ireland, killing approximately 3,000 Royalist soldiers and civilians. This event occurred during Cromwell’s campaign to subdue Ireland following the English Civil War. Drogheda, a Royalist stronghold, refused to surrender, prompting Cromwell to order a brutal assault. His forces breached the city’s walls, leading to widespread slaughter.

The massacre was intended to send a clear message to Royalist and Irish Catholic forces resisting Cromwell’s rule. While it achieved its immediate goal of securing Drogheda, the event is remembered as one of the most violent and controversial episodes in British and Irish history. It left a lasting legacy of bitterness and division between the Irish and the English, with Cromwell’s name remaining synonymous with cruelty in Irish collective memory.

Battle of Brandywine (1777)

On September 11, 1777, during the American Revolutionary War, British forces led by General Sir William Howe defeated American troops at the Battle of Brandywine in Pennsylvania. The British aimed to capture Philadelphia, the American capital at the time. Despite the loss, the Americans, under General George Washington, managed to avoid complete destruction, thanks in part to the efforts of Polish soldier Casimir Pulaski, who saved Washington’s life during the retreat.

The British victory at Brandywine was an important step towards their occupation of Philadelphia, but it did not end the American resistance. The battle demonstrated both the determination of the Continental Army and the strategic importance of international alliances, such as Pulaski’s contribution. For the British, the success at Brandywine was a tactical victory, but it ultimately failed to quell the growing revolutionary spirit in America.

British Open Golf (1862)

On September 11, 1862, the British Open Men’s Golf Championship was held at Prestwick Golf Club in Scotland, where Tom Morris Sr. retained his title. Morris, a legendary figure in the history of golf, defeated Willie Park Sr. by three strokes to win his second consecutive championship. The British Open, which began in 1860, is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf tournaments in the world, and Morris’s dominance during this period helped cement its importance in the sporting world.

Morris’s success at the British Open showcased his remarkable skill and contributed to the development of modern golf. His influence extended beyond his playing career, as he later became a prominent golf course designer and mentor to younger players. The 1862 British Open is a reminder of the deep roots of golf in Britain and its enduring global legacy.

Lindbergh’s War Claim (1941)

On September 11, 1941, American aviator Charles Lindbergh delivered a controversial speech in which he accused the “British, Jewish, and Roosevelt administration” of conspiring to draw the United States into World War II. Lindbergh, a leading figure in the isolationist movement in America, believed that the U.S. should avoid involvement in the conflict. His comments, made during a speech in Des Moines, Iowa, sparked outrage, particularly for their anti-Semitic undertones.

While not directly involving Britain, Lindbergh’s claims reflected the broader debate over U.S. involvement in the war, which Britain was already deeply engaged in. Britain’s leadership, particularly under Winston Churchill, was eager for American support in the fight against Nazi Germany. Lindbergh’s speech highlighted the tension between isolationist and interventionist sentiments in the U.S., which would ultimately shift in favor of intervention after the attack on Pearl Harbor later that year.

Florence Chadwick Swims the English Channel (1951)

On September 11, 1951, Florence Chadwick became the first woman to swim the English Channel from England to France, completing the journey in 16 hours and 19 minutes. Chadwick, an American swimmer, had previously attempted the swim in 1950 but was forced to abandon her effort due to poor conditions. Her successful swim in 1951 was a significant achievement in the world of long-distance swimming and a testament to her determination and endurance.

The English Channel has long been regarded as one of the most challenging open-water swims due to its cold temperatures, strong currents, and unpredictable weather. Chadwick’s feat drew international attention and inspired future generations of swimmers. Her swim on September 11 symbolized not only athletic prowess but also the enduring connection between Britain and the sport of open-water swimming.

British Film: Pride and Prejudice (2005)

On September 11, 2005, the film adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice, directed by Joe Wright and starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, premiered at the Toronto Film Festival. This version of Austen’s novel received widespread acclaim for its performances, cinematography, and faithful adaptation of the beloved text. Knightley’s portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet was particularly praised, earning her an Academy Award nomination.

The film’s success reinforced Britain’s long-standing tradition of adapting its literary classics for the screen. Austen’s Pride and Prejudice has remained a cultural touchstone for British literature and film, and this 2005 adaptation brought the story to a new generation of viewers. Its premiere on September 11 marked the beginning of a successful theatrical run that cemented its place in British cinema.

The Martian Premieres (2015)

On September 11, 2015, Ridley Scott’s science fiction film The Martian premiered at the Toronto Film Festival. Based on the novel by Andy Weir, the film starred Matt Damon as an astronaut stranded on Mars and his efforts to survive while awaiting rescue. Although the film is set in space and focuses on American characters, Scott, a renowned British director, brought his signature visual style and storytelling expertise to the project, making it a global success.

The Martian was praised for its scientific accuracy, engaging plot, and Damon’s performance. The film’s premiere on September 11 was the beginning of its journey to becoming one of the most successful films of 2015, solidifying Scott’s reputation as one of Britain’s most accomplished filmmakers. The movie’s blend of science, survival, and human ingenuity resonated with audiences worldwide.

Conclusion

September 11 has seen a wide array of significant events in British history, from military victories and cultural milestones to international collaborations and athletic achievements. The Battle of Stirling Bridge, the occupation of Bristol, and the massacre at Drogheda highlight Britain’s complex military past, while the triumphs of athletes like Tom Morris Sr. and Florence Chadwick underscore the nation’s sporting heritage. Additionally, the premieres of Pride and Prejudice and The Martian reflect Britain’s lasting influence in the world of cinema. These moments offer a glimpse into the diverse and impactful history of Britain, marking September 11 as a day of remembrance and achievement.

#british history

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lordwilde · 6 months ago

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Henry Dermot Ponsonby Moore, 12th Earl of Drogheda (born 1937).

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cromwellrex2 · 1 year ago

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Cromwell in Ireland, August-November 1649: ‘I am persuaded that this is a righteous judgement of God upon these barbarous wretches,’

Drogheda and Wexford

Cromwell in Drogheda. Source: GettyImages

THE SITUATION in Ireland which, since the initial eruption of the Old Irish rebellion in 1641, had stabilised into an armed truce between the Catholic Confederates on one side, and the Presbyterian Scots on the other, with the English garrisons under the Royalist Lord Lieutenant James Butler, Earl of Ormond, maintaining an uneasy neutrality. This state of affairs was completely altered by the execution of the King and the hasty establishment of an English Commonwealth under the Rump Parliament and the New Model Army. The Prince of Wales, now crowned King Charles II in Breda and in absentia in Edinburgh, cast his net wide in a search for allies to help him regain his father’s throne. Like Charles I, his exiled son hoped the Irish Confederates could perhaps provide him with the military resources he craved; equally, the Prince also made overtures to the Covenanter Scots, who had proved unexpectedly loyal to the House of Stuart; finally there was Ormond himself, an unequivocal English Royalist, whose small garrison forces also declared for Charles. Therefore in a matter of months, the various protagonists in the Irish rebellion found themselves effectively on the same side all, to a greater or lesser degree, proclaiming support for the exiled King, and opposition to the Commonwealth.

