Got there a bit early, so we walked the short distance down to the Abbey Road zebra crossing - the site of that iconic Beatles cover where the Fab Four are crossing the road right near the Abbey Road studios. Hayden was too embarrassed to have his photo taken crossing the road but I was happy to ham it up for some photos!
Then back to Lords. A great tour guide can make any tour interesting. A great tour guide can make something you are already interested in even greater. Our guide for Lords was so knowledgeable, had a great sense of humour (especially about English cricket achievements) and just loved the game of cricket so enthusiastically.
We visited the famous Long Room, the dressing rooms, stood on the visitors balcony for a photo, climbed into the stands and toured the media centre, all while being regaled with stories and history and traditions of Lords. Even if you’re not a cricket fan you could enjoy this tour, purely based on the skill of our guide (who didn’t tell us his name unfortunately!)
Home for a quick rest stop and to drop off our stash from the gift shop and it was then onto Royal Albert Hall to watch the 30th Anniversary show of Whose Line Is It Anyway - and we were in for an absolute treat. 6 of the cast members (3 originals), Clive Anderson and a guarantee that fun would ensue. I could tell some of the jokes,but let’s face it, would not do it justice in any way!
And then it was our last day in London. As per tradition we ate breakfast at the Borough Markets where we were spoiled for choice. I chose a salted beef bagel - best corned beef ever (at least until I go to Katz’ Deli in NYC) and Hayden had a Boston burger with blue cheese. If you are ever in London, these markets are a must - great fresh food sourced locally and prepared by locals.
Short walk to connect with our morning’s tour - Muggle Walking Tour of London - a 2 1/2 hour tour discovering the movie locations and inspirational spots that helped JK Rowling shape the novels. Easily the best value for money - £14 each and guides who are true Potterphiles. Today’s guide, Ellie Lovegood (Luna’s cousin) dressed accordingly and was a font of knowledge of all things Potter.
Hayden headed home after this one, but I wasn’t done with London just yet. Walked from Leceister Square down to the Horse Guards, onto Downing Street and then through Westminster and up past Buckingham Palace through Green Park to Hyde Park where another tradition was fulfilled - hiring a “Boris Bike” and riding around Hyde Park and into Kensington Gardens. Off the bike and walked through the gardens past Will and Kate’s place and onto the tube to Tottenham Court Rd where I rediscovered the best Japanese curry at Sushi and Me before walking back to Covent Gardens for some last minute shopping at the markets.
The last tube ride home was a bit sad as I realised that that was it for another trip. But to top off the night, Hayden and I walked ourselves around Kennington to show him where Jordy and I stayed last time and then to the White Bear Pub for our last English meal - Hayden of course had a burger, but I opted for the Beef Wellington with truffle mash and a yummy apple and pear crumble for dessert. I may have had a cocktail at dinner as well.
Early start in the morning as we lose a whole day travelling to Orlando (thanks Delta for cancelling the earlier flight forcing us to spend 5 hours in the airport). Oh well at least we knew before we left.
See you tomorrow in the US - where we will see Brendon too!
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