Tower of London: Stepping Back In Time



The entrance into the Tower of London

The Tower of London is an amazing place where you can learn a lot about London and the people who lived in the city over one thousand years ago.  London in the Middle Ages was very different to London today.  Back in those days if the King didn't like you (maybe you said he couldn't do something he really wanted to do), chances are you would end up in jail, or even worse, lose your head!  Punishments were always pretty cruel.  If you were found gossiping (talking about your friend in a mean way), you would have to wear this mask for a while.  Looks pretty uncomfortable if you ask me.



The Gossip Mask

I found it interesting that jail wasn't always a terrible punishment.  Some jail cells looked like this.  They had furniture and a fireplace, almost like a modern day hotel room.  Some prisoners were even allowed to have their families live in the Tower of London with them.

A jail cell at the Tower of London

Today the Tower of London is still used as a fortress.  It is where all of the Queen's jewels and gold items are kept safe.  During the day you can go into the massive safe where all the treasure is kept, but at night guards lock up the safe to keep all those diamonds out of burglars' hands.

A Kid's Guide to Bath

Here are some great ideas if ever you find yourself in Bath and don't know what to do.  Unfortunately, I just have one day left in London so I don't think I will get a chance to visit Bath on this trip, but maybe on my next visit to England I will get a chance to spend a day or two in Bath.

London Street Food

Only in London will you find fancy street food like Champagne and oysters.  Sounds like street food the Queen might enjoy!  I wonder what other kinds of street food I will come across as I travel?

What is it?

Today while walking along the Southbank in London I came across this.  What do you think it might be?  A dinosaur egg?  A giant jellybean?  Do you have any ideas?

Dogs Allowed!

After seeing those very upsetting anti-dog signs in Reyjavik (the ones that said no dogs allowed on pedestrian streets), I was pleasantly surprised to see this sight yesterday at lunch.  A dog and its owner having lunch together in a restaurant.  It made me realize that the people in England must really be dog lovers.  Maybe this dog is the like the one in the book The King's Taster and he is around to sample the food before his owner does.  Whatever the case, I really like the idea of being able to take my dog along with me for lunch.

Warwick Castle

Today I spent the day exploring a real castle. Warwick Castle (pronounced Wor-ick) was first built in 1068, it was just made out of wood back then. It was gradually rebuilt in stone throughout the middle ages and the castle was home to several Earls until 1978. Going through each room I got to experience history firsthand and what it would have been like to be a King living in England long ago. Lucky for me, I had the Red Knight around to protect me from any evil knights who might be lurking nearby trying to hurt me. He was such a noble and kind knight, and I thank him for his service.

Looking down at Warwick Castle

A dining room fit for a king!

My new pal Henry VIII.  He said I could come and stay at the castle anytime.

The Red Knight and the Blue Knight trying to get the sword out of the stone.

A Kid’s Guide to London

Now that I am in London I need to start planning out how I am going to spend my time here. There is so much to see and I only have a few days before I head off to a new city. Here are some ideas to consider,

I love the London Eye and I have done that before. I have also seen lots of theatre in London, but I have never watched a dance performance in London, so maybe I will do that. I like all the restaurant suggestions and hope I can visit one that you have recommended. I can’t wait to start exploring.

Thanks for all the tips!

Mr. Pimentel

I Am Here - London, England

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