In the Activity Spotlight we highlight some of the many great activities available within a short drive of Ravenwood Castle. This week’s Spotlight is written by Dana Miller, Manager at the Malted Meeple and a member of the Ravenwood Castle administrative team.

The flicker of the flame, the spirit of the spark, and the heat of the hearth combine to fill a space with the wonder of fire. Unbridled flame can destructive, but bound in a hearth or well-tended fire pit, flame can be calming, relaxing or an inspiring accent to a gathering of friends. There’s nothing quite like the blaze of a fire to warm the spirit on a cold night.

Here at Ravenwood Castle, in addition to each cabin, cottage and suite having its own internal fireplace, we have several communal gathering areas on property that are accentuated by a well situated fire place.

Surrounded by five wonderfully crafted porch-swings, a fire pit rests snuggled amongst the cabins of the Huntsman’s Hollow. The Hollow contains five delightful cabins nestled in the wilderness of the Ravenwood Castle grounds. The fire pit is the highlight of the area, and acts as a centerpiece for community. For many, a night around the fire may start as a gathering of strangers, but end as a group of friends. We will happily take care of the legwork of lighting the fire pit, leaving you with the glow of the embers to glisten under the midnight sky.

No castle is complete without a Great Hall, and no Great Hall would be quite the same without a roaring fire. Adorned with swords, shields, gargoyles, and suits of armor, the Great Hall is the scene of quiet meals, festive gatherings and exciting entertainment. Through it all, the fireplace is a central character, warming the spirits of all, and providing a sense of comfort and joy.

“Cheers!” can often be heard ringing out across the Raven’s Roost Pub as visitors exclaim in celebration and jubilation. Whether enjoying a lively party or a relaxing nightcap, a glass of wine or a cold draft beer, your time in the Pub will be accentuated by the quiet crackling and warm glow of the Raven Roost’s beautiful stone fireplace.

Finally, anyone who walks out the front doors and peers across the castle’s yard is sure to discover a wonderful space of family and community. Amidst the newly finished Baker’s and Brewer’s cabins, several benches surround our newest fire pit, inviting guests to gather for an evening of camaraderie and adventure.

On your next visit to Ravenwood Castle, whether it be a warm summer night or a chilly wintery afternoon, we invite you to pull up a chair, a bench, a swing or a log and find a spot by one of our many fires. Whether cuddling up next to your private fireplace or celebrating at a communal fire pit, raise a glass of cheer by the warmth of the flame!

Jim Reed

Jim Reed is a lifelong gamer who started with the original red box Dungeons & Dragons. After spending 20 years in the corporate world, he decided it was high time that work be fun and struck out on his own. Jim now owns and operates Ravenwood Castle, and spends his days ensuring his guests have as much fun as he does.