The Tower of London was our destination today. It is so incredibly old and has a very morbid history. The first part of the tour is guided by a Beefeater. Ours was a retired military gentleman who had the personality of a weathered Marine but he was funny and very informative. Thank goodness we have the judicial system that we have because handcuffs and prison is much better than ropes and axes! While walking in the White Tower it was mind boggling to realize that it was built in the 11th century! The beautiful part of the Tower of London is the display of the Crown Jewels. Exquisite jewels adorn crowns of past kings and queens as well as the current queen's crown. There are many other treasures to covet there as well. It was truly the "house of bling!" I was disappointed, however, that none of it is for sale.
We enjoyed Afternoon Tea at a restaurant just outside the Tower next to the Thames. This was my first Tea and I enjoyed it. In fact my lunches now at school may involve some scones and cucumber sandwiches...
Unfortunately we had to say goodbye to Barb and Antonio because they had to head back home to Italy. After we parted ways on the subway, the remainder of our group set forth and toured Westminster Abbey. It was magnificent and we got to hear the organ as a service was being conducted while we were there. We then walked past Parliment, #10 Downing Street and ended up in Trafalgar Square - the center of London. For dinner we walked over the Millenium Bridge and ate at the south end of London near the London Eye. Finally we hobbled back to the subway and called it a day..whew!
Outside the Tower of London
Afternoon Tea
Big Ben!
No comments:
Post a Comment