For Cromwell, the shifting alliances that had produced this unforeseen coalition, actually simplified matters. His task was now not simply to reconquer Ireland for the English Parliament, but to cleanse the country, not only of Popery, but also of Protestant schematics and recidivist King’s men. Cromwell’s sense of religious certainty and destiny was manifested in its purest sense during the Commonwealth assault on Ireland - with significant consequences for not only the immediate future of the country, but also for Ireland’s sense of itself in the centuries to come.

Cromwell led an army of 12,000 men into Ireland, mostly troops with experience of fighting in the two civil wars, and landed in Dublin on 14th August 1649. The fact he was able to do this with relative ease was not a given. Until recently, Dublin, garrisoned by soldiers loyal to the Parliament under the command of Colonel Michael Jones, had been besieged by Ormond’s Royalist forces. On 2nd August, Jones had led 4,000 of Dublin’s defenders on a daring sortie, catching the 19,000 strong besiegers completely by surprise and routed them at Rathmines, not only breaking the siege, but winning one of the most remarkable military victories of the British civil wars. For a delighted Cromwell, this scattering of the main Royalist army in Ireland was proof positive of divine favour and God’s support for his mission to extirpate the Catholic revolt and to avenge the atrocities of 1641.

From Dublin, Cromwell decided the next objective of the Commonwealth campaign would be the walled city of Drogheda, some thirty miles to the north. Drogheda was strongly fortified by Confederates and English Royalists, under the command of the veteran Royalist officer, the wooden-legged Sir Arthur Aston. It also straddled the River Boyne and in addition to being a major trading centre, also commanded the approaches to Ulster and the heartland of Scottish Presbyterianism in Ireland. Cromwell arrived before Drogheda on 3rd September. His invitations to the Irish/Royalist garrison to surrender were rejected after which Cromwell positioned his twelve field guns and eleven mortars, which had arrived by sea, on the rising ground surrounding the city. The bombardment began on 10th September soon after the refusal to surrender was received and by the end of the day, breaches had appeared in the walls. The following day, Cromwell ordered a full scale assault. The fighting was fierce and the New Model forces were initially repulsed, taking significant casualties. A second attack which Cromwell himself led personally, succeeded in entering the city. The gates were opened by the Commonwealth infantry and the New Model cavalry stormed in. Despite the fall of the city now only being a matter of time, the defenders, rallied by the indomitable Aston, refused to surrender and it was at this point an exasperated Cromwell ordered that no quarter be given to any men under arms. It was this order that sealed Cromwell’s reputation in Ireland as a cold-hearted killer and the taking of Drogheda as an atrocity.

There is no doubt that an order to give no quarter was highly unusual in the civil wars. Quarter was generally freely given in order to induce surrender and occasions where mercy was not shown were rarely as a result an official military order. Cromwell himself certainly viewed Catholicism as superstitious nonsense and the Irish as an uncivilised sub-species of humanity, guilty of massacres of Protestants, on whom clemency should not be wasted. It is also true that many of the New Model soldiers had been brutalised by seven years of near continuous fighting and needed little encouragement to kill their enemies. The lurid contemporary and later accounts of the slaughter of women and children by the attacking English soldiers are almost certainly false, but the killing of surrendering enemies was indefensible and a deserved blot on the character and reputation of Oliver Cromwell. The entire garrison, between 3,000 and 4,000 men, including Aston, was put to the sword.

Cromwell’s next target was the south eastern city of Wexford, chosen again for its strategic importance, particularly given its proximity to continental Europe and its potential as a rallying point for Royalists. The Commonwealth forces reached Wexford on 2nd October. The Irish garrison, emboldened by reinforcements sent by Ormond, refused terms and, like Drogheda before it, was subjected to heavy English bombardment. Negotiations between Cromwell and the city leaders however continued and it seemed likely at one point a settlement could have been reached, but this all changed when Captain James Stafford, commander of the castle at Wexford, dramatically surrendered, throwing open the gates to the Parliamentary besiegers. Fighting continued street by street, but the defenders were doomed. Unlike Drogheda no order to give no quarter was issued to the Commonwealth troops, but by then the precedent was set: all men under arms, including civilians and all Catholic priests caught, were killed. Over 2,000 men died, cut down by a remorseless enemy, or drowned trying to escape the massacre. Cromwell’s culpability for the extent of the death and destruction at Wexford is less easy to establish than at Drogheda, but he was unmoved by it, almost gleefully reporting later that ‘our forces… put all to the sword that came in their way.’

With the fall of Wexford, most of Munster and all lands between Cork and Dublin fell under Commonwealth control. The dreadful example of the two sacked cities led to many other garrisons surrendering without a fight or fleeing before Cromwell’s army reached them. The reconquest of Ireland was not complete, but the brutal taking of Drogheda and Wexford demonstrated the implacability of Cromwell’s mission in Ireland and ended any Royalist hopes that Ireland could be a realistic springboard for the return of the monarchy to England.

#english civil war #oliver cromwell #Cromwell in Ireland #siege of Drogheda #siege of Wexford #Cromwell’s atrocities

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female-malice · 1 year ago

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Before enclosure, those islands were a temperate rainforest paradise.

And then this happened. Thanks France!

The people did what they could to resist. That's where the Robin Hood stories came from. And traditional wisdom persisted among the common people throughout the islands.

And then this happened. Thanks church!

This gave regents more tools to persecute heretical thinking. Regents could define heresy as broadly as they wanted to in order to suppress political and ideological opposition. But the people did what they could to resist. They hid their ancient wisdom. They did their best to assimilate into society while secretly passing down traditional knowledge. This task was often left up to women.

And then this happened. Thanks men!

A lot of traditional knowledge died with the "witches." But as long as the forests stood tall, that knowledge could never be completely stamped out.

And then this happened. Thanks Crown!

1560 Elizabeth comes to the throne and restores Anglicanism. England proceeds to build up her navy which goes on to defeat Spain in 1588. During her rule, Elizabeth I expressly orders the destruction of all woods in Ireland to deprive the Irish insurgents of shelter. The fact that England is to benefit from this isn’t a mere afterthought.

