Drury Lane and the Theatre Royal

Drury Lane and the Theatre Royal

Renowned for being the home of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane has a colourful past stretching back to the fourteenth century. Named after Sir Thomas Drury, who built a house here during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, it peaked as a select and fashionable neighbourhood in C16-17. However, one hundred years later, it had [...]

Battersea Power Station – Live!

Battersea Power Station – Live!

Built for £2.2 million in 1933, it’s the price of a modest apartment today in this swish residential-retail-leisure complex. Originally designed by Sir Giles Gilbert-Scott, the station powered a quarter of London by 1948. Closed in 1983, the grade II* listed building was the problem child of the river front until rescued by Malaysian investors [...]

London’s 5 most historic five-star hotels

London’s 5 most historic five-star hotels

Here are London’s 5 most historic five-star hotels, in date-of-opening order. If your budget doesn’t stretch to an overnight stay, settle for a coffee in the public lounge! London’s first hotel built in 1837 with numerous historical associations - not least being the location for the first successful telephone call in London by Alexander Graham [...]

Central London wide-screen showing Wimbledon matches

Central London wide-screen showing Wimbledon matches

If you’re in central London (West End) this week, head to St James’s Market (‘hidden’ between Regent Street St. James’s and Haymarket) to watch live matches televised by the BBC for free. It’s off the beaten track and mainly the preserve of local office workers. Photos (c) Essential London.

London’s best districts – Clapham (part 1)

London’s best districts – Clapham (part 1)

This is part one of a two-part article on one of London’s best places to live. The article covers the sights to see in Clapham, South West London. You’ll discover compelling facts about the area, its residents and renowned architecture. Plus, an awesome selection of pubs and cafes to visit! Introduction Clapham is perhaps best [...]