We've been to London to see the Queen (well at least some boats anyhow)



In front of one of the Tower's soldiers



We are all still recovering from last weekend in London. We threw our bags together and made a frantic dash by bike to the station to make it on the express to London with a couple of seconds to spare! First stop the Tower of London - an amazing collection of jewels, weapons, stairs and guys in funny costumes. Then it was on to the underground maze of the tube where, well directed by B, we headed out to Hampton Court Palace, the abode of the boys' favourite king, Henry the Eighth. We found his digs very impressive. Outside in the gardens behind the place, Jubilee celebrations were well underway. Bunting everywhere, bands playing, people sprawled around on the grass, enjoying the occassional sunshine (at least it wasn't raining!)

Kings at the head of Henry the Eight's banqueting table

   

After Hampton Court Palace we headed off to our friends' home in Richmond and relaxed for the evening. Jenny had prepared spaghetti and meatballs which was a yummy tonic after sub-par takeway all day. After dinner we took a stroll around the neighbourhood. We didn't make it as far as the enormous Richmond Park but got a great view across London from a lovely park a few streets away. Richmond is a great neighbourhood and Jenny and John have settled into life in London. The kids had fun playing with their eldest boy Cameron and Finn chatting away non-stop to each other.

Next post: the paegant although it wasn't that much fun for the kids - a rainy river with lots of boats on it, weather getting worse by the minute. Still, cool to be part of history!