Last week, during half term, we went to see the 'Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red' installation at the Tower of London. I'd wanted to visit after seeing pictures over the Summer, watching the progress as the masses of poppies were 'planted' around the Tower moat. I though it would be a good time to take the kids, before they are all removed again after Remembrance day. To actually see it in person was really quite amazing, and so moving to think that each one of the 888,246 ceramic poppies represents a British fatality during WW1.
We picked the worst day weather wise. Grey skies and rain... all day. Which meant I didn't get the best photos! Though I think perhaps the crowds weren't quite so big as a result.
We also went on an open top bus around London and a boat which took us along the River Thames. The kids loved it, despite the rain! It was great to point out things as we were going along. Elizabeth was especially excited to see Big Ben and a glimpse of Buckingham Palace. We had hoped to stop off there on the way back, but completely ran out of time. We'll just have to visit again, hopefully with some better weather next time!
Wasn't it an amazing sight! I went back last Saturday as one of my ancestors was being read out so I had to brave the crowds. The last time I went was in the summer so I couldn't believe how much more had been done. So glad I saw it and had the help of the surrounding crowd to tell me if my camera was in focus as you need long arms to see above everyone :-)
ReplyDeleteOh wow, that must have been quite amazing! They really are a beautiful sight, I'm so glad we decided to go and see them before they are taken away. x
Deletelove your shots they look amazing, not sure Im brave enough to face the crowds.
ReplyDeleteThanks Tracey, I only managed to get a few shots without little spots of rain on! Not easy to juggle a brolly and take pics, and in the crowds! I've seen some photos taken on the other days during half term, and I definitely think the crowds were smaller because of the poor weather. Xx
DeleteLooks like you had a wonderful day. I took my eldest to London a few weeks ago and he loved it. I must take the others soon, I know they would too. The tower poppies look amazing, so very moving. I hope you have a good weekend. CJ xx
ReplyDeleteIt was a great day for the kids. I'd love to take them again soon, you never seem to fit in as much as you'd like to! There's so much I know they would love to do.
DeleteHope you have a lovely weekend too! xx
The poppies are amazing aren't they. So pretty yet so overwhelming.. The open top bus sounds fun, we've never done it but I'm sure the kids would love it. Have you heard of the routemaster afternoon tea bus?? A touristy route for 1h30 while drinking tea and eating yummy cakes.. That sounds like great fun too!!
ReplyDeleteAnd what a gorgeous shot of you and Elizabeth!
Have a good week end xx
Oh no, I've not heard of that. It does sound fun, the kids would really love that.
DeleteAh thank you lovely.
Have a great weekend too. xx
Looks like a fabulous day. I would so love to have seen those poppies but I never seem to get to London, it's a long way from North Wales!
ReplyDeleteYour photos are great despite the awful weather. The poppies' installation is incredible, and so sad too. x
ReplyDeletei always wanted to visit there..
ReplyDeletelooks like such a fun time or you all!
xx