22 April 2010
The Westminster Abbey, St James Park and Buckingham Palace are best visited on the same day as they are located within walking distance to each other.
We started at the Westminster Abbey. Big Ben was visible from the abbey and it showed 10.15 AM when we arrived. We took some photos of the facade of Westminster Abbey and then bought tickets to go inside the Abbey. The ticket includes the use of the hand-held audio guide.
The Abbey is closely linked to the Royalty. The place for coronations, weddings and also funerals. Inside we saw the tombs of kings and also prominent people. Some of the most famous are Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton and David Livingstone. In particular, the tomb of Sir Isaac Newton was featured in the movie Da Vinci Code.
Big Ben showed noon when we came out. We then proceed towards St James Park.
Big Ben showing noon.
St James Park is nice for a slow walk on a beautiful day. Many locals were deployed all over the lawn, enjoying the sun. Squirrels, ducks and colourful water birds entertained us as we walked through the park.
View of Buckingham Palace from St James Park.
The view on the opposite side – Cabinet Offices.
Spring flowers.
Tulips.
It was fun to watch the ducks paddling and diving into the water for food.
Looking at the water birds. Some nests were seen on the water surface.
Dafty Duck.
Emerging from the St James Park, we came to the Victoria Memorial, a large roundabout fronting the majestic Buckingham Palace.
Victoria Memorial, outside Buckingham Palace.
Colourful tulips in spring.
Victoria Memorial.
If we come at the right time, we would be able see the ceremonial changing of the guards. But not today.
We can see one motionless guard through the massive palace gates. Looking at this, I can help but remember one episode of Mr Bean and his antics with a similar guard. LOL.
Union Jacks lining the road leading to the Buckingham Palace.
Massive gate of the palace.
Leaving the Palace and heading for some shopping.
Finished with the sightseeing planned for the day, it was time for some shopping in London. Ironically, it was more sightseeing and window shopping than actual buying of stuff. Selfridges, Harrods and Carnaby Street were some places visited.
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