London Visit

Part of the itinerary of Tom and Judy’s recent visit was a trip to London. I was really anxious for them to meet my extended London family and although they had previously spoken, through the medium of telephone and webcam, to my sister and my niece Maria. I knew that meeting all the family face to face would be a nice experience for them. Well that is partly true. In reality, I guess I just wanted to show off this branch of the family of whom I am extremely proud.

The start of our London trip - click to play

I have other family members living outside London that I would have loved for them to meet also and spend time with but, unfortunately, as the duration of our visit was only five days, time wasn’t on our side and it was impossible to get to see everyone. Next time we visit the UK, I hope we will have more time on our hands and that it will be possible to get to see everyone. I have to warn Tom and Judy, there is long a list of my family members lining up who have yet to meet them and who cannot be disappointed, so they had better be prepared for many more trips to Ireland and the UK before they finally get to meet everyone.

Our London trip began on 12 March with a flight on Ryanair from Shannon airport where we were deposited by my good friend Pat Whelan to catch our flight for London Gatwick which was due to depart at 1.05pm and arrive at 2.30pm. We arrived on time and were met by my sister Peggy and my niece Maria.

We had chosen some sights around London that we wanted Tom and Judy to see. The changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, of course, is always high on the list for any visitor to London and, with my sister and niece as our very efficient guides, we set out for there on the day after our arrival. It was a spectacular event and a great opportunity to get some nice videos and pictures. Unfortunately, the day was marred by a very unfortunate accident which Judy suffered when she was knocked over by a lady pushing a baby buggy who was more interested in talking to her friend than paying attention to where she was going.

Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace

Panoramic view of Queen Victoria Memorial and plaza

Part of the Changing Of The Guard cermony

Judy’s accident was an unfortunate occurrence and one that affected all of us deeply, but she carried on bravely and despite the fact that she was in considerable pain throughout the remainder of the visit, we managed to get in quite a bit of sightseeing.

No trip to London can be complete without taking a flight on the London wheel. My grandniece Louise, my niece Maria, Judy and Tom during our flight on the wheel

View of London from the top of the wheel

Maria and Louise enjoying the flight on the wheel

Judy celebrated her birthday during our London visit. Following are some pictures taken at a family gathering to celebrate the event.

Judy's birthday cards

My nieces Margareth, Helen, nephew John and niece Maria

My sister, Peggy with granddaughters Emily, Georgia and Alanna

Tracy and John

Helen and Keith

Everyone wants the last piece