london ND 01

Issue 01 Winter 2012 FREE

The best of the best that London has to offer.

Attractions Eating Out History Key Areas Nightlife City Map

INFO

Welcome to London

I

t has acquired many names and many nicknames over the years, but one thing remains constant this truly is one of the world’s unique cities and very few other destinations boast such history, reverence, beauty and diversity. Whether you are 18 or 80, London has something for everyone. And our aim is to help you find it.

The concept of our magazine is simple.

We want you to get the most out of your trip to The City, and our hope is that this publication will help in some way to make your visit more memorable.

We will try to inform you about everything you need to know and everywhere you need to go. If something inside our magazine assists, surprises, raises an eyebrow, or creates a smile, then our job has been done.

2

As many of you are probably aware, ‘London Night & Day’ is only one of many guides and maps you will find in the city, but unlike many others, we have only featured places that we have actually visited and we have tried to list all the venues which made a positive impact on our team. We don’t believe in ‘seedy’ and ‘sleazy’. We prefer to concentrate on ‘chic and sophisticated’.

Our magazine is available in over 200 venues including hotels, bars, clubs and information offices, so it shouldn't be hard to find us way. Enjoy reading London Night & Day. Stay safe, play safe and never hesitate to contact us about any aspect of the magazine.

London Night & Day staff

Contents

cONteNts

London Night & Day Facts & info 4 Essential Information What you need to know 6 Getting Around Public transport in the city 8 Key Areas The main districts of London 12 History London through the ages

Places 30 Off the Beaten Track The city’s hidden gems 50 Sporting venues Stadium tours

Winter 2012

Lifestyle 34 Shopping Winter shopping in the city 54 Eating Out London restaurants

Entertainment 18 Attractions What to see & do 38 Festive Season Christmas in London 42 What’s On Winter events 62 Nightlife London nights

About Us:

London Night & Day is published by LBK Publications Limited, Thornson House, Mitchell Close, Andover, HANTS SP10 3TJ Crew:

Crew:

Directors: Brendan Curran, Ken Pickering, Lyn Pickering

Contact details:

General Enquiries: Tel: +44 (0) 1264 337 444 ;Email: info@lbk-publications.com Advertising Enquiries: Mob: +44(0) 7830 230 972; Email: London@nightdaymagazine.com

Distribution:

London Night & Day can be found in hotels across the capital, where it is issued free of charge to visitors to help them make the most of their stay in London. If your business wishes to distribute our magazine, please contact us.

Night & Day is a registered trade name and publication. Neither the trading name nor the format or the content may be reproduced. All rights reserved.

Note: The information contained herein has been published in good faith on the basis of information submitted to LBK Publications Ltd. LBK cannot guarantee the accuracy of information in this publication and accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damages caused by reliance on the information contained in the publication is excluded.

Layout and illustration:

INFO

Essential Information

Currency The unit of currency in London is the British pound sterling (£), and all London areas

Post Stamps can be bought at Post Offices or newsagents, of which there are several throughout the city.

Internet Most hotels have internet access and there are also several internet cafes scattered throughout the city.

Smoking Ban Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places, including restaurants, bars, clubs, theatres and forms of public transport.

Emergency Phone Numbers are served by ATMs, which accept Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus or Maestro cards. If you have travellers cheques, these can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change, hotels and post offices.

Opening hours Shops are generally open Mondays to Saturdays, from 10.00-18.00, although some central stores stay open later. Working hours are shorter on Sundays with the majority of shops open from midday until 16.00

999 or 112 for police, fire or ambulance services – 24 hours per day.

Pharmacies To find a 24-hour pharmacy, log on to the following website: www. nhs.uk.

Telephone +44 is the international dialling code for the UK. Public telephones take coins, credit cards and telephone cards (which can be

Lost property If you happen to lose your property on public transport (including taxis), contact the Transport for London Lost Property Office at 200 Baker Street (+44 0 845 330 9882).

Tourist Attractions The big tourist attractions and museums normally open from 10am until 6pm.

Tipping The general consensus, and indeed it has also been our strategy since we have been here is to leave a 10% tip, provided the service is of a good standard.

4

purchased in newsagents and post offices) The operator can be reached by dialling ‘100’.

INFO Weights and measures The UK currently uses a mix of metric and non-metric units for different purposes. Distance on roads are measured in miles and yards, drinks are poured in pints, weight is often measured in ounces, pounds and stones, but generally the metric system is used elsewhere.

Cash Points Cash points (ATMs) are widely available.

You can ask for 'Cashback' when making purchases with a debit card at supermarkets. Visa and Access (Mastercard) widely accepted, other cards often accepted.

Banking Banking hours officially 09:30-15:30, but most banks usually open until about 17:00.

Changing Money Most banks and major post offices will be able to change money for you. For cash withdrawals on a visa card, you will need to produce your passport. Cheques accepted everywhere - although a valid cheque card must be produced.

Tourist Information Centres (TICs)

City of London TIC St Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8BX, St. Paul’s/Mansion House. Open: Mon-Sat 09.30-17.30; Sun 10.00-16.00

Greenwich TIC Pepys House, 2 Cutty Sark Gardens, London SE10 9LW. Open: Daily 10.00-17.00 Holborn Visitor Information Kiosk Kingsway, London WC2B 6BG, Holborn.

Open: Mon-Fri 09.00-17.00.

Weather: Although England does have a reputation for wet weather all year round, it doesn't rain every day all year around. However it is impossible to guarantee good or bad weather in any given month - so be prepared for anything.

Electricity The power supply in Britain is 230/240 volts. Sockets accept only three-pin plugs, so continental Europeans, Americans and south Americans will need an adapter.

Time Greenwich, in London, is where you will find the Prime Meridian - the line that divides the Earth into East and West and from which the world's time is set.

Airports Heathrow - 0844 335 1801, www.heathrowairport.com.

Gatwick - 0844 335 1802, www.gatwickairport.com.

Stansted - 0844 335 1803, www.stanstedairport.com.

Luton - 01582 405100, www.londonluton.co.uk; London City - 020 7646 0000, www.londoncityairport.com 5

INFO

Getting Around

London Underground The world famous London Underground consists of 11 colour-coded Underground (Tube) lines. Services run regularly from around 05.00 to 00.30 daily (07.30 to 23.30 on Sundays) on most routes. The network is divided into nine zones, with Zone 1 being the most central area. See pages 78 and 79 for the Tube Map.

London Buses The equally renowned London Buses generally run from 05.00 to 00.30. Night Buses operate on many major routes and some routes also operate a 24-hour service. Cash fares are not available for bus passengers in Zone 1, therefore you must obtain a valid ticket or Oyster card (see below for info).

PURCHASING TICKETS Oyster cards The Oyster card is generally the easiest 6

and cheapest way to pay for public transport (Tube, Bus, Tram, Docklands Light Railway, London Overground, National Rail). You can choose between long-stay tickets, or pay-as-yougo single journey tickets, and your card is fully re-usable. When it expires or your pay-as-you-go credit is getting low, you can add another Travelcard or add more credit at over 3,900 Oyster retailers.

To ensure you pay the correct fare on Tube, DLR, London Overground and National Rail services you must always check-in on the yellow card reader at the start of your journey and check-out at the end. On buses and trams you only need to validate your card at the start of your journey.

For further information about Oyster, go to www.tfl.gov.uk/oyster.

Taxi Hail one of London’s famous black cabs (some are multicoloured!) when the yellow ‘Taxi’ sign is lit. Please note that fares increase

INFO used on Thames Clippers services. Go to www.tfl.gov.uk/river or pick up the River Services leaflet from Tube stations.

National Rail There are 13 National Rail termini in London for connections to all parts of the UK, plus Eurostar services from St. Pancras International. For further information go to www.nationalrail.co.uk or call 08457 484 950 (UK only) or +44 (0)20 7278 5240.

after 20.00. See www.tfl.gov.uk/findaride for details of local licensed minicabs, or text CAB to 60835 to get local licensed taxi numbers sent to your mobile phone.

Docklands Light Railway

Driving If you are driving in London you need to pay the central London Congestion Charge, which is in operation Monday-Friday 7.00am6.00pm excluding bank and public holidays. For a map of the charging zone or to pay the ÂŁ10 daily charge visit www.cclondon.com

Docklands Light Railway (DLR) driverless trains run from 05.30-00.30 from Monday to Saturday and 07.0023.30 on Sunday. Trains run every 4-10 minutes and many of them take in some of the city’s biggest and best sights.

Cycling Barclays Cycle Hire is a public bicycle sharing scheme in central London. There are 570 docking stations and 8,000 bicycles for hire. For further information go to www.tfl.gov.uk/barclayscyclehire.

River Services Travelling on the river can be a relaxing way to travel whilst taking in the sights, and Oyster cards can now be 7

INFO

Key Areas Of The City

Districts Of London

Central London The City of London is the principal financial district not only of London, but of the UK and Europe. It even has its own police force. However, the majority of London’s major attractions are in the West End: most major theatres are located here, as is the Royal Opera House. Shopping thoroughfares such as Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Bond Street can also be found in Central London, as can Covent

The BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) can also be found in the West.

East London

Garden and Soho which are lively areas with a huge variety of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. Further west of Central London, you can find green parklands, such as Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Regent's Park.

West London West London includes many of the traditionally fashionable and expensive residential areas such as Notting Hill, which is famed for its annual carnival. Nearby is the famous antique market at Portobello Road.

Kensington and Chelsea are the most expensive places to live in the country and they can also be found in West London. The area is also famous for the Kings Road, a distinguished and attractive shopping street and thoroughfare.

8

If you ever watched the renowned soap opera ‘Eastenders’, then you will have an idea about the sense of pride and community which is held by natives of the East End of London.

They are the true cockneys and their district is steeped in history, legend and intrigue. The East End was formerly the centre of London's docks and heavy industry. The area was heavily bombed during World War Two. Many of London's markets can be found in the area. The area underwent major recent surgery, as the majority of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games were held in Stratford in East London, which is also home to the Olympic Village (now known as Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park) and The Olympic Stadium.

INFO

Docklands Docklands is the semi-official name for an area in east and southeast London. It forms part of the boroughs of Southwark, Tower Hamlets, Newham and Greenwich. The docks were formerly part of the Port of London, at one time the world's largest port. Nowadays, Docklands is a thriving and vibrant area with a wide range of shops, restaurants, pubs and wine bars. It is also home to the famous Millennium Dome.

the banks of the Thames. It is an historic neighbourhood and boasts a fine park and the Royal Greenwich Observatory. It is also has a popular market. Brixton, Camberwell and Peckham are home to many families who immigrated to London from the West Indies during the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s.

North London

South London South London is a multi-cultural area which houses almost two million people. South London includes the historic towns of Greenwich and Wimbledon. Greenwich is on

North London includes suburbs such as Hampstead and Highgate which retain a village atmosphere. North London is more hilly than the south, and many of the hills give excellent views across the city. Large parks include Hampstead Heath, which includes Parliament Hill, noted for its fine views over the city.The famous Camden Town can also be found in North London.

9

INFO

Interesting facts about

The site of the original Tyburn Tree, once London’s official place of execution

T

he Shard is the tallest building in London and the tallest in the EU.

London has a population of 8,174,100 (2011 census report). This represented a 12% increase over the previous decade and meant that London accounted for 12.5% of the UK population.

10

London is the ninth largest city in the world and the largest metropolitan area in the European Union. If London was a country it would be the eighth largest in Europe.

London has more international visitors than any other city in the world: 15.3 million per year - the next highest are: Hong Kong with 12 million, Bangkok and Singapore with just over 10 million, followed by Paris with 8.7 million and New York with 7.7 million.

More languages are spoken in London than in any other city in the world (close to 300 languages).

London is twinned with New York, Moscow and Berlin.

London was the first city in the world to have an underground railway, known as the 'Tube'.

