Small mouse on the platform at Piccadilly Circus. Thought we left those critters behind, although they say there are over 18 million rats in London. That’s two per person. They’ve even infested 10 Downing Street on occasion, giving rise to the obvious jokes. Pretty slim pickings here, though.
We meet up with Jenny at Waterloo for coffee and a chat. London is full of unexpected corners. Jenny has chosen Pedlar’s, a little café on Lower Marsh Street. The street is hidden behind Waterloo Station and is home to a lively market with street food and crafts. Pedlar’s does have a couple of tables on the street, which would be fun but noisy. So we opt for a leafy bower behind the café. Good coffee and croissants and, as always, good conversation.
And time for a little more exploration afterward. We circle Waterloo in the opposite direction and enter the arches underneath the station. Leake Street tunnel and arches are an extravaganza of wild graffiti. Constantly evolving, as anyone is free to add to it and overlays are continuous. It’s also home to a few commercial establishments, like bars, that thrive in the atmosphere.
London has some 800 arches and makes good use of them. A number of years ago we went to a concert that Alexander’s brother was playing in. London Bridge Arches? Not sure any more. There are so many excellent spots for exhibitions and shows of all kinds.