The tube strike still looms, but our Sunday wasn’t impacted. With a modest goal of “taking it easy”, we took the tube to Embankment, as we have most days. From there we strolled up through Covent Garden and Neal’s Yard again, then along Charing Cross Road…where I was sad to see Blacks replaced by a TJ Maxx. A simple change perhaps, but it says a lot about the times. At least Foyles remains. For now.
We meandered through Bloomsbury, with its beautiful terraces and parks dotted with blue plaques (some of more questionable origin). The British Museum was another disappointment. Twenty years ago I could slip in during my lunch break, eat my sandwiches in the grand entrance hall, maybe sneak a look at an exhibit or two. Now there are airport-style queues, bag checks, and a million tourists. It’s Sunday, so fair enough… but still, I miss being able to enjoy our stolen culture in relative peace.
We carried on the length of Oxford Street, ducking into the odd shop, then bought picnic makings at the Marks & Spencer at Marble Arch (where I think Mum once worked).
Then into Hyde Park. Picnic by the Serpentine. Kensington Gardens. Down Kensington High Street (which was actually quite nice). Finally back to our little place in West Kensington.
No theatre tonight, no grand adventures. Just an early night. I think we need it.
The Obligatory Blog 