Summer On The South Bank Poem by Angela Wybrow

Nothing quite beats strolling along
London's South Bank in the sun.
From the cafes and bars laughter is heard.
The vibe is electric. There's a real sense of fun.

Like a giant bicycle wheel,
Turning slowly, is the London Eye.
Its numerous see-through pods
Carrying passengers way up high.

The 'Appearing Rooms' art installation,
Has constantly dancing water jets.
Small children in swimwear, shriek with joy,
As them, the water cools and wets.

In the ballroom at the Royal Festival Hall,
There's often entertainment for free.
You can watch singers, dancers or musicians,
While sitting having cake and a cup of tea.

Out on the rolling River Thames,
There's boats of all kinds, including catamarans.
As they pass under the numerous bridges,
Passers-by smile and wave their hands.

At Gabriel's Wharf, a bit further along,
The smell of garlic lingers in the air.
People sit outside eating pizza and pasta,
Chatting and relaxing, without a care.

The sand sculptors work away
On the small beach left by the tide.
When the water, once again, rises,
Their masterpieces, it will wash away and hide.

Keep going, and you come to the Globe,
Where the roar of the crowd can be heard.
This round wooden 'O' is dedicated
To keeping alive Shakespeare's word.

Ice cream vans are dotted along the way,
Selling strawberry, vanilla and chocolate ice.
They often also sell other snacks and drinks.
With their wares, customers they try to entice.

Caught up in the atmosphere,
It's hard to tear yourself away,
But you finally leave the thrilling throng,
In the knowledge that you can repeat it all another day.