London - Day 2

Another busy day and I have to say I love this city.  There is so much history in one tiny area.  I took the tube to Charing Cross and took some photos at Trafalgar Square.  When you turn the corner and see Nelson's Column for the first time, it is simply breathtaking.  Apparently, it's height from base to tip is exactly the same as the masthead on Nelson's ship.

I boarded my hop-on hop-off bus again and headed towards Kensington Palace.  This was the birthplace of Queen Victoria and the home of Princess Diana.  Currently, of course, it is the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.  One of the first images you see when you enter the interior of the palace is a beautiful photograph of Diana.  Within the palace, you can visit the King's Apartments which gives the history of King George II (who reigned from 1727 - 1760) and Queen Caroline.

Another section gives information about Queen Victoria and her reign. They have some of her dresses on display, as well as her children's clothing and bassinets.

The final section looked at fashion during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and a number of gowns worn by her, Princess Margaret and Princess Diana were on display.  Some of the items from the 50s revealed that she had a tiny waist as a young woman.

On the bus, we drove past Harrod's and one of Princess Diana's favourite department stores, Harvey Nichols.

One of the interesting things I learnt on the bus trip was that some of the buildings have windows that become increasingly smaller towards the higher floors.  This is because in the 18th and 19th there was a window tax.  It was abolished in 1851 after a Member of Parliament spoke out, calling the practice "daylight robbery."

Next I headed for Buckingham Palace.  I've been there before, but really felt that it would be wrong to visit London and not visit it.

I then headed across the river and took a ride on the London Eye.  It's funny because I'm not really great with heights, but this didn't worry me at all.  What a spectacular way to see the entire city.

By this time I was becoming decidedly peckish!  What better way to settle the hunger pangs than with a meal of fish and chips.

I then headed back across the bridge to find #10 Downing Street.  Unfortunately, you can't get up close or even see the door but I guess that's to be expected.

On my way back to my accommodation, I caught the final ceremony of the day for the Horseguards.  I'll have to go back tomorrow to get a photo of them in their sentry positions.