1569 Desmond rising begins, and is later crushed in 1573.

1591 TrinityCollege established as part of Elizabeth’s attempt to impose the Protestant reformation.

1594 O’Donnell and O’Neill begin their rising against Elizabethan authority.

1606 It is estimated that the Shillelagh Woods could furnish the Crown with timber for shipping and other uses for the next twenty years.

1607 The Desmond Rising ends in failure with the ‘Flight of the Earls’.

1608 Philip Cottingham first surveys Ireland on behalf of the Crown, and again in 1623. His report states that the country is abounding in timber, mainly ‘noble oaks’ fit for shipbuilding. However, he notes that they were instead being used, contrary to law, to make staves for barrels.

1609 Ulster plantations begin, with the province’s prime lands assigned to British undertakers. The idea of plantation had come from Machiavelli’s ‘The Prince’ of 1513. One would assign prime plots of land of the country you were seeking to conquer to loyal subjects from the home country. These ‘planters’ would, by virtue of their new land, become over time the economic and then subsequently, the political elite. The idea is put into effect in Ireland throughout the 17th century.

“Great numbers of ‘undertakers�� – English or Scots planters on forfeited lands who ‘undertook’ certain developments, or acquired a franchise to do so – spread across Ireland through out the sixteenth and seventeenth century felling woodland at an incredible rate. So profitable was timber that it was often the case that the amount for which an estate was bought was recovered in full, thus ‘making the feathers pay for the goose’, as a contemporary phrase puts it.” – Eoin Neeson ‘Woodland in history and culture’

1610 A Lord Blennerhasset “recommended periodic manhunts to track down the human wolves to their lairs”. The ‘human wolves’ he is referring to are woodkernes – a derogatory term for an Irish warrior who resided in the forests. These warriors are seen as a threat to the new ‘planters’.

1649 Cromwell’s campaign begins with massacres at Drogheda and Wexford.

1666 The Great Fire of London. After the London fire, a law is passed prohibiting the building of houses in Dublin from wood, which was, in any case, now scarce and expensive. The demand for Irish oak to rebuild London was very great.

1678 Renewed proclamations against Catholic clergy and schools. Between 1680 and 1700, there is a substantial decline in hazel cover, possibly because hazel was used for wattling in Irish traditional buildings and therefore, much more in demand.

1685 Accession of Catholic King James to the English throne. 1688 William of Orange arrives and the Jacobite War begins. Protestant victories at Derry and finally at Boyne in 1690 secure the Protestant monarchy.

1695 First of the Penal Laws, Catholics barred from education, bearing arms or owning a horse worth more than £5. These laws work in tandem with the plantations to secure Protestant domination in the spheres of politics and economics.

Four major reasons for the destruction of the forests during the 16th and 17th century:

The removal of hideouts for Irish rebels.

A demand for ship-building timber, mainly oak, as England built up its navy.

The reconstruction of London after the Great Fire of London in 1666.

The making of barrel staves, many of which were exported to France and Spain as wine casks.

Actually your society is the freaks for shooting everything that moves and burning half your "nature reserves" every year so that upperclass dandies can eat leaded pheasant. North Americans are the well adjusted ones here, your country has become a desolate suburban lawn in island form

#cc

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sunkentreasurecove · 7 years ago

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#Derry Moore 12th Earl of Drogheda #Benedict Cumberbatch #art #photo

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mea-gloria-fides · 5 years ago

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Arms of The Right Honourable Charles Moore, 11th Earl of Drogheda

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streetsofdublin · 5 years ago

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O'CONNELL STREET

O’CONNELL STREET

O’CONNELL STREET DUBLIN – DECEMBER 2019

O’Connell Street is Dublin’s main thoroughfare. It measures 49 m (54 yds) in width at its southern end, 46 m (50 yds) at the north, and is 500 m (547 yds) in length. During the 17th century it was a narrow street known as Drogheda Street (named after Henry Moore, Earl of Drogheda). It was widened in the late 1700s and renamed Sackville Street (after…

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#2019 #A7RIV #December #Drogheda Street #Dublin Streets #Earl of Drogheda #Fotonique #Henry Moore #Infomatique #Ireland #main street #O&039;Connell Street #Sackville Street #Sony #street #Streets Of Dublin #William Murphy

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freedomtripitaly · 5 years ago

