Clarity

I'm really enjoying doing things and visiting places in the course of this holiday that I've never done or been to despite having lived very close to them. I've walked within a few metres of St Pauls Cathedral more times than I care to remember, but have never had the opportunity to explore it thoroughly. I'm glad we took the time today - what a place! It throws every other type of church decoration I have ever seen into the shade. We visited the crypt and had refreshments in the cafe down there (how bizarre and fun!), examined the tombs and incredible artwork, and climbed to the Golden Gallery (see map below).



It was a seriously scary climb, especially the bit between the Stone Gallery and the Golden Gallery. The last piece was very narrow and steep and I was quite scared of tripping or losing my balance. The view was worth it though:



With only a short metal fence holding you in against this drop, with the wind howling around you ripping at your clothes and camera and hair, it was quite an experience! I would love to be able to be up there at dawn.

We weren't able to spend any time in the Whispering Gallery because of the time we took to climb and descend - maybe next time.