A Mystery Day

Yesterday afternoon we had Paul and Elaine from nb ‘Caxton’ (aka ‘Manly Ferry’) aboard for drinks which, sadly, had to be terminated early as we’d bought tickets for “The Ladykillers” in the evening.  It was a great preview performance starring  Angela Thorne (Margery from ‘To the Manor Born’) - very funny with a remarkable and ingenious set and a great cast.

Doug, Elaine and Paul enjoying the last of yesterdays sunshine on ‘Chances rear deck.

This morning we travelled 50 feet across the basin to have breakfast on ‘Dolce Far Niente’ by kind invitation from Jayne and Stephen, and Stephen’s sister, Jean.

Doug, Jean, James and Stephen tucking into fresh fruit salad followed by mountains of toast.

Our day was one of mystery, as we decided to go where the mood took us.  Firstly, it took us to St Mary’s Hospital, which is next to the canal basin at Paddington, where the worlds press are starting to stake their claim on a prime spot for photographing the forthcoming Royal birth.

Amazing to see how the press areas are rationed.

The front entrance to the Lindo Wing of the hospital where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will show their new baby to the world.

We took a nice walk through Hyde Park and across to the Royal Albert Hall where we had a brilliant conducted tour around this fascinating building.  We heard many amazing stories and interesting facts and were shown around from top to bottom, including the Royal Box and the Royal Retiring Room where the Queen goes to meet her guests before a performance.

We were not allowed to take any photos during any of the tour – today they were setting up for a huge charity dinner, where we saw a run through of an address by Prince Charles which will be shown this evening. This interior picture is from the internet.

We walked down to Knightsbridge to do a bit of present buying in Harrods…………….

…………….and it had to be Knightsbridge where James spotted a Bugatti Veyron. (nearly £2 million of car)  The first he’d ever seen – probably the worlds’ most expensive and fastest road car.  It had Dubai plate on it so it’s no surprise. 

Later this afternoon we went to the Ice Bar (just off Regents Street) where we had a ‘cool time’! You have to wear the gloves and insulated cape to keep you warm!

They use glacier ice to create this amazing place where the bar has to be replaced every 4 months and some of the sculpture are wonderful.

The glasses are unique as well! Again all ice served with a Mojito or cocktail of your choice.

We took a trip on a new Route Master bus just out of interest.  They are very cleverly designed, very comfortable and quiet and look very smart.  Good old Boris! NB There is a program this evening on BBC 2 at 9pm about this new Route Master.  We  are going to record it as we’ll be in Soho again tonight.