London Off The Beaten Path Tips by dracko

St.Katherine's Docks

St.Katherine's Docks used to be these days is essentially an enclosed marina connected to the Thames via a lock, which protects the ships within its confines from the tidal variations of the river. The docks consist of three pools connected via drawbridges, and appears to be home to quite a number of vessels, from modern yachts to small sailing ships, to old fishing barqs. The docks these days are surround by pedestrian walkways, a multitude of shops, restaurants, a hotel, and luxury apartments. While the whole area is fairly posh, upscale, and somewhat touristy, it is still an unusual enough place to warrant a visit. If nothing else, you can gawk at the beautiful yachts berthed within and dream of the what-ifs...

Elementary, Dr. Watson!

They've actually done it! 221b Baker St. is real, and houses the legendary detective's famous abode, perfectly preserved. As you tour the modest home, you're greeted by the sight of Holmes' study and bedroom. The study is very well "preserved," complete with the violin, the chemistry set, the fireplace, and of course the famous hat and pipe. The only thing that struck me when I saw it was that it was smaller than I expected. Still, very cozy. As you climb the stairs to the upper floors, you'll go through Dr.Watson's & Mrs. Hudson's rooms, and a couple others as you continue up. In these rooms you'll see recreations (complete with the "lifelike?" manequins portraying scenes from various stories. Overall, it's a very cute, if a bit cheezy place. The 6 quid they charge to visit the "museum" may be a bit of a stretch, but it doesn't matter. It's still something you need to do, just to say you have. And don't forget to ask the maid to have your picture taken in the study!!

And, of course, there's the obligatory gift shop down on the ground floor. Don't forget your Baker St. magnet!

Website: http://www.sherlock-holmes.co.uk/

The Russians are coming!!!

As we were walking somewhere on the Eastern outskirts of London, on the South bank near Greenwich, we happened to be walking through what seemed to be a fairly new high-rise housing development. And what did we run across in front of one of the buildings but the full life-size statue of the famous (or infamous) Russian czar, Peter The Great himself. It turns out that 1998 marked the 300th anniversary of Peter's visit to London, to learn the ins & outs of maritime science. Russia chose to commemorate the visit by giving the statue as a gift to the City of London. The location of the statue, out of the way of most but the neighborhood kids, should probably tell you the significance that the town planners placed on the occasion. Oh well. It's an interesting piece of sculpture all the same.

Old Blackfriars Railroad Bridge

While walking along the South bank you'll probably come across the remnants of the old Blackfriars railroad bridge. The bridge is long gone, replaced by a newer one right next to it, but the bright red piers and the brightly colored bridge markers still remain.

Thames South Bank

We walked along the South bank of Thames between Tate Modern and Hungerford Bridge. It's a long promenade along the river, and is home to the arts complex (a number of theaters and concert halls), numerous restaurants, a few condominiums, and some great people watching.

So take a stroll along the river, you never know what you'll see...

Greenwich Park

This is a nice park that surrounds the Greenwich Observatory perched on top of its hill. It is very green, with tree-lined walkways and wide expanses of lush grass lawns. On a nice sunny summer day the park is swamped by people who gravitate there to soak up the rare rays of sunshine.