Every time you do a castle tour, my girlfriend and I immediately put it on the living room tv. We can't express how much we look forward to your little documentaries!
I agree too. I will probably never get over to see these pieces of history but You bring it all to life and answer my questions as we walk around. Thank You from Canada.
His excitement is infectious. You can't help but smile and be in awe of this man's passion for the history of this period. What an amazing guide! Imagine having him in the family. I'd be here all the time with him.
I always wanted to tour the world when I got into my 50s and 60s. I didn't realize it would be via shows like this. Thank you so much for making it possible.
Props to the cameraperson for being dynamic and showing all the things talked in great detail. Camerawork easily gets overlooked, and maybe that is the point in a way, to make it feel as seamless and well flowing as possible. Same goes to everyone behind the scenes, great work as usual.
@@thehistorysquad She did a fantastic job indeed . . Too many videos have sudden camera movements that cause tearing , artifacting in the video . But this was buttery smooth allowing all of that castle detail to be shown on screen without drama or corruption . Great teamwork - - A++ to both of you . I really appreciate the passion as much as the detailed information . A rare combination online honestly . Cheers ,
If those walls could speak,the stories they would tell. The tour was spectacular. Your passion for history is much appreciated. Cheers from across the pond! 👍🇬🇧🇺🇸
If I had a ticket to a time machine to give away I’d definitely offer it to Kevin. His enthusiasm and knowledge of earlier times is radiant he would so much deserve to see all he speaks to us about real time!
Strange, I was just watching another History squad video and was thinking about how I'd love to go back to medieval times dressed in modern clothes etc just to see what their reaction would be like, no doubt I'd probably be arrested and hung, drawn and quartered for being a witch or something 😂
@Barbara Bárány ah sounds good will check it out, its something I've had in my imagination for years, I'd love to just see the looks on their faces haha
The truly fascinating parts are the day to day living that these people had to figure out living inside the fortress. The cooking and water storage and of course what to do with the poop. Hats off to you Kevin, for actually explaining it. Not a job you would have wanted to be born into. "Cmon kids we gotta go spread out the poop to dry" Another great job and the channel is growing so much!! Cheers!!
I could watch this for hours. It’s also constantly devastating that we can’t really see exactly what it looked like and see the people living their lives in places like this so many years ago in times of both peace and war. So frustrating but it’s still so beautiful as well. I wish I could see things like this in person. Great video as usual, thank you. Without people like you I’d never get to see things like this incredible castle. It must have taken quite a while to plan and build something so well thought out. Absolutely awesome!
Brilliant. I used to work for the landscape company that looked after the grounds. Fascinating to learn the history...makes me feel in a small way part of it. Well done. Great video.
I grew up in Texas, the closest thing to a castle I have been around is a 1600’s lookout tower the Spaniards built. It has battlements and little murder holes but calling it a castle is generous. Always amazing to see the real thing, all that old stone with so many memories and so much history is amazing.
I've been to the Missions in San Antonio. They're about the only thing that even begins to compare in terms of age and construction, although the missions didn't have all the defensive structures. That, or Chaco Canyon in New Mexico. But again, only in terms of age or perhaps size.
I can't get over how well designed this place is plumbing, fire places, built in sinks, built in ovens etc etc. I think this place would have been quite magnificent in it's day. How sad things have to be destroyed.
Now living in Tennessee it is wonderful to see the castle described in such loving detail. I photographed reenactment there three times. Civil War. I worked for English Heritage as a pro photographer and always loved my trips to my favourite castle. Great memories of a superb reenactment group, The English Civil War Society. Thank you for your fascinating info. Much of it new to me.
"And then you've got to go around the castle to actually attack the front barbican." I like how the castle guard were thoughtful enough to install that "ENTRANCE --->" sign so attacking armies would know which way to go 🥰 We LOVE your channel, Mr. & Mrs. History Squad!
Sometimes, I have difficulty imagining the missing parts, but you paint a fantastic picture with your stories and knowledge that really brings the castle to life. Thanks for another great tour!
These castle tours are amazing. Really appreciate you both taking the time to do these. It’s sad in its own little way that we will never know truly how beautiful these rooms and buildings were, but like you say, use your imagination and knowledge and you’re not far off. It blows my mind how it was all just normal for them, but people will likely be saying the same about us in 500 years. Big thanks Kevin, looking forward to the next one
Thank you very much for this. Although I'm very proud to be a Texan, my family came to the colonies from England in 1750. I consider this kind of History to be very much part of the history of my family.
Fascinating. I’ve been to a few castles and when I’m walking around I always look around and just try to imagine and visualise just how it would have looked back in the days when it was lived in and used. They must have been unbelievable sights back in their day.
That was a fantastic castle tour. I'm glad you took the time to go through the little details in the castle, like how the plumbing and heating worked. Those things can be easily skipped over but that's what made the castle feel like a home to the people living there.
What a wonderful tour! It feels like being there in person - thanks to the immensely personable guide. Thank you for making this possible for millions of people who can't make their way to the castle!
What a great castle - The Civil War was a sad time if only for the destruction of so many wonderful properties - after the Dissolution of the Monasteries a hundred years before, people must have felt quite vulnerable... A fitting monument to our turbulent past. Must have been some fun history lessons, Sir!
