A couple of friends and I decided to venture to Bellville, Texas, just one hour outside of Houston, for a day of small-town fun and exploration. What drew us to this destination? A castle. Yep, you heard me right. A castle in Texas. I was extremely excited, having traveled all over Europe viewing the incredible castles and cathedrals, and I couldn’t wait to learn the history of this castle. When was it founded, who lived in it, was it still owned by the same family? We got to the castle, which at first appearance was an exciting and picturesque sight, but then things took a turn.
Certainly less interested in this outing, we walked in for a quick look around. One room on display was the royal chambers, a.k.a. his bedroom, complete with a bedside table containing his contact case, shoes on the floor, and unfolded clothing scattered about. Behind the armoire was a television, oh, and the best part; this beautiful hand-painted image of “His Majesty” hanging above the mantle.
A Legitimate Blacksmith
Feeling deprived of our history fix having been disappointed by the castle, we visited the local Phenix Knives blacksmith shop. This shop, established in 1891 has been operated by the same family of blacksmiths for over 100 years, with minor changes to the interior preserving the integrity of this historical space. If seeing this space wasn’t cool enough, the owner and blacksmith himself, Cowboy, will teach you how to create your own knife the traditional way. This shop provided not only the history we were after but a fun interactive experience.
A Local Farmer’s Market
Next up, we ventured out to the local farmers market! Tons of local vendors gathered to sell jams, salsas, dips, seasonings, fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade scrubs, and even milkshakes! We had a blast shopping around and talking with the locals, and even had our picture taken for the Bellville Chamber of Commerce website.
Boutique Shopping
A trip to any small town wouldn’t be complete without a bit of boutique shopping! There were two stores that stuck out to us. Alternatives, an adorable shop with tons of unique Texas themed items, clothing, cookware, vegan skin products, and mugs galore, as well as, Coco & Duckie, a vibrant shop containing uniquely crafted beaded jewelry, fun cards, stationery, candles, and brands such as Tokyo Milk and Lollia. I scored some great items, including this cute apron that I just couldn’t pass up.
A 1950’s Diner
Looking for a bite to eat, we took the advice of the locals and visited The Hill, a diner established in the 1950s serving up American classics from burgers and milkshakes to corn dogs and Frito pie. The fun and original black and white checkered flooring and decor felt like it came straight out of the movie Grease, and we were there for it.
An Antique Shop
I’ve been to my fair share of small town anique shops, which often feel the same, however, Nothing Ordinary was a special treat. This store, which seemed to never end, was full of antique tea sets, vintage clothing, and nostalgic sports cards, toys, and old tin lunch boxes. This shop was certainly not your typical antique spot. We found out that the owner travels to the UK once a year to hunt for the perfect items to fill her space.
A Local Coffee Shop
As most of you have probably gathered by now, I am a sucker for a local coffee shop, and always hunt for one on any trip I take! The Perk was a quaint spot in Bellville serving delish roasts and custom flavored lattes.
After a few wrong turns, we finally found our fun in Bellville and ended up having a great day, complete with a few memories that we will laugh about for years to come. If you have small kids, the castle would still be a good time, but don’t say I didn’t warn you! All-in-all, Bellville, Texas was an odd place, but a cool and funky town nonetheless! xxx
Lhoren Wears Black 
HHAHAHAH I LOST IT when you were talking about the castle! And the picture of the “knight”! I died. Glad to hear that the whole day wasn’t a waste though hahah
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