Not your average day: Lunch at the House of Commons

Just over a week on now from the UK's referendum regarding our EU membership; and with our world going a little crazy with the uncertainty, "what nows?" and the inevitable political fall-out, I thought I would try to lighten the mood with this post about a rather special lunch I had recently.

Just before the referendum the Members' Dining Room in the House of Commons was opened to the public for two days only. I was asked if I wanted to try out this rather unique new lunch spot, and so jumped at the chance to explore and experience this (probably for me) once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

I rocked up to a side-entrance of the Houses of Parliament and was hustled through security; there's nothing like a security pat-down to whet one's appetite. Having passed this first test, I wandered through the jaw-dropping halls to meet my lunch companion at the Members' Dining Room.

Unfortunately, you're not allowed to take photos inside, so I have one very blurry one I quickly snapped before I realised you weren't allowed! Whoops!

The lunch itself was simply fantastic; the food was absolutely outstanding and the service was second-to-none. I happened to ask one of the team, purely out of curiosity, whether the kitchen was a bit cramped, considering the ancient age of the building. The lovely man then proceeded to organise for me to go and visit the kitchens and meet the head chef! I think that says it all - they made us feel incredibly welcome and went above-and-beyond to make the whole experience one to remember (for the right reasons).

(Left) Seared sliced beef skirt, maple and smoke sticky glaze, char-grilled gem lettuce, chive sour cream, dill pickles. (Centre) Slow cooked pigs cheek, crisp pork belly, sage creamed potato, potato crisp, roast globe artichoke, glazed carrots. (Right) Brioche feuillete, chocolate ganache, puff pastry ice cream, sugar crisp.

After this feast, including beautiful petits fours and an excellent cuppa, I headed off for a tour of the Houses of Parliament. As it turned out I had a 1:1 tour, which was amazing. I'm sad to say I have reached my grand old age and lived in London for going on three years and never been to look round one the most iconic buildings of London.

Being shown around it's hallowed halls and oddly familiar chambers, was an incredible experience. Soaking up the atmosphere of power, politics and history whilst thinking about the people who serve within it's walls was inspiring and thought-provoking. Knowing that later that week a seminal and unprecedented vote would take place, which had the potential to change the face of our United Kingdom, and the world beyond made the day all the more poignant. A vote which now, with the result, has shaken the foundations of that historic building and all of us with it.

It was an incredible day, an outstanding lunch and has been an historic week.
I would highly recommend you check out the House of Commons website, in case they open the Members' Dining Room again.

What are some of your city or country's landmarks you are yet to visit? Any suggestions for must-see sights or unique spots? 

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