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Alle porte di Dublino, a meno di un’ora di strada dalla città, ci sono diversi luoghi che vale assolutamente la pena visitare. La Contea di Meath, nell’Ireland Ancient East, è una delle più storiche dell’Irlanda, ma spesso poco frequentata dai visitatori che preferiscono fermarsi in città o puntare dritti verso le più celebri mete turistiche. Una zona che ruota intorno alla Boyne Valley, scavata dall’omonimo fiume, che ha fatto da sfondo a numerosi eventi che hanno fatto dell’Irlanda l’isola che è oggi. Siti celtici, come Brú na Bóinne, che risale a 5000 anni avanti Cristo, e il tumulo di Knowth, il luogo dove è nato Halloween. Castelli Normanni, come quello di Trim, dove è stata scritta la storia d’Irlanda. Luoghi talmente famosi da essere apparsi al cinema e alla Tv. Antichi villaggi dalle case colorate e tradizioni gastronomiche che ci riportano indietro nel tempo. Ecco dieci luoghi che si possono visitare in giornata partendo da Dublino. Knowth, il più grande sito di Brú na Bóinne Il tumulo di Knowth è il più ampio del sito archeologico di origine pre-celtica di Brú na Bóinne datato 5000 anni avanti Cristo. Di questo sito fanno parte anche il più celebre Newgrange e Dowth. Con il suo diametro di 95 metri, Knowth si estende su una superficie di circa 5 chilometri quadrati. Si tratta di una serie di 18 colline di varie misure e altezze immerse tra i verdissimi prati irlandesi, anch’esse ricoperte di erba. Alcune sono collegate al tumulo principale che ha due passaggi, ognuno dei quali conduce a due camere funerarie separate. Attorno alle entrate vi sono grosse pietre scolpite con graffiti dalle forme geometriche e astratte il cui significato è tutt’oggi sconosciuto. Dentro i tumuli si svolgevano cerimonie e venivano riposti i resti cremati dei defunti. Nelle epoche successive, sulle colline vennero costruiti persino dei villaggi. È uno dei siti archeologici da non perdere nell’Ireland Ancient East. La crociera di “Game of Thrones” sul fiume Boyne Un giorno Ross Kennay, proprietario della Boyne Boats, riceve la telefonata da una persona che chiede di poter girare alcune scene di una serie Tv lungo i canali intorno al fiume Boyne, a bordo di alcune vecchie e tipiche imbarcazioni irlandesi di legno chiamate “currach” ormai in disuso, ma che Ross possedeva ancora. Si trattava del produttore di “Game of Thrones” che, durante le riprese della settima stagione della pluripremiata serie televisiva, era alla ricerca di un set che rappresentasse al meglio il “Mare Stretto” in cui fare navigare Theon Greyjoy diretto ad “Approdo del Re”. È così che sono iniziati i “Game of Thrones Boat Tours” a bordo di vecchie imbarcazioni lungo i canali del fiume Boyne, nella Valle del Boyne che, non solo ripercorrono i luoghi di alcune scene della serie, ma anche luoghi storici, legati alla celebre battaglia del Boyne, e ad alcune leggende irlandesi. Slane Castle, il castello del Conte Rock Alle porte di Slane – una cittadina della Contea di Meath che vale una visita – si trova uno dei luoghi più famosi d’Irlanda, il Castello di Slane. Non soltanto è un bellissimo maniero, tuttora abitato dalla famiglia Conyngham (di origine scozzese e insediata in Irlanda nel 1611), le cui sale sono visitabili e dove si organizzano matrimoni e feste varie, ma è famoso perché, ogni estate, da trent’anni, vi si tiene un mega concerto con una star del rock. Nel parco, che può ospitare fino a centomila persone, si sono esibiti gli U2, Bruce Springsteen, i Rolling Stones, Madonna e i più grandi nomi delle musica internazionale. Il Conte Harry, soprannominato “Earl Rock”, ribelle fin da giovane a tutte le convenzioni che il titolo gli imponeva, fin dagli Anni ’70 frequentava Bono, Bruce e compagni ed ebbe la brillante idea di aprire le porte del castello ai suoi amici cantanti e musicisti. Nel 1984 gli U2 vissero sei mesi nel castello per registrare l’album “The Unforgettable Fire” e il salotto venne trasformato in studio di registrazione. La bellissima sala da ballo, dove incombe un gigantesco ritratto di Giorgio IV, fu il set del videoclip del singolo “Pride”. Il ritratto del monarca non è casuale: pare, infatti, che avesse una love story con un’antenata della Conyngham e, per questo motivo, fece aprire una strada diretta da Dublino al castello, strada che tutt’oggi collega le due località che distano 48 km. Trim Castle, il leggendario castello di “Braveheart” Affacciato sulla riva del fiume Boyne si trova il castello normanno più grande d’Irlanda, il Castello di Trim. Un imponente mastio di pietra ormai annerita dai secoli e dalle battaglie da cui si è dovuto difendere. Eretto poco dopo la battaglia di Hastings (1066), fu ampliato, modificato, fortificato più volte nel corso dei secoli successivi. Oggi il castello, restaurato e reso agibile, è magnifico e vale assolutamente una visita. Talmente iconico da essere stato scelto da Mel Gibson per girarvi alcune scene del film “Braveheart” nel 1995 di cui fu produttore e protagonista nelle vesti di William Wallace, un eroe scozzese del XIII secolo. Per rappresentare la Scozia dell’epoca, però, l’Irlanda sembrò più adatta, racconta Jimmy che, da volontario, accompagna i turisti alla scoperta del castello che domina una verde vallata attraversata dal fiume alle porte della deliziosa cittadina di Trim. Drogheda, la città Normanna sul fiume Boyne A una cinquantina di chilometri da Dublino, Drogheda è un’antica cittadina Normanna attraversata dal fiume. Un tempo era una città fortificata, tra le più grandi mai esistite. Oggi delle antiche porte d’accesso alla città resta solo l’imponente St Laurence’s Gate, con le torri circolari ai lati di un arco. Delle antiche mura resta solo un’altra porzione nella vicina Featherbed Lane. Ma Drogheda ha un altro luogo che vale la pena visitare: la St Peter’s Church. Ospita il santuario – e la testa mozzata – dell’arcivescovo irlandese St Oliver Plunkett, perseguitato da Oliver Cromwell nel XVII secolo. Per il Paese è una figura importantissima. Negli ultimi anni molti “dubliners” si sono trasferiti a Drogheda per la bellezza della cittadina, per la qualità delle vita e per la vicinanza con Dublino, collegata da treni e pullman. Anziché cercare un b&b a Dublino conviene alloggiare qui per risparmiare. Athboy, dove è nato Halloween Non tutti sanno che Halloween è una festa irlandese. È a Hill of Ward, un sito nei pressi di Athboy che sono stati ritrovati i resti di fuochi risalenti all’era pre-Cristiana che venivano accesi per la festa di “Samhain”. Per i Celti questa festa, che iniziava all’ora del tramonto del 31 ottobre e durava fino al calar del sole dell’1 novembre, rappresentava un rito importante che segnava il passaggio dalla luce all’oscurità, in quanto coincideva con la fine del raccolto e l’inizio dell’inverno. Per celebrare le origini (vere) di Halloween, nel 2019 è nato il Púca Festival, che si tiene proprio ad Athboy, una festa che dura tre giorni con parate per le strade cittadine, cene nel vicino castello di Slane e musica all’aperto. Proprio per la vicinanza ad alcuni luoghi simbolici irlandesi, la cittadina di Athboy, nella Contea di Meath, è un ottimo punto di partenza per visitare alcuni dei luoghi più famosi dell’Ireland Ancient East. Il luogo della battaglia del Boyne È stata la guerra più importante combattuta in Irlanda e, chi desidera fare un viaggio in questo Paese, dovrebbe assolutamente conoscerne la storia e visitare il sito dove si svolse la battaglia del Boyne nel 1690, a una cinquantina di chilometri da Dublino. Fu la battaglia che vide da una parte James II Stuart, che voleva riconquistare l’Inghilterra, e dall’altra Willliam III che vinse astutamente la battaglia e rispedì James in Francia. Il Battle