Parks and Gardens

The history of and secret spots in London’s beautiful parks and gardens

A Rare Look Inside The Ancient London Home Of The Archbishop Of Canterbury

lambeth palace history

Lambeth Palace is a magnificent example of living history. For over 800 years it has been the home of the Archbishop of Canterbury in London and continues to serve that purpose today. Due to it being a private, working building, it is not one many Londoners are particularly familiar with. They may have seen the […]

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A Country Church In The Heart Of The City: St Olave Hart Street

st olave hart street history

Nestled amongst the skyscrapers and ceaseless energy of the City of London lies a small pocket of stillness, steeped in history: the church of St Olave Hart Street. It can be found on the corner of Seething Lane and Hart Street and looks almost out of place today, like a countryside parish church in the

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Six Historic Havens For Wildlife In The City

London is one of the world’s greenest cities. It has its famous sweeping parks, but also so many smaller, green oases tucked away in the metropolis.  I, naturally, spend a lot of time in these gardens, as they often have fascinating histories. I recently started noticing these wooden posts dotted around the flower beds.  They

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The Hotel With Links To The Titanic: A Visit To Bloomsbury’s Kimpton Fitzroy London

kimpton fitzroy hotel history

Bloomsbury is a lovely area for a spot of London exploration, with its literary heritage, beautiful Georgian architecture and leafy garden squares.  Overlooking one such square, Russell Square, you will find the impressive Kimpton Fitzroy London hotel. Its many carvings and ornate decorations make it a real architectural feast for the eyes. I have admired

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Hidden Oases: A Sneak Peek At Five Spitalfields Gardens

Spitalfields, I think, is one of London’s best areas for an aimless wander. It is steeped in history, each building stuffed with, often, centuries worth of stories. I spot new details on the facades of the old 18th century townhouses every time I walk the atmospheric backstreets: door knockers, drain pipes, doorcases. A recent open

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