ok....well after 4 days of being able to watch the parade... and a different spot each time, i got it perfect! hahaha...
a quiet place is further back... nearer into fantasy world, where the floats come out.. but the floats pass very quick,a nd you only get a good view of one side of the float.
the seats near the princesses stage was good... but this could get crowded... and it only takes one pushy family to ruin the viewing for everyone... but still a good option as you can stand on bench if all else fails.
but my fav place... for so many reason is here....
sit ont he curb... so that your facing the seats opposite the princesses stage... sit so you have the road coming towards you... this way
you see the floats for ages come up.. then going around ben... then going away from you... its a great view from every angle... you get the dancers coming up and saying hi.... and this is also where the show stop is for the christmas dancers... so at the end... you also see the soldiers dance and see father christmas waving etc..... if you dont know where i mean... maybe i could find a pic of a map!! haha...
but yes, great spot! and it was not that busy either as pavement is quite thin there... so once buggy etc behind you, your fine.. i sat us there with popcorn and hot choc.. it was perfect!!