Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Changing of the Guard

Just a quick post before we head out this morning. Yesterday we headed out bright and early and caught the underground Tube to Buckingham Palace. We took a leisurly stroll through St James Park snapping photos of the geese, swans, ducks and flowers. It was quite lovely. We wandered around the area outside Buckingham Palace where loads of people were "que-ing" up to watch the changing of the guard. We walked over to the Guard Barracks area where the Guards were in the courtyard being inspected and practicing their instruments. Our guide yesterday had advised us where to stand in order to get the best view of the ceremony. And he was right. We got a close look at the Guard as they were marching to Buckingham Palace. I could reach out and touch them!

After that experience, we walked over to the Churchill War Museum. We did an audio tour there and it was very impressive. I am not big on war and that kind of stuff but it was really a good museum. You could experience the bombing of London during WW II as well as listen to Churchill's speeches. The museum is actually in the shelter that Churchill and his staff used during the war.

Last night we took a Jack the Ripper tour and was quite spooky! But it was fascinating. Our guide was definately a Jack the Ripper expert and a great story teller. I was afraid I would have nightmares last night.

The weather has been good so far - no rain although I think we may have some today. It has been cool and windy. Yesterday was the coldest day we had and we ended up having to come back to the hotel for our jackets and a brief rest.

Well, gotta run and get ready for today's activities - Westminster Abbey.

No comments: