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There are now only around 100 Maximus tickets left for Centenary Day – so
you will need to be quick if you want one! Royal tickets are still in
plentiful supply, and these will give you access to all of the
day’s events except the Central Hall, Westminster reception. Our
correspondent below has bought a Royal ticket and here are his thoughts
about how he might spend his day in London...<br><br>
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"A friend asked whether I was going down to London for the <i>RW
</i>Centenary Day and after confirming that I was, they then asked what
was I going to do. That question made me think “Well, what will I do?”
and, looking at the programme of events which I could join armed with my
Royal ticket. I gave it some thought. Being a simple person I thought why
not just follow the Sun going from East to West, so my plan began to take
shape.<br><br>
"First I would go to Whitechapel Bell Foundry in E1; always good to
see what’s happening in the UK’s oldest manufacturing company – might
take a look at Brick Lane on the way. Then it’s on to the City of London;
haven't rung on the new bells at St Magnus yet, looking forward to that.
There are, of course, some 60 towers going to be open around Greater
London, so might fit some more in later. Whilst I'm in the City I could
join one of the City walks; always fancied seeing the interiors of some
of those glorious churches which, because they have no bells, we tend to
ignore. Lots of history and I understand the tower of St
Dunstan-in-the-West will be open, this is the Church where William
Tyndale and John Donne preached and where Izaac Walton was a
sidesman.<br><br>
"A quick trip now across to Pimlico to hear some of the Youth
Striking Competition, interesting to hear how the latest generation are
performing – probably better than me! Should be able to get a bite of
lunch in the hall and see the exhibition whilst I am about it. Big
question now, do I hop on the Victoria Line to Bond Street for the
Carillon recital or the 24 bus to Trafalgar Square for the Art Exhibition
at the Royal Opera House Gallery in nearby Pall Mall?<br><br>
"Anyway definitely going to the Westminster Abbey service and might
just have time to have a peak round before the start – would cost a bomb
if I didn't have this ticket. After the service it’s a “no-brainer” –
straight into Dean’s Yard for a quick go on the mini-rings and then a
quenching pint in the Taylor beer tent. Listen to the Abbey bells perhaps
as well, unless I'm really lucky in the draw to ring – doubt it!<br><br>
"Well nearly the end of the afternoon but still the musical handbell
concert in St Margaret’s to go: should be good. Then it’s off home,
perhaps calling at some hostelry before the train, glad I'm not driving.
Yes. On reflection I know what I'm going to do and it sounds a right
Royal day!<br>
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