London Monday

Dear All
Not the greatest tragedy but I lost my address book at Gare du Nord. Was rushing to finish some post cards before the train departed to use the many French stamps I had bought previously. There was no post box so a lady at Eurostar said she would post them for me and I think I must also have given her my little address book anyway it was not with me on the train. If you would like a post card it is now up to you to email me your address and post code. Luckily, so far there have been no other catastrophes touch wood! Sorry forgot we nearly had a problem with me washing my Paris travel card. Fortunately it was in its folder and although the folder suffered badly the card worked once it had dried out.
Our French sojourn was fantastic and we found everyone so helpful. Helene was marvellous and we highly recommend 'Paris Oasis'. Thanks in particular to Maggie, Lyn and Gwen for their very useful suggestions. Our Eurostar seats were a little disappointing as we had only a partial view from our window. (I economized on 2nd class seats and possibly this was a mistake). However, we made up for this by spending a fair amount of time in the buffet car. The train whizzed along by the green French countryside with the occasional quaint cottage or wind farm. The chunnel section was noted only by darkness. The beauty of the train was that we arrived in central London - with our passport check in completed in France. St. Pancras is a bright modernized station with great acces for travellers. Outside the station has a magnificent Neo Gothic facade but inside it is light and bright. We purchased a three day travel card and headed to Earl's Court. There were no stairs to contend with and Earl's Court was on the Piccadily Line with no necessity to change trains. We were delighted to find that our hotel was so close that we could wheel our cases without difficulty and did not need a taxi. Henley House is a lovely little hotel with all you need - a small but clean bedroom excellent breakfast in a bright conservatory type room and access to a computer. It is also in walking distance from Harrington Hall.
We made the most of Day 1 in London. After getting access to our room we took the underground to South Kensington and the Museums. It was quite a long walk through the tunnels so since then we have mostly used buses if we are not walking. Have walked many miles and my swollen ankles and blotchy rash on my legs tell the tale.
We went to The Grace Kelly exhibition at The V and A. Some of her clothes were just beautiful while others were over the top and dated. The general area of fashion had some remarkable garments from all periods. The V and A is huge - overwhelming. We had a snack in the cafe with a pianist playing. The interior of this section of the building is very lovely with magnificent windows. However, the plastic tables and chairs do not do this justice. Have to finish now as reception is closing. Shall have to tell you about the magnificent organ and choral concert later.

love
Jo and Rog