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Published: July 26th 2011
Hyde Park - the big green
Hyde Park is a massive green space int he heart of LondonToday was deliberately left with no specific things to do as we weren't sure what if any effect jet lag would play.
In the end though it was a really productive day. We explored Hyde Park, stumbled on Buckingham Palace just when the changing of the guard was about to take place, and found ourselves a 'local' for a pint. Not a bad days work at all.
HYDE PARK
Is a massive green sanctuary smack in the middle of one of the worlds busiest cities. Its a real mixture - perfectly manicured in some areas (Princess Diana tribute fountain as an example), a bit rustic and wild in other areas (long grass and random trees), a lake, well used walking/running and biking paths galore. I guess you could argue most cities/towns have something similar - but the central location and sheer size must surely set Hyde Park apart from most.
They have random things like areas where there are stacks of deck chairs - just come along grab one, sit in the sun and watch the world go by. Speakers Corner is also a unique feature - although alas today there were no random people ranting about odd
and irrelevant events!
RESPECT The Southern Stand
In a corner of Hyde Park there is an ostentatious (and impressive) memorial tribute to Britain her battles and those who have stood by her side when it mattered the most. Amoungst all the glitzy and glamorous ornamentation there is a simple, appropriate and moving tribute to Kiwis who have made the ultimate sacrifice to help us preserve the lifestyle we enjoy today. The Southern Stand memorial consists of 16 individual bronze sculptures of varying heights set out in the formation of the southern cross constellation. At night the top of each sculpture forms a luminous cross in the shape indicating the compass direction south and pointing the way home to wandering Kiwi's. Pretty cool and if you are a Kiwi in London you should try and take the time to pay your respects.
Its very early days but we have found London really easy to get around on foot. When we got to the edge of Hyde Park there was a signpost say Buckingham Palace on foot.
BUCKINGHAM PALACE
We followed the sign and a short (and very pleasant) walk later we were standing looking at THE Palace -
Buckingham Palace
Changing of the Guards WOW!
As luck would have it we timed it perfectly to catch the changing of the guards - very exciting. A big crowd build and with its pomp, pageantry and history it was a spectacular 'must see' show. everything was sooo impressive, the military precision of the main event, the spectacular and imposing physical setting, big and happy crowd, the police presence - on foot and horseback, the army band playing a mixture of classic and popular tunes. it was a wonderful occasion for sure.
OUR LOCAL
Wherever you are its important to have a 'local' for the next 10 Days for us it will be the Victoria in Bayswater. Reputed (in the loosest possible meaning of the word) to be a favourite haunt of Winston Churchill, and much earlier Charles Dickens who apparently penned some of his best works here. I'm sure that's all true!!.
The Vic is a great example of a traditional British (City) Pub. Great atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, traditional decor, great Pub Grub - big thumbs up for the Steak and Beer Pie (no mushy peas there!) and just a 5 minute walk away from the Darlington. They even have Tuesday night Pub Quiz!
The Victoria
The Victoria, great Pub with loads of character The only issue is they are a Fullers Pub - the biggest brewer in the UK - so all their tap beers are their brand (equivalent to DB or Lion Pub in NZ - would you really want a DB export if a Emerson's Pilsner was an option. To be fair, would you really want a DB Export at all? Still as our bar man says they are number one because of the quality of their beer and the awards they win NOT their financial clout. (Tui Billboard anyone!). You cant knock bar guy though, he picked our accents for Kiwis (not Aussies) so he's a good bloke no question!
All in all a great day, tomorrow the serious business of being a tourist gets underway...
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Melissa
non-member comment
Buckingham Palace
I want one of the guards hats! :-p