London, England

Saturday August 25.
We ventured out of London today, catching the tube out to Essex to visit friends of Phil and Michelle (our Melbourne cousins who have met us for our week in London). Firstly, however, we walked around Kensington Palace on the way to the train station. Immaculate gardens – I see what they mean by a “manicured lawn” – and the famous circular gates that gave us that enduring image of the sea of flowers following Diana’s death. Of course, this was her home. A lovely backyard!
Then on to Essex to visit Tom and Jane, who are ex-pat Tasmanians living in a charming little village called Loughton. They (and their three sons) were delightful company, the weather was magnificent with the sun shining, and we were even spoilt with some Tasmanian pinot wine, made by Tom’s brother Joe Holyman at StoneyRise, in the Tamar Valley. A taste of Tasmania, so far from home.
Sunday Aug 26th
A tube ride downtown to catch the early queue (thereby ensuring its shortness) to the London Eye. We had picked a good day, with the view stretching to the horizon. A walk along the south bank of the Thames (called, um, Southbank) eventually lead us to Tower Bridge. A walk across this amazing structure lead us to the Tower of London, where we spent the afternoon. Our guide was a theatrical fountain of knowledge. The Crown Jewels were amazing.
Monday night we saw Blood Brothers, the West End muscial that has been playing for 20 years. It was everything that everyone said it would be. Simply fantastic.