55% of the London Underground, is not underground. Five stations on the

London Underground system are named after pubs: Elephant & Castle, Angel, Swiss Cottage, Royal Oak and Manor House.

23 and 24 Leinster Gardens in Paddington are dummy houses built to hide the Tube line running underneath. The windows are painted on, and behind the façade is a track.

Big Ben, as everyone should hopefully know – is the bell, not the clock.

The junction of Edgware Road and Marble Arch is the site of the original Tyburn Tree, London’s official execution place, where more than 50,000 people were hanged.

There are 6,128 licensed restaurants in London, representing more than 20% of Britain's restaurants. They include menus from more than 50 international cuisines.

There are more than 20,000 licensed taxis in London.

There are over 100 theatres in London, including 50 in the West End.

INFO

London’s ring-road the M25, is the largest orbital in the world (at 122 miles).

In Britain, motorists drive on the left – except for one road: Savoy Court, leading into the Savoy Hotel, where cars enter and exit on the right. This was changed by an act of parliament, to enable women to exit cars first, since they traditionally sat behind the driver (from horse and carriage days).

55% of the London Underground is actually not underground..

11

HISTORY

L

London Through The Ages

ondon has a recorded history which dates back to around 2,000 years ago. It was used by the Romans as a small military storage depot during their invasion of Britain, which began in A.D. 43.

In the years that followed, London grew to become one of the most significant financial and cultural capitals of the world and it has hosted a huge number of significant historical happenings such as The Plague, The Great Fire and The Civil War. In the early days of Roman rule, London was viewed as an ideal trading centre with the continent and soon developed into an important port.

The city was burnt to the ground in A.D. 61 when Boudica, the Queen of The Iceni (a native British tribe inhabiting East Anglia) burnt it to the ground. It was rebuilt by the year 100, and first appears as "Londinium" in Tacitus's Annals.

It rapidly became both the provincial capital and the administrative, commercial, and financial centre of Roman Britain, and by the middle of the third century, it boasted a population of around 30.000, a number which doubled during the following 50 years.

ROMAN DEMISE However, Londinium fell into the shadows in the fourth century, as the Roman Empire began to collapse. It was then that it began a new life as a Saxon trading town and also when Christianity was introduced to the city and a Cathedral was built with St. Augustine as it’s sitting Bishop. However, the inhabitants resisted and eventually drove the bishop from the city.

During the ninth century, London was burned down by the Danes but they were driven out by Alfred in the year 883 and the city walls were rebuilt and a citizen army was 12

established.

In 1042 English rule was restored under Edward the Confessor. He was responsible for the foundation of Westminster Abbey which at the time was gaining recognition for being the centre of government.

Edward's death at Westminster in 1066 led to a succession dispute and the Norman conquest of England. Earl Harold Godwinson was elected King by the witangemot and crowned in Westminster Abbey, but he was defeated and killed by William the Bastard (better known as William The Conqueror), Duke of Normandy at the Battle of Hastings.

Having occupied London, William was crowned as England’s first Norman King in Westminster Abbey and ruled from 1066 until his death in 1087.

In the early 13th Century, King John showed how important London had become by granting the city the right to elect a Lord Mayor every year. The most famous of the early mayors was Dick Whittington, who served at the post on four occasions between 1397 and 1420.

TUDOR LONDON (1485 – 1603) London was the centre of trade and government under the Tudor monarchs. There were approximately 200,000 people living in London by the year 1600. The Tudors established a number of palaces in London and during their reign, the river Thames became hugely important, as Britain’s navy was expanded.

Dockyards were built and ships were sent to explore the world. The first theatres were also built in London during this time, the most famous being The Globe, in which Shakespeare owned a share. His plays were performed there.

The original theatre was burnt down in 1613 and immediately rebuilt, but closed by the Puritans in 1642. In the 1990s a new Globe

HISTORY An illustration of the Great Fire of London

Theatre was built, as close to the original site as possible.

17th CENTURY MISERY The 17th Century was an unsettled time for Britain, and particularly London. The Gunpowder Plot in 1605; Civil War in the 1640s; The Great Plague in1665 and The Great Fire Of London in 1666 were among the disasters of the century.

Rats on board trading ships brought bubonic plague into the city and because hygiene standards were very low, it spread very quickly. The Plague claimed around 100,000 people.

William Shakespeare

Just when Londoners thought things couldn’t get any worse, the city was hit with The Great Fire of London in September1666. It was accidentally started in Pudding Lane but rapidly spread into a huge inferno which lasted for four days and wiped out almost 80% of the city. Incredibly, very few people actually died, but most buildings burned to the ground. In the aftermath, all new buildings were made of stone and brick.

18th CENTURY LONDON Britain was a very powerful nation in the 18th Century and London, with its trading capabilities, was the centre of its power. Goods were brought into the city from all over the world. During this century, London also became an important financial centre.

Queen Victoria was crowned in 1837 and during her reign London expanded enormously to the extent that it became the centre of world trade and had a large, powerful Empire. Many of the buildings were erected, the most famous is probably the Houses of Parliament (built in 1834 after a fire destroyed the original buildings). Also, during this time, ‘The Tube’, the first ever underground railway was also built.

13

HISTORY During this period, London was subjected to 71 separate raids. By the war's end, just under 30,000 Londoners had been killed, and over 50,000 seriously injured. Thousands of buildings were destroyed, and hundreds of thousands of people were made homeless.

MODERN LONDON

Queen Victoria

20th CENTURY LONDON London entered the 20th century at the height of its influence as the capital of the largest empire in history, but the new century brought many challenges.

During World War I, the city experienced its first bombing raids carried out by German zeppelin airships, which killed around 700 people and caused great terror, but were merely a foretaste of what was to come.

The period between the two World Wars saw London's geographical extent growing more quickly than ever before or since. Like the rest of the country, London suffered severe unemployment during the Great Depression of the 1930s. The population of London reached an all time peak of 8.6 million in 1939.

During World War II, London suffered severe damage, being bombed extensively by the Luftwaffe as a part of The Blitz. The heaviest bombing took place during The Blitz between September 7, 1940 and May 10, 1941.

14

Three years after the war, the 1948 Summer Olympics were held at the original Wembley Stadium, at a time when the city had barely recovered from the war.

From the 1950s onwards London became home to a large number of immigrants, largely from Commonwealth countries such as Jamaica, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, which dramatically changed the face of London, turning it into one of the most diverse cities in Europe.

The city witnessed more dark days in the early 1970s until the mid-1990s, as "The Troubles" in Northern Ireland meant London was subjected to repeated terrorist attacks by the Provisional IRA. At the turn of the 21st century, London hosted the much derided Millennium Dome at Greenwich, to mark the new century. Other Millennium projects were more successful.

One was the largest observation wheel in the world, the "Millennium Wheel", or the “London Eye�, which was erected as a temporary structure, but soon became a fixture, and draws around four million visitors per year.

On 6 July 2005, London won the bid to host the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.

However, celebrations were cut short the following day when, on 7 July 2005, the city was rocked by a series of terrorist attacks.

More than 50 were killed and 750 injured in three bombings on London Underground and another aboard a bus near Russell Square in Bloomsbury.

KEY DATES IN HISTORY 28th of December 1065: Westminster Abbey consecrated 25th of December 1066: William the Conqueror crowned 28th of October 1215: First Lord Mayor’s Show 20th of January 1265: First English Parliament Held 13rd of October 1397: Dick Whittington elected Mayor of London 19th of May 1536: Anne Boleyn is beheaded 15th of January 1559: Elizabeth I is crowned 5th of November 1605: The Gunpowder Plot 2nd of September 1666: Great Fire of London begins 19th of February 1674: Treaty of Westminster is signed 2nd of December 1697: St Paul’s Cathedral opens 28th of September 1745: 'God Save The King' sung for the first time 9th of April 1747: Last beheading execution in Britain 3rd of November 1783: Last Tyburn hanging 26th of February 1797: First £1 Note issued 16th of October 1834: The Houses of Parliament burn down 28th of June 1838: Queen Victoria crowned 10th of February 1840: Queen Victoria marries Prince Albert 11th of July 1859: Big Ben’s first chimes 10th of January 1863: The London Underground opens 16th of March 1872: First FA Cup Final

HISTORY

13rd of October 1884: World adopts Greenwich Meantime 22nd of June 1897: Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee 2nd of February 1901: Queen Victoria’s funeral 18th of February 1901: Churchill’s maiden speech 13rd of February 1907: Suffragettes storm Westminster 31st of May 1915: First Zeppelin Air Raids on London 18th of October 1922: BBC formed 30th of September 1928: The discovery of penicillin 13rd of May 1940: Churchill forms Wartime Coalition Government 7th of September 1940: The Blitz begins 29th of July 1948: Opening Ceremony of 1948 Olympics 2nd of June 1953: Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II 24th of January 1965: Winston Churchill dies 30th of July 1966: England win the World Cup 21st of January 1976: First Concorde flight 29th of July 1981: Wedding of Charles and Diana 22nd of November 1990: Margaret Thatcher Resigns 6th of September 1997: Funeral of Princess Diana 10th of October 1999: London Eye erected 7th of July 2005: Four terrorists explode bombs on London Transport system 27th of July 2012: London 2012 Opening Ceremony 15

HISTORY

This Season A Century Ago

The Royal Geographical Society voted to admit women.

T

he following are some of the big news stories and events which involved Britain and particularly London during the winter of 1912.

November The fate of the Terra Nova Expedition, led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott, and his four fellow Antarctic explorers, was confirmed when a search party spotted a bamboo pole in the snow. The frozen bodies of Scott, "Birdie" Bowers and Edward Wilson were found in a tent buried beneath the snow, along with their journals, undeveloped film and supplies. The news would not reach the rest of the world until February 11.

Sir Edward Henry, the Police Commissioner for London, was wounded by a man who shot him three times as the chief was returning from Scotland Yard to his residence in Kensington. The attacker, identified as a Mr. Bowes, had been denied a license to operate a taxicab and was angered that Henry would not reconsider the ruling 16

December Whitelaw Reid, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom, died in London at his residence at Dorchester House. He was 75 years old.

English racehorse ‘Common’ who won the English Triple Crown in 1891 died at the age of 24.

Piltdown Man, thought to be the fossilized skull of a hitherto unknown form of early human, was presented to the Geological Society of London. In 1953, the Piltdown Man

HISTORY The first sickness benefits were paid under Britain's National Insurance Act 1911 as its provisions took effect. Men were eligible to

would be revealed to be a hoax.

January The London Peace Conference ended as the Balkan states and the Ottoman Empire were unable to reach an agreement in negotiations.

Members of Britain's Royal Geographical Society voted overwhelmingly to admit women, after 82 years as an all-male organization

receive ten shillings per week for illness, and women seven shillings and sixpence per week.

The British cabinet voted to remove the women's suffrage bill from consideration in the House of Commons

Piltdown Man was presented to London in 1953.

17

ATTRACTIONS

L

Seeing & Doing

ondon’s tourist attractions are famed and admired all over the world and it’s easy to understand why after you sample the delights the city has to offer.

With so much to see and do, boredom never becomes an issue. In fact the biggest problem you will encounter is finding the time to experience all the wonders the city has to offer.

We have highlighted the superb shopping scene, the electric nightlife, the wonderful restaurants and much more in other sections of the magazine. However, the action does not stop there, as the city also plays host to a number of unmissable sights and delights, which we will guide you through.

London is home to some of the world’s most renowned tourist attractions such as The British Museum, The Tate Museum, The London Eye, The Natural History Museum, Madame Tussauds, Tower Bridge, The Tower Of London, Big Ben and many more. Add in 18

the castles, monuments, churches, architectural wonders, gardens and parks....and you will understand why a camera is an essential tool, and why an organised sightseeing tour can also be an essential attraction.

The city is also a cultural paradise brimming with theatres offering drama, ballet, opera, musicals, modern music, comedy and much more. Combine these with the countless museums, exhibitions and art galleries and you have all the ingredients for a tourist paradise.

