Sep 09, 2011

We set out from the hotel this morning and headed to the Embankment Pier and caught the Thames Clipper to Tower Bridge where we had a look at the Tower of London then struck out to find St Paul’s Cathedral. Our walk confirmed for me again that I like low rise cities; they somehow (for all their movement and congestion) seem less cold and more personal than great high canyons of glass, stone and steel.



London Bridge from the Thames

We both loved exploring St Pauls Cathedral including the 528 steps (85metres) up to the top of the Golden Gallery and checked out the Whispering Gallery and Stone Gallery on the way. The view from the top across London was great. It is a truly beautiful building and I can see why the Londoners worked so hard in the Second World War to ensure it wasn’t destroyed. We spent a long time walking and sitting and listening to the audio tour which was excellent. I suspect my thigh, shin and butt muscles will be screaming at me tomorrow, thanks mainly to all those stairs but I will do my best to ignore them!



St Pauls Cathedral

We finished our day off with a lovely dinner with Phil and Jean and Gareth and Dawn at a little Italian Restaurant (Gozzi’s) in Minster. It was lovely night and thoroughly enjoyed getting to know everyone better and enjoyed the synergy between the group. It was a treat to spend some time with the UK connection which has made our trips possible.



L – R Phil, Nola, Norm, Jean, Dawn and Gareth

Last nights’ accommodation:
Charing Cross Hotel
The Strand
London GB WC2N 5HX
http://www.guoman.com/hotels/united_kin ... index.html
Wonderful stately old building beautifully maintained, great location, delicious dining room with yummy breakfast, very friendly and helpful staff.