Victorian Vacations

[marienomad]

I am writing a story involving Mary and Dr. Watson on their honeymoon.  I have to ask, what do honeymooners do?  Other than the obvious.  I know about swimming and theatre but what else do they do?  Also, how long are honeymoons normally last?

Comments

[inamac]

It would depend on how long John could take away from his practice - Victorian honeymoons were rarely long. Charles Darwin and Emma didn't have one at all, Dickens had a short one in England - foreign travel would have been very unusual - one reason for the comments in the plot of Game of Shadows.

I'd decide on where they are going to dictate their itinerary (Scotland was a popular choice in Victoria's later days - and shooting and fishing in season) were recreational options.

And don't forget that white for wedding dresses is unusual in this period.

[captivebird]

If this is a period piece, a few days at a seaside location might be appropriate (Brighton is mooted in A Game of Shaldows), some sightseeing and gentle strolls along the prom, etc. But I wouldn't expect mixed sex swimming in the Victorian era. :-)