London Calling
R: Entire day devoted to traveling. What is up with the lack of A/C in this country? Zzzz.
F: More sleeping. River cruise too short, but London Eye perfect; fortunately, great views either way. Walk through cute and popular drinking district by the Thames. Have barely tolerable (and Obscenely Expensive™) dinner in unintentionally private dining room at the Anchor. See "Mary Poppins" in the West End. Fabulous seats and set, but not much else.
S: Foiled by Tube closures and train cancellations. Eventually get on (Obscenely Expensive™) train to Bath (£45), but miss all interesting walking tours. Stopped in at the Abbey, the Jane Austen Centre, and the Royal Crescent before meeting tour. Afternoon side trip to Lacock Village does not impress, but Stonehenge is better (albeit cold). Dinner at famous (and Obscenely Expensive™) Indian restaurant disappoints. Fortunately, Roman Baths (by torch light!) make up for everything.
(limonene: If you haven't already gone to Bath, do not bother with Bath Abbey (suggested donation of £2.50, but not that interesting) or the Royal Crescent (free, but not that interesting). If you only have a few hours, go to the Roman Baths. Go later in the day when the crowds thin out, and when it gets dark, sit by the Great Bath for a little while.)
U: Slept in. Picked up London Pass and then headed for Hampton Court Palace. Far too much to see inside, and magnificent gardens outside. Dashed around until closing. Dinner at "Inn the Park," a restaurant in the middle of St. James' Park. Expensive, but more satisfying than previous meals, so therefore not offensive.
One more day, and then back to Boston. While I wish we could stay longer, I don't think we could afford it. My UROP wasn't kidding when she said London was expensive, but I thought she only said that because she's a poor student. Oh, wait a second . . .