In unexpected bright sunshine on Monday 2nd March, thirty-five members of West Bridgford u3a enjoyed a wonderful trip to Westminster.
The tour of parliament was arranged through Rushcliffe MP James Naish, and as an added bonus the man himself was on hand to talk to the group before the start of our tours which were led by members of his team.
The tours started in Westminster Hall, and included a visit to both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Most of us were surprised at how small the House of Commons is – not even big enough to seat at the same time all 650 MPs that need to use it.
Nonetheless, it was impressive for its history and our guides explained where each parliamentary group sit in the Chamber that was rebuilt after being bombed during the Second World War.
The House of Lords is slightly bigger and much grander – lots of blood-red leather, and gold decorations, and of course the famous woolsack where the Lord Speaker sits.
After the tours we had time to explore other places in London, and were delighted to see the newly regilded Big Ben sparklingin the sunshine.
Despite a very early start to the day, we all had a great time, and the bus trip was enlivened by the driver, John, who gave us a running commentary of London landmarks as we passed them. Overall, an interesting and very enjoyable day out.
Written by Carole Fleming, from West Bridgford u3a
