We started @ Buckingham Palace because I desperately wanted to see the changing of the guards ceremony. It occurs less often in the winter season and our last day just so happened to have one. So off we went early in the morning to grab a spot and await the tradition and parade! When we arrived at our station after a few tube stops we got to walking. We followed the crowd because it seemed everyone had the same ideas as us to 'arrive early'. As we got closer to the palace it was PACKED!
I kind of quickly gave up hope that we would find a good seat to see it all. But we settled in and relaxed, camera ready!
When they were clearing people out of the street for the parade cops on horses were everywhere. One horse was headed straight toward us and never stopped!! I was scared until he stopped directly in front of our crowd and greeted anyone willing to pet him! The cop seemed less than thrilled atop the horse but he did ride his horse right up to us so obviously he enjoys pleasing the tourists right!?!
After the frightening then exciting horse encounter we heard a band and saw a ton of soldiers following with their fluffy hats and guns in hand. It was really cool but the crowds made it a bit claustrophobic and unbearable.
We headed out mid ceremony because there is a lot going on behind the gates. They walk past all the crowds, the gates open, then the gates shut behind them. You really need to be at the front of the gates to have a good view. On our way out we were able to walk by the gates and get a better look at what was going on during the change. Overall it was really cool just crazy. I can't even imagine the summer crowds. Bring your patient pants and go extra early. If you thought an hour was early like me you're thinking like every single other visitor to Buckingham Palace. Go even earlier!
Skipping out a tad early on Buckingham palace was really to get our day going! We didn't want to spend all afternoon in a crowd and not even seeing anything. Antonio was thirsty and hungry so we had to address that before he became Hangry!
We headed back in our hop on hope off bus right around the corner from Buckingham Palace. We jumped on and road the bus around learning more about the city. When we got near London Bridge again it was a mutual thought to go back to the Ale & Pie Shop! We quenched our thirst and just filled up on some chips & gravy. It was just as amazing as our first visit the day prior. And I still want to go back!
It was a gorgeous day so I stopped to snap a pick of Tower Bridge from the other side of the river when we were headed in to Tower of London.
Time was ticking and we had what felt like unlimited attractions to see. Tower of London was on my list and I really wanted to go. So we eliminated some other places we wanted to see to go there. We arrived about an hour before closing so time was tight. With Winter hours places usually close an hour or two earlier than Summer. We got the audio guide included in our London Pass and started learning. The guide was very informative and we enjoyed every step as we entered.
The Beefeaters are an easy distraction because they are walking around everywhere!
You just want to take a photo or chat! Antonio wanted to stop off and talk to him and I happily obliged! He was friendly and helpful. We first found out a little about the place but the conversation quickly got personal. He wanted to know where Antonio was stationed and what he does. He could tell he was in the Military based on the questions Antonio was asking him.
He had a disturbance in the Crown Jewels and said that is rare. But he came back to visit with us more. We snapped photos in front of the guards and were one of the last people let in to view all the jewlels. Another no photo exhibition. But it was beautiful inside and I got some info about the huge vault doors from the guards on my way out. It is much more complex than my fire retardant safes at the bank!
It was just such an awesome experience. We stayed late after the park was being closed & chatted with antonios new friend the entire way out. A young guy tried to sneak in without paying after closing and the Beefeaters were quickly all over him. He had no chance! They searched his back pack and everything. It was very entertaining. I enjoyed myself thoroughly. The beefeater told us he was going straight to the Pub after work for a pint with his colleagues. Seemed like an average day for them!
The last full day in London was awesome! We grabbed dinner on our way home at a local Asian restaurant called Wagamama. It's a chain in the UK and I'd say overall it was really good.
We had a long day of travel back home the next morning so we tied a bow on end day to the trio very nicely and got some sleep. Breakfast in the AM was the hotel come bfast it was simple but was awesome ...everyday!
We stopped for a Krispy Kreme on the way to the airport too! They don't have me in Germany!
London was very good to us and we loved every person we met along the way! It was truly an awesome experience and we desperately want to go back!
Took some pics on my way out cuz I'm part of the team!! Hahaha
There is so much more we want to see and do next time!! I hope we can make it back soon!
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