Oh kevin, no wonder it took a bit. The production value is noticeable! And i really do appreciate this. And now i got why i find this format of film so intriquing, they're straight up a field trip. We got like 4 castles here, It feels so weird that it was in ruins, just over 100 years ago... You're doing the place a service :) This is such "form follows function" side of the coin, castles look majestic even in ruins. Look at that drop, it all has a purpose. It all has a story. Like the fireplace, imagine what has been spoken around it throughout the years. The cupboard that was laid with bricks and mortar from miles away, just to have a cupboard fit for a lord. the sanitation is deeply thought out, because you did not want squalor in such dense quarters. Just fascinating stuff, i know this is niche but i really do enjoy this content. And how it was all destroyed with gunpowder. Imagine living there when it was at its finest... Wonder how much it'd cost to build one of these today, but back then this was the pinnacle of technology. Now it fits your pocket. The keep was almost a thousand years old, and you still stood atop of it. "they don't build them like they used to" It was built to the task, and because they had castles like this, necessity being the mother of innovation, they had to make bombards. And because of bombards, we have radio. Absolutely fantastic content Kevin, thanks a tonne! Also big ups for the editor, could not have been a simple job this. Thank you so much!
I love these castle tours. I live in Tennessee in America and this is the closest I’ll every get to seein a castle so if you could do more of these like a whole series, I would definitely watch them all. You do a really good job explaining them too, my wife and I love it🤙
Hi Jacob (& Mrs B), we've covered Chepstow Castle and have a few more site visits for you from our trip this year. We live in Canada now but will film some more again next year. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
I’ve watched the chepstow castle episode three times now so and every other video you have out so the notes are on and I’ll be happily waiting for your next video whatever it may be. It’s rare for me to find something or someone I can listen to like I do you Kevin so please keep it as much as your able.we really appreciate it👍
It is such a joy to watch your videos Mr. Hicks. We are all so fortunate that you have decided to pursue your passion for History after performing a life of service to the community.
As a young man in the seventies I wandered many English castles, always felt at home in cold quiet stone, thank you for your manner of bringing the stone to life.
As a keen history enthusiast I watch all of your videos Kevin. I think this is one of your best, please do more of these castle tours so I'll know what to look out for when I visit. From a fellow longbow archer, many thanks
I remember good Goodrich castle. It was 1988. Camping nearby we slipped in before opening times at about 06:00. Me and my mates had the place to ourselves. We did no damage. Wide eyed we explored. It added to my love of all the glorious debris of this country. God love you Kevin.
I remember my parents taking me to England a few times growing up. We always did tours at nice historic places (all enclosed with modern amenities), but nothing like this. I imagine in pre-internet days, you'd have to be pretty savvy to know someplace like this even exists. I bet I would have loved to go around a place like this when I was a little kid.
I live in Hereford (not far away) and me and my brothers and mates had a great time as kids there. Sadly my 12yo lad is more interested in playing computer games. Progress I suppose.
Thanks for this enlightening tour. It has given me much perspective. Days when I am HATING my soul sucking 9-to-5 gulag of a job, I can now muster gratitude that I'm not the "gunk farmer"! 🙏
What a splendid tour, thank you Kevin. Incredibly evocative, enthusiastic descriptions as ever. Very much appreciated. I love how the castle emerges from the bedrock, constructed from that very stone. As though it has grown from the land over the course of a millennium. Immovable, almost indistinguishable from the earth on which it sits, in parts. Fabulous! Thanks again. 👍👍
@@larapalma3744 Stone that was pounded by mortar , canon and men over and over again - - yet still they persist after nearly 800 years . Incredible stuff . Sometimes I wish we had never discovered gunpowder or electricity .. =>
How magnificent it must have looked in its day. Such a lucky guy Kevin for you to make films about these locations and doing so with Julie. We loved the longer duration too.
My second time watching this incredible video,is fascinating how things where created back in the days,plus the professional way you narrate and explain things keeps viewers interested for more.
I always love watching people geek about their favorite stuff, passion for a topic is a learning aid like no other. Sir, your enthusiasm and genuine love for history makes this kind of learning so much more engaging and enjoyable. And major kudos to the camera operator; your work adds another level of love and enthusiasm to an excellent lesson. The combination is honestly something you couldn’t beg for if it wasn’t already present.
Its always a great day when we get a new video from Kevin! What a fantastic addition to my day off, Ill prolly watch this twice! I cant think of anyone better to take us through any castle, especially another youre so familiar with like Chepstow. Im stoked to see what little details youll show and the stories youll share Edit: I feel like this is the same castle I once heard Mick Aston mention in passing, saying something along the lines of "... they dug through over 100 meters of dolorite, that rock is like steel..." but for the life of me cant remember the time team episode. Goodness what Idve give to be able to marvel at stuff like this in person. Amazing to see the remanants of the balcony in the church, of course even in a house of worship theyd put themselves above and seperate from the common rabble. 😑 I hope some passionate graphics artist makes a digital reconstruction to tour or something. Those towers are just so grand, the guards there mustve greatly appreciated what seem like compartively luxurious accomdations.
