Meridian Magazine August 2015

Meridian August 2015 £1.00 Where Sold

Your Local What, Where and When Magazine

Chislehurst Village Guide Retail News

An Expert’s Guide to Extending your Home

LOVE LOCAL

Businesses and Community

CHISLEHURST reenwich To the G Festival Comedy age 7 See P

THE KENTONES BROM L EY ’S PR E M I E R M A L E HA R MON Y G ROU P ‘I ne ver thought sing ing could be so much f un’

Owen 22

‘Our mu sic direc tor br ings the best out of us’ John 48

Maybe you already sing in a church choir, at college, at karaoke or just in the car, but how would you like to experience the thrill of singing great songs with a large chorus with other like-minded men who love to sing? All ages and from all walks of life are welcome.

Just remember - singing makes men healthier and is a great social experience, so why not give it a try.

FREE 6-week singing course

Starting on Thursday 1st October at 7pm at St Paul’s Church Hall, Crofton Road, Orpington, BR6 8JE

We guarantee that you will have a stimulating time, full of joy and laughter.

You don’t need to read music, or have previous experience, as we provide full support. 27 guys turned up for our last course, and this time we are expecting even more, so you won’t be on your own.

For more information or to register see www.thekentones.org email singharmony@thekentones.org or ring for a chat with Brian Showell 020 8460 0831

www.devernois.fr

You deserve it. Embrace our Autumn range and experience a warm indulgence from our delicate yet distinct and unique French style.

We know you will adore it!

42 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath SE3 0BD (T) 020 8318 5998 Mon - Sat: 10am-6pm Sun: 11am - 4pm

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 7

HELLO They are here! The six week holidays have already started and no doubt you’ll be looking at ways to keep boredom at bay and fun at a maximum. Make sure you head straight to our event pages to see what is happening in SE London and Kent. We’ve also gathered a few family day out ideas together for you (whether you fancy a family day out at the Kent coast, the garden of England’s countryside or want to rediscover SE London as a local tourist) in our ‘Out and About’ section.

But, summer isn’t just for the kids, as much as they like us to believe it is. The better weather makes it a perfect time to take on any larger projects about the home, too. We speak to property expert, Michael Holmes, ahead of the the London Homebuilding & Renovating Show, about the considerations you need to make before taking on any projects to extend your home; as well as grabbing some helpful ‘insider’ pointers from him.

If you just want to use the summer to get in shape, find a new interest or simply enjoy the simplicity of being outdoors, cycling is peaking in popularity ... In ‘On yer Bike’ we’ve sourced helpful advice about choosing the best type of bike for your chosen activities, differing budgets, and where’s best to ride locally.

What’s stopping you?

You may have noticed our tribute to Chislehurst on this month’s front cover?

Meridian is a champion of local and independent business and this issue we take the opportunity to refocus on the businesses and community in Chislehurst, as Nicola Berry discovers exactly why Chislehurst Rocks...

Make sure you stop by our food and drink section for great reviews and restaurant news. Indulge in our art and design pages and take a look inside the latest exhibition at Turner Contemporary. Plus, don’t miss out on the latest local health and beauty, education and property news, and especially our free to enter competitions.

Have a great summer!

The Meridian Team xx

INSIDE THIS ISSUE....

CHISLEHURST ROCKS P15-16

LOVE LOCAL P7

HOME EXTENDING P11

KIDS WHAT WHERE AND WHEN P34-35

ON YER BIKE P23

SUMMER LIVING P35-37

Meridian MAGAZINE

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor: Valerie Breese Art & Production Director: Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller Emma Forbes Gary Smythson Classified Sales: Louise Hodgson Contributors: Claire McKinson James Haddrell Nicola Berry Michael Breese Accounts: Janet Franklin Dawn Maguire Printing: Headley Brothers Ltd Distribution CWT Meridian Line Publishing Ltd 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley, Kent DA5 2EE Tel: 01322 557794 Email: enquiries@meridian-magazine.co.uk

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

facebook.com/meridianmagazine

MeridianmagLDN

Meridian Magazine is for you, published monthly and distributed to selected residential properties and businesses within the Royal Borough of Greenwich and in Blackheath, Westcombe Park, Charlton, Eltham, Lee, Hither Green, Bromley and Chislehurst. Copies also go to Greenwich Tourist Information Centre, libraries and leisure centres, pubs, restaurants and hotels. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (including advertisement designs) without prior written permission will result in legal action. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily shared by the editor or the publisher.