We also want to point you in the direction of those attractions which are not so well-known – what we like to call ‘the hidden gems of the city’. As is the case throughout the magazine, we will only inform you about places that we have actually visited ourselves in the past year.

So Ladies & Gentlemen, without further ado, we would like to welcome you to an alphabetical rundown of London’s best Tourist Attractions!

ATTRACTIONS The Royal Artillery Museum Royal Arsenal, Woolwich Tel.: +44 (0) 20 8855 7755 www.firepower.org.uk The Royal Artillery Museum has been open to the public in Woolwich since 1820. The museum tells the powerful and dramatic story of artillery, scientific discoveries made through warfare and human stories of courage and endeavour.

The ‘ground shaking’ Field of Fire audiovisual show puts you in the midst of battle as shells whiz overhead and guns roar. Add in a world class collection of weapons, uniforms, drawings, and medals and it is easy to understand why this is one of London’s top attractions.

The Royal Artillery Museum está aberto para o público de Woolwich desde 1820. O museu conta a poderosa e dramática história da artileria, descobrimentos científicos feitos atravéz da beligerância e

histórias humanas de coragem e esforço O trepidante show audio-visual Campo de Fogo coloca você no meio da batalha, enquanto granadas assobiam acima e armas rugem.

Adicione uma coleção de classe mundial de armas, uniformas, pinturas e medalhas e é fácil entender porque. o local é uma das principais atracções em Londres. Музей королевской артиллерии был открыт для публики в Woolwich с 1820 года. Экспозиция музея рассказывает мощную и драматическую историю артиллерии, научных открытий, сделанных через войны и человеческих историй о мужестве и стремлении. Поле «сотрясение грунта" Огненное аудио-визуальное шоу ставит вас в разгар битвы, показывает как снаряды над головой свистят с ревом орудий. Добавить в коллекцию мирового класса, оружия, обмундирования, рисунки и медали, и тут легко понять, почему музей является одной из главных достопримечательностей Лондона.

19

ATTRACTIONS Big Ben

London Attractions

Westminster Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7219 4272. www.parliament.uk The Elizabeth Tower, commonly called Big Ben, is among London's most iconic landmarks. Technically, Big Ben is the massive bell inside the clock tower, which weighs more than 13 tons (13,760 kg).

The clock tower looks spectacular at night when the four clock faces are illuminated.

Big Ben's timekeeping is strictly regulated by a stack of coins placed on the huge pendulum and the clock has rarely stopped. In June 2012 the House of Commons announced that the clock tower was to be renamed the Elizabeth Tower in honour of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.

www.londonducktours.co.uk This is more than just a sightseeing tour; it's an exciting road and river adventure appealing to visitors of all ages! Departing from Chicheley Street SE1 (just behind the London Eye), the amphibious vehicles drive past famous London landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar Square before a dramatic launch into the River Thames. The tour lasts about 75 minutes and is enhanced by an entertaining, action packed commentary by tour guides who provide an alternative and insightful view of London. It's fun, it's quirky and it's different!

Cutty Sark King William Walk, Greenwich Tel.: +44 (0) 20 8312 6608. www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

London Duck Tours 55 York Road London Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7928 3132.

20

Cutty Sark was officially reopened by Her Majesty The Queen, and His Royal Highness in April 2012, opening a new chapter in the extraordinary life of one of the world’s most famous ships. Venture aboard and beneath one of the world’s most famous ships. Walk along the decks in the footsteps of the merchant seamen who sailed her over a century ago.

Explore the hold where precious cargo was stored and enjoy a Cutty Sark-inspired cup of tea as you sit directly underneath the ship in the café.

ATTRACTIONS Emirates Air Line Tel.: + 44 (0) 20 7219 4272. www.tfl.gov.uk

The Emirates Air Line (also known as the Thames cable car) is a cable car link across the River Thames in London built with sponsorship from the airline Emirates. The service opened in June 2012 and is operated by Transport for London. It comprises of a one-kilometre gondola line that crosses the River Thames from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks. It offers stunning views of London (day or night) as you soar over the River Thames. It provides easy access to the North Greenwich Arena and Excel Centre. The terminals are also close to the Tube, DLR, buses and river boat services.

Houses Of Parliament Westminster Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7219 4272. www.parliament.uk

22

1000 Years of history which have shaped Britain can be discovered within one of the most iconic buildings in the world; the Houses of Parliament. It truly is a wonderful building and you can learn all about its history and hear tales from its past courtesy of friendly and highly intelligent tour guides. Overseas visitors can watch laws being made, attend debates and watch committees when Parliament is in session. They can visit the Archives on Mondays to Fridays and tour Parliament on Saturdays.

Kensington Palace Kensington Gardens Tel.: +44 (0) 20 3166 6000. www.hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace

Kensington Palace has re-opened after a £12million, two year transformation project. As well as new landscaped gardens, a new cafe and two new shops, there are four new routes to explore, and new performances and displays in the State Apartments. Visit The King’s State Apartments and follow in the footsteps of visitors to the court of George I and II. Climb the magnificent King’s Staircase and see if you can master the games of court. You can also check out ‘Diana: glimpses of a modern princess’ – to see some of Princess Diana’s most beautiful dresses in this small and exquisitely designed temporary exhibition.

ATTRACTIONS London Eye Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road Tel.: +44 (0) 870 990 8883. www.londoneye.com

At 135m, the EDF Energy London Eye is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel. It offers unrivalled views of London, and the cinematic addition to the EDF Energy London Eye provides another magical and entertaining way to experience the capital city.

Included in the ticket price, you will see the first ever 3D aerial footage of London as well as witness the world famous London New Year’s Eve fireworks in a breathtaking journey across the city. Boasting more 4D sensory effects than any other attraction in the UK, you will feel like you are really there; with wind in your hair, snow falling at your feet, the floor shaking and even a sense of smell, your new perspective on London will be truly memorable.

brought closer to nature. In recent years new exhibits, such as Penguin Beach, Animal Adventure, Giants of the Galapagos, Butterfly Paradise, Meet the Monkeys, Rainforest Life and Gorilla Kingdom have enthralled and educated visitors.

Madame Tussauds Marylebone Road Tel.: +44 (0) 871 894 3000. www.madametussauds.com/London Filled with 14 exciting, interactive zones and the amazing Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie experience, Madame Tussauds London is both exciting and exhilarating and is head and

London Zoo Outer Circle, Regent's Park.

Tel.: 0844 225 1826. www.zsl.org With over 720 different species of animals, ZSL London Zoo is a brilliant way to immerse yourself into the animal kingdom. The Zoo, located in the north east corner of London’s Regent’s Park, is open every day except Christmas Day. An interactive, immersive and inspiring Zoo ZSL is actively involved in ‘bringing down the bars’ by creating interactive, immersive and inspiring exhibits. As visitors walk around the Zoo’s 36 acre site, they are

shoulders above other wax works museums in the world. Take a snapshot with your favourite actor or sports person; enjoy a Royal experience with the British Monarchy; get face-to-face with scary serial killers in the live fear experience SCREAM; and then get ready to experience the spectacular and exclusive Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie. Family fun as it should be!

23

ATTRACTIONS SEA LIFE London Aquarium County Hall Westminster Bridge Rd Tel.: +44 (0) 871 663 1678. www.visitsealife.com/london.

The SEA LIFE London Aquarium is home to one of Europe’s largest collections of global marine life and the jewel in the crown of the 28 SEA LIFE attractions in the UK and Europe. See thousands of sea creatures in over two million litres of water. Discover over 500 species from every part of the world. See more than 40 sharks from 12 different species. Explore Shark Reef Encounter and brave the Shark Walk. Enjoy over 65 displays, filled with 30 species of plants and foliage. Visit 14 themed zones over 3 floors.

Interact with the animals at our interactive public feeding, diving displays and touch pools. Explore the Antarctic in the new Penguins: Ice Adventure.

Globe Exhibition & Tour and Globe Education seek to further the experience and understanding of Shakespeare in performance.

Performances of Henry V, Twelfth Night, Taming Of The Shrew and many more classics can be witnessed.

St. Paul’s Cathedral Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7246 8357. www.stpauls.co.uk St Paul's, with its world-famous dome, is an iconic London landmark. Step inside and you can enjoy the cathedral's awe-inspiring interior, and uncover fascinating stories about its history. There's so much to see and discover - Take the Dome Climb to the Whispering

Shakespeare’s Globe 21 New Globe Walk Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7401 9919 (Box Office). www.shakespearesglobe.com Founded by the pioneering American actor and director Sam Wanamaker, Shakespeare's Globe is a unique attraction dedicated to the exploration of Shakespeare's work and the playhouse for which he wrote, through the connected means of performance and education. Together, the Globe Theatre, 24

Gallery and try out its unique acoustics; visit the Golden Gallery at the very top of the dome where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across London; or enjoy the exciting multimedia tour, plus much much more.

ATTRACTIONS Westminster Abbey The Chapter Office, 20 Dean's Yard Westminster Abbey, London Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7222 5152. www.westminster-abbey.org.

Kings, Queens, statesmen and soldiers; poets, priests, heroes and villains - the Abbey is a must-see living pageant of British history. Every year Westminster Abbey welcomes over one million visitors who want to explore this wonderful 700year-old building.

Thousands more visit to worship at the daily services.

The Abbey is in the heart of London. Once inside audio guides are available in eight languages or there is the highlypopular verger-led tour. A must see for any firsttime visitor to the English capital.

2 - 4 Tooley Street Tel.: 0800 0434 666. www.thelondonbridgeexperience.com The London Bridge Experience and London Tombs is the scariest family tourist attraction in London. In this place, it is Halloween every day of the year! Embark on a history lesson into the city's grimy and haunting past, which includes seeing the great fire of London and watching the Queen Boudiccia thwart the Romans, before descending into the gothic tunnels under the bridge in the Screamie Award-winning horror that is London Tombs.

Tower Of London Tel.: +44 (0) 20 3166 6000 www.hrp.org.uk

The London Bridge Experience Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, more commonly known as the Tower of London. It was built by William the Conqueror in the early 1080s. The Tower's role has been as a fortress, a palace and a prison. Many people lost their heads in the Tower. Its most famous inmates include Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes and the Prisoners Exhibition will tell you more about them. The Tower also houses the world famous Crown Jewels.

25

MUSEUMS The British Museum Great Russell Street Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7323 8299. www.britishmuseum.org The British Museum is dedicated to human history and culture. Its permanent collection, numbering some eight million works is amongst the largest and most comprehensive in existence and originates from all continents, illustrating and documenting the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present.

The museum was established in 1753 and first opened to the public in January 1759. Its expansion over the following two and a half centuries was largely a result of expanding British colonies. As with all other national museums in the United Kingdom it charges no admission fee. See our What’s On Section for more info about exhibitions taking place during your stay.

Nearest Tube Stations: Russell Square or Tottenham Court Road

Tate Modern Bankside Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7887 8888. www.tate.org.uk Tate holds the national collection of British art from 1500 to the present day and international modern and contemporary art. The collection 26

embraces all media, from painting, drawing, sculpture and prints to photography, video and film, installation and performance. When Tate first opened its doors to the public in 1897 it had just one site, displaying a small collection of British artworks. Today Tate has four major sites which include nearly 70,000 artworks. A number of new developments are planned for Tate Modern, Tate Britain and Tate St Ives to ensure the galleries continue to expand. We recommend the Tate Modern for a look at what makes 21st century London a world centre for contemporary art’.

Nearest Tube Station: Southwark

National Gallery Trafalgar Square Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7747 2885. www.nationalgallery.org.uk The National Gallery houses the national collection of Western European painting from the 13th to the 19th centuries. It is on show 361 days a year, free of charge. The Gallery aims to study and care for the collection, while encouraging the widest possible access to the pictures. Founded in 1824, it houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings. Unlike comparable art museums in continental Europe, the National Gallery was not formed by nationalising an existing royal or princely art collection. It came into being when the British government bought 38 paintings from the heirs of John Julius Angerstein, an insurance broker and patron of the arts, in 1824.

