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
We took a tour last week of Spencer House in central London. Spencer House was built by John Spencer, 1st Earl Spencer; an ancestor of Princess Diana! The family still own the freehold, but the meticulous refurbishment is down to Jacob, Lord Rothschild, of the banking dynasty, undertaken during the 1980’s. It's a Palladian villa [...]
Behind a wall to the north of The Mall is a house built in 1711 for the 1st Duke of Marlborough - the same 1st Duke of Blenheim Palace. This was his London home. The architect was Christopher Wren - who also designed St Paul's Cathedral in the City. 'Brick and stone trimmings', he called [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]