When I think back on my favorite vacation, one trip instantly comes to mind: London—where cobblestone streets, red double-decker buses, and Big Ben met… the NFL.

Yes, American football in the heart of England. It might sound like an odd pairing, but it made for one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. Because “football” in Europe is our soccer, they call American football “NFL.”

The trip started with excitement as I landed in London and attended a breakfast buffet featuring American and English breakfast items hosted by the Hard Rock Cafe.

We toured the city in a double-decker bus, culminating in a ride on the London Eye, giving us a beautiful nighttime view of the entire city.

Day 2 of our London adventure included a tour of Westminster Abbey, The Royal Mews (stables), and the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. I have always loved poetry, so visiting Westminster Abbey has been a dream of mine since I was a teenager. The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior is the first thing you see when stepping inside, and it is truly a magnificent site. (Unfortunately, no photos are allowed inside.) During World War I, an army chaplain saw a grave marked by a wooden cross, and he wanted to do something to honor this soldier and the many others who were not identified. He contacted the Dean of Westminster in 1920 about honoring these soldiers “amongst the kings.” Four unnamed soldiers were exhumed, placed in coffins draped in Union flags, and taken to a church in France. Brigadier L.J. Wyatt entered the chapel and placed his hand on one of the coffins. A tomb was built just inside the entrance of Westminster Abbey, and King George V personally chose one of his swords to cover the casket with the inscription “A British Warrior who fell in the Great War 1914–1918 for King and Country.” The soldier was interred on November 11, 1920 – now known as Remembrance Day. It is surrounded by red paper poppies and is truly a stirring site. It is the only tomb in the Abbey on which it is forbidden to walk. For State ceremonies, the red carpet is laid around the tomb so as not to disturb it. Royal brides lay their bouquets on the tomb at the end of their wedding ceremonies.

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Walk

We then walked through the Green Park along the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Walk on the way to Buckingham Palace. This marker brought me to tears again – such a beautiful person, gone much too soon.

 

Buckingham Palace

You really have to see Buckingham Palace in person to comprehend its size – 775 rooms including 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms. This is the Queen’s primary residence and place of business. It is considered “The Office” by the Royal Family. Next week I’ll post about our tour of Windsor Castle, the Queen’s weekend residence and childhood home.

Changing of the Guard

Stunning! Spectacular!

Changing of the Guard (YouTube)

I was so looking forward to this tour, I had to make a little Royal Guard crochet pattern.

Toy Soldier Cuddler Pattern

The NFL International Series had brought two teams across the pond, and I was lucky enough to be in the stands to see my favorite team, the Houston Texans defeat the Jaguars. Seeing fans from around the world decked out in jerseys, waving flags, and cheering together was something special. The stadium atmosphere was electric—part sports event, part cultural fusion. British fans embraced the game with enthusiasm, and American fans (like me!) brought their traditions and team spirit along for the ride.

But the trip wasn’t just about football. London has a magic all its own. I explored historic landmarks like the Tower of London, strolled along the Thames River, took in the view from the London Eye, and even squeezed in a trip to Windsor Castle. The contrast between the roaring stadium and the serene elegance of London’s old-world charm made the trip feel perfectly balanced.

Combining my love of football with the thrill of international travel was something I hadn’t experienced before—but I’d do it again in a heartbeat. If you ever get the chance to catch an NFL game in London, go. You’ll get a passport stamp, a great game, and a memory that sticks with you long after the final whistle.