13-07-2011
A visit to the Westminster Abbey started the day. So much history contained within these walls. Coronations, weddings and funerals of people that have had major contributions in making the world as we know it today. The funeral monuments fill a large section not only for people of royal heritage but also Thomas Hardy, D.H. Lawrence, Charles Darwin and Isaac Newton among the many others. An array of pictures of the recent Royal Wedding are on display, nice for me as I had not watched it on TV. There are two coronation chairs present as well, both have graffiti on them thanks to 18th century school boys ( things don't change overtime, do they? ).
Rushed across St. James park to see the change of guard at the Buckingham Palace , amazed at the throngs that awaited us. Got to see glimpses and then moved along.
The National Gallery was next,could have spent a day there but instead did the highlights tour. There are so many masterpieces here and amazingly the entrance is free.
Took the train to Windsor Castle. Joined the last tour of the day, the lady was not as funny as the others we have encountered recently but her love for the Queen shone through. Admired the St. George's chapel, learning about the Order of the Garter. Visited the Doll Collection, some are quite life like , followed by an exhibition celebrating Prince Philip's ninety years ( some of the family pictures have a very personal touch). Last was the Royal Apartments, now only if I could actually see the Queen's actual bed. There is quite an impressive art collection including a Rembrandt's self portrait , they are everywhere. Took pictures with the poor guard standing outside, it surely must be a form of punishment for them, constant stream of tourists flocking their sides.
For the evening we went separate ways to utilize our time well. We each met up with our own school friends. I spent the night with one of my best friends from school , it was so nice to chat half the night away.
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