We’re staying in a lovely little apartment in Maida Vale. There is a nice little grocery store up the road so I wandered up to get supplies and a coffee or two. So good to be able to make a cuppa and some toast before we face the weather.

The snow was still around this morning so we best get dressed in lots and lots of layers. First port of call was Westminster station by bus and the Underground. Popped up right beside Big Ben Just in time for the midday bells. Then we walked down and had a tour through Westminster Abbey. The tickets came with a audio guide for each of us and the boys really enjoyed listening to the history of the Abbey and the many kings and queens buried there. It was fascinating to see the building in the flesh as we’ve seen it so many times on TV.

After a little lunch we walked to the pier and jumped on a Thames river cruise to Tower Bridge. As light was beginning to fade, we made plans to return in the morning. Back into the Underground (at rush hour it seemed) and got out at the original Royal Oak. Found a pub and settled in for a delicious dinner and naturally, sticky toffee pudding!