Day 144 - Change in weather and Bath

Finally, reprieve from the heat and humidity, but it also meant that we had rain, and a lot of it.  I had breakfast and checked out, but arranged to keep my bag at the hotel and collect it later.

Westminster Abbey today.  I was surprised by how many more tourists there were here than St Paul’s.  I prefer St Paul’s, but I suppose Westmister has added areas of interest for people ie being the venue of the recent royal wedding, Poet’s Corner, the tombs of many queens and kings etc.  Once again I used the audio guide to understand more about the building.  They really are a good idea because you can go at your own pace.  It is hard to visualise the wedding in this building but they did have a number of photos on display from the event so people could get a sense of it.  It is incredible how much money has gone into buildings such as this over the centuries, but then again, if the money wasn’t spent, we wouldn’t have had the opportunity to see the amazing talent and craftsmanship either. 

When I left Westminster, I couldn’t help but chuckle as the queue to get in was just huge – one long line of umbrellas and raincoats.  It was hosing down – could’ve done with a raincoat as well as my umbrella, and gumboots.

I picked up my bag from the hotel then made my way to Paddington station to catch a train to Bath.  I never did get to see Bath all those years ago so was determined to do so this time.  The train takes 1.5 hours and it was brilliant sunshine when I arrived.  A quick stop in at tourist information and then I checked into my hotel (which was above a cute pub called the Griffin Inn).  I wandered around the town taking in a few of the sites.  There was a bus trip I could take but it is so easy to walk around and I needed the exercise.

Best piece of advice I was given was to avoid the day-time crowds at the Roman Baths, and get there late afternoon/early evening.  So, that is what I did.  I was so surprised how big the complex is, and really enjoyed the audio guide.  Check this place out!!

I think the Roman Baths are amazing.  I had no idea about this history and was fascinated by it all.  By 9pm I was tired so made my way back to the Griffin Inn for a drink, then went to bed.  Only issue with staying above a pub is the noise but I had ear plugs and was tired.  Closing time was midnight, and after this time, I didn't hear a thing.