Memorials and Monuments

London’s memorials and monuments- the history behind them and the people they honour

The Fascinating Story Behind London’s Bluecoat Statues

bluecoat sculptures history

One of my favourite oddities to spot around London are ‘bluecoat’ statues. You will occasionally see them, most often in a pair, a girl and a boy, on the front of buildings. They are usually there because the building was once what was known as a ‘bluecoat’ school. Bluecoat, sometimes spelt ‘blewcoat’, schools were charitable […]

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What Is The Oldest Statue In London?

the oldest statue in london

With any question starting with ‘what is the oldest x’ in London, whether that is the oldest pub, church or sculpture, the answer is always more complicated than you would think. Today, I thought I would tackle one of those: the oldest statue. This only includes outdoor statues, otherwise museums would come into play. There

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9 Secrets Of St Bartholomew The Great Church

st bartholomew the great church history

St Bartholomew the Great, London’s oldest parish church, is hands down one my favourite historical spots in London. The history here is palpable. I was lucky enough to be shown round by Marcus Walker, the rector and so in this post are my favourite stories and secrets of the church.  But first, a quick introduction

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The Cornerstone: A Quirky Artwork In Bermondsey

cornerstone bermondsey

Bermondsey is always an area I enjoy exploring. It is bursting with history and heritage, particularly with its array of wonderful old Victorian converted warehouse buildings. Walk down bustling Bermondsey Street and, at the edge of Tanner Street Park, something unusual may catch your eye.  This brilliantly quirky artwork is called ‘the Cornerstone’ and speaks

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The Fascinating Story Of The John Snow Pump In Soho

john snow water pump history

In Soho is an easily overlooked piece of street furniture. It does, however, have a fascinating history that goes right to the heart of story of Victorian London and to a man whose praises are not sung anywhere near enough.  On Broadwick Street you will find the John Snow Water Pump.  Cholera in Victorian London

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