London Day One

Valda left for Poland very early this morning, but we got organised at a very leisurely pace and had a great day out, without having to go very far. Though driving on such busy roads is not very restful, with instructions from the satnav AND the passenger, often conflicting. But the satnav is very good, repeating instructions often enough, and calmly re-routing if you take a wrong turn, not just commanding, 'Do a U-turn'. But we did end up a private lane ending in a driveway and a 20 point turn. It's important to be specific, eg don’t just put in 'Runnymede', but put in, 'Runnymede National Trust Memorial'.

Yes, we went to Runnymede, at Valda's suggestion, and it was most enjoyable. The day was not as hot as it has been of late here - thank goodness - so we had a pleasant walk across fields to view the 'Jurors' - twelve intricately decorated bronze chairs on the theme of 'justice'. We also walked to the Kennedy Memorial, set in the big old trees, and to the site of the signing of the Magna Carta.

An ice cream at the National Trust tearoom, then we were just in time for the paddle boat trip along the River Thames and back. This was very pleasant, apart from the screaming children who joined half way along, but they drowned out the sound of a young boy playing a shooting game on his iPad instead of taking in the scenery.

We also went to Windsor, and by good luck chose the right carpark which was right in town and right by the castle. They must have known we were coming, because the band came out and did a bit of a parade down the street.

We had a look around the shopping mall in the railway station. Great shops, including a 'Bill's' cafe - we loved the one in Brighton we visited years ago.

Back home for a scone and clotted cream afternoon tea. Gracie came rushing to meet us (don’t tell Archie!)

Another exciting day planned for tomorrow!