Notting Hill Carnival West London 2014

Our visit to London on 25 August 2014 happened to coincide with the vibrant Notting Hill Carnival, widely regarded as Europe’s largest street festival. The event was said to draw over one million people across two days, and we found ourselves right in the heart of the action.

The crowd was overwhelming. At times, we were completely surrounded - jam-packed and swept along by the sheer momentum of the moving masses. Looking back, it could have turned dangerous if someone had lost their footing, as there was little chance of getting back up amidst the pressing throng. A single misstep could easily have led to a stampede.

Despite the risks, it was one of the most exhilarating and unforgettable experiences we had in London!

Bathampton

Bathampton, a semi-rural village on the outskirts of Bath, held a few unexpected surprises for us.

One notable site is St. Nicholas Church, an Anglican church originally built in the 13th century. It underwent significant alterations in the 15th century, including the addition of a tower. The church is best known as the final resting place of Admiral Arthur Philip, the first Governor of New South Wales, Australia, who was buried there in 1814.

Visitors interested in the early history of New South Wales will find the "Australia Chapel" in the south aisle especially meaningful. This section of the church contains memorials and informative displays dedicated to Admiral Philip and his legacy, making it a quiet but significant stop for those tracing Australia's colonial beginnings.

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The Kennet & Avon Canal skirts the edge of Bathampton and lies just across the road, within easy walking distance from the church grounds. This historic waterway stretches across southern England, covering a total length of 87 miles (140 km). It comprises two navigable rivers - the River Avon and the River Kennet - linked by a central canal section. Although technically only the middle part is a canal, the term "Kennet & Avon Canal" is commonly used to refer to the entire waterway.

Beginning in Bristol, the route follows the River Avon to Bath, before continuing via the man-made canal to the River Kennet at Newbury, and ultimately reaching the River Thames at Reading. Along its course, the waterway includes an impressive 105 locks, a testament to the engineering prowess of its time.

As we stood nearby, it did cross our minds that on a future visit to the UK, a journey aboard one of the traditional narrowboats that navigate this canal might be a delightful way to explore the English countryside at a leisurely pace.

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Bathampton will also be fondly remembered for its excellent beer and hearty pub food. We spent two enjoyable evenings at The George Inn, a charming and historic riverside pub located just a stone’s throw from St. Nicholas Church. With its cozy atmosphere, local ales, and classic British fare, it offered the perfect setting to unwind after a day of exploring the village.

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Another unexpected surprise came as we left Bathampton for Tetbury on 17 August 2014. To our delight, we encountered a quaint toll bridge where we had to pay a £1 fee to cross. This charming arched bridge, constructed from the iconic Bath stone in 1872, spans the River Avon and still retains much of its historic character. The road across the bridge is a single track, controlled by a "give way" sign, requiring drivers to take turns crossing - a gentle reminder of a slower, more graceful era of travel.

A Day in Bath

It was already evening by the time we checked into Lindisfarne Guest House in Bath on 15 August 2014. Nestled in the charming village of Bathampton, Lindisfarne is a delightful house set within well-kept gardens, conveniently located just off the roadside. The guest house offers a peaceful retreat while being only 1.5 miles from the historic centre of Bath. This iconic city, situated in Somerset in the southwest of England, is renowned for its Georgian architecture, Roman Baths, and rich cultural heritage.

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Although we had a car, we were advised against driving into Bath city centre due to the high parking charges. Taking that advice, we opted for a taxi instead, which turned out to be a convenient and hassle-free way to get into the heart of the city.

Bath, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, attracts nearly 4 million day visitors and around 1 million overnight guests each year. Its fame dates back to ancient times, largely due to the natural hot springs discovered in the area. By AD 60, the Romans had transformed the settlement into a spa town, constructing elaborate baths and a temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva.

To explore the city, we took a ride on a double-decker sightseeing bus. It was an excellent way to quickly gain an overview of Bath’s rich history while enjoying panoramic views of its stunning Georgian architecture and scenic surroundings.

The decision to impose high parking rates has proven wise for a city so dependent on tourism. By discouraging excessive car use, Bath preserves its charming atmosphere and allows visitors to explore with greater ease and safety - free from the congestion that often plagues other historic cities.

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We visited the Abbey Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, more commonly known as Bath Abbey. This magnificent Gothic structure, with its striking fan-vaulted ceiling and stained glass windows, stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Designed in the shape of a cruciform, the church can accommodate around 1,200 people and serves multiple purposes - from regular religious services to secular civic ceremonies, concerts, and public lectures.

During our visit, the atmosphere was particularly special, as a wedding ceremony had just concluded. The lingering floral arrangements and joyful mood added a unique charm to our experience, offering a glimpse into how this historic space continues to be a living part of the community.

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The River Avon winds its way through the heart of Bath, adding to the city’s timeless charm. We took a leisurely river cruise along its tranquil waters, which offered us a different perspective of Bath - one that revealed its picturesque scenery, elegant Georgian architecture, and peaceful riverside views. Gliding past historic bridges and lush greenery, the cruise was a relaxing and scenic way to experience another side of the city beyond its busy streets and landmarks.

While seated inside the boat, I happened to glance upward - and a chill ran down my spine as I took in the sight of buildings perched seemingly precariously on cantilevered supports above the riverbank. It was both awe-inspiring and unsettling. The builders and engineers of a bygone era were clearly both bold and highly skilled. Their craftsmanship has stood the test of time, with structures that appear to defy gravity yet remain firmly intact to this day.

One particular bridge we passed over the River Avon reminded me of the old London Bridge, where buildings once lined either side. Here, a row of small units has been constructed along one side of the bridge - modest in size but full of character. These spaces now house quaint souvenir shops and cosy eateries, catering to the steady stream of tourists drawn to Bath’s historic charm.