of the Boyne comprende il terreno di battaglia, attraversato dal fiume Boyne, e un Visitor Centre all’interno del quale si trova il museo. L’esposizione permanente è ospitata in un antico edificio, la Oldbridge House costruita nel 1740. Visita alla Slane Irish Whiskey Distillery Il whiskey irlandese è famosissimo. E il terreno fertile e le acque pure della Valle del Boyne rendono questo territorio perfetto per la distillazione. In passato, molte distillerie si erano stabilite in questa regione, ma poi sono state chiuse tutte. Ecco perché nelle vecchie scuderie del Castello di Slane, a una cinquantina di chilometri da Dublino, qualche anno fa è stata aperta una distilleria di whiskey. A volerla, il proprietario del castello, Harry Conyngham. Ogni giorno si organizzano tour di un’ora alla scoperta del processo di produzione con tanto di degustazione finale. È meglio prenotare la visita. Ne fa parte anche un locale, aperto tutto il giorno, dove servono pasti e bevande, e lo shop dove acquistare l’whiskey e diversi gadget. La distilleria fa parte del castello e vale assolutamente la pena visitare anche l’edificio una volta giunti qui. Una curiosità: quello irlandese si scrive con la “e” (mentre quello scozzese è senza ovvero “whisky”) per via della tripla fermentazione e del diverso metodo di preparazione. La storica cittadina Trim La cittadina di Trim è famosa soprattutto per il castello, una meravigliosa fortezza di origine Normanna scelta da Mel Gibson per ambientarvi alcune scene del film ”Braveheart” nel 1995. Nel Medioevo Trim era una delle città inglesi più importanti. In quello che un tempo era il palazzo civico (la “town hall”) oggi è stato aperto un Visitor Centre che ospita anche una sala museo che racconta la storia della città e conserva alcuni reperti ritrovati in città, spade, armature, elmi e diversi oggetti indossati dai cavalieri nel periodo medievale. Una curiosità: prima che diventasse un museo, questo edificio ospitava band musicali che si esibivano per il piacere dei cittadini. Tra questi, anche gli U2, prima che diventassero così famosi. Trim è attraversata dal fiume Boyne. Da qui partono diversi sentieri lungo il fiume da fare a piedi o in bicicletta e la ”Blueway”, un itinerario di 35 chilometri sull’acqua da fare con la canoa o con lo stand up paddle. La Listoke Distillery, dove creare il proprio gin In Irlanda non ci sono solo il whiskey e la birra Guinness. A un’ora di strada a Nord di Dublino, nei pressi della cittadina di Drogheda, nella Contea di Meath, Bronagh e Dave hanno aperto pochi anni fa un’originalissima distilleria di gin dove ogni visitatore può creare il proprio gin e portarselo a casa. I visitatori vengono accolti nella loro casa con un fantastico gin tonic. Dopo un tour guidato per capire il processo di distillazione si prende parte alla “Gin School”: in un’aula vengono messi a disposizione dei partecipanti decine di ingredienti, dalle spezie ai fiori, che si possono mischiare tra loro fino a ottenere un distillato assolutamente personalizzato. Una volta distillato il proprio gin, viene imbottigliato. E il gioco è fatto. Ma prima di ripartire, un altro giro di gin accompagnato da prodotti locali della Valle dei Boyne, dai formaggi ai salumi. Una vera scoperta. Per raggiungere Dublino, la compagnia di bandiera irlandese, Aer Lingus, opera 40 voli giornalieri diretti da nove aeroporti italiani. Si può bloccare la prenotazione del volo per 24 ore pagando 5 euro, che verranno poi detratti in caso di acquisto del volo entro le 24 ore. Inoltre, consente di effettuare il check-in con un mese d’anticipo, scegliendo così con tutta calma il proprio posto a sedere. Si possono anche acquistare dei Voucher regalo, un bellissimo dono per gli amanti dell’Irlanda. Altre informazioni sul sito del Turismo irlandese. https://ift.tt/32zj6Bm I 10 luoghi da vedere a meno di un’ora da Dublino Alle porte di Dublino, a meno di un’ora di strada dalla città, ci sono diversi luoghi che vale assolutamente la pena visitare. La Contea di Meath, nell’Ireland Ancient East, è una delle più storiche dell’Irlanda, ma spesso poco frequentata dai visitatori che preferiscono fermarsi in città o puntare dritti verso le più celebri mete turistiche. Una zona che ruota intorno alla Boyne Valley, scavata dall’omonimo fiume, che ha fatto da sfondo a numerosi eventi che hanno fatto dell’Irlanda l’isola che è oggi. Siti celtici, come Brú na Bóinne, che risale a 5000 anni avanti Cristo, e il tumulo di Knowth, il luogo dove è nato Halloween. Castelli Normanni, come quello di Trim, dove è stata scritta la storia d’Irlanda. Luoghi talmente famosi da essere apparsi al cinema e alla Tv. Antichi villaggi dalle case colorate e tradizioni gastronomiche che ci riportano indietro nel tempo. Ecco dieci luoghi che si possono visitare in giornata partendo da Dublino. Knowth, il più grande sito di Brú na Bóinne Il tumulo di Knowth è il più ampio del sito archeologico di origine pre-celtica di Brú na Bóinne datato 5000 anni avanti Cristo. Di questo sito fanno parte anche il più celebre Newgrange e Dowth. Con il suo diametro di 95 metri, Knowth si estende su una superficie di circa 5 chilometri quadrati. Si tratta di una serie di 18 colline di varie misure e altezze immerse tra i verdissimi prati irlandesi, anch’esse ricoperte di erba. Alcune sono collegate al tumulo principale che ha due passaggi, ognuno dei quali conduce a due camere funerarie separate. Attorno alle entrate vi sono grosse pietre scolpite con graffiti dalle forme geometriche e astratte il cui significato è tutt’oggi sconosciuto. Dentro i tumuli si svolgevano cerimonie e venivano riposti i resti cremati dei defunti. Nelle epoche successive, sulle colline vennero costruiti persino dei villaggi. È uno dei siti archeologici da non perdere nell’Ireland Ancient East. La crociera di “Game of Thrones” sul fiume Boyne Un giorno Ross Kennay, proprietario della Boyne Boats, riceve la telefonata da una persona che chiede di poter girare alcune scene di una serie Tv lungo i canali intorno al fiume Boyne, a bordo di alcune vecchie e tipiche imbarcazioni irlandesi di legno chiamate “currach” ormai in disuso, ma che Ross possedeva ancora. Si trattava del produttore di “Game of Thrones” che, durante le riprese della settima stagione della pluripremiata serie televisiva, era alla ricerca di un set che rappresentasse al meglio il “Mare Stretto” in cui fare navigare Theon Greyjoy diretto ad “Approdo del Re”. È così che sono iniziati i “Game of Thrones Boat Tours” a bordo di vecchie imbarcazioni lungo i canali del fiume Boyne, nella Valle del Boyne che, non solo ripercorrono i luoghi di alcune scene della serie, ma anche luoghi storici, legati alla celebre battaglia del Boyne, e ad alcune leggende irlandesi. Slane Castle, il castello del Conte Rock Alle porte di Slane – una cittadina della Contea di Meath che vale una visita – si trova uno dei luoghi più famosi d’Irlanda, il Castello di Slane. Non soltanto è un bellissimo maniero, tuttora abitato dalla famiglia Conyngham (di origine scozzese e insediata in Irlanda nel 1611), le cui sale sono visitabili e dove si organizzano matrimoni e feste varie, ma è famoso perché, ogni estate, da trent’anni, vi si tiene un mega concerto con una star del rock. Nel parco, che può ospitare fino a centomila persone, si sono esibiti gli U2, Bruce Springsteen, i Rolling Stones, Madonna e i più grandi nomi delle musica internazionale. Il Conte Harry, soprannominato “Earl Rock”, ribelle fin da giovane a tutte le convenzioni che il titolo gli imponeva, fin dagli Anni ’70 frequentava Bono, Bruce e compagni ed ebbe la brillante idea di aprire le porte del castello ai suoi amici cantanti e musicisti. Nel 1984 gli U2 vissero sei mesi nel castello per registrare l’album “The Unforgettable Fire” e il salotto venne trasformato in studio di registrazione. La bellissima sala da ballo, dove incombe un gigantesco ritratto di Giorgio IV, fu il set del videoclip del singolo “Pride”. Il ritratto del monarca non è casuale: pare, infatti, che avesse una love story con un’antenata della Conyngham e, per questo motivo, fece aprire una strada diretta da Dublino al castello, strada che tutt’oggi collega le due località che distano 48 km. Trim Castle, il leggendario castello di “Braveheart” Affacciato sulla riva del fiume Boyne si trova il castello normanno più grande d’Irlanda, il Castello di Trim. Un imponente mastio di pietra ormai annerita dai secoli e dalle battaglie da cui si è dovuto difendere. Eretto poco dopo la battaglia di Hastings (1066), fu ampliato, modificato, fortificato più volte nel corso dei secoli successivi. Oggi il castello, restaurato e reso agibile, è magnifico e vale assolutamente una visita. Talmente iconico da essere stato scelto da Mel Gibson per girarvi alcune scene del film “Braveheart” nel 1995 di cui fu produttore e protagonista nelle vesti di William Wallace, un eroe scozzese del XIII secolo. Per rappresentare la Scozia dell’epoca, però, l’Irlanda sembrò più adatta, racconta Jimmy che, da volontario, accompagna i turisti alla scoperta del castello che domina una verde vallata attraversata dal fiume alle porte della deliziosa cittadina di Trim. Drogheda, la città Normanna sul fiume Boyne A una cinquantina di chilometri da Dublino, Drogheda è un’antica cittadina Normanna attraversata dal fiume. Un tempo era una città fortificata, tra le più grandi mai esistite. Oggi delle antiche porte d’accesso alla città resta solo l’imponente St Laurence’s Gate, con le torri circolari ai lati di un arco. Delle antiche mura resta solo un’altra porzione nella vicina Featherbed Lane. Ma Drogheda ha un altro luogo che vale la pena visitare: la St Peter’s Church. Ospita il santuario – e la testa mozzata – dell’arcivescovo irlandese St Oliver Plunkett, perseguitato da Oliver Cromwell nel XVII secolo. Per il Paese è una figura importantissima. Negli ultimi anni molti “dubliners” si sono trasferiti a Drogheda per la bellezza della cittadina, per la qualità delle vita e per la vicinanza con Dublino, collegata da treni e pullman. Anziché cercare un b&b a Dublino conviene alloggiare qui per risparmiare. Athboy, dove è nato Halloween Non tutti sanno che Halloween è una festa irlandese. È a Hill of Ward, un sito nei pressi di Athboy che sono stati ritrovati i resti di fuochi risalenti all’era pre-Cristiana che venivano accesi per la festa di “Samhain”. Per i Celti questa festa, che iniziava all’ora del tramonto del 31 ottobre e durava fino al calar del sole dell’1 novembre, rappresentava un rito importante che segnava il passaggio dalla luce all’oscurità, in quanto coincideva con la fine del raccolto e l’inizio dell’inverno. Per celebrare le origini (vere) di Halloween, nel 2019 è nato il Púca Festival, che si tiene proprio ad Athboy, una festa che dura tre giorni con parate per le strade cittadine, cene nel vicino castello di Slane e musica all’aperto. Proprio per la vicinanza ad alcuni luoghi simbolici irlandesi, la cittadina di Athboy, nella Contea di Meath, è un ottimo punto di partenza per visitare alcuni dei luoghi più famosi dell’Ireland Ancient East. Il luogo della battaglia del Boyne È stata la guerra più importante combattuta in Irlanda e, chi desidera fare un viaggio in questo Paese, dovrebbe assolutamente conoscerne la storia e visitare il sito dove si svolse la battaglia del Boyne nel 1690, a una cinquantina di chilometri da Dublino. Fu la battaglia che vide da una parte James II Stuart, che voleva riconquistare l’Inghilterra, e dall’altra Willliam III che vinse astutamente la battaglia e rispedì James in Francia. Il Battle of the Boyne comprende il terreno di battaglia, attraversato dal fiume Boyne, e un Visitor Centre all’interno del quale si trova il museo. L’esposizione permanente è ospitata in un antico edificio, la Oldbridge House costruita nel 1740. Visita alla Slane Irish Whiskey Distillery Il whiskey irlandese è famosissimo. E il terreno fertile e le acque pure della Valle del Boyne rendono questo territorio perfetto per la distillazione. In passato, molte distillerie si erano stabilite in questa regione, ma poi sono state chiuse tutte. Ecco perché nelle vecchie scuderie del Castello di Slane, a una cinquantina di chilometri da Dublino, qualche anno fa è stata aperta una distilleria di whiskey. A volerla, il proprietario del castello, Harry Conyngham. Ogni giorno si organizzano tour di un’ora alla scoperta del processo di produzione con tanto di degustazione finale. È meglio prenotare la visita. Ne fa parte anche un locale, aperto tutto il giorno, dove servono pasti e bevande, e lo shop dove acquistare l’whiskey e diversi gadget. La distilleria fa parte del castello e vale assolutamente la pena visitare anche l’edificio una volta giunti qui. Una curiosità: quello irlandese si scrive con la “e” (mentre quello scozzese è senza ovvero “whisky”) per via della tripla fermentazione e del diverso metodo di preparazione. La storica cittadina Trim La cittadina di Trim è famosa soprattutto per il castello, una meravigliosa fortezza di origine Normanna scelta da Mel Gibson per ambientarvi alcune scene del film ”Braveheart” nel 1995. Nel Medioevo Trim era una delle città inglesi più importanti. In quello che un tempo era il palazzo civico (la “town hall”) oggi è stato aperto un Visitor Centre che ospita anche una sala museo che racconta la storia della città e conserva alcuni reperti ritrovati in città, spade, armature, elmi e diversi oggetti indossati dai cavalieri nel periodo medievale. Una curiosità: prima che diventasse un museo, questo edificio ospitava band musicali che si esibivano per il piacere dei cittadini. Tra questi, anche gli U2, prima che diventassero così famosi. Trim è attraversata dal fiume Boyne. Da qui partono diversi sentieri lungo il fiume da fare a piedi o in bicicletta e la ”Blueway”, un itinerario di 35 chilometri sull’acqua da fare con la canoa o con lo stand up paddle. La Listoke Distillery, dove creare il proprio gin In Irlanda non ci sono solo il whiskey e la birra Guinness. A un’ora di strada a Nord di Dublino, nei pressi della cittadina di Drogheda, nella Contea di Meath, Bronagh e Dave hanno aperto pochi anni fa un’originalissima distilleria di gin dove ogni visitatore può creare il proprio gin e portarselo a casa. I visitatori vengono accolti nella loro casa con un fantastico gin tonic. Dopo un tour guidato per capire il processo di distillazione si prende parte alla “Gin School”: in un’aula vengono messi a disposizione dei partecipanti decine di ingredienti, dalle spezie ai fiori, che si possono mischiare tra loro fino a ottenere un distillato assolutamente personalizzato. Una volta distillato il proprio gin, viene imbottigliato. E il gioco è fatto. Ma prima di ripartire, un altro giro di gin accompagnato da prodotti locali della Valle dei Boyne, dai formaggi ai salumi. Una vera scoperta. Per raggiungere Dublino, la compagnia di bandiera irlandese, Aer Lingus, opera 40 voli giornalieri diretti da nove aeroporti italiani. Si può bloccare la prenotazione del volo per 24 ore pagando 5 euro, che verranno poi detratti in caso di acquisto del volo entro le 24 ore. Inoltre, consente di effettuare il check-in con un mese d’anticipo, scegliendo così con tutta calma il proprio posto a sedere. Si possono anche acquistare dei Voucher regalo, un bellissimo dono per gli amanti dell’Irlanda. Altre informazioni sul sito del Turismo irlandese. La Contea di Meath, nell’Ireland Ancient East, è una delle più storiche dell’Irlanda, con molti siti e villaggi da visitare.