Nearest Tube Stations: Leicester Square or Charing Cross

MUSEUMS Natural History Museum Cromwell Road Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7942 5000. www.nhm.ac.uk The vision of the Natural History Museum is to advance knowledge of the natural world, inspiring better care of the planet.

Their mission is to maintain and develop their collections, and use them to promote the discovery, understanding, responsible use and enjoyment of the natural world. The Museum offers visitors lots of free daytime activities, as well as its many gallery experiences, and world-renowned specimen collections. More than 300 scientists work at the Museum and tackle a diverse range of global problems. Their research is organised around six major challenges covering such topics as biodiversity, evolution and the ecosystem.

Nearest Tube Stations: South Kensington or Gloucester Road

London Science Museum Exhibition Rd South Kensington Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7942 4000. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk The Science Museum was founded in 1857 as part of the South Kensington Museum and gained independence in 1909. Today the Museum is world renowned for its historic collections, awe-inspiring galleries and

inspirational exhibitions. Their collections form an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical change since the eighteenth century. The museum boasts hundreds of thousands of objects in their collection, from aircraft to microchips. Also, the Science Museum currently holds approximately 700 human remains, which come from many different countries and historical periods. They include skeletal material, mummies, artefacts incorporating remains and slides with human tissues.

Nearest Tube Station: South Kensington

Victoria and Albert Museum Cromwell Road Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7942 2000. www.vam.ac.uk The Victoria and Albert Museum's collections span two thousand years of art in virtually every medium, from many parts of the world and visitors encounter a treasure house of amazing and beautiful objects. The story of the V&A's foundation helps to explain its astonishing richness and diversity. The Museum was established in 1852, following the enormous success of the Great Exhibition the previous year. Its founding principle was to make works of art available to all, to educate working people and to inspire British designers and manufacturers. The Museum's ceramics, glass, textiles, dress, silver, ironwork, jewellery, furniture, sculpture, paintings, prints and photographs now span the cultures of Europe, North America, Asia and North Africa and date from ancient times to the present day.

Nearest Tube Station: South Kensington 27

MUSEUMS National Maritime Museum Park Row Greenwich Church Street Tel.: +44 (0) 20 8858 4422 Discover 500 years of Britain's encounter with the world at sea at the world's largest maritime museum. In 2011 the National Maritime Museum opened the Sammy Ofer Wing, the largest development in the National Maritime Museum’s history. The wing includes a special exhibitions gallery, allowing the Museum to stage a full programme of temporary shows; a permanent gallery – Voyagers – which introduces the story of Britain and the sea; a café and brasserie with views over Greenwich Park; and a state-of-the-art library and archive which brings much of the Museum’s world-renowned archive onto the main site for the first time. See the uniform Nelson was wearing when he was shot at the Battle of Trafalgar, fire a cannon and steer a ship into port. The collections comprise about 2.48 million items, many on loan to museums elsewhere in Britain.

Getting There: Docklands Light Railway (DLR) Cutty Sark stop.

National Portrait Gallery 2 St.Martin's Place Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7306 0055. www.npg.org.uk Founded in 1856, the aim of the National Portrait Gallery is ‘to promote through the medium of portraits the appreciation and understanding of the men and women who have made and are making

28

British history and culture, and to promote the appreciation and understanding of portraiture in all media’. The Gallery holds the most extensive collection of portraits in the world. The Gallery aims to bring history to life through its extensive display, exhibition, research, learning, outreach, publishing and digital programmes. These allow the Gallery to stimulate debate and to address questions of biography, diversity and fame which lie at the heart of issues of identity and achievement.

Nearest Tube Stations: Leicester Square or Charing Cross

Imperial War Museum Lambeth Road Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7416 5000. www.iwm.org.uk The Imperial War Museum London (IWM) tells the stories of those whose lives have been shaped by war. Explore what life was like at home during the Second World War in A Family in Wartime, visit their award-winning exhibition on the Holocaust and discover stories of bravery in The Lord Ashcroft Gallery. You can also see work by some of Britain’s most significant artists in their art galleries, and don’t miss their major autumn photography exhibition Cecil Beaton: Theatre of War. As part of Transforming IWM London, the First World War Galleries and Second World War Galleries are now closed. The museum itself will close from January 2 until July 2013. IWM is a family of five museums: IWM London; IWM North in Trafford, Greater Manchester; IWM Duxford near Cambridge; the Churchill War Rooms in Whitehall, London; and the historic ship HMS Belfast, moored in the Pool of London on the River Thames.

Nearest Tube Stations: Lambeth North or Waterloo

MUSEUMS Museum Of London 150 London Wall Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7001 9844. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Experience an unforgettable journey through the capital's turbulent past from prehistoric times to the present day. Extensive collections reveal the changing nature of London’s history making the Museum one of the city’s best attractions.

The museum offers a detailed and passionate record of London’s history that cannot be found anywhere else in the capital. Step inside the Museum of London and you will find historic objects which tell the story of the capital’s turbulent past. Situated in the oldest part of London, now the financial district, the Museum overlooks the remains of the city wall, which dates to the time of the Roman Empire. The Museum of London operates a second venue which can be found in Docklands, near the modern business district of Canary Wharf and offers an equally impressive and memorable experience for visitors.

Nearest Tube Stations: Barbican or St. Paul’s

London Transport Museum Covent Garden Piazza, Westminister.

Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7379 6344. www.ltmuseum.co.uk By conserving and interpreting the Capital city's transport heritage, London Transport Museum offers people an understanding of the Capital's past and engages them in the debate about its future.

London Transport Museum's collection originated in the 1920s. The museum tells the story of the development of London, its transport systems and the people who travelled and worked on them over the last 200 years. As well as exploring the past, the new Museum looks at future transport developments and how transport has shaped five other world cities -

Delhi, New York, Paris, Shanghai and Tokyo.

Stunning new galleries feature original artworks and advertising posters, and explore the extraordinary design heritage of London's transport system, as well as London transport at war and the expansion of the capital through the development of the London Underground.

Design Museum 28 Shad Thames, Bermondsey.

Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7940 8790. www.designmuseum.org Located on the River Thames, near Tower Bridge, the Design Museum offers inspiring insights into the world of design with exhibitions on fashion, architecture, furniture, graphic, product, transport and digital design. Alongside its cutting edge programme of temporary exhibitions the museum also hosts a variety of talks and family activities. The museum café sells a selection of light snacks, sandwiches and pastries and the Design Museum Shop is perfect for unique gifts and stocks a selection of ceramics, jewellery, books and prints. For the latest information on the Design Museum’s temporary exhibitions please visit www.designmuseum.org This content has been supplied by Design Museum Practical Information £11.00 Daily 10.00-17.45 last admission: 17.15.

Open Bank holidays except ChristmasLondon.

Nearest Tube Station: London Bridge

29

HIDDEN GEMS Sunday UpMarket Ely’s Yard, The Old Truman Brewery Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7770 6028. www.sundayupmarket.co.uk

Dennis Severs lived in the house and gradually recreated the rooms as a time capsule in the style of former centuries. Severs started on a programme to refurbish the ten rooms of the house, each in a different historic style, mainly from the 18th and 19th centuries. The rooms are arranged as if they are in use and the occupants have only just left.

Nearest Tube Station: Shoreditch High Street

The Guards Museum

Sunday UpMarket first opened its doors in September 2004. With over 140 stalls selling fashion, accessories, crafts, interiors and music, it is one of London's most exciting and imaginative markets. UpMarket aims to be a platform for designer-makers to sell direct to their customers. Many things you'll find here are one-off bespoke items, produced by the stall holders themselves.

Nearest Tube Station: Aldgate East.

Wellington Barracks Birdcage Walk, Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7414 3428. www.theguardsmuseum.com The Guards Museum in London contains a wealth of information and artefacts relating

Dennis Severs' House 18 Folgate Street, Spitalfields Dennis Severs' House is not a museum but a private home that opens to the public and offers a blast into London’s past. American

30

to the five regiments of Foot Guards namely Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish and Welsh Guards.

Along with the two regiments of Household Cavalry they make up Her Majesty’s Household Division and enjoy the treasured privilege of guarding The Sovereign and the Royal Palaces. Expect to see weapons, paintings, and uniforms worn by famous Dukes and even the Royal Family.

Nearest Tube Station: St. James's Park

HIDDEN GEMS The Charles Dickens Museum 48 Doughty Street Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7405 2127. www.dickensmuseum.com The Charles Dickens Museum will reopen in December after a ÂŁ3.1m redevelopment project. Great Expectations is an exciting ÂŁ3.1million project to restore and redevelop the Charles Dickens Museum as a legacy for the Dickens bicentenary in 2012. The project, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, aims to preserve and enhance the special atmosphere of the historic house as well as carry out important works to protect the structure of the building, improve access and provide a richer visitor experience.

Nearest Tube Station: Russell Square

available, but due to vandalism and souvenir hunters visitors are no longer allowed to explore unaccompanied.

Nearest Tube Station: Archway

Bevis Marks Synagogue 4 Heneage Lane Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7626 1274. www.bevismarks.org.uk Bevis Marks Synagogue, tucked down an alley in the East End, is the oldest synagogue in the United Kingdom. It was extensively damaged by a terrorist bomb in 1993, but has now been fully restored. The synagogue was built in 1701 and is affiliated to London's historic Spanish and Portuguese Jewish

Highgate Cemetery Swain's Lane Tel.: +44 (0) 20 8340 1834. www.highgate-cemetery.org Highgate Cemetery is full of unique, Gothic memorials dating back to mid-Victorian times. There are approximately 170,000 people buried in around 53,000 graves at Highgate Cemetery. The most famous occupant in the East cemetery is Karl Marx. Many other prominent figures, Victorian and otherwise are also buried at Highgate Cemetery. Most of the historically notable figures lie in the Western part. Tours of the most famous graves are

community. It is a Grade I listed building. The synagogue is the only one in Europe which has had continuous services for over 300 years.

Nearest Tube Stations: Aldgate or Liverpool Street 31

HIDDEN GEMS Smithfield Market 225 Central Markets Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7248 3151. www.smithfieldmarket.com Smithfield Market (official name, London Central Markets), is the largest wholesale meat market in the UK and one of the largest of its kind meteoric rise cold-fused with controversy. These attention-seeking provocateurs have reinvented ice cream as ‘vice cream’, a pop culture medium laced with incendiary flavours. Founder of the cuttingedge rock and roll brand The Icecreamists, Matt O'Connor is a true pioneer of uncensored, opinionated brands that push boundaries. Definitely worth visiting. in Europe. Located within the Square Mile of the City of London it is housed in three listed buildings.

It is a place packed with history – there has been a livestock market on the site for over 800 years – and yet is as modern as tomorrow with its state of the art facilities for the receiving, storing and despatching of meat and poultry. The markets at Smithfield are open Monday to Friday from 3am but are closed on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays. Although some selling takes place until mid-morning, to see the market at its best and find the full range of stalls open, visitors and buyers should arrive by 7am.

Nearest Tube Stations: Farringdon or Barbican

Nearest Tube Station: Covent Garden

Postman's Park King Edward Street Postman's Park is located a short distance north of St. Paul's Cathedral and is a fascinating area of London, full of history and unexpected surprises.

The park gained its name because it was near the old General Post Office, which is no longer standing.

Part of its fascination lies with the various plaques detailing the stories of every-day heroes, who lost their lives while saving the lives of others.The origin of this unusual memorial was an attempt by artist George Frederic Watts to commemorate the acts of

The Icecreamists 23/47 The Market Building, South Piazza, Covent Garden.

Tel.: +44 (0) 20 8616 8694. www.theicecreamists.com Without doubt one of the trendiest places in London and definitely the trendiest ice-cream parlour in the world. They call themselves ‘The Agents Of Cool’ and they are not far wrong.

