Tower of London

Next stop was the Tower of  London where a very eloquent Scottish lady, fully dressed in the Yeoman regalia,  related with relish all the gory history of the Tower: intrigue, imprisonment, execution and torture, not to  mention the sorrowful end to some of Henry VIII's wives.

We suffered the long queue to see the Crown Jewels which fortunately moved quite quickly.  Debbie and Grace were so impressed they went back for a second look.  "Just amazing", said Deb.

River Cruise next and a relief to sit down for a while as the amusing crew member colourfully described the river's infamous history.

The banks of the Thames became the favoured location for buildings of all kinds, from monastic abbeys to gorgeous palaces. The huge number of famous buildings along the course of the Thames gave rise to the description of the river as a “string” linking a series of “pearls”. 

 To end the day we made our way to Leicester Square where we had arrranged to meet my son, Scott, and his wife, Emma.  We found our way through Covent Gardens and much to Grace's delight enjoyed a typical English Pie and beer in a typical English Pub.  Perfect end to a perfect day and the end of a perfect holiday for Grace.