Read Ranch & Coast Virtually Anywhere
Issue link: http://ranchandcoast.uberflip.com/i/1477539
First stop: e London Eye. e landmark observation wheel cantilevered over the River ames provides breathtaking views of the city. Unlike amusement park Ferris wheels, e Eye has 32 glass-enclosed pods that accommodate up to 25 people each. Passengers sit or stand during the slow 30-minute circuit and can move around the cabin to take in the panorama. London's top attraction opened in 2000 and carries about 10,000 passengers a day. When I saw the waiting line, I was very glad we had purchased Fast Track tickets ahead of time. e Tower of London is another must-see. e heart of the fortress, the White Tower, was completed in 1097. Colorful Beefeaters in red uniforms give tours here that include historic highlights with an emphasis on imprisonment, torture, and beheadings (a little sophomoric, but kids love it). Having said that, we three agreed that seeing the Crown Jewels was the best part of the visit to the Tower. e stunning crowns, orbs, and scepters have adorned generations of British monarchs. We took the Tube to the Tower and departed on one of City Cruises' boats. is strategy gave us the thrill of walking over Tower Bridge and later enjoying a great view of this handsome landmark from the water. e Tube (also known as the Underground) is a great way to get around London. Children also love the city's red double-decker buses. e Tube might be challenging to use with younger kids (stairs, escalators), but it was perfect for us and super easy, especially after we bought Oyster Cards, which we noticed locals were using. It Wouldn't Be London Without Tea "ere are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea." ~ Henry James, e Portrait of a Lady Of course, you and your family will want to have afternoon tea while you're in London. (Would you go to Mexico and never touch a taco?) Everyone has their own opinion << The best view of the city is from the glass pods on the London Eye @ranchandcoast ranchandcoast.com 94 SEPTEMBER 2022 RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE