When in London on business, there is always something to do, something within walking distance or a quick Tube or cab ride, to while away an hour or so.
I was presented with such an opportunity on a recent trip to London when I found myself in London EC4. With the hotel and meeting destination either side of St Paul's Cathedral, sandwiched between Blackfriars Bridge and the Bank of England, and opposite the Tate Modern on the Thames, the choice this time was easy.
Walking through the grounds to the front entrance of the cathedral, hundreds of people were taking advantage of the balmy afternoon to relax on the manicured lawns surrounding the magnificent structure that rose from the ashes of the Great Fire of London that destroyed much of the city in 1666. Hearing a multitude of languages and accents reminded me of Luxembourg; it was interesting to people-watch and seeing all ages from groups of school children to elderly in wheelchairs, with many others using the entrance steps as a pre-dertermined meeting point or resting area after a day spent exploring what London has to offer.
The decorative plasterwork, ornate pictures and (electric) candle chandeliers ensured that the cavernous interior had something around each corner, on each wall and ceiling. Climbing up the 163 steps to the Dome afforded magnificent views from the various Galleries, both across London as well as inwards into the cathedral itself, with the famous Whispering Gallery attrcating the attention of young and old.
Designed by the famous architect Christopher Wren and labelled his masterpiece, it is used for special occasions from time to time, including the unforgettable wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana which brought London, the cathedral and the ceremony into the homes of millions world-wide via tv broadcasts. Lord Nelson's tomb is in the crypt, nearby to the shop and café which is notable for its cave-like cellar setting.
St Paul's Cathedral attracts 1.5 million visitors annually. With entrance fees of up to £18 for an adult (it's free if you are going to pray or attend one of the 4 services daily), these goes towards its upkeep which reaches £7 million annually.
And to get to London City airport from St Paul's? Although there is a St Paul's Underground station, it is almost the same distance to walk to Bank as from there it's straight ride via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to London City airport - choosing the St Paul's station only means an additional 1-stop journey on the Circle line and change at Bank for the DLR. The flight is only just over an hour back to Luxembourg. If you're early arriving at the airport, as I did, there's free WiFi to enable you to catch up on work, emails, etc., and the opportunity to get something to eat and drink too.
How to get there: via Luxair - see www.luxair.lu
Photos by Geoff Thompson
