The view from the Marble Arch Mound – but be quick!

The view from the Marble Arch Mound – but be quick!

The deputy leader of Westminster Council has resigned over the 25 metre high artificial hill and the council will dismantle it soon. It's London’s lockdown-induced £6 million white elephant; the Marble Arch Mound - a ‘one-of-a-kind viewing experience’. But adverse publicity over the architect-designed temporary structure has forced the council to scrap the entrance fees [...]

A Mayfair pub walk

A Mayfair pub walk

Here is a pub-walk through one of London's most historical and well-heeled residential areas. Mayfair, named after its raucous annual fair, was purpose-built during the mid to late-1700's.   Many wealthy residents moved here from Soho - where they had lived after the devastating Great Fire of London of 1666. Sir Richard Grosvenor engaged Thomas Barlow [...]

The architecture of British Naval Power in Whitehall

The architecture of British Naval Power in Whitehall

The British Empire relied on British Naval Power as a sign of strength; keeping the trade routes open and supporting the growth of the Empire.   This article describes five buildings, in and around the district known as Whitehall, that were key to British Naval Power.  It describes why they were built and some the people [...]

Essential Clapham – a pocket guide

Essential Clapham – a pocket guide

Essential London has published 'Essential Clapham' - a pocket guide to this popular area in south-west London.   It's a guide to the history of Clapham and the best cultural, historical and social (e.g. leisure venues, pubs and cafes) sights that you can see and visit today. Showcasing modern-day London-living through 100 pages and 90 original [...]

Brooklands – home of British motorsport and aviation

Brooklands – home of British motorsport and aviation

Fifteen miles to the south of London is the home of British motorsport and aviation; Brooklands.    Motor racing took place here from 1907 to 1939 and aviation developed on the site at the same time - right up until 1989.    At one time, Brooklands was the most prolific aircraft factory in Europe. In [...]