England à la France

Most people are familiar with the rivalry between the French and the English, but the reason behind it may not be so well known. Although the ‘frogs’ and the ‘rost-bifs’ argue over who has the better soccer team or fashion sense, the jabs of today are a welcome change from the history of hatred and bloody warfare between the two nations. Yet no matter how much they hate to admit it, the French and the English have a lot more in common than they think.

Visit places mentioned in this post:

• Warwick Castle
• Windsor Castle
• Tower of London
• Rouen, France
• Normandy, France

It all began back in 1066 when a Frenchman named William of Normandy conquered England. Known by the English as William the Conqueror, he not only became King of England, but he transformed England’s culture and customs in ways that are still visible today. You can thank William for some of the oldest and most interesting attractions you’ll find on your trip to England—the castles.

Visit Warwick Castle in the north of England that was built by William the Conqueror in 1068 to fight English rebels protesting this Frenchman’s rule. Or check out Windsor Castle, constructed in typical Norman ‘motte-and-bailey’ design (a raised castle surrounded by a fence) where members of the English royal family still live. And make sure not to miss the White Tower when you visit the Tower of London. It was built soon after William became king using stone imported from Caen in Normandy, France.

You’ll find French elements in more than just English castles. Much of the British-English language has a large French influence, too. You might see French words on an English menu such as aubergine (eggplant), courgette (zucchini) and biscuit (cookie). And, if you’ve ever wondered why those Brits put a ‘u’ in every word—colour, honour, flavour—just ask the French!

Make sure to let your Explorica Tour Director know that you are interested in learning more about the French invasion of England and arrange an excursion to Normandy in northern France where you’ll find the 11^th century Bayeux Tapestry, a 68-meter long pictorial depiction of the events of the Norman conquest. And don’t forget to spend an afternoon in historical Rouen, the capital city of Normandy, where in 1087 William met his maker after falling from his horse. Incidentally, it was in Rouen where Joan of Arc was put to death by the English almost 400 years later. (But that’s another story).

A quick word to the wise, whether you take the Eurotunnel Shuttle, Eurostar, ferry or fly to France from England, be careful when you mention the Battle of Waterloo as that is one war that the French famously lost to the British. Rumor has it that a European Union official even suggested that Waterloo Station be renamed so as not to offend French tourists visiting England’s capital. Sacre-bleu!