London

Day 16

We arrived in to London on the high speed Eurostar train from Paris. It was a beautiful, comfortable trip through the French countryside and then under the English Channel with the speed getting up to nearly 300 km/h in places. 

We caught an Uber to our accommodation rather than battle public transport and walking with all our luggage. Our apartment is in Queensborough which is right on Hyde Park and close to a couple of underground stations which is handy.

We started our day with a walk through Hyde Park visiting the Princess Diana memorial at Kensington Palace. We were amazed at the volume of people walking, jogging and cycling. They have an abundance of bikes available which has obviously increased the number of cyclists and encourages an alternative mode of transport. You hire one from a location and can return it to any location using an app which tells you how many bikes are available and how many free spots for return.

We then just strolled around the city before heading back to the apartment to get ready for our night at the theatre. Upon reaching the tube station, we attempted to use the automatic ticket machine which indicated it was going to cost us approx £20 ($40AUD) for a one way trip! I knew the UK would be expensive, but thought that doesn't sound right. I read the pricing information board and noticed there is a special youth ticket for visitors and to ask the staff. We asked the attendant who was very helpful and assisted us in purchasing 'Oyster' cards for travel at a reduced rate for the duration of our stay. The lesson was - never be afraid to ask someone if you are unsure as they may well have the knowledge to assist you.

A family decision agreed that we would see the musical Frozen tonight at the historic Theatre Royal Drury Lane. It was a great show that was faithful to the film, which ensured familiarity for the audience, particularly the children. The special effects and incredible cast made for an enjoyable show. We unfortunately made the mistake of eating out in the theatre district, which meant we were eating in with frozen pizzas and 2-minute noodles the next night!

Day 17

Today we headed of to Notting Hill to check out the Portobello Street Market. We came across some great stalls, particularly Positive Thoughts From Portobello Road by Charlotte Preval-Reed who has written and illustrated some great little books since struggling with mental health. Nook and I immediately saw how we might use these in our profession in working with staff, young people or even friends and family who may struggle with mental health. We also saw the 'blue door' and the travel bookshop from the film Notting Hill. Our kids couldn't understand what the tourist fuss was all about, so we've insisted they now watch the film.

We then caught a double decker bus into the city and leisurely walked around some of the main sites. One highlight was seeing squirrels in St James' Park.

Day 18

Today started with a walking tour of the Changing of the Guard, Clarence House (King Charles' current residence), St James' Palace, the Houses of Parliament and the Elizabeth Tower, which houses the bell 'Big Ben'. Nook and I had seen the Changing of the Guard nearly 20 years ago and found it a bit underwhelming. However, this tour was great as our guide Mike, explaind the history, the process and took us to some locations to get the best views. It really was a great experience and we learned much about all the pomp and ceremony.

We then headed down the the river to catch a river boat to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. We had purchased a 'London Pass' which includs entrance fees to up to 90 attractions, so we definitely saved money than purchasing tickets individually. The Tower of London was fascinating to learn of the history with all the treachery. They must have lived in constant fear and paranoia, looking over their shoulder for who might be out to betray them. Henry VIII stands out as a monarch that you wouldn't want to cross. Unfortunately, his six wives and collaborators must have known this. We saw the place where St Thomas More was beheaded, but unfortunately his tomb was in the crypt and closed to the public. Our children attend(ed) St Thomas More's Catholic School in Launceston, Tasmania, so it was something meaningful for them.

Tower Bridge was great as we were able to walk across the top walkways which included  glass floor which was a little hair raising! A fascinating feat of engineering, as the bridge lifts multiple times a week (used to be approx 800 a year). 

We walked back into the city for a shop and then headed back to the apartment. Nook and I discovered great little pub with live music, so settled in for a few drinks as we listened to some tunes.

Day 19

Today we visited Madame Tussauds wax museum, which was great. However the boys were disappointed they didn't see more sporting celebrities. Nonetheless, was still a great thing to do as they are so life like.

We then went up the London Eye for amazing views over the city. After this we went through Westminster Abbey which has over 1000 years of history, and is known for key royal events and ceremonies. They evening saw us take in a other musical Moulin Rouge which was excellent, particularly with the updated score to include some more modern hits.

Farewell London, it was great to see you again, but we're now looking forward to leaving the big cities for a few days, hiring a car and heading to the country as we explore South West England.