England is a magical place – equally modern and ancient, the old and new co-existing with castles aplenty. Although I’ve seen my fair share of castles, there’s something special about a castle that is still used as a private, royal residence. In fact, part of Berkshire, England’s majestic Windsor Castle was shut off because in anticipation of the Queen’s arrival.

Like most castles, Windsor Castle is overwhelming first, and incredible second. It amazes me that mere humans erected such gigantic, well-built structures that are still standing in their medieval might.

The castle is obviously self-sustaining; inexplicably thick walls surround the ‘neighborhood’ contained inside. There’s St. George’s Chapel, a gorgeous gothic church in its own right; the gold-plated, ornate State Apartments; the endless green courtyards and brick and stone that comprise the rest.

Taking photographs inside the buildings is forbidden, as a means to protect the 11th-century oil paintings, hand-carved weapons and gold-gilt walls. We did take quite a few outside of the castle and around its courtyards and cobblestone walkways that capture the mere size and magic of this place.