Described by Selfridges as ‘More Sid & Nancy than Ben & Jerry’, The Icecreamists have enjoyed a

32

average people who had done extraordinary things.

Nearest Tube Stations: St. Paul’s or Barbican

HIDDEN GEMS Christ Church Greyfriars The history of Christ Church Greyfriars began in the early 14th Century. The church is second in size only to St. Paul's Cathedral. Following its destruction in the Great Fire London of 1666, it was rebuilt to the designs of Sir Christopher Wren.

The Church was almost completely destroyed following the World War II Blitz. It is said that the ghost of Isabella of France continues to haunt the nave. The church is well known for its peace and calm surroundings and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of busy London.

Nearest Tube Station: St. Paul’s.

The Priory Church of St. Bartholomew the Great West Smithfield Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7606 5171. www.greatstbarts.com Saint Bartholomew the Great is one of London's oldest churches. It was founded in 1123 as

an Augustinian Priory and has been in continuous use as a place of worship since at least 1143. The Church which can be found in the Smithfield area of the city. It survived the Great Fire of 1666 and the bomb raids during World War II. Today the Church

has a reputation not only for wonderful architecture, but also for traditional formal worship, marvellous music and intelligent preaching. It has also appeared in many o well known films including Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shakespeare in Love, The End of the Affair, Amazing Grace, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, and The Other Boleyn Girl.

Nearest Tube Stations: St. Paul’s or Barbican

Warner Bros. Studio Tour The World Of Harry Potter Watford (20 miles outside Central London) Tel.: 08450 840 900. www.wbstudiotour.co.uk.

People the world-over have been enchanted by the Harry Potter films for nearly a decade. The wonderful special effects and amazing creatures have made this iconic series beloved to both young and old – and now, for the first time, the doors are going to be opened for everyone at the studio where it first began. You'll have the chance to go behind-thescenes and see many things the camera never showed. From breathtakingly detailed sets to stunning costumes, props and animatronics, Warner Bros.

Studio Tour London provides a unique showcase of the

extraordinary British artistry, technology and talent that went into making the most successful film series of all time. Secrets will be revealed.

Nearest Railway Station: Watford Junction 33

SHOPPING

L

Shop Until You Drop!

ondon ranks as one of the best and one of the most famous shopping destinations in the world.

Take our word for it, if you love shopping – you will love London.

From luxury shops in Mayfair to quirky retail outlets in Covent Garden; from bargain fashions at London's markets to huge shopping centres – London has it all, and you can easily spend an entire day browsing and buying!

London has several distinct retail districts and shopping streets, many of which have their own themes or specialities. The following is a rundown of some of our favourite shopping areas.

The heart of London shopping is bustling Oxford Street. It’s here where you can find the world famous Selfridges Department Store. In total, the area plays host to more than 300 shops and it has an extra special appeal during the Christmas period.

You may need a healthy wallet if you take a chance on visiting Bond Street or Mayfair, as they host all the luxury brand stores and they have the

34

big prices to go with them.

If you are after some middle of the range prices, then Regent Street could be the place for you, while male shoppers will probably be interested in the nearby Jermyn Street. Both thoroughfares can be found close to Piccadilly Circus.

The chilly winter weather conditions may mean that you prefer to do your shopping under one roof. If that is the case, then we recommend a visit to Europe’s largest urban shopping centre ‘Westfield’, which can be found close to White City and Shepherd’s Bush Tube stops.

The world famous Carnaby Street (the birthplace of fashion during the Swinging Sixties) is still home to some of the world’s best designers and is also well worth a visit. Oxford Circus or Piccadilly Circus are the nearest Tube stops and they will also leave you close to the renowned Savile Row – the home of British tailoring.

If you fancy something a little more quirky then Covent Garden could be the answer.

Leicester Square and Holborn Tube stations will leave you in the vicinity.

SHOPPING

Shopping Centres Department Stores There are countless shopping malls and department stores in London which will ensure you can enjoy your retail therapy without having to worry about the chilly outdoor weather conditions.

The most famous is probably Harrods which is just outside the Knightsbridge tube stop, and has long been a bastion of style and taste in London.

It's a destination for the wealthy, as well as tourists who often visit just to marvel at the amazing dĂŠcor.

One of the highlights of a visit to

Harrods is the food hall, which is a reflection of the general opulence of the store.

Another luxury department store Selfridges, on Oxford Street. Here you will find all the top designer labels as well as another top class food hall.

It’s a similar story at Harvey Nichols, which is also located at Knightsbridge and also boasts an array of designer label goods, as well as a famous 5th floor restaurant.

Liberty on Regent Street is one of the last great emporiums for innovative and eclectic design. It is housed inside a stunning Tudor building, and is the ideal venue for those looking for a unique shopping experience and it is heaven on earth for antique lovers.

Harrods can be found just outside Knightsbridge Tube Station.

35

SHOPPING

London markets Camden Lock

Tel.: +44 (0)20 7485 7963 One of the city’s most popular markets, you’ll find small shops and market stalls selling everything from vintage fashion, handmade

Spitalfields Market Tel.: +44 (0)20 7247 8556 One of London's oldest markets, Spitalfields offers cutting edge fashion and interiors, original artworks and very tasty food.

The market is surrounded by independent shops, cafes, bars and awarding winning restaurants. The stalls range from contemporary and vintage fashion, music, bespoke children's toys, jewellery and accessories and home interiors.

Brick Lane Market

jewellery and beautiful home products sourced from around the globe. The market lines a street of shops, bars and restaurants in Camden Town

Greenwich Market Tel.: +44 (0)20 8269 5096

Tel.: +44 (0)20 7364 1717 Paradise for those who enjoy flea markets and love to get a bargain. Brick Lane Market offers stalls selling antiques, clothes, bric-a-brac and all sorts of other weird and wonderful goodies. Your hunger will also be satisfied, as there are a number of great little restaurants behind the stalls.

This unique covered market with its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to showcasing designer makers, is fondly regarded as one of London's best markets. Discover original artworks and handcrafted toys, fashions and handmade jewellery, delicious fresh produce and mouth-watering food-to-go.

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5.30pm.

36

Souvenir/Specialist gifts

SHOPPING

Crest Of London

James Smith & Sons

Tel.: +44 (0)20 7935 0044

53 New Oxford Street Tel.: +44 (0)20 7836 4731 The world famous James Smith and Sons Umbrella Shop was founded in 1830 and is still owned and run as a family business. For 175 years the company has been making umbrellas, sticks and

Crest of London was established in 1990 and is the market leader in London souvenirs and novelty gift items. The company works in partnership with London & Partners, providing high service standards and good quality London gifts, London souvenirs, novelty items and mementos to tourists, locals and corporate clients at great value prices. With 7 stores located in London’s busiest areas, Crest of London is the premier London souvenir and gift retailer in the capital.

canes for both ladies and gentlemen and their reputation as the home of the London umbrella is well justified. The historic and beautiful shop is on New Oxford Street in the heart of London’s West End and is a stunning reminder of the Victorian period.

The Vintage Showroom 14 Earlham Street, Covent Garden, Tel.: +44 (0)20 7836 3964 The world famous James Smith and Sons Umbrella Shop was founded in 1830 and is still owned and run as a family business. For 175 years the company has been making umbrellas, sticks and canes for both ladies and gentlemen and their reputation as the home of the London umbrella is

British Museum Shop Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury Tel.: +44 (0)20 7079 0970 After visiting the museum itself, you may be searching for some memories to take home.

Thankfully, the museum offers a splendid shop which is divided into four different sections: bookshop, a children's shop, a souvenir and guide shop and The Grenville Room.

well justified. The historic and beautiful shop is on New Oxford Street in the heart of London’s West End and is a stunning reminder of the Victorian period.

37

'Tis The Season To Be Jolly christmas

S

christmas in London

pectacular – that’s the best way to describe the festive season in England’s capital city.

Regardless of your religious affiliation, it’s almost impossible not to be taken aback by the transformation the city undergoes during the holiday-season, as certain areas are transformed into fantasy settings which would make Santa Claus proud.

There is a warmth about the chilly days.

There is a brightness about the evening darkness. There is quite simply something special in London’s festive air.

With so many Christmas events going on, we could easily write an entire magazine on the subject of “London at Christmas”. Space restrictions ensure we don’t have that luxury, so instead we have listed some of our favourite festive venues and events. We hope this information goes some way towards making your Christmas a little more merrier!

38

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS The city is famed for its sparkling Christmas lights.

Every year the lights have a different theme. This year the Regent Street lights celebrate the London 2012 Olympic Games, while Marmite (love it or hate it) has sponsored the Oxford Street lights. The following are some of the areas which are certain to light up your Christmas spirit.

Christmas in Covent Garden Until 2 January Its family fun all the way, with a wealth of festive entertainment in Covent Garden this Christmas.

Regent Street Christmas Lights Until 6 January The theme for this year’s spectacular Regent Street's Christmas lights is the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic teams.

christmas London Christmas Market at The Scoop Until 16 December at The Scoop After hosting a hugely successful market in 2011, this year’s Christmas Market at The Scoop has been extended and expanded. It features a variety of gift stalls, craft stalls and culinary delights.

Real Food Christmas Market at Southbank Centre Square

Marmite Oxford Street Christmas Lights Until 4 January This year's Oxford Street Christmas lights are sponsored by the renowned British food brand Marmite. They say that you either love Marmite or hate it…trust us, you will definitely love the lights!

Until 23 December at Southbank Centre The Southbank Centre's Real Food Christmas Market gives you the opportunity to purchase seasonal treats and gifts from the very best artisans.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park Until 6 January at Hyde Park One of the city’s biggest Christmas

Christmas in Trafalgar Square Until 4 January This is where you will find the renowned Christmas tree which is given by the people of Norway to the people of London to mark Britain's support for Norway during World War II.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS It seems that every European city has caught the Christmas Market bug and London is no different, as the city offers an array of seasonal markets which are certain to instil the Christmas spirit.

markets. Various goodies and edible treats can be found at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, as well as an impressive ice riunk.

39

christmas Southbank Centre Christmas Market Until 24 December at Southbank Centre It’s like a scene from festive Germany, as the Southbank Centre's Cologne Christmas Market features up to 60 traditionally decorated wooden chalets selling a wide range festive goods.

The ice rink is surrounded by beautiful lights and stalls selling food, drink and gifts.

Great family fun.

Skate at Somerset House Ice Rink Until 6 January at Somerset House Without doubt, one of the city’s most glamorous and funky ice rinks. You can even skate to live music at a club night.

The Christmas Pop-up at Artisan December 14-21 at Artisan Artisan will become a "Pop-up" Christmas shop for just one week to help solve the Christmas panic of that last-minute shopping.

FESTIVE ICE RINKS Natural History Museum Ice Rink Until 6 January at the Natural History Museum

Canary Wharf Ice Rink Park

Until 13 January at Canada Square

The 2012 rink will include London's first skate path, allowing the public to exit the main rink and skate through the forest.

Eyeskate Until 6 January at London Eye The stunning backdrop of the EDF Energy London Eye's makes skating on this rink extra special.

The beautiful ice rink at the National History Museum.

40

christmas Santa’s Grotto at Selfridges Department Store.

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink Until 13 January at Hampton Court Palace Another breath-taking experience as you skate on an excellent rink while taking in the spectacular backdrop of Hampton Court Palace's West Front.