Meridian Focus on Local Businesses and Community OSKA

Chislehurst Chase Around 300 runners take part in this annual event with all profits going towards the work of the Trustees of the Commons. The Chase is over a 10 kilometre course, 99 per cent of it off-road on St Pauls Cray Common and Scadbury Nature Reserve.

There is also a Fun Run which is over a 2 kilometre course entirely off-road, which starts at 11.30 am, entry fee is £2. There will be toilets and supervised baggage storage areas, BBQ, hot drinks and cakes.

Sun 13 September - 10K begins 10am Royal Parade, BR7 6NR £12 in advance, £14 on the day.

OSKA are excited to announce its International Road Show coming to Blackheath. They welcome everyone to view their exclusive and limited edition leather styles and ultralight down jackets, between 3rd and 7th September 2015.

RSVP to blackheath@oska.com

LOVE LOCAL

Photo: Rico Patel

Garden waste disposal made easy

See what happened at the 2014 race and how a 10 year-old girl won the Ladies Race. Register here: www.bridgetriathlon.co.uk/chislehurst-chase

www.blackheath.oska.com 020 8852 9774 OSKA Blackheath 20 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath SE3 0TA

It’s an exciting time for Claire Swindale.

And look who’s wearing one of her silk scarves …

Claire Swindale is a local photographic artist.

Her style is fun, elegant, colourful and definitely unique.

Claire carefully selected images from her library to create a collection of beautiful silk scarves. Enjoy her work as Wall Art, Cushion Covers and Fabrics. All are Limited Editions proudly made in England, some elements locally. www.claireswindale.com info@claireswindale.com 07747 567 732

The Magners Greenwich Comedy Festival is returning to the National Maritime Museum this September for another five nights of glorious comedy.

This year’s comedy extravaganza is the biggest yet with the Big Top and Apple Top hosting even more meticulously curated shows featuring comedy luminaries. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also the Magners Orchard – a brand new bar and entertainment area. The cider-centric oasis in the heart of historic Royal Greenwich is totally free to enter and will present a heady mix of music, cabaret, comedy, street food and drink.

To win a pair of tickets on the night of your choice simply go to www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/win or send your name, address and telephone number to Meridian magazine (ref Comedy) 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley, Kent DA5 2EE by the 28 Aug.

If life seems increasingly busier, Bromley residents can take advantage of the green garden waste collection service.

Over 17,500 households across the borough have already discovered this easy, convenient, green garden waste collection service.

As a member, for an annual fee of £60 you will receive a large 240-litre wheelie bin to hold all of your unwanted green garden waste. A dedicated waste services team will make regular scheduled visits to your home to collect all types of green garden waste, including grass cuttings, leaves, prunings and hedge trimmings.

If you have a gardener, this service may help to reduce their over-all costs as they will not need to take the waste to dispose of it elsewhere.

Members of the all-year-round service receive fortnightly collections from March to November, then monthly from December until February. www.bromley.gov.uk/gardenwaste or telephone 0300 303 8658. Membership of the scheme is exclusive to Bromley borough residents.

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YOUR LOCAL “REPAIR GENIE” BuildingGenie is London’s local reliable Home Repair & Installation service company registered with FENSA and KESTREL. BuildingGenie aims to give local home owners access to a one stop shop for all their home repairs. Our range of services includes: • Window & Door Repairs as well as New Installs • Replacement of Misted Window Units • Draught Proofing, Handles & Hinges Repairs • Window and Door Locks Repairs and Replacements • Conservatory • Blinds & Shutters • Roofing, Fascias & Soffits • Plumbing • Gas & Boiler Repairs • General Property Maintenance With BuildingGenie local home owners have access to a real money-saving option. One that will reduce what could be an alarming bill in the thousands to an honest one in the low hundreds – or even lower than that. For example, the average single repair or replacement undertaken by BuildingGenie is less than £95.

all putting off calling out window firms for fear of the costs and upheaval involved.

BuildingGenie’s team have many years of experience which means there are few jobs we can’t do. From the initial survey to the completed repair or installation, we provide a premium bespoke service that guarantees excellent service and a satisfying customer experience.

