Into Town!

Into town today.

Having stayed up late last night looking at a very hilarious game show on TV, we had wondered if we’d want to do anything this morning.

Surprisingly, we felt great!!!  So …off we headed into London.    

Luckily we got a Great Western intercity train – express to Paddington. Fantastic …we were there in 10 minutes!!!

All this walking must be good for us, (and fortunately Arthur’s hip has stood up to it - more or less…) …but at this stage it seems that I’ve probably worn my feet down by at least half an inch!!

The day was dry if not sunny, and we pottered about some of the places we just love.

Found our way into Fortnum and Masons (Piccadilly since 1707) and enjoyed a pot of tea and a toasted teacake each.

…thus fortified, we  proceeded to enjoy this icon from top to bottom.

The Christmas Shop section is in full swing now. We looked at two boxes of really special Christmas Crackers.

Very large in size, they were decorated in rich reds that looked simply glorious. Six per box, they had  various things inside them, like …a silk scarf …cuff links …a sterling silver tea strainer …a silk tie …other special things… (can’t remember them all…).

All packaged up in a Fortnum & Mason wicker basket. The whole thing looked absolutely fabulous. Do you fancy one??

….it will only set you back One Thousand Pounds per box!! (NO – I didn’t!!!!)

But we did get a few chocolates from the Food Hall to enjoy tonight back at New Cottage.

Had a lovely long chat with Clair, at Favourbrook …also a visit with Sophie in their women’s shop.

…and with Agata in their little men’s shop around the corner in the arcade when we  picked up Arthur’s waistcoat.

And a Surprise!! She had got them to make him a bow-tie as well. No cost – a present!!! How amazingly lovely!!

…it was hilarious really. She decided to tie this for him –so he’d know how to do it in future ...(and that it was tied properly!)

Down she sat on a chair, proceeded to wrap it around her upper leg, and said …”Now Arthur. This may look a little strange …but I want it to be tied properly for you”.  !!!

He was a little concerned that he’d have to remove it from her leg when she’d finished…! But she did that herself ….! *dream on …*

Meandered a bit more; took a few photos; looked at the sweet little Christopher Wren church on Piccadilly; strolled into St. James Square and enjoyed the autumn-ness in that  lovely garden square.

Then on down to Pall Mall for some lunch in the RAC Club.

In the lounge.

Several people were in there, but there was plenty of room for us too. This place is so quietly genteel …such a privilege to be able to enjoy a London Gentleman’s Club  …and SO comfortable!!

It was definitely time to rest the old feet!!

Yes – Arthur HAD to wear his tie and coat …and yes – I HAD to cloak my coat …and yes, by the way – there were at least two men fast asleep in comfy lounge chairs. (But …oh, they were dressed impeccably!!!)

After a bit more enjoying London, we headed back on the train. Chatted to a friendly chap with his little daughter as we made our way NOT express back to Maidenhead.

Whoever said the English are not friendly?!!!