Essential History | The people, places and events that have shaped our history and culture
The people, places and events that have shaped our history and culture
The courtyard of Somerset House was originally a lawn leading to a Renaissance palace and a catholic chapel by the river. The original Somerset House was built by the Duke of Somerset (protector to Edward 6th) on this land and subsequently used by the Danish Queen of James I. It was replaced by today's glorious [...]
Back from a fascinating (and technically mind boggling) visit to Bletchley Park near Milton Keynes. It's about an hour from London. Featured in the film 'The Imitation Game', this was where the enemy codes and ciphers (Enigma and then Lorenz) were broken during World War Two. See the early computing machines that did [...]
The west towers of Westminster Abbey were built in 1745 as an addition to the medieval Abbey. Here is where all British monarchs (except two) have been crowned since 1066. And it's the burial place of many too. You can visit most days but check the website. Tip: attend any weekday evensong service at 5pm [...]
You cannot fail to be amazed by All Hallows by the Tower. It is the oldest church in the City of London. It was founded by the Abbey of Barking in 675 AD – 300 years before the Tower of London was built. It’s a fabulous church to participate in a traditional English Christmas service. [...]
Advent, Christmas & Epiphany Services & Events 2018/2019. Participate in a Christmas season service at St Bartholomew the Great in the City of London. Not only, is it the oldest church in London (founded in 1123), but its the site of Benjamin Franklin's print works - where he worked as a printer (during 1725) at [...]