Since moving out of London 6 years ago and subsequently selling my flat there, I've only been back in the Big Smoke once, or maybe twice - to watch the tennis at Wimbledon. It's a place that I had never planned to live and once living there, couldn't imagine ever leaving. And now that I have the coastal life that I've always dreamed of, the idea of ever returning was a distant one.
But on Friday, some of my old course mates arranged to have drinks in Soho and I decided that I'd make an appearance with the thought that I'd be overwhelmed and would appreciate the tranquillity of Eastbourne even more.
Soho's just 2 stops on the Tube from London Victoria which almost always means it's walkable - in this case, a 30 minute walk past Buckingham Palace and the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus - so I decided to get a slightly earlier train and do a spot of sight seeing. At least that way, if I don't enjoy the drinks and Soho, I'd have had a nice walk.
My 1st site was Buckingham Palace - the former residence of the Queen of England. After the recent death of her husband, Prince Philip, she decided that the place was a bit big to be looking after now and decided to downsize, moving to Windsor Castle.
Just next to this, is the Victoria Memorial.
I continued my journey through Green Park and despite it being pitch black, remembered many occasions that I'd spent in, or walking through this park and despite having not grown up in London, I felt at home. I expected to feel overwhelmed, but I felt like I belonged here.
I continued my walk towards Soho. past the famous Ritz hotel...
...and had to stop outside Fortnum & Mason to double check that it was still mid-November.
Fortunately, it was too cold for anybody to decide to open a window.
Oh, and then the Maltese embassy reminded me that we're not in the EU any more, and that they are.
I continued my walk, the bright lights, the noise, the traffic, the impatient London residents all giving me a warm feeling. Passing places that I'd either visited on one of my more touristy days, or visited for a business meeting or night out.
š The National Gallery
I'd also visited at a time when the Christmas lights were turned on and despite me still believing it's November, I was able to enjoy them.
And eventually, I found my destination - The Blind Pig in Soho. Funnily enough, the entrance wasn't obvious and whilst stood outside confused, I was lucky that somebody who knew where they were going opened the door. I wondered if the "blind" in the name was their little joke.
It was a good night, and a great experience. I'm hoping it won't be long before I return and the bustling streets can capture my imagination once again.
It was a late night - the 1.5 hour train journey home adding to that and a sobering 25 minute walk up the hill to my home - accompanied by a fox.
All photos taken with my iPhone 5s