Don't know if it helps but the spectacular Bamburgh castle in Northumberland, England, is built upon a crag of volcanic dolerite. Whether that is the Time Team episode you are referring to, I don't know although I've seen every episode. It is a truly awesome structure.
Fascinating how these castles are preserved. They are much more interesting as ruins from an architectural point of view and aesthetic than incorrectly reconstructed like Windsor, Warwick or Arundel. Thank you and keep showing these castles.
I really love these castle tours - excellent video and very interesting. Whenever we are on holiday somewhere we try to fit in a castle to have a look around. I find it astonishing how old these buildings are, but I also think about how it must have been for the poor folk who had to live under the rulers of the time.
Jason Kingsley and Kevin Hicks should do a co-lab together . it will be awesome. both pretty much cover the same subject matter with Kevin and Jason having their intricate specialties in everything we love. the presentation of this program is so good and entertaining.
Thank you for doing these tours. As someone who may never be able to afford to travel to the UK, but has always been fascinated by the history it means so much to hear you speak and show them in such detail.
Thank you Kevin, a very well timed break from the insanity of modern issues. I've always enjoyed watching your shows. Starting with the Documentary " the war of the roses " .
I love these castle walk throughs! Having the tiny details pointed out and explained are so interesting and fun to learn about, as well as the things right in front of your nose that you wouldn't normally think twice about. It is sad to hear about the wall collapsing after holding on for so long but what can ya do? A very cool castle video with a wonderful guide and camera woman to help tell the tales and secrets of a once (and still is) beautiful fortress. Thanks Kevin!
Been on a binge on yr videos, deffo the best on youtube, been a History buff, loved Medieval English history ever since I was Tattersalls Castle in 1974, your tours ans story telling is the best I've seen, many thanks for effort to make these videos, enjoyed them all
It's so interesting hearing about the rich history of this magnificent castle! Your commentary offers a glimpse of what life was like during the age when this castle was in her full glory. As you talked I imagined the rich ladies in beautiful long gowns and the Knights in armor ready to defend this place. I imagined the dark and damp, smelly prison area. The stables full of horses, the drawbridge and the stronghold of the fortress walls lined with bowman and later, cannons in each aperture. It is wonderful to see even the ruins of this castle, it must have been breathtaking in its heyday! 🏰 Great video! ❤💜👍
I came here two years ago and was amazed at its history and architecture. Probably my favourite castle in Britain. Would of loved having tour guide as knowlegable as Kevin. Great video yet again.
I love that you take us back into history I'd even love to see more of how you can tell things (like how the door swung inward) I could spend all day with this man enthralled in his lessons! Do you do walking tours/groups I'd definitely go to those!
You obviously do love this place, your enthusiasm shows, and it is delightful to see, your knowledge actions and theatre have convinced us Goodrich castle this year here we come, thank you 🤠
Your videos are always amazing and so enticing. I live in the US, but its always been a dream of mine to move somewhere in Europe to be near all the incredible history.
I dream of being able to tour historical places, castles, and palaces with you or someone just as knowledgeable and skilled in delivering that knowledge as you are!
Fascinating description of castle defense from the perspective of the defenders and the aggressors. I've never seen a more interesting video describing how a castle worked. Thanks, Kevin!
Kevin, you are the BEST tour guide ever! You are filled with AMAZING facts and can read a castle like the back of your hand! Please continue bringing us these types of videos! 🤩
Awesome video!! Learning incredible little details about castles is fascinating. It makes me to see a project to create an entire new castle in the blueprint of a typical medieval castle. It would make for a great tourist attraction but an excellent way to learn and relive the past
This is beyond beautiful. I appreciate you. *Bucket list item added
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Stellar job as always Kevin. I learn so much from you. I also want to say hats off to your camera person. They brilliantly framed every shot and perfectly illustrated your story. Very professional.
I like the way this bloke exposes the very basics of these ancient structures.Right down to the toilet,arrow slits,guardroom,drawbridge,moat etc.13th.c.portcullis,massive oak doors,reverse arrow slits,fireplace to keep warm & cook for guardsmen.etc,etc.
Absolutely wonderful tour! Thank you! During my military tour in Germany, one of my favorite activities was touring old castle ruins. The Burg Eltz was one of my favorites (it's NOT a ruin!) Areas around St. Petersburg, Russia are also excellent places to visit. History is amazing! I wish there was a way to take virtual tours of these places with CAD emulations of what they actually looked like inside and out. I also think of the the lives and stories of the "great" and "little" people who resided in these. How many stories of laughter, tears, work, and play have passed into obscurity! What adventures are lost to time in even the simple and mundane tasks of obtaining firewood, chasing livestock, or even cleaning a bathroom -- not to mention the efforts and science behind architecture and bringing dreams and ideas to fruition. It's simply amazing to contemplate!
You have a great grin on your face when describing the different aspects of the castle. It is truly evident you love the history. Thank you for bringing this alive for us to see.
I know this castle well. As a teenager we regularly 'breached' the defenses overnight (ie slipped under the gate that was there) and would spook each other out with the ghost story. According to legend Alice Birch and Charles Clifford were lovers from different sides of the civil war. When the castle was attacked, they tried to escape on horseback across the Wye, but were swept away, and apparently on stormy nights you could see them. We never saw them but I can tell you the place is spooky as hell at night. As it should be!