BuildingGenie offers a practical solution that other companies simply can’t – or won’t – provide. We cater for anything from a sticking door to a full conservatory installation. And with no call out charge finally repairing these snagging items can be completed in cost effective and stress free way. We aim to recycle the majority of our waste which makes us an environmentally friendly firm as well!

Whether you are looking to fix that annoying handle or draught, increase the value of your house or extend your living space with a fresh new look, Building Genie can help.

Great news for those home owners tired of peering through misted up windows and, or parents with broken handles that have been swung on one time too many,

Contact Building Genie today on 0800 975 0175 or visit www.buildinggenie.co.uk

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An Expert’s Guide to Extending your Home Michael Holmes, property expert and spokesperson for The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show, outlines what to consider before starting the project:

‘Be aware that there is a limit to how much value you can add to your home’

Location First, decide where you want your extension to go – often it can make sense to demolish an existing garage or an outbuilding to make way for the new extension, especially if there is off-street parking on a drive, or room for a new garage or shed elsewhere.

It’s usually more cost-effective to build over two storeys than one, because it spreads the cost of expensive elements such as foundations and a roof, and sacrifices less garden space than a larger single storey.

Style advantage of a vaulted ceiling, open to the ridge where you can introduce roof lights or a roof lantern to bring in light from above – perfect for a kitchen/dining area.

You should avoid building over existing services, such as inspection chambers (manholes) as they will have to be sealed or diverted, or near trees which may need to be removed, or may necessitate more expensive foundations to overcome any potential damage from tree roots, both will incur extra costs.

Make sure the extension’s scale and form, and the materials used in its construction, are complementary to the existing house.

A seamless extension that looks like it was constructed as part of the original house is a clever option and what many people aspire to, but it is difficult to get right. You need to pay attention to both the original materials and detailing.

Setting an extension apart from the existing house with a fully glazed link can be a good way to overcome any objections from the planners, especially when extending a listed building.

If you have a choice of locations, consider where the new space will enjoy the most sunlight, the best views and the most privacy from neighbouring properties. A single-storey extension has the

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ME RID IA N HO ME

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Lordship Flooring Completing the one-stop interiors destination that Blackheath has become, is a gem of a shop; Lordship Flooring offer imaginative flooring solutions, have an outstanding range of products, from woven runners to rubber and concrete, and have earned themselves a fantastic local reputation. www.lordshiplanecarpets.co.uk 020 8852 8109.

Lordship Flooring Co. Brigade Street, Blackheath, SE3 0TW.

Light Introduce as much light as possible into your extension, from as many different directions as is practical. As well as conventional windows and glazed doors, consider adding rooflights, glazed ceilings and floors, high-level windows, and using obscured glass to overcome privacy issues while still allowing in light.

The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show

Never leave an existing room without natural light by extending around it and leaving it with no window openings.

The only exceptions are if you plan to build a utility room, cloakroom or storeroom, all of which can function without windows - providing they have ventilation.

Regulations All new building work must comply with the building regulation policy. You can submit full plans for formal approval by the local authority before commencing (you can then start within 48 hours), giving you the chance to make amendments ahead of the work. Alternatively, you can submit a building notice form 24 hours ahead of starting on site, which is a commitment to comply with the regulations.

Adding Value Be aware that there is a limit to how much value you can add to your home, known as the ‘ceiling value’. In essence, it is usually difficult to exceed the highest price ever paid for a property in your area, unless the design you create is quite exceptional.

Your choice of materials, fixtures and fittings will have a very big influence on the final cost – especially your choice of kitchen and bathroom fittings and flooring.

Devernois

The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show, sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, is set to attract thousands more visitors at its new venue at ExCel. The show will include new experts, exhibitors, seminars and master classes, making it unmissable for anyone with a building project in mind.

ExCel, London, 25-27 September.

Standard tickets are £12 in advance or £18 on the door (children under 16 go free).

For further information visit www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/ London or call the ticket hotline on 08712 310824.

Meridian has 20 pairs of tickets to give away. Simply go to www. meridian-magazine.co.uk/win or send your name, address and telephone number to Meridian Magazine, (Ref OnBlack) 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley, Kent DA5 2EE by 30th August.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

Chislehurst shops, new even a new exciting time loved village finds out mo

is buzzing! New places to eat and w school… these are es for this much e. Nicola Berry ore.

