South of the River

 

I spent most of the day Friday on the south side of the Thames.  I made a stop at Southwark Cathedral.  The area around the cathedral has changed a lot.  I remember being able to see the river from the churchyard but, now it's buildings all around it.  On the inside, they had a special display of thousands of white doves all with messages of peace on them.  

Shakespeare was still there lounging in this little alcove.  He looks like he's wondering what to write next.  

Stepping just outside the cathedral, I was greeted with this sight.  The building that Londoner's call "the shard" was looming large.

From the cathedral, I walked along the riverfront taking in the incredible view of the city.  That skyline keeps changing and growing upward.  

While I was close by, I made a point of visiting my favorite fountain.  I'm not sure why I like this fountain so much but I seem to make a pilgrimage to it on all my trips to London.

I also admired (and photographed) Tower Bridge once again.  When it is looming large right in front of me, it's pretty hard to resist the urge to snap more photos.

Back on the north side of the river, I found this perfect view of the Tower of London.

I also got a great view of 'The Monument' which hides in between all the tall buildings.  It's the monument to the Great Fire of London in 1666.  It was constructed between 1671 and 1677.

To top the day off, I met up with my friends Julie and Dave who flew in on Friday 4 hours late because of a storm in Phoenix.  I love a good storm in Phoenix and I missed it but I'm glad they finally made it safe and sound.