London Friday

We planned a busy day again today. Our first stop was Wellington Arch, just near Hyde Park Corner. We found out that there was a bus that went from near Euston Station, near us, and stopped at Hyde Park Corner, so we thought that’s efficient. We hadn’t allowed for the traffic along Oxford Street. We could probably have got there just as fast by using the tube, changing trains and walking 500 metres, but we did sit upstairs at the front of the bus, all good fun. The Wellington Arch had a basic exhibition of Wellington and Napoleon’s battles.

Back on the same bus route for a few stops to the Royal Albert Hall. When we were planning today’s activities, we almost crossed this visit off the list. So glad we didn’t. The visit has been the best so far in London. We arrived there 5 minutes before the next tour and had a great guide with lots of personality. We got to sit in some of the most expensive seats in the Hall, right next to the Royal Box. When the hall was being built, seats and boxes were sold as a means of raising the funds to build the Hall. Queen Victoria bought 2 boxes, which were built as one large box and as the sales were for a 999 year lease, the box is now owned by the current Queen. There are many seats that are still privately owned. The owners get to use the seats for 60% of the performances at the Royal Albert Hall. When we were there, there was a rehearsal for one of the “Proms” concert tonight. Tom Jones, amongst many other great performers, had his solo spot as part of the finale. He still has an unmistakable, strong voice. Photos not allowed, but once the performers were off the stage, we were allowed to take a couple of quick photos.

We then walked back to the tube station to go to Westminster to visit Churchill’s War Rooms, the extensive underground rooms used during the 2^nd world war. It was a fantastic display with a very good audio guide. Some of the rooms were just as they were left and others have been carefully reconstructed.

When we left, it was around 5:15 and we were ready to go home. There are washing & drying machines where we’re staying, so we’re catching up at the moment and won’t need to wash again ‘til we get home. So soon!