I have always wanted to go on the PS (Paddle Steamer) Waverley, from back in the days when the children were small and I was living near the Bristol Channel, but we never did, so when the opportunity arose to go up the Thames on her I signed us up.
We went by coach to Southend where we had a hasty lunch of fish and chips, before catching the little train that took us to the end of the 1.25 mile pier. A quick ice-cream (it was a glorious hot day with no wind) and then Waverley arrived.
I had hoped to have my 'Titanic' moment standing in the bow but I couldn't get there because it was full of ropes and a sailor!!
Then we were off and what a brilliant trip it was and at times I found it very emotional.
Good there is one lifeboat at least |
The RNLI were interested in us |
A container ship being loaded at Thames Gateway |
We overtook 'Atlantis' |
The Queen Elizabeth bridge |
I have crossed this bridge as part of the Dartford Crossing on my way to stay with my son in Kent so I was quite excited to be going under it
This bridge is one way going South on the M25. Coming back you cross through the original tunnels
and that upturned mushroom is one of the vents for the tunnel. You can't see that from the road.
Going through the Thames Barrier |
As you can see the sun is beginning to set but we chugged on up the river passing
Greenwich Palace |
The Cutty Sark |
Canary Wharf |
Past the O2, now hemmed in by flats
Courtesy of SewHappy |
and then further up river we came round a bend and there ahead was Tower Bridge all lit up against the setting sun. A very moving moment for me.
The Waverley slowed right down and we waited; at this moment I felt that the ship was straining to go but couldn't and then slowly we edged forward and the Bridge started to open
and then we were through and at that moment the wonderful deep bass hoot was made and I like to think that it was the Waverley thanking the bridge for opening!
We were in the Pool of London in front of the Tower of London
The White Tower |
and in the background was The Shard with HMS Belfast tied up.
This was the end of a memorable day out and another tick for the bucket list!!
On the crafty front I was asked to provide an item for Will's Family Box (remember, I used to look after him but he has just started school) so I decided on this
An ice cream complete with sprinkles!! |
but it has found a use as my brother in law has just had an operation on his ankle and is in plaster and this over-size sock covers the whole thing beautifully and keeps his toes warm!!!!