Horizon 22

Busy day. Breakfast at Kaffeine (flat, whites and a vegan lemon. Poppy cake for me). Back to Hotel to freshen up. Bus to National portrait Gallery quickly popped into the David Hockney portraits exhibition – couldn't miss my favourite artist.

Number 15 (happened to be a heritage bus from 1962) to Bishopsgate. Fortunately, as we alighted, bumped into 'A' (who had booked the free tickets months ago) and her family (over from Naples). We wasted half an hour in Leadenhall Market waiting for our 2.30 slot to visit the Horizon 22 viewpoint (tallest in London).

The Horizon was spectacular – took a lift up 58 floors. 360° views of London, was up there for an hour. See the Shard on the left of blip (it's a little taller, but the Horizon viewpoint is 10 m taller).

Went back to Leadenhall market where our friends had spotted fabulous café/patisserie with croissants and buns. Unfortunately, nothing vegan, so Mr and I popped into a bar and had some crisps and Aspall cider.

Dinner booked for 630 at Sartori. So bus back to Covent Garden. Wandered through the area. Then they had Neapolitan pizzas, except for 'A' who was excited they had Panuozzi (cross between flatbread and pizza, folded over). I had pasta with my request of aubergine tomatoes, capers, olives, and pepper and peperoncini .

Went into the M&M shop - heaven for their little son 'D' - almost beats Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. Was new to me. Said our goodbyes - arriverderci till next time! Walked back to hotel nr. Oxford Circus.

Everytime we return we find something new. London is so vibrant, alive and exciting. Can't believe we left 11 years and now visit as tourists!

Flaked out now.