Tunnel

We were up and out for a 10am Hidden London tour of Holborn station, where two platforms from the former Strand (Aldwych) branch line are unused and hidden from day-to-day operations. One of the platforms remains recognisable, featuring the sole remaining 'Holborn (Kingsway)' roundel attached to the wall. Like other disused platforms we've visited, it occasionally serves as a mock-up for experimental equipment and signage. The war transformed the other platform into mess rooms and Blitz-safe accommodation. Like all the other tours we have done, this was wonderfully guided and fascinating. I wonder how much more sits beneath London to be explored?

At the end of the tour, we both came home, but PY was only here for an hour before he headed back to central London for another day with Team London at Piccadilly Circus.

I stayed home and did chores and food preparation for the week, including the final sanding of the back doors, but I was also back on a train in the early evening to meet PY, P and W for dinner. PY and P had moved from Piccadilly Circus to Comptons on Old Compton Street, where they had secured a table in the upstairs bar. I met them for a drink, and after W joined us, we headed to Pierre Victoire on Dean Street.

I started with a miso glazed aubergine with minted babaganush, which was delicious. My main course of entrecote steak and fries topped with garlic & parsley butter was indulgent. The green beans I added were meant to make me feel more virtuous, while the desert cheese board was mouthwatering but unnecessary.

Lovely company and a relatively early night made for a nice end to the weekend.