Our December London trip was made extra special by the incredible gift from Uncle Heathcote, to arrange for a family skate at Somerset House!
It's such a beautiful location, the staff were amazing and it was the perfect winter day for their first ever time on ice.
The polar bears were a great confidence booster but because they were so short it was easier without them for the bigger ones, while they were perfect for crazy Gabe, who enjoys falling over a bit too much.
And what were Ayla and I up to all the while? Well this was my view while we watched from the sidelines and listened to old school Christmas jazz music. I'll admit to being jealous and very much looking forward to my turn next year.
We discovered a strange stage set downstairs which cried out for a group photo...
And then it was off for our sightseeing walk around town... over the bridge and first stop...
....the booksellers of the southbank. I remember coming here as a kid, not so many sellers on a random weekday but fun all the same.
Next for the street performers beneath the london eye... bubble chasing is always a favourite,
and if you can't find dancers, acrobats will do.
Are carousels in the evening magical for everyone, or is it just me?
Even with dear old Ben covered in scaffolding, the Thames view is still beautiful in the right lighting.
Nelson's lions...
and a steel band playing carols under the National Gallery.
Followed by a wander to Piccadilly to see Eros and the Christmas Angel lights.
Then a short walk past the Ritz and through the park, over to Queenie's house for a quick hello before it was back to the station.
A completely exhausting, enjoyable London winter day.
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