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Photographing London: A journey from 675 AD to 2015 (Includes first-hand account)

When I passed by a church on Byward Street in London, I was floored by its founding date: 675 AD. Heck, my country Canada first saw Western civilization brought to its shores in the 15th century. Canada felt like a pre-teen compared to London.

This experience was repeated throughout my London adventures. When I soaked in the splendor of St. Paul’s Cathedral, consecrated in 1708, I could feel the historical significance of the site seep through the ancient walls and archaic statues. Same goes for the Tower of London castle, first built in 1078.

London is a city you want to enjoy on foot, but also is appreciated via its iconic double-decker bus. I went the tourist route and got a bus tour via a double-decker, so I can wallow in the sky-tickling sites such as Big Ben and the Tower Bridge. Our guide was also engaging and informative, offering anecdotes about the Great Fire, for instance, that I wouldn’t have gleaned on my own.

I appreciated how almost every museum and art gallery in London was free (come on, Canada, get your act together!), so I had a splendid time visiting the Tate Modern and the National Portrait Gallery. Expect a separate photo essay detailing my visit to those landmarks.

Many friends have asked me what I enjoyed most in London. The Tower of London took the Batternberg cake, thanks to my passion for castle artistry and medieval culture. I was raised on Tolkien, and felt some of that fantastical imagination come to life in a complex structure rich with history.

See below for a selection of photos from my London holiday:

Tourists and residents relaxing near London s Cambridge Theatre

Tourists and residents relaxing near London’s Cambridge Theatre

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames in London.

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames in London.

London s oldest church  All-Hallows-By-The-Tower  built in 675

London’s oldest church, All-Hallows-By-The-Tower, built in 675

King s Cross station in London  with a very artistic ceiling

King’s Cross station in London, with a very artistic ceiling

Outside view of St. Paul s Cathedral in London

Outside view of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London

The interior of St Paul s Cathedral during a Sunday service  in London

The interior of St Paul’s Cathedral during a Sunday service, in London

Sculpture along a walkway in the Tower of London

Sculpture along a walkway in the Tower of London

Some rhyming poetry/PSA found in London s Tube

Some rhyming poetry/PSA found in London’s Tube

Skilled street art found in Camden Market  London

Skilled street art found in Camden Market, London


The Queen s Guard positioned inside the Tower of London

The Queen’s Guard positioned inside the Tower of London

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