SANTA’S GROTTOS There are countless Santa’s Grottos in the city, as almost every shopping complex builds a temporary dwelling place for St. Nick before his busy evening on December 24th. Here are some of our favourites: Westfield Stratford City Ice Rink Until 6 January at Westfield Stratford City Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park Until 6 January at Hyde Park

Christmas at the Rainforest Cafe Until 23 December at the Rainforest Cafe The Harrods Christmas Grotto 2012 Until 24 December at Harrods Christmas Grotto at Stamford Bridge Until 23 December at Chelsea Football Club Santa and his Reindeer at London Zoo Until 24 December at London Zoo Santa's Grotto at Canary Wharf Until 23 December at Canary Wharf Santa’s Grotto at Selfridges Until December 24 at Selfridges 41

Whats On MUSIC FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE DECEMBER 5 At the O2 Arena

Theatrical art school graduate Florence Welch is renowned for her luscious vocals and kooky videos. She is one of the UK's most popular female stars and has become increasingly famous due to her hit singles such as Rabbit Heart, You Got the Love and Dogs Days Are Over. Ticket information: www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Hit Factory Live Christmas Cracker December 15 at the O2 Arena Some of the biggest pop acts from the 80s and 90s including: Steps, Jason Donovan, Bananarama and 2 Unlimited will take to the stage at the O2 Arena for 42

what promises to be a rocking pre Christmas party.

Little Mix February 13 at Hammersmith Apollo

The 2011 X-Factor winners enjoyed a wonderful 2012 and all the signs suggest that 2013 will be even better for girl band. They will perform at Hammersmith Apollo in midFebruary.

STAGE PRODUCTIONS BILLY ELLIOT: THE MUSICAL UNTIL DECEMBER 15 At Victoria Palace Theatre This inspirational musical follows Billy in his triumph over adversity and his fight to prove his doubters wrong by going all the way.

Billy is brought up by his father in a Northern mining town where boys are expected to box, not dance, let alone have dreams of attending the Royal Ballet School. The original film, nominated for three Oscars and 13 Bafta awards, captured the heart of people around the world. The musical opened in London in

Whats On SINGING IN THE RAIN THROUGHOUT WINTER

2005 and was nominated for nine Laurence Olivier Awards. Ticket information: www.visitlondon.eolts.co.uk

ALADDIN: A WISH COME TRUE AT THE THEATRE DECEMBER 7 – JANUARY 5 At The O2 Arena\

At Palace Theatre From the golden age of musicals to the West End, Singin' In The Rain brings the glamour of the MGM film to the Palace Theatre. The legendary film comes to life in ways which will mesmorise the audience. Ticket info: www.singinintherain.co.uk.

DANCE STOMP UNTIL DECEMBER 15 At the Ambassadors Theatre Enjoy the revamped Stomp in London with new music, new dance routines, and an exciting new act starring old paint cans! Stomp is a fast-paced combination of music, tap dance and percussion with its own special brand of fun, high-energy performance. Ticket info: www.visitlondon.eolts.co.uk

Lily Savage will dust down her theatrical muses and throw on the guise of Widow Twankey for a rare and unique stage appearance in a strictly limited season of Aladdin A Wish Come True at The Theatre at The O2. Ticket info: www.visitlondon.eolts.co.uk

43

Whats On The Firebird Dec 22 – Jan 11 at The Royal Opera House

Now in its 15th year at the Peacock Theatre, the Sadler's Wells production of The Snowman never fails to instil a sense of joy and festive spirit in its audience. This enduringly popular show is the perfect festive treat for all the family. Ticket info: www.sadlerswells.com/show/The-Snowman2012

THE ROYAL BALLTET: THE NUTCRACKER DECEMBER 10-JANUARY 16 At Royal Opera House

Good is pitted against evil in Mikhail Fokine's dramatic tale of a magical Firebird - a classic of 20th-century ballet. The Firebird was Igor Stravinsky’s first ballet score. The Royal Ballet’s production uses stunning costumes and glittering sets to captivate the audience.

THE SNOWMAN AT SADLER'S WELLS NOVEMBER 28 -JANUARY 6 At the Peacock Theatre Enjoy a magical live version of this classic winter tale at the Peacock Theatre in London.

Expect theatrical magic and festive sparkle in Peter Wright’s stunning production of this much-loved winter ballet. Ticket info: www.roh.org.uk/productions/the-nutcrackerby-peter-wright.

ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET: SLEEPING BEAUTY JANUARY 9 –19 At London Colisseum With lavish costumes, wondrous set design and Tchaikovsky's glorious music, you won't want to miss this stunning production of a classic fairy tale. Ticket info: www.ballet.org.uk 44

Whats On EXHIBITIONS Dino Snores Throughout winter at Natural History Museum

finest bronzes from Asia, Africa and Europe, many of which have never been seen before in the UK. More info at: www.royalacademy.org.uk/exhibitions/bronze

DIGITAL CRYSTAL: SWAROVSKI AT THE DESIGN MUSEUM UNTIL JANUARY 13 At Design Museum

This is one exhibition that the kids will definitely love. At the exciting Dino Snores sleepover events there's lots of activities and a special show to watch before snuggling down in the shadow of the Diplodocus.

BRONZE UNTIL DECEMBER 9 At Royal Academy of Arts The Royal Academy's Bronze exhibition brings together bronze works from the past 5,000 years. You'll see more than 150 of the

The meaning of memory in the digital age is explored through the Design Museum's Digital Crystal exhibition, a display which includes the works for 15 leading figures in design who have been commissioned by Swarovski crystal in the past decade. More info at: www.designmuseum.org

HOLLYWOOD COSTUME UNTIL JANUARY 27 At Victoria and Albert Museum Find out how costume designers bring movie characters to life at the V&A's Hollywood Costume exhibition. Learn about the creative process behind the clothes on the silver screen, from Charlie Chaplin during the Golden Age of Hollywood, to recent blockbuster Avatar. Hollywood Costumes 45

Whats On MISCELLANEOUS WINTER WONDERLAND NOVEMBER 23 – JANUARY 6, daily 10:00 – 22:00, closed Christmas Day At Hyde Park Don't miss this magical fair in Hyde Park, which features the UK's largest ice rink, a huge

displays items from previously unseen archives, special interview footage and case studies to illustrate how film characters get their look.

More info at: www.vam.ac.uk/exhibitionhollywood-costume

SEDUCED BY ART UNTIL JANUARY 20 At National Gallery

observation wheel and lots of festive treats.

This year Winter Wonderland also contains the Magical Ice Kingdom, a sparkling frozen realm in which visitors will encounter more than 500 ice sculptures. Visit www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com for more information.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE ICE RINK

DECEMBER 1 – JANUARY 13 At Hampton Court Palace

This ground-breaking exhibition explores the relationship between the modern medium of photography and the traditions of fine art.

You'll see exceptional works by painters such as Gainsborough, van Dyck and Vernet alongside photographs by Tacita Dean, Cragie Horsfield and many more. For further info, visit: www.nationalgallery.org.uk 46

Whats On The Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink returns this festive period for yet another skating season. Put on the ear muffs, gloves and skates, grab someone's hand and have some fun this Christmas with the spectacular backdrop of Hampton Court Palace's West Front.

Walking with Dinosaurs: Dec 26 - Jan 6 at the O2 Arena

TASTE OF CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 7-9 At ExCel London

See dinosaurs walk the earth in this phenomenal live show at The O2 Arena. A show that has astounded audiences and critics alike, Walking with Dinosaurs is a technological triumph that brings over 20 lifesize dinosaurs into the arena.

Cirque du Soleil's Kooza Jan 5 – Feb 14 at the Royal Albert Hall

Prepare for the festive season and treat yourself to an indulgent day out at Taste of Christmas. Be inspired by the best in the business with chef appearances from Michel Roux Jr and many more live on stage. Discover a world of food and drink, where artisan producers showcase their finest and you can source that special ingredient or unique foodie gifts. Enjoy seasonal menus from some of the capital’s top restaurants, and polish your holiday entertaining ideas at the wine and cheese matching, beer or chocolate tastings.

More info at: www.tasteofchristmas.com

Since its premiere in April 2007, Kooza has captivated almost four million spectators with its blend of acrobatic performance and clowning. Performed by 53 artists, Kooza tells the story of The Innocent, who is searching for his place in the world through contortionists, trapeze-artists and the high wire.

47

Whats On

London is of course famed for it’s wonderful West End productions. The following are some of our recommendations for the winter season.

Mamma Mia

true life story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

Rock Of Ages Shaftesbury Theatre, 210 Shaftesbury Avenue

Over 50 million people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make Mamma Mia ultimate feel-good show! The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, and every night everyone’s having the time of their lives!

Jersey Boys Prince Edward Theatre, Old Compton Street Winner of 55 major awards worldwide, including the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Jersey Boys, the internationally acclaimed hit musical, tells the remarkable rise to stardom of one of the most successful bands in pop music history, as it charts the electrifying 48

Rock Of Ages takes you back to the times of big bands with big egos playing big guitar solos and sporting even bigger hair. This fivetime Tony Award nominated musical, is playing at London’s Shaftesbury Theatre and is definitely worth seeing.

Whats On Shrek The Musical Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine Street.

Experience the emotional journey that charges through the battlefields of history straight to hearts of audiences around the world. War Horse, based on the beloved novel

by Michael Morpurgo, is a powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and magnificent artistry.

Phantom Of The Opera Her Majesty’s Theatre, Haymarket.

Join Shrek and his loyal steed Donkey, as they set off on a quest to rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona. Add the diminutive Lord Farquaad, a gang of fairytale misfits and a biscuit with attitude, and you've got one of this year's must-see musical comedies. In our opinion, even more enjoyable than the screen versions.

War Horse New London Theatre, 166 Drury Lane

Now in its 27th glorious year at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Phantom continues to captivate audiences around the world, with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s mesmerising and unforgettable score, the jaw-dropping scenery and breathtaking special effects, all of which magically bring to life the legendary love story.

The musical opened at Her Majesty’s Theatre on 9 October 1986 with Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman in the leading roles, and there have been dozens of productions worldwide since then. Now in its 25th record-breaking year, The Phantom of the Opera continues to captivate audiences at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London’s West End, after more than 10,000 performances.

49

sPORTs

T

he English capital has always been a city of sporting excellence and this was brought to the fore during the summer, following a hugely successful Olympic Games.

The city offers numerous opportunities for sports fans, courtesy of top class competition 50

Sporting London

which is ongoing throughout the winter season.

If you don’t manage to get tickets for the big match, or the big event, worry not, because there are a number of stadium tours which will more than make up for it. In this section of the magazine, we look at some of the city’s top sports-themed tours.

sPORTs

Wembley Stadium Tour Tel.: 0844 800 2755. www.wembleystadium.com/tours Probably the most famous football arena in the world. The unforgettable Wembley Stadium Tour allows visitors the chance to go behind the scenes into England’s changing rooms. Walk in the footsteps of legends, through the players’ tunnel towards the hallowed turf.

Stand triumphantly in front of the Royal Box with The Cup. The Tour now also includes the new Exhibition of Champions celebrating the 57 UEFA Champions League (European Cup) finals from 1956 to 2012.

one of the most technologically advanced in Europe, incorporating state-of-the-art facilities with stunning features from Arsenal's Highbury past. The tour offers you the opportunity to get a sense of what the Arsenal stars feel like on a match day.

Emirates Stadium Tour Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7619 5000. www.arsenal.com/tours Widely regarded as one of the world’s most modern and impressive arenas, the tour of Arsenal FC’s new home is hugely enjoyable. Emirates Stadium is 51

sPORTs

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum & Tour +44 (0)20 8946 6131. www.wimbledon.com

The Museum provides a remarkable multidimensional tour of the traditions, triumphs, sights and sounds that have made Wimbledon the most coveted title in tennis. Visitors explore using interactives, touch screens, and audio guides (available in various languages). people of all ages can experience the artistry and athleticism of tennis throughout time. Visitors may also take a tour of the grounds and gain access to restricted areas normally closed to the public. A must for tennis fans.