Absolutely essential video! Goodrich and Chepstow are my absolute favourite castles… and your videos have greatly enhanced my enjoyment! Will be visiting both again in July…. I cannot wait
you are very good, now 80 but been interested and loved castles since i was 8. apparently one of my ancestors was a warden in charge of a castle in the 1600's.
Thanks so much for this I absolutely love it, it’s on a par with your Chepstow vid. I haven’t visited either but want to, the castle walk around a are my favourite. I don’t know the history of the castle but seems extremely fortified especially the doorways, more so than Kenilworth? Oh Also nice one with the stair way to heaven quote I just knew you’d be a led zep fan :-)
Here I am again’ watching and learning with my dear friend Kevin’ he is absolute treasure for history and telling the story of our great heritage’ advancements’ turmoil’ war’ peace’ everyday life, he’s a treasure for the day and the ages!
Never been out of USA Soil for vacation,This one I would love to take a Fall vacation to explore the oldest castles around with group,so beautiful historic about castle's...love to listen the historic about castle's
Thank you Kevin, for the wonderful and informative tour. Your enthusiasm for, and love of history is evident in all your videos. This was a nice little video break from the flat lands of W. Texas. Cheers.
I wonder how I would see history of our country as a child if there was someone like you, who speaks so great and thinks about it so deep...you re great!
Every time you do a castle tour, my girlfriend and I immediately put it on the living room tv. We can't express how much we look forward to your little documentaries!
Cheers Bill, I appreciate that. A few more to come 👍🏻
Oh, yes. Me too. Such thing need to be seen in a big screen smart TV.
Wonderful very informative tour. Best I've heard. Thanks!
The castle tours are my favorite!
Twice then.
This man is a national treasure. Deserves so much more recognition. Imagine being a child with him as your history teacher, absolutely inspirational.
Wow, cheers for that 👍🏻
I agree ❤
I agree too. I will probably never get over to see these pieces of history but You bring it all to life and answer my questions as we walk around. Thank You from Canada.
if he was my history teacher, i would have become a historian myself, his enthusiasm is infectious and very inspirational.
I'd be scared to enter any dungeon with him though. He said it himself!
His excitement is infectious. You can't help but smile and be in awe of this man's passion for the history of this period. What an amazing guide! Imagine having him in the family. I'd be here all the time with him.
Haha, how lovely of you, thanks!
Be great wouldnt it ❤
@@Presence_o_Mind and, his voice and narrative is pleasant, unlike some narrators which are like listening to a broken down, squeaky wagon rolling by!
I always wanted to tour the world when I got into my 50s and 60s. I didn't realize it would be via shows like this. Thank you so much for making it possible.
To me, Kevin can be the coolest granpa one can possibly have.
Props to the cameraperson for being dynamic and showing all the things talked in great detail. Camerawork easily gets overlooked, and maybe that is the point in a way, to make it feel as seamless and well flowing as possible.
Same goes to everyone behind the scenes, great work as usual.
Thanks for that, it's just me and my wife Julie and she really appreciated the nod, cheers. 👍🏻
@@thehistorysquad She did a fantastic job indeed . . Too many videos have sudden camera movements that cause tearing , artifacting in the video . But this was buttery smooth allowing all of that castle detail to be shown on screen without drama or corruption .
Great teamwork - - A++ to both of you . I really appreciate the passion as much as the detailed information . A rare combination online honestly . Cheers ,
@@SabbaticusRex Cheers back at you 👍🏻
If those walls could speak,the stories they would tell. The tour was spectacular. Your passion for history is much appreciated. Cheers from across the pond! 👍🇬🇧🇺🇸
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The UK has such an amazing history through the ages and fascinating landscapes with their castles. I wish I could tour this country someday.❤
If I had a ticket to a time machine to give away I’d definitely offer it to Kevin. His enthusiasm and knowledge of earlier times is radiant he would so much deserve to see all he speaks to us about real time!
What a lovely thought Barbara, thanks!
Strange, I was just watching another History squad video and was thinking about how I'd love to go back to medieval times dressed in modern clothes etc just to see what their reaction would be like, no doubt I'd probably be arrested and hung, drawn and quartered for being a witch or something 😂
@@Bonkers4Hex there’s a book by Mark Twain “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court” which is exactly about this imaginery plot
@Barbara Bárány ah sounds good will check it out, its something I've had in my imagination for years, I'd love to just see the looks on their faces haha
Army of darkness is the same thing
The truly fascinating parts are the day to day living that these people had to figure out living inside the fortress. The cooking and water storage and of course what to do with the poop. Hats off to you Kevin, for actually explaining it. Not a job you would have wanted to be born into. "Cmon kids we gotta go spread out the poop to dry"
Another great job and the channel is growing so much!! Cheers!!
Cheers Bobby, your support is appreciated.
That was the quickest 40 minutes ever! I’m still wanting more. Such a great teacher and story teller! Brilliant brother!
Cheers Paul 👍🏻
I could watch this for hours. It’s also constantly devastating that we can’t really see exactly what it looked like and see the people living their lives in places like this so many years ago in times of both peace and war. So frustrating but it’s still so beautiful as well.