MERI DI A N L O CA L

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Chislehurst Rocks in more ways than one A house came up for sale in Chislehurst recently: detached; four bedrooms and in need of modernisation. The first weekend alone saw over 30 viewings with many buyers coming from Greenwich and Blackheath, yet Richard Piddock from JDM tells me this is a well-trodden path.

Young professionals buy their first home in SE9, but when it comes to a family home they often turn to Chislehurst, where detached houses start at £800,000.

But it’s not just the houses that are attracting attention. Chislehurst itself is buzzing. I went to a meeting of the Chislehurst Business Group recently, which has just celebrated its 105th member, and was impressed by their ambitious agenda. Whether it’s funding the Christmas lights in the high street or encouraging trade through the recent Visit Chislehurst Week, this dynamic group of local businesses is working hard to ensure Chislehurst remains a vibrant and beautiful place to live and work.

The excellent local website: www. visitchislehurst.com has become a vital hub of local news and events. It was created

by Clare Herriot, manager of the 2gether charity shop in the high street, and Alison Stammers, Chair of the Chislehurst Town team. When talking about what motivated her to set up the website, Clare said: “I wanted to see businesses connect and work together with other local groups to help Chislehurst flourish, whilst injecting a sense of community back into the village. It’s fair to say that visitchislehurst.com does just that, bringing together details of the Christmas fair, Chislehurst Rocks, the open air cinema…the list is endless!

It’s easy for newcomers to think that Chislehurst only consists of its high street when, in fact, it includes: Belmont Parade, Lower Camden (home of Chislehurst Station and its improbably long railway platform - built for a quick visit by Queen Victoria) and the picturesque Royal Parade. All are home to a diverse array of independently owned shops and businesses such as Sweet Sundae, who recently won a national competition for their colourful display of Hope and Greenwood sweets.

Chislehurst residents like nothing more than eating out, and there’s plenty of choice.

The French brasserie, Côte, opened in the high street recently and Wrattens’ eagerly awaited new cafe opens soon. The Queen’s Head has undergone a transformation, as has The Bickley in Lower Camden, which now boasts a truly stunning garden. The Imperial Arms is the place for Sunday lunch, The Bull’s Head’s new conservatory is the perfect setting for afternoon tea and I hear the Walnuts Cafe Bistro on Royal Parade does a mean breakfast.

Looking for a great night out?

Check out The Beaverwood regular over 30s party night, or why not catch one of their excellent tribute or live bands before they play London.

M E RID IA N LO CAL The Bickley pub garden

Family Life Good schools evidently play an important part in attracting families to the area. Babington House, which now takes boys and girls from 3-11 and then girls from 11-16, has recently opened a co-educational sixth form; whilst co-educational Farringtons (3-18), offers both day and boarding. Just down the road are two more independent schools: Bickley Park Prep School (boys) and Bromley High School for Girls.

Primary schools include Mead Road, Red Hill, Edgebury and Chislehurst C of E, whilst secondary schools include: Coopers (co-ed), Chislehurst School for Girls and Bullers Wood for Girls.The promise of a new Bullers Wood School for Boys is causing much excitement locally. It appears that the Secretary of State for Education has already decided the application should proceed to the next stage of the free schools process, and although there is still a lot of work to be done, it is hoped that final approval will be received in time for the school to open in 2016.

The Bickley Pub

With central London on your doorstep and tranquil, picturesque surroundings to relax in, The Bickley pub & garden in the heart of Chislehurst is the coolest spot to wind down and enjoy a sunny afternoon or evening. Our beautiful garden, with its unique outside bar, will be open every day throughout the summer.

And if the sun doesn’t show, our beautiful dining area and chic renovated bar area is as chilled to hang out in. With kids menus and a play area and even a large, grand function room for private party hire, The Bickley hits the spot for whatever your occasion. thebickley.com Tel: 020 8468 7613 Chislehurst Rd, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5NP

Sweet Sundae

Sweet Sundae is a fabulous place to treat yourself to a bag of your favourite sweets, or those that remind you of your childhood.

07554 598616 Sweet Sundae, 13 High Street, Chislehurst BR7 5AB

Welcome to Wrattens Finally, I’m pleased to report that community spirit is alive and well in Camden Grove, a charming little street of Victorian cottages tucked behind the high street. I was invited to their summer street party and what fun it was.

