Some cities are born great; others have greatness thrust upon them. During its long history London has managed to achieve both.
Our tale begins where else but the cathedral of capitalism, Harrods Department Store.
Sandi's reverence quickly guides her to the shoe department.
The store's motto, Omnia Omnibus Ubique - All Things For All People, Everywhere, does not disappoint. Who wouldn't want to buy mustard in these opulent surroundings?
Next stop, a tour of The Tower of London, built by William the Conqueror in 1078. It has been a fortress, palace and prison. Many people lost their heads here including Anne Boleyn, Edward V, Guy Fawkes and Sir Thomas More.
One of the unmissable highlights of a visit to the Tower of London is The Crown Jewels. This astonishing collection of priceless Coronation Regalia has been on public display at the Tower since the 17th century, with only one attempt to steal them.
Another London institution is the musical Oliver. We consider ourselves one of the family in attendance at the beautiful Royal Drury Lane Theatre.
Up to the countryside of Lincolnshire for a dose of family hospitality with Tim's sister and brother-inlaw in their incredible home, parts of which date to the 11th century.
Crumble tries to chase out a rascally rabbit that's digging up the cross country course.
"Quit horsing around with that camera you guys."
Time for a spot of tea.
Women's shoes were stylish and uncomfortable in the 1700s.
Nothing's changed in 300 years. Sandi found these at Harrods. Where are the fashion police?!!
We stroll past Big Ben, the nickname for the great bell of the clock at the north end of Westminster Palace.
The London Eye is a giant 135-metre (443 ft) tall Ferris wheel situated on the banks of the River Thames in Central London. It is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe and the most popular tourist attraction in the UK, visited by over 3.5 million people annually.
The views are spectacular.
From the Eye we zoom into Buckingham Palace with it's royal procession of tourists.
Some of Tim's family join us for a fun afternoon at The Hurlingham Club before we get set to hop aboard the Eurostar for Paris.
With its neo-Gothic towers and blue suspension struts captivating London Bridge isn't falling down any more. Built in 1894 as a much-needed crossing point in the east, it was equipped with a then revolutionary bascule (see-saw) mechanism that could clear the way for oncoming ships in three minutes.
The Armouries collection date from the time of Henry VIII.
The ravens are one of the most famous sights at the Tower of London. Legend has it that Charles II was told that if the ravens left the Tower, the kingdom and the fortress would fall.
The guards are called Yeoman Warders. In principle they are responsible for looking after any prisoners and safeguarding the crown jewels, but in practice they act as tour guides and are a tourist attraction in their own right. Right up until the 1800s they were paid part of their salary with chunks of beef hence their nickname Beefeaters.
The guards are called Yeoman Warders. In principle they are responsible for looking after any prisoners and safeguarding the crown jewels, but in practice they act as tour guides and are a tourist attraction in their own right. Right up until the 1800s they were paid part of their salary with chunks of beef hence their nickname Beefeaters.
Another London institution is the musical Oliver. We consider ourselves one of the family in attendance at the beautiful Royal Drury Lane Theatre.
Up to the countryside of Lincolnshire for a dose of family hospitality with Tim's sister and brother-inlaw in their incredible home, parts of which date to the 11th century.
Crumble tries to chase out a rascally rabbit that's digging up the cross country course.
"Quit horsing around with that camera you guys."
Time for a spot of tea.
Back to London for Tim to attend a business meeting while Sandi takes in the fashion fantasies at the Victoria and Albert Museum's Fashion Gallery. This stunner of a dress was worn by Grace Kelly.
Lady Di's "Elvis Dress" is entirely covered in oyster pearls and sequins.
Women's shoes were stylish and uncomfortable in the 1700s.
Nothing's changed in 300 years. Sandi found these at Harrods. Where are the fashion police?!!
We stroll past Big Ben, the nickname for the great bell of the clock at the north end of Westminster Palace.
The London Eye is a giant 135-metre (443 ft) tall Ferris wheel situated on the banks of the River Thames in Central London. It is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe and the most popular tourist attraction in the UK, visited by over 3.5 million people annually.
The views are spectacular.
From the Eye we zoom into Buckingham Palace with it's royal procession of tourists.
Some of Tim's family join us for a fun afternoon at The Hurlingham Club before we get set to hop aboard the Eurostar for Paris.
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