I took myself on my own walking tour with the idea to visit the bridges across the Thames and then head up to Convent Gardens. Since I had already walked across the Tower Bridge, I headed toward Leadenhall Market to get myself a local phone. I plotted a route on my phone, but it was merely a guide. I ended up walking over 13 miles.

My first turn took me to Seething Lane and a strange old church, St Olaves.

Cautionary Gate Way at the Church

The distance was .3 of a mile and there were 9 different turns! I selected the walking route and it was a little mini-adventure trying to follow it. One turn took me to a spot where the road ended and motorcycles were parked with the Gherkin looming.

A walk past Lloyd’s and I was at Leadenhall Market. Next I would head to London Bridge.

I had a general idea of the route I would take, Grace Church Street, but some of the twisty turns and layers of streets beckoned. Often I found myself wandering into some courtyard or down some narrow alley. I brought my compass with me and that really helped. The Thames was south so I kept heading in that direction after I went off route.

My steps took me passed The Monument and I explored  that area for a bit.

I walked across the London Bridge and meandered along the streets and alleys there.

The Southwark area is the home of the Southwark Cathedral,  the Borough Market, the Globe Theater. Along the South Bank is also the Tate Modern, which I had visited previously.

 

As I was walking to the Embankment along the Thames, I saw this interesting side street which begged to be explored.

The bishops of Winchester had this palace for their use whilst in London. ( Love the signage here – use caution whilst crossing.)  Another side street I wandered on had the Cathedral in the background.

Walking along the Embankment there were views across the Thames, interesting buildings and sights, and great people watching. It was a visual feast.

 

Next, I headed across the Millenium Footbridge built in 2000. It was originally knick-named the Wibbly Wobbly because once there was a lot of foot traffic, it wobbled quite dangerously.

The view from the bridge show the new building “The Shard” pointing skyward.

Across from the bridge is St Paul’s Cathedral. I had been inside one year with the boys.

The view back toward the Millenium Bridge is also a favorite. When we were here a few years ago the place was teeming with skateboarders. Only saw a few this year.

After walking around St Paul’s I headed  west and back down to the Victoria Embankment along the Thames. I spotted this gem, but Dr. Who was nowhere in sight.

Across the Thames I could see The London Eye which I have been on twice. For those that know me well, you are no doubt amazed. I am terribly afraid of heights, but the views from up top are amazing.

I just kept walking from bridge to bridge walking on different sides of the Thames. The last bridge I crossed was Westminster Bridge and I was heading from the south to the north with views Parliament in front of me.

The government buildings are very impressive and the area was full of people, so I headed to St James Park for a quieter, less crowded stroll.

It is a smallish, but lovely and green park with lots of water and birds. At one time there was a bird keeper who lived in a cottage in the park.

Then I headed toward Covent Gardens, letting my curiosity lead me down passageways that looked interesting.

At Covent Gardens I could not take pictures inside as “no photography” signs were posted. It was the day they had collectibles and antiques for sale inside. Outside there was a performer and a large crowd watching. I browsed and people watched there.

On my walk back to the flat I visited Somerset House.

Inside I saw an exhibit about architect Nicholas Hawsmoor who built many churches  in London during the 18th century. It really was fascinating ; I had just walked by one the day before.

I also viewed and walked on the Nelson Staircase. It is a must see at Somerset House. I couldn’t get a picture of it in its entirety, but it is graceful, beautiful, and functional.

Then it was back on The Strand past the Royal Courts of Justice and home.