Well, after two weeks in London, we managed to get our act together this morning in order to see the ceremonial changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. We arrived nearly two hours early thinking that we would beat the crowd. Luckily, we were able to grab a tiny portion of real eastate near the main gate. Actually, we managed to grab one of the few remaining “front row” spots. By the time the ceremony started at 11:30, people were stacked 12 rows deep behind us. By the time it was all over, I had been squashed flat into the gate. Still, it was an amazing experience and well worth the wait for a good vantage point. Charlie had seen the ceremony during a previous visit to London, so he positioned himself just ouside the palace gates where the regimens form just before marching in. He shot some beautiful photos….easier when you’re not caught between iron bars and a few hundred people shoving from all sides. I was armed with the video cam, but I did manage to snap a few stills.
Following the ceremony, we made our way toward Russell Square for a second visit to the British Museum. On the way, we stumbled upon the Princess Louise Pub, Number Two, on our list of the Top 20 historic pubs in London. Then, it was on to the British Museum, followed by a brief visit to Harrods. Now, as most of you know, I love to shop, but five minutes in Harrods, and I was dragging Charlie back to the door….Too big, too crowded, too trendy. I admit that I was also put off by an army of 20 year old, size 1, sales girls who looked like aspiring super models….just what I want to see after two weeks of pub food.
Tomorrow is our last day in London, and it promises to be another busy day. Will close for now, but will leave you with a few pictures from Buckingham Palace……and no, we were not invited in for afternoon tea…..Good night!
