Royal Musings: Day 2 (Part 2) - the NPG and the Theatre

I took the subway to Leicester Square to go to the Half-Price ticket booth. The booth sells tickets to all productions in London, and not all are discounted. Much to my delight I bought a ticket for Hamilton in the stalls (what Americans call the orchestra seats).

I had entered the lottery for a £10 ticket for Hamilton but did not win a ticket. I paid a bit more than £10 but it was WORTH IT!

After getting the ticket, I sat down for a bit in the park in Leicester Square. I sat next to my bestie, Paddington Bear

Everyone wants to sit next to Paddington!!!!

It is a short walk from Leicester Square to Charing Cross Road and the National Portrait Gallery, which reopened on June 22nd, after a three-year design of the St. Martin's Place building. All I have to say is WOW! It is free to visit, although special exhibits require tickets.

I am so glad I got to see this portrait

Sir Philip Sidney

The Bronte sisters

A bust of Edward VII. Did not see a portrait of the king or Queen Alexandra

I wanted to see Paul McCartney's photos at the NPG, a ticketed event, but not enough time.

After visiting the NPG, I had tea in their new cafe. The two scones were HUGE. Seriously the scones were HUGE! Delicious, too.

Headed back to the tube to Victoria Station and a short walk to Victoria Palace Theatre. Next door to the theatre is the Duke of York pub. I had not eaten at this pub in some years. Convenient, but crowded. Difficult to get a table for one. A nice Australian family invited me to sit at their table. I ordered a salad and water. As I said, the scones were HUGE!!!!! I was not very hungry.

The London production of Hamilton is excellent.