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 is famous for having some amazing museums with extensive collections. During out stay, we visited two spectacular public museums with extensive collections documenting millennia of natural and human history. A science lover, I enjoyed learning at the Natural History Museum. To learn more about the history and ancient civilizations the kids were studying in school, we visited the British Museum. Both are public museums that are free admission.
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.
Like many places we visited, Winchester has a long and rich history dating back to prehistoric and Roman times. Today, the Hampshire County Councils are based in Winchester, and it is said to be one of the most desirable cities in England in which to live. I can understand why. It was a lovely city to visit, and as it was directly on the way to London from Lymington via M3, it is within easy distance of several major cities.
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.
The Cranky Camper 