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stairnaheireann · 2 years ago

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#OTD in Irish History | 28 October:

1659 – Birth of Nicholas Brady, Anglican divine and poet, born in Bandon, Co Cork. He received his education at Westminster School and at Christ Church, Oxford; he graduated from Trinity College, Dublin. 1758 – Edward Moore, 5th Earl of Drogheda and former MP for Dunleer, drowns with his son Edward, chaplain to the House of Commons, en route from England to Dublin. 1867 – Birth of social worker,…

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harryandmeghan0-blog · 6 years ago

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'Haven't you got the intelligence?' Stormy scene that saw 'arrogant' Prince Philip snipe at the Queen on the Royal Yacht ...

New Post has been published on https://harryandmeghan.xyz/havent-you-got-the-intelligence-stormy-scene-that-saw-arrogant-prince-philip-snipe-at-the-queen-on-the-royal-yacht/

'Haven't you got the intelligence?' Stormy scene that saw 'arrogant' Prince Philip snipe at the Queen on the Royal Yacht ...

For decades, Fleet Street society diarist Kenneth Rose mingled with the Royal Family and the nation’s movers and shakers. But he kept the juiciest gossip for his private journals — which are about to be published. Our extract yesterday revealed the intimate secrets of the Queen Mother. Today, he tells how Prince Philip’s wicked wit and occasional downright rudeness often rubbed people up the wrong way . . .

Queen Elizabeth ll and Prince Philip sitting down on their arrival in Kiribati, during their South Pacific tour, on 23 October 1982

January 8, 1955

To the Albert Hall to hear Malcolm Sargent conduct magnificent performance of the Messiah. [Later] Malcolm full of Benjamin Britten stories. When the Duke of Edinburgh left the Royal Box after Gloriana, he remarked: ‘Lucky I didn’t marry the first Queen Elizabeth — otherwise Britten would now be in the Tower awaiting execution.’

January 10, 1956

David Loram to dine. Much amusing talk about his work as equerry to the Queen. He says she takes ‘a most minute interest’ in the running of her household.

‘One cannot move a cushion from one chair to another without her permission.

She knows everybody’s name, arranges table seating plans, introduces all guests to others herself, makes sure a guest sits next to her at dinner the night before he leaves.’

April 22, 1956

Good story of Sir Henry Marten [Provost of Eton] when giving private tuition to the then Princess Elizabeth. Every lesson, he would begin by sitting down at the table, opening the book, and saying: ‘Page 96, gentlemen.’

May 17, 1956

Jim Cilcennin [First Lord of the Admiralty] says it broke Prince Philip’s heart to leave the Royal Navy, which provided an anchor to his life. As he once complained rather pathetically to Jim: ‘I never really had a country.’

The Royal Yacht Britannia leaving Portsmouth with The Royal Family on board for their traditional cruise around the western isles of Scotland

HRH Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip the Duke of Edinburgh glance at each other as they attend an official reception in Papua New Guinea on the 30th of October 1982

March 6, 1957

Dine alone with Jim Cilcennin, then settle down to a great deal of gossip over brandy and cigars.

Prince Philip asked him to go round the world with him in Britannia several months before he left the Admiralty.

He not only wanted a friend and experienced politician, but knew that Jim would be able to have daily treatment for his arthritis in the sick bay of the Royal Yacht.

September 17, 1959

At the end of a Privy Council meeting, the Queen asked [Viscount] Antony Head how his Guernsey herd was doing.

Head replied: ‘Not at all well. The artificial insemination people sent me a Red Poll bull instead of a Guernsey by mistake.’

[Baroness] Woolton was furious at this flippancy, but the Queen was enchanted by it.

August 15, 1961

I have Sir Austin Strutt, Deputy Under-Secretary at the Home Office, to lunch at the Savoy. Small, energetic, friendly, indiscreet.

Strutt dislikes Prince Philip — ‘He will bring the whole monarchy down in ruins.’ He tells a story of how he was with Philip on the Royal Yacht during a Channel Islands visit with the Queen and a party of officials.

It was necessary to change plan owing to bad weather.

The Queen did not understand why it was necessary, and asked.

At which Philip, in front of everybody, said to her: ‘Haven’t you the intelligence to realise . . .’

