London Calling

It's been a while coming, but I'm finally getting around to posting about our weekend away in the Big City. Having originally booked for that ill fated Foo Fighters concert, with non-refundable train and hotel tickets, we were off for a long weekend regardless!

Tickets, check. Book, check. Chocolate, double check!

Once we landed in London, we made our way to the hotel. We were staying at Park Grand Lancaster Gate, which was a mere five minute walk from Paddington Station, and it was fantastic. Located in a quiet suburb, but within walking distance of all major tube and train lines, it could not have been positioned better.

The hotel looked after us so well all weekend, until the moment we left, and nothing was too much trouble. If you're after a reasonably priced (but glamorous) hotel in London, that is quiet but still accessible, I'd thoroughly recommend this one. Plus, look how pretty it is!

In true Welsh fashion, we dumped our bags and headed off in search of the nearest pub.

However, after nearly falling off our barstools at the fact there was no change out of a £10 note, the sun came out and we headed over the road into the Italian Gardens.

(Regardless of the price, as it's the same everywhere in London, I'd thoroughly recommend this pub on an evening, as it's a proper British boozer and has some amazing live music)

We made friends with a few of the locals too...

Behind the scenes!

Our meandering took us further along to Hyde Park, where we wandered around the lake watching all the revellers on the pedalos and snooping on more wildlife.

With an obligatory 99 along the way, of course!

From there we dawdled around to the other side of the lake, stumbling upon the Diana Memorial Fountain, which is such a fun work of art. It's not so much a fountain as a mini river, with lush grass surroundings.

In what I feel is true Princess Diana, playing in and around the fountain is not only allowed but encouraged. So socks off!

Friday night was the night we were supposed to be seeing the Foos, so instead, the wonderful Mr P managed to get us last minute tickets to see Wicked at the Victoria Apollo. I've never seen a show in London before, and Wizard of Oz is one of my absolute favourite films, so I was extremely excited!

I won't spoil the show in case there's anyone left out there who hasn't seen it, but I loved every single minute of it! Even the husband, who detests musicals, was enthralled, which is high praise indeed! Definitely go check it out if you get the chance!

Day one, was a definite success! I'm a little bit in love with London!