Sorry that I didn't provide dates. Yes, I'm going when the palace is open to visitors (Sept). So the HMS Belfast will be open again as well. And hopefully nothing else will close down in the meantime.

Parliament - Looks like there are some options for overseas visitors that don't require an invite - http://www.parliament.uk/visiting/vi...rseasvisitors/.

Bletchley Park - I somehow got the impression that it would be much shorter than that. Now I'm really glad that I asked!

Tower of London - I apparently have more research to do to determine what parts I'm interested in seeing. Sorry. I think the fact that you've already been there several times and still haven't seen everything somewhat sets my expectations for this one

Hotel - Haven't closed on this yet. Would like to stay near Tower Bridge, but the hotel rates seem a little high right now. Also looking near Hyde Park/Paddington Station. I didn't think this mattered too much. I'll likely stay in an area where I can walk to all of the attractions for one of the days, and I'll just plan on taking the Tube the rest of the time. Except for BP & LHR, I don't think I even venture out of Zone 1 with this itinerary. I'll most likely take 1 trip per day during peak travel times (to get to my destination @ opening time). I was considering a 7 day travelcard, but I'm thinking that this may not be necessary. I need to go do the math on that.

Getting over jet lag - I was thinking of a bus tour or maybe a river tour as well. The river tour would tie in nicely with the London Eye.

Thanks for the suggestions on the Cutty Sark & other ways to tweak my plans.