summer (is) social!

While the US is celebrating Independence Day, summer finally comes to London after a long season of rain, cold wind and grey days - and with summer come other visitors!

The warm breeze and bright sunshine tempt us outside to seek good company. It's a delight to visit a lifelong family friend for Sunday dinner.

Pasta with ground pork and shiitake mushrooms precede a white baked sole with roast asparagus. We ate so much that - for once in a blue moon - we had no room for dessert!

Wednesday we welcomed visitors from the home island with a wander around London, starting at Green Park and Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guard.

Then St. James' Park to admire the lake. It's a stunning view for first-time visitors: the bridge, the palace at one end, the Swiss-style chalet where the caretaker of the lake birds used to live.

The park is famous for its wildlife: herons, moorhens, ducks, and a swan with a family of fluffy cygnets!

Then off to the Thames to walk down the south bank of the river, Londoners' favourite thing to do on a sunny day. We had lunch at Southbank and walked down Westminster Bridge past Waterloo, all the way to the Tate Modern.

Secret London Guide to Tate Modern

Crossing the Millennium Bridge we admired St. Paul's Cathedral. Then it was back to Green Park for afternoon tea and hugs goodbye.

Friday afternoon we met friends at Granary Square to enjoy the last few hours of sun and try the offerings of the artisanal Canopy Market. Oysters for starters!

Then bulgogi bibimbap and hot dogs made with French sausage, served with special sauces and chips.

No wonder summer is our favourite season!