In 2014, we were traveling to Africa and ended up with a 12-hour layover at Heathrow. We took the opportunity to leave the airport and see the city, including Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London. We’d flown through Heathrow many times but this was a chance to explore the city.

Laura was most interested in seeing the Westminster Abbey.  For an Anglophile, it really doesn’t get better than this.  Westminster Abbey is the historic venue for royal coronations, royal weddings, and royal burials.  When it comes to royalty, it’s all about Westminster Abbey.  And yes, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But the real reason for her interest is that it is the burial place for Edward III.  She’d taken one of those genetic ancestry tests and discovered she was descended from King Edward III.  I didn’t break the news to her that something like 80% of the British population alive today can also claim the great Edward III as an ancestor.

When we visited, the Abbey was absolutely mobbed with people undeterred by the rather hefty admission fee (£22+).  We’d recommend it if you’re in central London.  It’s one of those places to see once in your lifetime, but you probably wouldn’t ever go back unless you’re a die-hard Anglophile.