We ended up being some of the first people in the Tower area, and headed straight for the crown jewel collection. Photos aren't allowed inside the display, but just to put it into perspective for you, there was a 530- yes, five hundred and thirty- carat diamond. Can someone please propose to me with that sucker?!
After bidding my future engagement ring goodbye, we wandered around for awhile, visiting the Bloody Tower, the White Tower, and walking around the perimeter. It was gorgeous, especially because the weather was so nice. Cloudless blue skies and nearly 70 degree temperatures!
Next on our tourist agenda was the Tower Bridge. We walked back and forth across it, which was neat, though I must say that the walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a bit more climactic ;)
By this time we had gotten pretty hungry, so even though it was only a bit past 11, we headed off in search of a pub for lunch. Several of the ones we tried weren't open yet (darn kindergarten lunch time), but eventually we found the New Moon Pub, located in the Leadenhall Market.
My dad and I both wanted to try authentic fish and chips, so we ordered two dishes to share: classic fish and chips, served with mashed peas, tartar sauce and vinegar...
And a roasted red pepper hummus, veggie and pesto wrap.
It was the perfect balance of fried food and healthy stuff. They were generous with the hummus in the wrap, which was nice, and the fish and chips were just as delicious as you'd expect deep-fried food to be. Another great meal!
After lunch, we made our way over to St. Paul's Cathedral. Just from the exterior, you could tell how gorgeous and massive it is.
Photos weren't allowed inside the actual church, but we took the long stair climb up to the highest lookout balcony, located above the dome. From there, the city views were spectacular.
After the long climb back down, we slowly made our way back to the flat, stopping in a few stores including Zara, where I bought an adorable trenchcoat. Genius Gabriela forgot to pack rain-appropriate clothing, and it seems that this beautiful weather will be gone tomorrow. Oh well...it gave me an excuse to shop on vacation!! Currently resting up before dinner and a show this evening. My leggies are tired from copious amounts of walking!
What are your favorite attractions to see in a new city? Museums? Parks? Restaurants? Historical landmarks?