Chelsea FC Stadium Tour Tel.: 0871 984 1955. www.chelseafc.com/stadium-tours Visit the home of the reigning Champions League champions. This unmissable tour of Stamford Bridge is a fun, informative and unforgettable experience, enjoyed by sports fans of all ages, from all over the world. The fully 52

guided tour gives you access to areas normally reserved for players and officials, such as the Chelsea FC Dressing Room, The Visitors Dressing Room, pitch side and dugouts and the Press Room. Entrance to the Chelsea FC museum is included with your visit.

sPORTs Twickenham Stadium Tours Tel.: +44 (0)20 8892 8877. www.rfu.com/microsites/museum/

tunnel….no doubt you will be humming to yourself “Swing Low Sweet Charriot”. The tour also includes a visit to Twickenham Stadium’s Museum of Rugby where the world’s largest collection of rugby memorabilia helps tell the story of how a schoolboy game became an internationally renowned professional sport.

Lord’s Tour & Museum

Avail of the opportunity to take a look inside the England dressing room where you can sit on the seat of your favourite player before realising what it is like to run down the

Tel.: +44 (0)20 7616 8595. www.lords.org Come to Lord’s and take a tour behind the scenes at ‘The Home of Cricket’. Guided by an expert guide the tours take in the Pavilion, the legendary Long Room, and the Dressing Rooms.

Housing the famous 'honours boards', you will have the chance to sit on the seats usually occupied by the England team. In the MCC Museum, you can take in more than 400 years of cricket history and you can also view the famous Ashes Urn, which must be one of the smallest trophies in world sport.

53

RESTAURANTS

A

lthough it has been the subject of much ridicule from its European counterparts, British cuisine has a long and illustrious history, and the cultural diversity of the population also ensures that it is much more varied than most people think.

British food is traditionally based on beef, pork, lamb, chicken and fish, which is normally served with a variety of potato and at least one vegetable. Some of the most famous traditional British dishes are just as renowned for their names as their flavour. The following are a few examples: Bubble & Squeak (made with shallow-fried leftover vegetables and named after the sound it makes while cooking); Toad In The Hole (sausages covered in batter and roasted), Bangers & Mash (Sausages and mashed potatoes) Yorkshire Pudding (Batter baked in the oven and moisturised with gravy) and Spotted Dick (a steamed suet pudding served with dried fruit).

Fish & Chips, Sunday Roast, Shepherd’s Pie, Steak & Kidney Pie, Lancashire Hotpot and Cottage Pie are other traditional dishes which are hugely popular and the large Indian cultural influence has also ensured that several different

54

Food For Thought

types of curries also rank highly among the most popular dishes eaten by British. Many of the afore mentioned dishes are old stereotypes and its worth stating that very few would be found on a modern menu, as British cuisine menu, as British cuisine has become an increasingly up-market affair.

When it comes to breakfast, remember you are in London, so you cannot really start your day without having a world-renowned traditional full English breakfast, which comprises of all or most of the following ingredients: bacon, sausages, fried tomatoes, fried eggs, baked beans, mushrooms, hash browns and toast.

However, it is not just about “Going British” in London, because the vast number of cultures and nationalities of the city have ensured a wide range of international restaurants with quality eating establishments from all over the world.

There are countless eateries specialising in specific international cuisines and all clearly mark their presence on the culinary scene of the city.

Regardless of whether you're on holiday or a business trip, many of London’s restaurants are certain to tantalise your taste buds and invoke a genuine flavour of the city.

RESTAURANTS

MODERN BRITISH John Salt 131 Upper Street, Islington. reservations@john-salt.com

out of their way to make sure your visit is a memorable one.

Nearest Tube Stations: Russell Square or King’s Cross

ITALIAN Balfour Italian Restaurant 75-77 Marchmont Street, Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7713 6111. www.balfourrestaurant.co.uk

One of the city’s hottest chefs Ben Spalding has opened his latest project ‘John Salt’ on Upper Street in Islington and the restaurant has been gaining rave reviews in a short space of time. According to Spalding, the restaurant will feature serious cooking using rare ingredients. The management describe the place as ‘a neighbourhood bar with good beer’, but this is a massive understatement as you will discover after experiencing the food, the cocktails and the wonderful music.

Nearest Tube Stations: Angel or Highbury & Islington

Balfour Italian restaurant is an independent venture in the heart of Bloomsbury. At Balfour they pride themselves on producing quality food at a reasonable price The menu uses the finest and freshest ingredients, authentically hand prepared and cooked to order. Their specials board changes weekly reflecting the seasonal produce available throughout the year.

Among other things, they offer a delicious two-course lunch menu which really is fantastic value for money.

Nearest Tube Station: Russell Square

Cosmoba 9 Cosmo Place, Borough of Camden Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7837 0904. www.cosmoba.co.uk

TAPAS The Norfolk Arms 28 Leigh St Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7388 3937. www.norfolkarms.co.uk The Norfolk Arms is one of London’s newest tapas bars. A frequently changing menu eschews conventional starter/main course options in favour of a more casual sharing system. It doesn't matter how big the plates are; you just keep ordering until you are full. The restaurant has gained rave reviews from some of the country’s most acclaimed food critics, and the service is extremely friendly, as the staff go

This quaint Italian restaurant near Russell Square is a real gem . The food is terrific and the service is friendly and helpful , as staff go out of their way to cater to your every need. Cosmoba came to being around 60 years ago when two families came to London to find work. 60 years on Cosmoba is still going strong and the restaurant is still being ran with the same passion and drive for all things Italian.

Nearest Tube Station: Russell Square 55

RESTAURANTS

Planet Hollywood 57-60 Haymarket, London, Tel.: +44 20 7437 7639 www.planethollywoodlondon.com Planet Hollywood continues to go from strength to strength at its new central London location.

Their extensive menu which spans several continents, and their packed cocktail list are just two of the reasons why you should visit when in London Planet Hollywood London, now boasts a large cocktail bar, along with many other themed areas, such as the Bond room, the British room and their trendy Cabana room.

The venue still hosts several pieces of memorabilia, among them Ursula Andress bikini from the iconic film, Dr No,; R2D2 from the classic Star Wars films and many more.

Whether your occasion is a group celebration, a family moment, dining with colleagues or just getting together for drinks at the bar, Planet Hollywood is the perfect venue and can accommodate most large and small groups for lunch, dinner or late night dining.

Planet Hollywood continua firme e forte, na sua nova localização no centro de Londres.

56

Seu cardápio extenso que abrange vários continentes e sua lista de coquetéis diversificada, são apenas duas das razões pelas quais você deve visitar quando vir a Londres.

Planet Hollywood Londres, agora possui um bar de coquetéis grande, juntamente com muitas outras áreas temáticas, como a sala de Bond, a sala britânica e seu quarto da última moda Cabana.

O local ainda abriga várias peças memoráveis, entre elas os biquíni de Ursula Andress do filme irônico “Dr NO”, R2D2 dos filmes clássicos de “Star Wars” e várias outras. Планета Голливуд продолжает идти в ногу со временем на своем новом месторасположении в центре Лондона. Их обширное меню, которое пролетело несколько континентов и их подобранный коктейль-меню только две из многих причин посетить ресторан когда Вы в Лондоне. Планета Голливуд Лондон, сейчас предлагает огромный коктейль бар, вместе со многими другими тематически оформленными комнатами, так к примеру комната агента Бонда, Британская комната и их модная комната Cabana. Ресторан до сих пор имеет к показу зиции памятные вещи, среди них бикини Урсулы Андресс из знаменитого фильма, Доктор No, R2D2 из классического фильма Звездные войны и многое другое.

RESTAURANTS quando se trata de jantar", e sua descrição foi precisa. O local fica somente dois minutos a pé da estação King's Cross.

Estação de metro mais próxima: King Cross

The Fellow 24 York Way Tel.: +44 (0) 207 837 3001.www.thefellow.co.uk.

Named after a famous French racehorse, The Fellow is a modern pub & dining room serving a quality selection of beers, ales and spirits alongside an extensive list of over 50 unique wines from across the globe. The dining room specialises in modern British cuisine with a European twist. The lunch and dinner menus change seasonally. One critic said, “The Fellow puts King’s Cross on the map when it comes to dining”, and his description was accurate. The venue is just two minutes walking from King’s Cross Station.

Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross Nomeado após um famoso cavalo de corrida francês, The Fellow é um pub moderno com sala de jantar servindo uma selecção de qualidade de cerveja e bebidas alcoólicas, junto com uma lista extensa de mais de 50 vinhos exclusivos de todo o mundo. A sala de jantar é especializada em cozinha britânica moderna com toque europeu. O cardápio de almoço e jantar varia dependendo da estação do ano. Um crítico disse, "The Fellow coloca King's Cross no mapa, 58

Названный в честь известной французской скаковой лошадки, Паренек - это современный бар & ресторан предлагающий высокого качества пиво, аллей и алкогольные напитки вместе с обширным листом, более чем 50 уникальных вин со всех концов света. Ресторан специализируется на современной Английской кухне с Европейской изюминкой. Меню на обед и на ужин меняются по сезонно. Однажды критик сказал: " Бар Паренек делает Королевский перекресток как на карте когда дело доходит до еды", и его описание было точным. Ресторан только в двух минутах пешком от Станции Королевский перекресток. Самая близкая станция: Королевский перекресток.

RESTAURANTS

FRENCH

SEAFOOD

Clos Maggiore

J. Sheekey Seafood Restaurant

33 King Street, Covent Garden, Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7379 3444. www.closmaggiore.com

Recently crowned London's 'Most Romantic Restaurant' in Harden's Restaurant Guide 2013, Clos Maggiore is an oasis of calm in the heart of Covent Garden, serving beautifully presented, contemporary French cuisine. Influenced by the stylish country inns of Provence and Tuscany its unique interior is an intimate setting for couples, groups of friends or business diners.

Nearest Tube stations: Covent Garden & Leicester Square

Café Des Amis 11-14 Hanover Place Tel.: +44 (0) 207 379 3444. www.cafedesamis.co.uk Tucked away from the vibrancy of Covent Garden and London's theatre district lies the cosy and romantic Café des Amis. Café des Amis, where you are invited to experience exquisite French cuisine served with passion and finesse. At Café des Amis, the ambition is to channel the brilliance of French cooking tradition, whilst adding their own touch of London-inspired artistry.

60

28-32 St Martin's Court Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7240 2565. www.jsheekey.co.uk In the heart of Covent Garden, J Sheekey is a fish and seafood restaurant offering the finest fish, oysters, shellfish and other fruits de mer. Discreetly tucked away on St Martin’s Court between Charing Cross Road and St Martin’s Lane, J Sheekey is a stone’s throw from many of the West End’s theatres, the cinemas of Leicester Square and vibrant quarters of Covent Garden and Soho.

Nearest Tube stations: Covent Garden & Leicester Square

INDIAN Masala Zone At various locations (see pg 72) www.masalazone.com Masala Zone represents some of London’s best Indian brasserie restaurants. They offer enjoyable, memorable dining experiences delicious Indian cuisines, exciting interiors and stylish hospitality. Unusually, they also offer genuine Indian food from the true sources – the gourmet homes & street stalls across India’s many regions – prepared by skilled chefs from those regions.

They pioneered in bringing street food to London restaurants and their food is totally different from local curry houses. If you don’t believe us, here is what The Guardian Newspaper had to say, “Masala Zone offers real Indian food and flavours at affordable prices.

10/10 for food, service and value for money… It succeeds superbly”.

RESTAURANTS Wok To Walk Wok To Walk is about fresh, nutritious, tasty food that is cooked in front of your eyes and served to you in minutes.. Sounds simple? It is. Simple, affordable, irresistible food to eat in your way!

Their 3 – step menu gives you total freedom to create exactly the combination you like best. The menu is designed to be clear, simple and give you complete freedom to choose. Just follow the three steps and watch as your personal selection is prepared right before your eyes. 1. Choose your base: rice, noodles or mixed vegetables. 2. Add your favourite ingredients. 3. Finish it off with your choice of savory sauces.