Residents young and old enjoyed water games, a carnival of cakes, BBQ and live music. It’s no ad-hoc affair; the party is meticulously planned, but as residents partied into the night I couldn’t help feeling a touch envious. Who wouldn’t want to live in a street like this?

An independent gift shop and caf’e located in the heart of the village, where they offer a fantastic section of homewares, accessories, food and gifts from established brands as well as the chance to discover New unique products. Come and browse the newly refurbished shop, where they aim to give a warm welcome. www.wrattens.com 020 8295 5933.

Wrattens, 51 High St, Chislehurst BR7 5A www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

17

BC55

Ebony & Ivory

Unique, original and mouthblown by skilled artisans, the ever-popular Ono collection includes a jug and decanter, striking in any setting. LSA is considered one of Europe’s leading brands of contemporary handmade glass and porcelain.

View some of the range at the Ebony & Ivory show home in Chislehurst’. See website for details.

Ebony & Ivory Interiors Ltd www.ebonyivoryinteriors.com 0203 078 9131

BC55 are independent, boutique serviced offices, prestigiously located minutes from Chislehurst Station. Whether you’re a small business wanting to manage and grow your company, or a start-up that needs a professional image from its creation, BC55 offer cost effective, flexible space with the latest office technology to give you all you need to start work immediately. www.bc55.co.uk 020 3770 1780 sam@bc55.co.uk 55 Chislehurst Road, Chislehurst, Kent, BR7 5NP

THE BEAVERWOOD

Exceptional customer service offered

by Fiesta Kitchens Ltd.

As one of Chislehurst’s local hidden gems you might not of heard of Fiesta Kitchens before, but they are a small, wellestablished family business offering exceptional kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. Established for over 35 years their reputation is built on commitment to quality, excellent project management and unrivalled customer service.

Why not take look at their website www.fiestadesign.co.uk. or give them a call on 020 8302 1368.

Fiesta Kitchens Ltd, 29 -31 Leith Hill, Orpington, Kent BR5 2RS

Devernois

Whether you are planning to get married, celebrate a milestone birthday, or hold a charity ball, The Beaverwood offers a beautiful and luxury venue for functions and corporate events. Set in extensive private grounds in Chislehurst, and just 12 miles from central London, The Beaverwood is also licensed for civil ceremonies. www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk 020 8300 1385 The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF

M E R IDIA N PRO PERT Y

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BICKLEY - £1,350,000

An impressively presented new build 5 bedroom house within 1/2 a mile of Elmstead Woods station (from 18 minutes into London) and in a good spot for highly regarded local schools including Scotts Park, Bullers Wood, Braeside and Babington House, which makes this an ideal family home. Around 3,000 sq ft and providing a wealth of accommodation and many features throughout including a state of the art fully automated media system with multi room functions and a 10 year building warranty.

EPC rating B..

CHISLEHURST - from £155,000

Two lovely retirement flats close to the village centre.

Both one bedroom with a lounge, kitchen and shower room. Access to a communal lounge area and communal gardens. Please note these apartments are designed for independent living for the active over 55s. There are NO SUPPORT FACILITIES. EPC ratings B and C.

Buyers still around!

Even though it’s the summer holidays, there are still potential buyers contacting us looking for their dream home. It’s true the volume of enquiries can be down, but you only need one serious buyer and you never know when they might come along.

ELMSTEAD WOODS - £525,000

A delightful contemporary split level apartment built about 10 years ago boasting light and airy open plan living space. Hand built fitted kitchen open plan to the lounge/ dining room. Under floor heating and a balcony to the side. 2 generous bedrooms and 2 modern bathrooms.

Residents’ parking. Great for the station. EPC rating C.

Feel free to contact Richard Piddock or Jonathon de Maid for any further help or to arrange a free valuation of your home.

Richard can be contacted at Blackheath 020 8463 0091 richard@jdmestateagents.com Jonathon at Chislehurst 020 8325 8000 jonathon@jdmestateagents.com

CHISLEHURST - £700,000

Built in the 1980s this beautifully presented detached family home has a large modern fitted kitchen, 2 spacious reception rooms, utility room and a downstairs shower. 4 amply proportioned bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Pleasant garden and a tandem garage. Chislehurst village centre is just over half a mile away. EPC rating D.

