After seven hours of sound sleep I met our crew for a very early bus tour. Well, it was 9 am, but after Saturday, noon was too early. We did re visit a few sights on the bus tour but got off and walked around to get a good look at Westminster Abbey. To see in person as famous of a church as this, is to understand its importance! For me, seeing the construction of this and the other buildings, large or small, teaches so much more than just history lessons alone!
Just a short drive down Victoria Street to Buckingham Palace Drive led us to, wait for it…Buckingham Palace and another of the many Iconic sights we have seen. Of course, this one is not just your everyday “old House!” I will be repitious by continue to say that seeing is to realize the scope of these edifices! The great tour guide for Sunday added so much back story beyond the common history, that each stop had a new perspective. We did the same at London Tower with a giant “gee-whiz!” Along with the many facts about the beginnings and development of this compound, we had explained to us the connection between the tower and Windsor Palace, which was our afternoon excursion. But before that, a stop on London bridge to learn a bit about the River Thames and enjoy a photo opportunity! This was a great spot for pictures of the Tower Bridge and some of London’s exciting new architecture.
By Mid day we bussed our way about 25 miles down the Thames Where from several miles out, we first glanced Windsor Castle, Oh My! Before touring the Castle we had lunch from the many food selections in the Windsor Station or nearby places in the quaint village hugging the castle walls. Then we walked around a corner of this unimaginable place only to realize that it was even more than one could believe until seen! The tour included information of the grounds and expansions over many centuries. The Queen’s flag, flying over her private quarters, indicated that she was in residence, although we didn’t see her walking the Corgis! Entering through the indicated door of two, we came upon Queen Mary’s dollhouse. This is miniature replica of the royal residence area and as impressive to mature males as well as little girls! The tour then leads through many of the public areas that are still used for Royal functions. There are former queens and kings private quarters, dining rooms, fabulous China collections, portraits and paintings, armor displays, and so much more! Then, exiting to the grounds, I enjoyed the views that the archers had of marauders trying to climb the hill to the walls. Maybe they didn’t enjoy the view as much as I!
after this amazing tour, we had free time for dinner and whatever. I broke tradition by trying something new (well, I’ve only tried it once or twice.) and stepped out of my comfort zone to have Indian food. The curried prawns were tasty! And my “whatever” was back in the room, feet up until lights out!
( It seems as though my new iPhone 7, which I obtained just for the camera, is not taking charges so I can’t upload some great photos until I find out what is wrong! This includes Sunday and Monday photos, which are the best so far. I’ll use the iPad from now until the problem is solved!)