I wish I could see things like this in person.
Great video as usual, thank you. Without people like you I’d never get to see things like this incredible castle.
It must have taken quite a while to plan and build something so well thought out. Absolutely awesome!
Brilliant. I used to work for the landscape company that looked after the grounds. Fascinating to learn the history...makes me feel in a small way part of it. Well done. Great video.
I grew up in Texas, the closest thing to a castle I have been around is a 1600’s lookout tower the Spaniards built. It has battlements and little murder holes but calling it a castle is generous. Always amazing to see the real thing, all that old stone with so many memories and so much history is amazing.
I've been to the Missions in San Antonio. They're about the only thing that even begins to compare in terms of age and construction, although the missions didn't have all the defensive structures. That, or Chaco Canyon in New Mexico. But again, only in terms of age or perhaps size.
Americans have no history or culture
The Spaniards have a lot of castles in Spain, not in their encomiendas from the kingdom in the west
It’s always good to see you posting new material. History is life…good seeing you Kevin. Keep your bowstring waved mate.
Cheers Paul, hope you enjoy the video 👍🏻
I can't get over how well designed this place is plumbing, fire places, built in sinks, built in ovens etc etc. I think this place would have been quite magnificent in it's day. How sad things have to be destroyed.
Now living in Tennessee it is wonderful to see the castle described in such loving detail. I photographed reenactment there three times. Civil War. I worked for English Heritage as a pro photographer and always loved my trips to my favourite castle. Great memories of a superb reenactment group, The English Civil War Society. Thank you for your fascinating info. Much of it new to me.
As extraordinary as these castles are already, you’re enthusiasm makes them even more so! Thank you for yet another amazing tour…
"And then you've got to go around the castle to actually attack the front barbican."
I like how the castle guard were thoughtful enough to install that "ENTRANCE --->" sign so attacking armies would know which way to go 🥰 We LOVE your channel, Mr. & Mrs. History Squad!
Haha, nicely spotted 😜
👍,
Sometimes, I have difficulty imagining the missing parts, but you paint a fantastic picture with your stories and knowledge that really brings the castle to life. Thanks for another great tour!
That's lovely and very kind of you, cheers Jenn 👍🏻
These castle tours are amazing. Really appreciate you both taking the time to do these. It’s sad in its own little way that we will never know truly how beautiful these rooms and buildings were, but like you say, use your imagination and knowledge and you’re not far off. It blows my mind how it was all just normal for them, but people will likely be saying the same about us in 500 years. Big thanks Kevin, looking forward to the next one
My pleasure, thanks for watching.
I agree. I would love to be able to see even a drawing of the still intact castle. I’ll bet it was glorious!
👍,
Thank you very much for this. Although I'm very proud to be a Texan, my family came to the colonies from England in 1750. I consider this kind of History to be very much part of the history of my family.
crazy to think this castle was already slighted and in ruins 100 years before your family left england for the colonies in 1750
ummm no it is not
Can you imagine how these beautiful castles would look when they were first built?
Very much like Warwick Castle looks now I'd imagine since its in such good shape and big but not huge.
Fascinating.
I’ve been to a few castles and when I’m walking around I always look around and just try to imagine and visualise just how it would have looked back in the days when it was lived in and used. They must have been unbelievable sights back in their day.
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That was a fantastic castle tour. I'm glad you took the time to go through the little details in the castle, like how the plumbing and heating worked. Those things can be easily skipped over but that's what made the castle feel like a home to the people living there.
Thanks for watching. On this visit, we also covered a cathedral, another castle and a beautiful moated manor house 👍🏻
What a wonderful tour! It feels like being there in person - thanks to the immensely personable guide. Thank you for making this possible for millions of people who can't make their way to the castle!
You're most welcome, it's our pleasure. 👍🏻
What a great castle - The Civil War was a sad time if only for the destruction of so many wonderful properties - after the Dissolution of the Monasteries a hundred years before, people must have felt quite vulnerable... A fitting monument to our turbulent past. Must have been some fun history lessons, Sir!
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Programs like this used to be on normal television excellent job
Oh kevin, no wonder it took a bit. The production value is noticeable! And i really do appreciate this. And now i got why i find this format of film so intriquing, they're straight up a field trip. We got like 4 castles here, It feels so weird that it was in ruins, just over 100 years ago... You're doing the place a service :)
This is such "form follows function" side of the coin, castles look majestic even in ruins. Look at that drop, it all has a purpose. It all has a story. Like the fireplace, imagine what has been spoken around it throughout the years. The cupboard that was laid with bricks and mortar from miles away, just to have a cupboard fit for a lord. the sanitation is deeply thought out, because you did not want squalor in such dense quarters. Just fascinating stuff, i know this is niche but i really do enjoy this content.
And how it was all destroyed with gunpowder. Imagine living there when it was at its finest... Wonder how much it'd cost to build one of these today, but back then this was the pinnacle of technology. Now it fits your pocket. The keep was almost a thousand years old, and you still stood atop of it. "they don't build them like they used to" It was built to the task, and because they had castles like this, necessity being the mother of innovation, they had to make bombards. And because of bombards, we have radio.
Absolutely fantastic content Kevin, thanks a tonne! Also big ups for the editor, could not have been a simple job this. Thank you so much!
Haha, cheers for that Jerry, and Julie's chuffed at the nod. Much appreciated.
I love these castle tours. I live in Tennessee in America and this is the closest I’ll every get to seein a castle so if you could do more of these like a whole series, I would definitely watch them all. You do a really good job explaining them too, my wife and I love it🤙
Hi Jacob (& Mrs B), we've covered Chepstow Castle and have a few more site visits for you from our trip this year. We live in Canada now but will film some more again next year. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
I’ve watched the chepstow castle episode three times now so and every other video you have out so the notes are on and I’ll be happily waiting for your next video whatever it may be. It’s rare for me to find something or someone I can listen to like I do you Kevin so please keep it as much as your able.we really appreciate it👍
@@jacobbevers8171 My pleasure.
It is such a joy to watch your videos Mr. Hicks. We are all so fortunate that you have decided to pursue your passion for History after performing a life of service to the community.
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That tour was amazing. It must have taken years to build this complex before the Civil War. Thank you so much.
As a young man in the seventies I wandered many English castles, always felt at home in cold quiet stone, thank you for your manner of bringing the stone to life.
Great tour. I’m from the USA and love Medieval timesThank you for the video learned so much.
As a keen history enthusiast I watch all of your videos Kevin. I think this is one of your best, please do more of these castle tours so I'll know what to look out for when I visit. From a fellow longbow archer, many thanks
Cheers Mark, I'll do what I can. I have to pack it in when we visit the UK now from Canada 👍🏻
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Quote - " it's a very uneven floor so do be careful..."
Great Little touches like this that bring this channel to life.🙏🙏🙏
I remember good Goodrich castle. It was 1988. Camping nearby we slipped in before opening times at about 06:00. Me and my mates had the place to ourselves. We did no damage. Wide eyed we explored. It added to my love of all the glorious debris of this country. God love you Kevin.
Keith, thankyou for your services throughout your career. You are also a national hero!
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I remember my parents taking me to England a few times growing up. We always did tours at nice historic places (all enclosed with modern amenities), but nothing like this. I imagine in pre-internet days, you'd have to be pretty savvy to know someplace like this even exists. I bet I would have loved to go around a place like this when I was a little kid.
I live in Hereford (not far away) and me and my brothers and mates had a great time as kids there. Sadly my 12yo lad is more interested in playing computer games. Progress I suppose.
Thanks for this enlightening tour. It has given me much perspective. Days when I am HATING my soul sucking 9-to-5 gulag of a job, I can now muster gratitude that I'm not the "gunk farmer"! 🙏
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I could listen to this good man speak about history all day, thank you for sharing this with us all sir
What a splendid tour, thank you Kevin. Incredibly evocative, enthusiastic descriptions as ever. Very much appreciated.
I love how the castle emerges from the bedrock, constructed from that very stone. As though it has grown from the land over the course of a millennium. Immovable, almost indistinguishable from the earth on which it sits, in parts. Fabulous! Thanks again. 👍👍
Cheers Jean 👍🏻
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I’m always amazed that these structures are still reasonably intact. The architecture is phenomenal. Thanks for the great tour. 👏😁🇦🇺
Stone.
@@larapalma3744 Stone that was pounded by mortar , canon and men over and over again - - yet still they persist after nearly 800 years . Incredible stuff . Sometimes I wish we had never discovered gunpowder or electricity .. =>
Really love his enthusiasm and you can see why. It's absolutely fascinating to learn just how clever and innovative they were back then. Love it.
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How magnificent it must have looked in its day. Such a lucky guy Kevin for you to make films about these locations and doing so with Julie.
We loved the longer duration too.
Cheers Darrell, it was a bit of an epic 👍🏻
My second time watching this incredible video,is fascinating how things where created back in the days,plus the professional way you narrate and explain things keeps viewers interested for more.
Thanks very much, I'm glad you enjoyed it.
I always love watching people geek about their favorite stuff, passion for a topic is a learning aid like no other. Sir, your enthusiasm and genuine love for history makes this kind of learning so much more engaging and enjoyable. And major kudos to the camera operator; your work adds another level of love and enthusiasm to an excellent lesson. The combination is honestly something you couldn’t beg for if it wasn’t already present.
That's so kind of you, thanks!
This is THE most educating and interesting presentation on this castle. Thank you Kevin for explaining the various historical aspects of this castle.
You are very welcome
Its always a great day when we get a new video from Kevin! What a fantastic addition to my day off, Ill prolly watch this twice!
I cant think of anyone better to take us through any castle, especially another youre so familiar with like Chepstow. Im stoked to see what little details youll show and the stories youll share
Edit: I feel like this is the same castle I once heard Mick Aston mention in passing, saying something along the lines of "... they dug through over 100 meters of dolorite, that rock is like steel..." but for the life of me cant remember the time team episode.
Goodness what Idve give to be able to marvel at stuff like this in person.
