Indian Summer in London

London has been experiencing record heat for the last few days--the warmest days ever recorded in October, so everyone has been out soaking up the rays knowing that the true autumn days can't be far away.

Sidewalk cafes have been full,

the Saturday market at Duke of York Square was the home of a children's celebration, complete with a carrousel

and a petting zoo on the grounds of what was the former Duke of York's headquarters and now is the site of the Saatchi Gallery.

The dahlias are in bloom

and the grounds of the St.Luke's Church  here in Chelsea were full of worshippers: 

sun-worshippers that is.

Today was the beginning of the Legal Year and justices and judges made their way to Westminster Abbey for their traditional prayer service which dates back to the Middle Ages when they asked for divine guidance in their decision making.

The service was presided over by the Lord Chancellor and the Lord Chief Justice, and 

then they all made their way to Westminster Hall in the Houses of Parliament for their traditional breakfast.

Today was a lucky day for me, because a friend who works for a member of Parliament took 4 of us on a special tour of the House of Parliament. Although interior photos were not allowed,

I snapped a few of the outside of Parliament from the courtyards. 

We were amazed by the opulence and the history of such a distinguished institution as we toured the House of Commons, the House of Lords, and the Queen's Robing Room where she is robed for the opening day of Parliament. The tour was definitely one of the highlights of our stay here in London.

Tomorrow the weather changes and fall returns to London, but that's OK, because I'm off on a girls' trip to Croatia where the weather is sunny and warm. Lots to learn and see in an amazingly beautiful country I'm told!