October 11, 1961

On the subject of Tony Armstrong-Jones’s peerage, Strutt tells me that Prince Philip was against it.

Princess Margaret not only insisted, but made herself quite ill with rage when she learned that the peerage patent would not be ready in time for Tony to carry out an official engagement in Glasgow as Earl of Snowdon. Even though special measures were taken to speed up the patent, she had to bear this disappointment.

Strutt thinks that Prince Philip is still interfering too much in official matters.

October 13, 1961

Lunch with [the Queen’s assistant private secretary] Martin Charteris at the Savoy. We discuss Prince Philip. Martin agrees with me that he is arrogant, largely because he is praised so much as an after-dinner speaker. Nor do his staff criticise him as they should.

Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II during a visit to the Red Cross headquarters in Geneva, while on an official four-day visit to Switzerland between 29 April and 2 May 1980

October 25, 1961

A characteristic story about Prince Philip. The other day he came to the Café Royal to present awards to Regent Street shopkeepers for export-window displays, or some such thing.

Among those presented was Mr Rayne of the shoe firm. The following conversation ensued:

Prince: ‘What do you do, Mr Rayne?’

Rayne: ‘I make shoes, sir.’

Prince: ‘Are you the company’s export manager?’

Rayne: ‘No, as a matter of fact I am Chairman of the company, which has the honour to make the Queen’s shoes.’

Prince: ‘That’s why she’s always complaining about her feet, no doubt.’ Prince Philip simply cannot realise the harm that this perpetual banter does him.

April 16, 1962

At 12, I see Michael Parker [friend and former private secretary of Prince Philip] at his office in Conduit Street. He asks me how I think Prince Philip is getting on.

I mention one or two of the obvious failings — his running-down of British industry when abroad; the impression he gives of despising the Press; and his tendency to drop people, having previously taken them up with some degree of intimacy.

Jim Cilcennin [who went around the world with Philip on Britannia] complained to me often about this during the last year of his life.

The trouble is, adds Parker, that the Royal Family have few friends and not many acquaintances.

Part of Prince Philip’s problem actually springs from shyness. But this could be avoided by a staff of skilled advisers.

June 1, 1966

When the Queen came to open the new Post Office Tower in Marylebone the other day, [Labour Postmaster General] Anthony Wedgwood Benn suggested to her that some State Banquets might in future be held there.

There is seating for 120 in the revolving restaurant. The Queen could sit in the stationary part of the Tower, with her guests revolving about her. This would do away with protocol, as everyone would get a chance of exchanging remarks with the Queen every 20 minutes or so.

December 17, 1967

Hans von Herwarth, former German Ambassador, tells me that on the occasions both of the death of George VI and of the Queen’s Coronation, the Queen received more letters from Germany than from any other country outside the Commonwealth.

He was most touched on the occasion of the Coronation in 1953 by the Queen’s kindness.

His little daughter, then aged ten, complained to him that it was a pity she had not been asked, too, ‘as it is a girl who is being crowned’.

He mentioned this to the British High Commissioner in Germany, as a joke. But an invitation duly arrived, together with a seat for her in the stand outside the Abbey.

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip arrive at Brussels Airport for a State Visit to Belgium on 9th May 1966

May 11, 1968

Selwyn Lloyd [63-year-old former Tory Foreign Secretary and Chancellor] tells me that Prince Philip said to him recently, ‘What, are you still alive?’ Later, he apologised to Selwyn for his rudeness.

February 6, 1971

I talk to [the Queen’s former assistant private secretary] Edward Ford about the Suez Crisis in 1956.As in almost every other house in the country, it caused a split in the secretariat at Buckingham Palace.

Edward and [her assistant private secretary] Martin Charteris were against it, [her private secretary] Michael Adeane was for it.

Their conflicting attitudes puzzled the Queen, who said: ‘I have three Private Secretaries and all of them give me different advice.’

June 30, 1973

I hear that when Charles de Gaulle came on his State Visit to England, he went down to Windsor and the Queen took him and Harold Macmillan round all the pictures in the Waterloo Chamber.

At the end of the tour, de Gaulle said to the Queen: ‘Alors, Madame, was it necessary to have all these messieurs to defeat Napoleon?’

July 20, 1974

At the gala at Covent Garden last Wednesday, Prince Eddie [now Duke of Kent] says that not only were the speeches far too long, but that [former Opera House chairman] Garrett Drogheda made Prince Philip furious by mocking the Royal Family’s indifference to opera. Apparently, the Prince told Garrett after his speech: ‘Buggered if I ever come again.’

June 17, 1975

Alec Home [former Tory PM] recalls the Queen’s reply when he asked if she would object to meeting Idi Amin of Uganda at a conference of Commonwealth Prime Ministers: ‘It would not be the first time I have met murderers there.’

November 16, 1977

Give [Tory Foreign Secretary] Peter Carrington lunch at Wheeler’s. Peter tells me that when he was First Lord of the Admiralty, Michael Adeane telephoned him one day and in a bleak voice said that the Queen wanted to see him at the Palace in half an hour. When he was shown into the Queen’s room, she did not ask him to sit down but pointed to a report in the Daily Express that the Royal Yacht Britannia was to be refitted at astronomical cost.

Peter explained how the ship had been badly built in the first place, how extra equipment had to be taken aboard, and how any possibility of the vessel’s breaking down in public had to be avoided.

The Queen received all this without in any way melting. ‘And who pays?’ she asked.

Peter, thinking he was at last on surer ground, replied with enthusiasm that of course it would be the Government, not the Queen.

‘I see,’ she said icily. ‘You pay and I get the blame.’ Peter was then shown out.

March 31, 1979

Talking of the Queen’s recent visit to the Gulf States, Martin Charteris tells me that someone said that she must have been embarrassed at receiving such immensely valuable presents and giving so little in return.

Martin: ‘You don’t know her!’

Extracted from Who’s In, Who’s Out: The Journals Of Kenneth Rose Volume 1, 1944-1979, edited by D.R. Thorpe, published by Weidenfeld & Nicolson on November 1 at £30. © The Executors of the Estate of Kenneth Rose, Lord Waldegrave and Marie-Louise Spencer Hamilton 2018. Editorial matter © C.D.R. Thorpe. To buy this book for £24 (20 per cent off), call 0844 571 0640 or go to mailshop.co.uk/books. Offer valid until November 6, 2018. p&p is free on orders over £15. Spend £30 on books and get free premium delivery.

Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-6304779/Prince-Philip-snipe-Queen-Royal-Yacht-revealed-secret-diaries.html

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