Mounting the slope towards the old castle is the
Broad Walk, terminating in an artificial amphitheatre at the top, made by
Sir John Glynne to give employment in a time of distress. The grounds
abound in fine trees, {29b} and in rhododendrons which in spring form
masses of bloom.
In 1819, Prince Leopold, the late King of the Belgians, visited the
Castle; and the small wooden door on the south side of the Ruins is still
called after him. The Visitors' Book at the Lodge also records, in
autograph, the names of Her Gracious Majesty, as Princess Victoria, and
her mother, the Duchess of Kent, in or about the year 1833.
In the palmy days of the Royal British Bowmen the Castle was the frequent
scene of bow-meetings; the peculiar green costumes and feathers worn by
both the ladies and gentlemen competitors contributing to the picturesque
effect of these gatherings. Simultaneously with one of these Archery
Meetings, in the year, we believe, 1835, was held a Fancy Bazaar,
commemorated in some admirable lines by Mr. R. E. Warburton of Arley
Hall, which will be read with pleasure in connection with more recent
bazaars held in the same place.
While tents are pitched in Hawarden's peaceful vale,
And harmless shafts the platted targe assail;
While now the bow (the archers more intent
On making love than making war) is bent;
Beneath those towers, where erst their fathers drew
In deadly conflict bows of tougher yew;
Lo! Charity, a native of the skies,
Whose smile betrays her through a vain disguise,
Mounts the steep hill, and 'neath th' o'erhanging wall,
The canvass stretch'd in triumph, plants her stall;
In gay profusion o'er the counter pours
Her glittering wares and ranges all her stores.
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