Wok To Walk é sobre comida fresca, nutritiva e saborosa, que é cozinhada na sua frente e servida em minutos. Parece simples? É. Comida simples, acessível, irresistível para levar comer no caminho!

O seu cardápio de três passos dá-lhe liberdade absoluta de criar exactamente a combinação de qual você gosta mais. O cardápio foi desenhado simples, claro e oferecendo uma completa liberdade de escolha. Só segue os três passos e olha sua selecção personal ser preparada na sua frente.

1. Escolha sua base: arroz, macarrão ou legumes mistos 2. Adicione seus ingredientes mais preferidos 3. Finalize com sua escolha de molhos salgados.

61

NIGHTLIFE

F

amed throughout Europe and the world, London’s nightlife scene will dazzle and delight you, provided you go to the right places. The English capital has long held a status for being one of the most dynamic, entertaining and cosmopolitan world cities and whether it be winter, spring, summer or autumn, there is always a buzz around the place.

Winter nights are always special in London, as most venues offer various special parties and theme nights to help warm up the winter air.

Things get even more special during the festive season, as the cafes and bars up the tempo and entertainment levels increase to the optimum levels.

Believe it or not, there are more than 5.000 pubs and bars in the London area and you can 62

London Nights

Drink & Be Merry!

find everything from traditional British Public Houses to chic celebrity hangouts. Some of the afore mentioned public houses are centuries old and definitely are worth visiting.

London’s club scene is also right up there with the world’s best. There are more than 200 clubbing venues in the city and some of them are absolutely spectacular.

Naturally, you can not mention London nightlife without mentioning the Soho area, which has been the hub of London nightlife for centuries and also boasts a thriving gay scene.

In this section, we will fill you in on some of the places which are worth a visit. Our staff have been to all of the venues which are listed to ensure you gain first hand information.

NIGHTLIFE VOC 2 Varnishers Yard, Regents Quarter, Kings Cross Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7278 8827. www.voclondon.co.uk VOC is a modern day interpretation of a Punch House inspired by the Dutch East India Company. The bar combines traditional 17th Century punch recipes with modern techniques to create a menu of cocktails that London hasn’t seen for over 200 years. With late opening hours, a courtyard area, an incredible cigar selection along with a bar menu ideally designed to match the drinks of the forgotten era, VOC is the ideal destination to be transported back to a forgotten era.

Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross

people, sweets, a mega-drive and a laugh. Among other things, visitors can sip on some cocktails in tea cups and play on a SEGA Megadrive; enjoy a Happy Hour that actually lasts for five hours; and get down to a notoriously eclectic mix of tunes from house to northern soul (I love the north) to 80's to hip-hop. Some might say that Simmons’is Cool, but they say that they are just Keeping it Real!

Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross

Scala 275 Pentonville Road, King´s Cross Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7833 2022. www.scalalondon.co.uk

The Driver 2-4 Wharfdale Road, Kings Cross Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7278 8827. www.driverlondon.co.uk The Driver gastropub is a boutique venue, where modern elegance and timeless style are enhanced by a personalised approach and impeccable service. Balancing traditional hospitality and urban adventure, through the five unique floors, it offers downtime, relaxation, fun and entertainment in a stimulatingly pleasuredriven environment. The venue hosts three beautiful lounge rooms and a beautiful roof terrace. They also cater for private parties.

Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross

Simmons 32 Caledonian Road, Kings Cross Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7278 5851. www.simmonsbar.co.uk Simmons pride themselves on, laid back, hunky staff, good drinks, great music, nice

Scala is a beautiful multi-purpose venue in the regenerated King’s Cross area. The building incorporates four main floors and accommodates events for as many as 1,145 people. There are three bars, two dance floors and a stage for live performances. Smokers are also catered for in a courtyard area. The Scala hosts regular weekend club nights but is also a very popular venue for live music on week nights. Scala’s history of live music shows include Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Moby, Super Furry Animals, Chemical Brothers,, Dido, Outkast, Lionel Ritchie, Stereophonics, Robbie Williams, The Scissors Sisters, Joss Stone and many more.

Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross 63

NIGHTLIFE

Bloomsbury Lanes Lower level, Tavistock Hotel, Bedford Way

Tel.: +44 20 7183 1979. www.bloomsburybowling.com London's Bloomsbury Lanes provide the fun of bowling in a charming venue with a completely unique style. The Bloomsbury Lanes has eight swish bowling lanes, complete with the only vintage above lane ball return outside the US. Far more than just bowling, the venue boasts a diner and a large bar made from bowling lane wood, serving craft beers, cocktails and their famous hard shakes. Whether you're meeting up with friends for drinks, or want to hold a private bowling event for a large group, Bloomsbury Bowling has it all.

Nearest Tube Station: Russell Square Bloomsbury Lanes em Londres, oferece a diversão de boliche num local charmoso com um estilo absolutamente original. O Bloomsbury Lanes tem oito pistas de boliche enfeitadas, completas com o único vintage retorno de bola acima da pista, fora dos EUA. Muito mais que somente boliche, o local se vangloria com uma lanchonete e um bar grande, feito de madeira de pista de boliche, servindo cervejas artesanais, coquetéis e os seus famosos milk shakes. Sendo encontro com amigos para tomar uma, ou um evento

64

privado de boliche para um grupo grande, Bloomsbury Bowling tem tudo o que você precisa.

Estação de metro mais próxima: Russel Square Лондонские Блумсбури дорожки обеспечивают удовольствие боулинга в очаровательном месте в совершенно уникальном стиле. Блумсбури дорожки имеют восемь полос свист боулинга, в комплекте с единственной приподнятой старинной полосой, где мяч возвращения за пределами US. Еще больше чем боулинг, место предлагает ресторан и большой бар сделанный из дорожек для боулинга, подают самоваренное пиво, коктейли и их знаменитые сильные шейки. Если вы собираетесь встретиться с друзьями на напитки, или вы хотите провести частное мероприятие боулинг для большой группы, у Блумсбури дорожке есть все.

NIGHTLIFE

London's vibrant club scene is renowned all over the world and revellers will be spoilt for choice in the English capital.

As with every other city, quantity does not always equal quality, so we have listed some of our favourite clubs and DJ bars in this section of the magazine.

CLUBS Pacha Terminus Place, Victoria, Tel.: +44 845 371 4489 www.pachalondon.com

KOKO 1A Camden High Street, Tel.: +44 870 432 5527 www.koko.uk.com KOKO began life as The Camden Theatre and was opened on Boxing Day 1900 by the famous actress Ellen Terry. In 1909 the theatre was renamed The Camden Hippodrome and was a variety theatre where Charlie Chaplin regularly performed.

Nowadays, it is world renowned and offers a great mixture of live bands and club nights and it has an illustrious history, having hosted the likes of Madonna, The Eurythmics, The Sex Pistols and many more.

DISCO/DJ/MUSIC BARS Pacha embodies the spirit of the white isle and brings a little piece of Balearic hedonism to the capital's nightlife. With some of the best house nights, the past 28 years has lent style and panache to clubland’s colourful landscape.

They continue to offer a clubbing experience that is both sophisticated and hedonistic.

66

The Big Chill House 257-259 Pentonville Rd, King's Cross Tel.: +44 20 7427 2540 www.bigchill.net/house The Big Chill House is a large Victorian Pub in the heart of London's King's Cross. The team behind the Big Chill brand have set to work and created a super cool space for

NIGHTLIFE everyone to enjoy and one where you can celebrate The Big Chill festival spirit, all year round. The music policy is diverse, representing all aspects you'd associate with the Big Chill

One of east London’s best venues.

Walking indoors you’re greeted by the stylish 93 Bar, complete with DJ booth and wooden bench seating that doubles as a dance platform.

Through the connecting hallway, and with its very own entrance on Brick Lane, you can find the large and versatile 93 Live. This venue offers a stage, club lighting, projection screen, projector and PA to suit a wide variety of Live Music & Club events. For the more personal

festival wrapped up in a forward-thinking style you'd expect from one of London's leading music venues.

93 Feet East 150 Brick Lane Tel.: +44 20 7247 3293 www.93feeteast.co.uk

touch they also have the intimate 93 Gallery, with a DJ post and chic bar.

Bar Rumba 36 Shaftesbury Avenue Tel.:+44 20 7287 6933 www.barrumbadisco.co.uk Here you’ll experience Piccadilly’s secret, situated in a downstairs venue on Shaftesbury avenue. Be part of a diverse and electrifying night club experience with an atmosphere unlike any other. One of their mottos is: "If you can't sing it, we won't play it". The venue recently underwent refurbishments after 18 years of entertaining central London. Same concept- new and refreshing ideas. So in other words a party bar with a twist- can it get any better?

67

DIRECTORY ATTRACTIONS Cutty Sark King William Walk, Greenwich Tel.: +44 (0) 20 8312 6608. www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

Emirates Air Line Tel.: 0843 222 1234. www.tfl.gov.uk

Houses Of Parliament Westminster Tel.: +44 (0) 2072194272. www.parliament.uk

Kensington Palace Kensington Gardens Tel.: +44 (0) 20 3166 6000. www.hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace

London Duck Tours 55 York Road London Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7928 3132. www.londonducktours.co.uk

London Eye Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road Tel.: +44 (0) 870 990 8883. www.londoneye.com

London Zoo Outer Circle, Regent's Park.

Tel.: 0844 225 1826. www.zsl.org 68

Madame Tussauds Marylebone Road Tel.: +44 (0) 871 894 3000. www.madametussauds.com/London

SEA LIFE London Aquarium County Hall Westminster Bridge Rd Tel.: +44 (0) 871 663 1678. www.visitsealife.com/london.

Shakespeare’s Globe 21 New Globe Walk Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7401 9919 (Box Office). www.shakespearesglobe.com

St. Paul’s Cathedral Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7246 8357. www.stpauls.co.uk

The London Bridge Experience 2 - 4 Tooley Street Tel.: 0800 0434 666. www.thelondonbridgeexperience.com

Tower Of London Tel.: +44 (0) 20 3166 6000 www.hrp.org.uk

Westminster Abbey The Chapter Office, 20 Dean's Yard Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7222 5152. www.westminster-abbey.org.

DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS Planet Hollywood 57-60 Haymarket, London, Tel.: +44 20 7437 7639. www.planethollywoodlondon.com

The Fellow 24 York Way Tel.: +44 (0) 207 837 3001.www.thefellow.co.uk.

The Big Chill House 257-259 Pentonville Rd, King's Cross Tel.: +44 20 7427 2540 . www.bigchill.net/house

Scala 275 Pentonville Road, King´s Cross Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7833 2022. www.scalalondon.co.uk

Pacha Terminus Place Victoria, Tel.: +44 845 371 4489 www.pachalondon.com

Balfour Italian Restaurant 75-77 Marchmont Street, Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7713 6111. www.balfourrestaurant.co.uk

KOKO 1A Camden High Street, Tel.: +44 870 432 5527 www.koko.uk.com

Cosmoba 9 Cosmo Place, Borough of Camden Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7837 0904. www.cosmoba.co.uk

VOC Cross

NIGHTS OUT Way

Bloomsbury Lanes Lower level, Tavistock Hotel, Bedford

Tel.: +44 20 7183 1979. www.bloomsburybowling.com

The Driver 2-4 Wharfdale Road, Kings Cross Tel.: +44 (0) 207 278 8827. www.driverlondon.co.uk

2 Varnishers Yard Regents Quarter Kings Tel.: +44 (0) 20 7713 8229. www.voc-london.co.uk

93 Feet East 150 Brick Lane Tel.: +44 20 7247 3293 www.93feeteast.co.uk

Bar Rumba 36 Shaftesbury Avenue Tel.:+44 20 7287 6933 www.barrumbadisco.co.uk 69

Issue 02 Spring 2013 FREE

The best of the best that London has to offer.

Spring edition due out in February 2013 For further information, contact: Tel.: +44(0) 7830 230 972 Email: London@nightdaymagazine.com