Around London in 80 days
In these uncertain times, I need a lifeline and a horizon so I have — somewhat arbitrarily I’ll admit — set a date. April 1st will be my horizon ; my lifeline will be the 80 days separating me from it.
And as I cannot go around the world right now, I give you A Mad Belgian’s “Around London in 80 Days” : eighty impressions of London, eighty stories, places, thoughts from my experience of this wonderfully mad and maddening city.
Day 74: Westminster Abbey
The first time I went Westminster Abbey, I didn’t like it much. Well I kind of liked it but I thought St Paul’s cathedral was more impressive.
Besides, I am not religious and neither am I a big fan of the Royal Family — not one to get that excited about their weddings anyway.
Then I trained as a Blue Badge Guide. For a year, I had to go to the Abbey regularly. I had to study it in depth. By the time my exam arrived, Westminster Abbey had become one of my favourite places in London: I just LOVED it.
It is not only a famous, very large, very impressive building: it is the richest place in London history-wise. Important figures of all walks of life are buried or commemorated here, from Isaac Newton to Nelson Mandela, from the Unknown Warrior to the famous Queen Elizabeth I.
So whatever your area(s) of interest, you’ll find something to love in the Abbey. Behind every name, every object, every stone, there is a wonderful, fascinating story just waiting to be told.
Next we’re time you’re in London, look me up. I’ll take you to the Abbey tell you its best story.
