Here is the apartment complex where we stayed. These buildings were the famous Harrod department store's warehouses built back in the 1800's which were refurbished into this nice gated apartment complex. One of the buildings included a leisure center with indoor pool which unfortunately we didn't find the time to take advantage of - but we did enjoy our roomy apt. with 12 foot tall windows.
One envening we enjoyed the Shakespeare play "Titus Andronicus" at the reconstructed Globe theater in London. Here we are in our box seats overlooking the stage just before showtime. The play is one of Shakespeare's most violent ones with a constant array of murders, mutilations, and rape within the story such that the staff at the Globe is always prepared for several audience members fainting during the performance. Only one lady fainted the evening we were there, so the staff said it was an unusual night. Beyond the gore, the cast performed with gusto and and we thoroughly enjoyed the performance.
The renowned red London phone booths are still all over the city.
If you're ever in London, be sure to enjoy a meal at Clarence's! We all agreed that was the best meal we had throughout our trip. And this is where we were sitting when we saw the Queen! Actually we were standing next to the curb waving excitedly to her as she rode by in her black car. And the Queen, decked in an exquisitely proper English purple hat and dress, waved at us!
The Queen's car prior to her drive down the street in front of Clarence's.
Hi Everybody! Finally here are some pics from the grand European adventure! Willow and I had a wonderful time! I certainly enjoyed being with her as we made our way through 4 countries. Starting out in London, here we are on the "weak bridge" (there was actually a sign that said just that on this bridge!) that we crossed each day as we made our way into London. Hammersmith Bridge is actually a strappingly strong gorgeous Victorian structure.
Our first evening in Londond we rode the "eye". This is a huge (not kidding here!) ferris wheel that gives one a stunning bird's eye view of London. Here we are in the bubble compartments - you can not even feel the eye move as it makes its rotation. Here is the Thames river and Parliment to the right as we look out of our bubble.
Big Ben! in its gilded glory. When I was in London in 1977, this clock tower was black with soot and one could not even tell that it was gilded. I was sure impressed this time around!
Willow in front of the carved door of Westminster Cathedral. We spent a long time in Westminster reading about all the knights, kings, and queens buried there. And the famous poets corner where Chaucer, Tennyson, Dickins, Hardy are buried among other literary greats. Look for more European adventure installments in the coming days/weeks! Love Mom
