Yesterday morning we were held up by workmen coming to replace a couple of windows in the apartment. I wanted to check on their work as we had problems previously. It was only two of the windows being replaced, rather pointlessly, to hang from the opposite side when in casement mode. One of the replaced windows seems slightly wonky, the handle doesn’t end up completely straight and the window doesn’t tilt as much as the others, but I may leave it for now. When Gary has other people staying here they may find problems and he can follow it up. Basically, things work.

They left in time for us to go out for lunch before visiting the National Gallery. We knew that Trafalgar Square in front of the Gallery is a place where protesters are sitting, but as there hasn’t been violence we thought it was safe enough to check things out.

Lunch first, at the underground cafe at St Martins. This is a cafeteria type cafe with good food, not too fancy, located in the crypt.

We wandered out into the square and observed the protesters from the edge closest to the gallery.

There are three cafes in the National Gallery and for afternoon tea we chose one which had subdued lighting and a view of Trafalgar Square. The seating was comfortable as well.

Afterwards, before heading back home, we took a walk amongst the protesters. We felt fairly safe with all of the police around and the overal general good feeling of a peaceful protest. We were intrigued by the people dressed as living statues in red costumes and I followed up today on Google.

Who are the Red Brigade who silently appear at Extinction Rebellion protests?

It was a very grey day, but there was surprisingly little rain when we were out.