To help keep costs down, we utilized the London Pass with the Oyster travelcard to save on activities and transportation. We used it for admission into the Churchill War Rooms, Westminster Abbey, and more. Another advantage was that it included activities not originally on our itinerary, like the Shard, from which there are stunning views of the city at night.
London, England is city that marries a long tradition and history with 21st century modernity, and this vibe was evident in what we were able to do and see during our four-day stay. Home to museums, famous landmarks and palaces, world-class shopping and dining, there is much to see and experience in Great Britain's capital.
The United Kingdom is home to 15 designated National Parks, areas of natural beauty and historic or cultural significance. Being an American National Parks lover, I was pleasantly surprised to find that while in Hampshire, we would be staying within one of the newer English national parks: New Forest National Park. At the end of this post is a bonus recipe for bread pudding.
Mentioned in many a Jane Austen novel, and famous on its own for its historic Roman Baths, the city of Bath in Somerset has much to do and see. In addition to the Roman Baths, we walked the Pulteney Bridge that spans the River Avon and, of course, we paid a visit to the Jane Austen Centre.
Descanso Gardens, located in La Canada-Flintridge off Interstate 210, west of Pasadena, is described as "an urban retreat 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles." The gardens boast 150 acres of botanical collections, pretty walking trails, and seasonal displays.
The Cranky Camper 