Windsor Castle - A Royal Year (DVD, 2006)

Since I visited Windsor Castle last November, I thought it might be interesting to see the inner workings of the complex. I was not disappointed in the slightest. This 2 DVD set can't be viewed in one sitting. It took me three to go through the entire six hours. I watched the preparations for a state banquet, Royal Ascot, the steps taken to care for the grounds, the deer preserve,Garter Day festivities, etc. Carolers visited the queen and were given wine to warm them on a damp night. Perhaps the most interesting aspect to the castle was the degree of specialization of those who work there. One man is in charge of maintaining over 400 clocks and spends eighteen hour day changing times when daylight savings time hits. A fendersmith lights the fires in the hundreds of fire places. One gentleman has the job of raising the flag when the queen enters the grounds. Another is in charge of flowers. Yet another is in charge of maintaining the antique furniture in good working order. The castle has some of the aspects of a city to it.

The Military Knights are retired soldiers who receive free lodging in exchange for praying for the royal family and the Knights of the Garter (who themselves have the job of praying for the Queen). Pensioners who have worked in any of the royal facilities now live in cottages on the edge of the massive castle grounds. The DVD visits with all these people and gets their perspective on what they do. I was amazed at how much I didn't see when I went through the grounds myself. If any of the new areas are ever open to the public, I'd like to go back and visit them.

Very good DVD set, my husband first saw this on PBS and then wanted a copy. Even if, like us, you really don't care about the royals, it is fascinating to see the inner workings of the castle as they prepare for events such as the state dinner. All the preperation and perfection that goes into "castle life" is absolutely amazing. Two thumbs up!!!

I saw this documentary on pbs an since I had been to the castle decided to watch it. A very interesting look at one year in the royals working life,state dinners,etc. The history and behind-the-scenes preparation is wonderful!

If you wanted to know how an occupied palace runs on a daily basis throughout the year, this would be an enthralling 2-DVD set for you.
It is made with quality, and packaged with quality.
Most importantly, it is shot with quality and gives you a trip through the wonder and opulence that is Windsor Castle and it's grounds - as well as the lives of the people living and working in the Castle.
Very worthwhile purchase!

I just love this look at the Royal Family. It was a great look at a 1000 year old castle. I'd pay double for this DVD. It was Absolutely Fantastic!!!