No, not Windsor Castle in England. This Windsor Castle is located in our little town of Smithfield.
It was the plantation home of Arthur Smith, the founder of the town. Now the property is a waterfront park with picnic areas, kayak rentals and fishing docks. It also features walking trails and a dog park. One day last week, I walked the easy less challenging half of the trail, which takes about 30 minutes. And I took my camera.
This is one of the many walkways over the surrounding marsh area. They’re quite impressive, both from a distance, and as you’re walking them.
My favorite sections of the trail are those that take you along the Cypress Creek.
The trail’s design is anything but boring. If it isn’t winding through wooded areas, or along the creek, there are s-turns to navigate.
This is Windsor Castle, the manor house. It’s situated on a hill and is visible from the street, but this provides a much closer view.
The flowering dogwood is Virginia’s state tree. There are many on the grounds at Windsor Castle, and this time of year, they add to the beauty of the park.
Some of Smithfield’s other historic homes are visible from Windsor Castle.
No plantation is complete without barns, and tomorrow, I’ll share those for Barn Charm Tuesday.
these days of mine 