Cherry on the sundae

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Thursday, July 17, 2025

London, England

What a way to top off this trip — a whirlwind tour of London in a day!

Tower of London, a 1,000 year-old castle, former fortress, royal palace, prison, zoo and home of British Crown Jewels — it is an overload of images, history, crowds and photographers feast. We were lucky to see the exhibition of poppies, so symbolic and incredible. Nearly 30,000 ceramic poppies from the original 2014 Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red display have been reinstalled as The Tower Remembers for the 80th anniversary of the war. The Tower was heavily bombed during the Blitz. The installation is intended to evoke reflection on the sacrifices of war and the resilience of Londoners.

We followed up with a lunch of fish and chips, and more iconic London sights from Big Ben, to St. James Cathedral and Buckingham Palace.

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most iconic landmarks—a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture and a symbol of resilience through centuries of upheaval, completed in 1710. Famous for its massive dome, which rises 365 feet and was the tallest building in London until 1963. Survived the Blitz during WWII, it was the site of major events like the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill, wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana.

👑 Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of The King and one of the most iconic royal landmarks in the world. Became a royal residence in 1837 when Queen Victoria moved in. It contains 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. We’re accustomed to seeing photos of the Royals waving from the balcony.

The Brasserie of Light at the fancy Selfridges department store.

A final indulgence at the famous Harry’s Bar, the culmination of a spectacular journey! Farewell London!