2006 London - Fandrick's Vacation

Our 6th day in London was another fun day of exploring, which we
both love to do. It's like Christmas where you wonder what will be
in the next gift you open, or what we'll find around the next corner,
or what new discovery we'll find today.......

This impressive stone arch, commissioned by George IV, was completed in 1830 to commemorate
Wellington's victories over Napoleon. It was moved to its present site in 1882. The statue is the
largest bronze sculpture in Europe, and depicts the angel of peace descending on the chariot of war.
The arch has three floors of exhibition space and a viewing platform.

The V and A Museum is the largest museum of decorative, fine and applied art and design in the world.
You'll find 7 miles of galleries on four floors. In 1899 the museum was renamed by Queen Victoria in
memory of her late husband Prince Albert. Housing almost 4 million pieces, it's a good idea to plan your
route through the museum. Don't miss the Canon Photography Gallery. (Works of celebrated photographers)

Royal Albert Hall is one of the most famous performing arts venues in the world. Opening in 1871 as the brain-child of
Queen Victoria's husband Prince Albert, it is an enormous circular domed concert hall, with a breathtaking auditorium. The
stunning architecture modeled on a Roman amphitheater is unique and beyond comparison. This Victorian hall hosts classical,
rock and other performances, but is best known as the venue for The Proms, which takes place from mid-July to Mid-September.
The Proms is the world's greatest classical musical festival, with over 70 concerts featuring musicians from all over Europe. www.bbc.co.uk/proms

The Royal College of Music, founded in 1862 has many exhibits of historic musical instruments from around the
world. Talented musicians from all over the world train here for the ever-widening demands of the music profession.

The National Gallery is London's leading art museum. It has over 2,000 paintings organized in chronological order into
four wings. Founded in 1824, when King George IV arranged the purchase of 38 major paintings. My favorite is the East
Wing (1700-1900) housing the Impressionists section (Manet, Monet, Cezanne, Gaugin, Van Gogh and more).

The National Gallery has one of the world's most comprehensive collections of British and European paintings.