Amazing to see the remanants of the balcony in the church, of course even in a house of worship theyd put themselves above and seperate from the common rabble. 😑
I hope some passionate graphics artist makes a digital reconstruction to tour or something. Those towers are just so grand, the guards there mustve greatly appreciated what seem like compartively luxurious accomdations.
Enjoy your day off Hannah, and the video 👍🏻
Don't know if it helps but the spectacular Bamburgh castle in Northumberland, England, is built upon a crag of volcanic dolerite. Whether that is the Time Team episode you are referring to, I don't know although I've seen every episode. It is a truly awesome structure.
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Fascinating how these castles are preserved. They are much more interesting as ruins from an architectural point of view and aesthetic than incorrectly reconstructed like Windsor, Warwick or Arundel. Thank you and keep showing these castles.
I really love these castle tours - excellent video and very interesting. Whenever we are on holiday somewhere we try to fit in a castle to have a look around. I find it astonishing how old these buildings are, but I also think about how it must have been for the poor folk who had to live under the rulers of the time.
Jason Kingsley and Kevin Hicks should do a co-lab together . it will be awesome. both pretty much cover the same subject matter with Kevin and Jason having their intricate specialties in everything we love.
the presentation of this program is so good and entertaining.
Thank you for doing these tours. As someone who may never be able to afford to travel to the UK, but has always been fascinated by the history it means so much to hear you speak and show them in such detail.
You're most welcome, I'm glad you enjoy them. 👍🏻
Your enthusiasm when telling stories makes them come alive,I wish I had been on your tours.Great videos.
Thanks Frances 👍🏻
Thank you Kevin, a very well timed break from the insanity of modern issues. I've always enjoyed watching your shows. Starting with the Documentary " the war of the roses " .
How entertaining, informative, concise & enthusiastic =)) Well done mate. God Speed.
Cheers
I love these castle walk throughs! Having the tiny details pointed out and explained are so interesting and fun to learn about, as well as the things right in front of your nose that you wouldn't normally think twice about. It is sad to hear about the wall collapsing after holding on for so long but what can ya do?
A very cool castle video with a wonderful guide and camera woman to help tell the tales and secrets of a once (and still is) beautiful fortress. Thanks Kevin!
Cheers mate, and Julie thanks you too 😊
Been on a binge on yr videos, deffo the best on youtube, been a History buff, loved Medieval English history ever since I was Tattersalls Castle in 1974, your tours ans story telling is the best I've seen, many thanks for effort to make these videos, enjoyed them all
Thanks! Glad you like them 👍🏻
It's so interesting hearing about the rich history of this magnificent castle! Your commentary offers a glimpse of what life was like during the age when this castle was in her full glory. As you talked I imagined the rich ladies in beautiful long gowns and the Knights in armor ready to defend this place. I imagined the dark and damp, smelly prison area. The stables full of horses, the drawbridge and the stronghold of the fortress walls lined with bowman and later, cannons in each aperture. It is wonderful to see even the ruins of this castle, it must have been breathtaking in its heyday! 🏰 Great video! ❤💜👍
You make learning about Medieval Castles fun and exciting, thank you for another brilliant video.
I came here two years ago and was amazed at its history and architecture. Probably my favourite castle in Britain. Would of loved having tour guide as knowlegable as Kevin. Great video yet again.
Much appreciated, thanks for watching 👍🏻
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I love that you take us back into history I'd even love to see more of how you can tell things (like how the door swung inward) I could spend all day with this man enthralled in his lessons!
Do you do walking tours/groups I'd definitely go to those!
Thanks. I live in Canada now, so only get back once a year to visit. I’m glad you enjoyed the tour.
You obviously do love this place, your enthusiasm shows, and it is delightful to see, your knowledge actions and theatre have convinced us Goodrich castle this year here we come, thank you 🤠
Excellent, you won't be disappointed. 👍🏻
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Who else would you want to choose to give you tours like this..only the OG of history - 🎶nobody does it better 🎶
😜 OG, you don’t mean old git do you? 😂
Goodrich was always my favourite Welsh castle. Also happens to be one of the first I ever visited.
It's in England!!
@@willbick7889 - Yeah, ok. Let’s say Welsh marches!! Was on a tour of Welsh castles when I first visited.
Your videos are always amazing and so enticing. I live in the US, but its always been a dream of mine to move somewhere in Europe to be near all the incredible history.
I absolutely loved the way Kevin detected and noticed all the details of the ancient structure, and explained their significance. Fascinating.
Few graphics and a drone...
...and this channel blows up!
1mln subs in a click!
Great work!
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Cheers Nicky!!
I dream of being able to tour historical places, castles, and palaces with you or someone just as knowledgeable and skilled in delivering that knowledge as you are!
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Fascinating description of castle defense from the perspective of the defenders and the aggressors. I've never seen a more interesting video describing how a castle worked. Thanks, Kevin!
My pleasure 👍🏻
This is great I am a kid in a candy store for medieval history thanks for sharing your wisdom with us.
Kevin, you are the BEST tour guide ever! You are filled with AMAZING facts and can read a castle like the back of your hand! Please continue bringing us these types of videos! 🤩
Thanks Margo, I will, wherever I can 👍🏻
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This channel shopuld easily be 1 subs!!! Very underrated and the best find on youtube!
How lovely of you, thanks!!
Always fascinated by you taking us on tours of these magnificent places, Kevin.
Thanks for another excellent and educational video.
Super video, sir! Thank you and your wife for your hard work and stunning content.
Awesome video!! Learning incredible little details about castles is fascinating. It makes me to see a project to create an entire new castle in the blueprint of a typical medieval castle. It would make for a great tourist attraction but an excellent way to learn and relive the past
Absolutely, have you heard of Castle Guédelon in France? An experimental archeological project, you might want to look up. 👍🏻
This is beyond beautiful. I appreciate you. *Bucket list item added
Stellar job as always Kevin. I learn so much from you. I also want to say hats off to your camera person. They brilliantly framed every shot and perfectly illustrated your story. Very professional.
Wow, it's my wife Julie, she says thanks very much!! Glad you enjoyed it. 👍🏻
Your castle tours are by far your best video's.
Glad you like them!
This is going to be a great video, as always. The right way to end the week. Thank you!
I like the way this bloke exposes the very basics of these ancient structures.Right down to the toilet,arrow slits,guardroom,drawbridge,moat etc.13th.c.portcullis,massive oak doors,reverse arrow slits,fireplace to keep warm & cook for guardsmen.etc,etc.
Absolutely wonderful tour! Thank you!
During my military tour in Germany, one of my favorite activities was touring old castle ruins. The Burg Eltz was one of my favorites (it's NOT a ruin!) Areas around St. Petersburg, Russia are also excellent places to visit. History is amazing!
I wish there was a way to take virtual tours of these places with CAD emulations of what they actually looked like inside and out.
I also think of the the lives and stories of the "great" and "little" people who resided in these. How many stories of laughter, tears, work, and play have passed into obscurity! What adventures are lost to time in even the simple and mundane tasks of obtaining firewood, chasing livestock, or even cleaning a bathroom -- not to mention the efforts and science behind architecture and bringing dreams and ideas to fruition.
It's simply amazing to contemplate!
Kevin, your knowledge of castles is fabulous! Love watching your vlogs ! Fascinating! 👍
Love the archaeology/location walk and talk vids. One of the older castle tour videos was how I stumbled across your channel.
Great tour. Your enthusiasm is infectious sir.
You have a great grin on your face when describing the different aspects of the castle.
It is truly evident you love the history.
Thank you for bringing this alive for us to see.
Thanks for this, watched it with my brothers on the tv. We all enjoyed it, great stuff. An extra thumb for the subtitles. 👍👍
Glad you enjoyed it 👍🏻
Absolutely amazing documentary. Thank you so much for your complete explanation of this structure and it’s inner workings.
I know this castle well. As a teenager we regularly 'breached' the defenses overnight (ie slipped under the gate that was there) and would spook each other out with the ghost story. According to legend Alice Birch and Charles Clifford were lovers from different sides of the civil war. When the castle was attacked, they tried to escape on horseback across the Wye, but were swept away, and apparently on stormy nights you could see them. We never saw them but I can tell you the place is spooky as hell at night. As it should be!
Absolutely essential video! Goodrich and Chepstow are my absolute favourite castles… and your videos have greatly enhanced my enjoyment! Will be visiting both again in July…. I cannot wait
Excellent, that's great to hear!
you are very good, now 80 but been interested and loved castles since i was 8. apparently one of my ancestors was a warden in charge of a castle in the 1600's.
Thanks so much for this I absolutely love it, it’s on a par with your Chepstow vid. I haven’t visited either but want to, the castle walk around a are my favourite. I don’t know the history of the castle but seems extremely fortified especially the doorways, more so than Kenilworth? Oh Also nice one with the stair way to heaven quote I just knew you’d be a led zep fan :-)
Haha, indeed I am. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
Here I am again’ watching and learning with my dear friend Kevin’ he is absolute treasure for history and telling the story of our great heritage’ advancements’ turmoil’ war’ peace’ everyday life, he’s a treasure for the day and the ages!
Cheers Chris 👍🏻 @chrismayo4902
This is better content than the History Channel used to have. Bravo!
Thanks !!
Your visit are mindblowing. I grew up in South West of France, visiting midle-age castles, but I never had such a great visit from a guide.
Thank you!
Loved to tour Kevin, very interesting. Love to see more of these ‘tours’ especially as i find it difficult to visit these places myself.
I covered a few more sites on my visit back to the UK Paul, stay tuned 👍🏻
Never been out of USA Soil for vacation,This one I would love to take a Fall vacation to explore the oldest castles around with group,so beautiful historic about castle's...love to listen the historic about castle's
Fascinating. we are very lucky to have this history, and people like yourself to pick out the things we all miss!! well done kevin.
My pleasure 👍🏻
U can feel the genuine interest in history in the narration and not to forget the excitement. Very well made documentaries
Thank you Kevin, for the wonderful and informative tour. Your enthusiasm for, and love of history is evident in all your videos. This was a nice little video break from the flat lands of W. Texas. Cheers.
My pleasure David, a bit greener and hillier than your home then 👍🏻
Much greener and hillier than my home, for sure.🙂
I wonder how I would see history of our country as a child if there was someone like you, who speaks so great and thinks about it so deep...you re great!