Established 1996

CHISLEHURST - £1,250,000

New superbly extended and entirely refurbished 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom family home just 1/3rd of a mile to Elmstead Woods station (Zone 4)) with trains from 18 minutes to London Bridge. The very highest standards are evident with so many features including new windows, new bespoke kitchen with all new appliances.

EPC rating B

Blackheath 020 8463 0091

Locksbottom 01689 880440

Bromley 020 8313 6800

Petts Wood 01689 819819

Chislehurst 020 8325 8000

Lettings 01689 838040

M E R IDIA N E DUCATI O N

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Have you ever considered hosting an international student?

Every year thousands of international students journey to the UK for language tuition and cultural experiences, and many individuals, couples and families host them in their spare bedrooms.

You probably haven’t considered letting someone you’ve never met stay in your home, but being a host family is a very worthwhile experience which gives you the chance to learn about foreign cultures and meet new people.

Hosting international students opens the door to a range of cultures and gives your family the chance to learn new languages and customs, whilst also earning a little extra in return.

Jennifer Green, from Catford, regularly hosts international students in her spare room after her children moved out.

“I’ve met some great people from being a host family. The students are respectful and I’ve learnt lots about other cultures and languages from them – and they’ve learnt lots about the UK from me.”

So, how do you go about becoming a host family?

Twin Group are able to match host families to friendly international students aged 10 to 40 years old, and are looking for new hosts in Greenwich, Charlton, Woolwich, Blackheath, Eltham and Deptford.

Being a responsible homestay management provider, they will support you through every step of the process and will make sure that your visiting student is given the right guidance on behaviour and general home etiquette.

Now is your chance to host a student in your spare room for anything from 2 days up to 1 year, earn an extra income and benefit from an enriching cultural exchange.

If you’re interested in becoming a host family please contact Twin Group’s Accommodation Team on 020 8297 3204 or email them at room@twinuk.com

Hitting the high notes Four hundred and fifty young performers from across the Royal Borough of Greenwich made musical history, as they set the Royal Festival Hall rocking with a spectacular concert in July.

The “Celebrate Royal Greenwich Singing Spectacular” saw singers from 15 schools across the Royal Borough holding the spotlight for a 90-minute exclusive performance in the famous music venue on London’s South Bank.

The event was jointly compered by Tommy Blaize, lead vocalist for the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing programme and musical director and vocal arranger Laura Baugh, who had coordinated the event on behalf of the Royal Greenwich Music Hub, with teachers from the participating schools.

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A-LEVEL COURSES AT SHOOTERS HILL CAMPUS. Here at Shooters Hill we have an extensive range of A-Levels on offer. With over 35 subjects to choose from we are able to offer you a unique study programme which incorporates all your interests for study at post 16. Along with our A-Level offer we also have a large number of vocational qualifications available which we can tailor to suit your needs. Don’t worry if you don’t know which courses you want to do yet, at your interview our team of specially trained advisors will be able to explain and help find the right courses for you.

Our results speak for themselves, our APS (Average Point Score) has risen every year for the last 12 years, meaning that our students are doing better and better each year, with more and more going to Russell Group Universities or into work within their chosen fields.

We pride ourselves not only on the level of outstanding teaching, but also on the

additional support we offer to our students.

Every student is assigned a Personal Progress Tutor at the start of the year who is available to help and guide you through your time here, providing encouragement and pastoral support. We have a large number of graduate teachers in several subjects to give you one-to-one support and guidance alongside your subject teachers inside of class and out. Our Enrichment programme both in sports and non-sporting areas provides opportunities to interact socially with your peers whilst continuing to practice something you enjoy, whether this is Astronomy, Choir, Basketball or debate.

If you would like more information or would like to discuss your options you can come along to our Advice & Guidance days, read more about our courses on our website, or fill out an online application form, our team are waiting to help.

Drop In Advice & Guidance

Thur 20th & Fri 21st August 9:30am - 2:00pm.

No Appointment Necessary.

Find out more at www.shootershill.ac.uk or Call 020 8319 9427

ME R IDIA N LIFEST YLE

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On Yer Bike Love it or hate it, the popularity of cycling is at an all time high.

From the occasional hop on a Boris bike to competing in a triathlon, or just cheering on Chris Froome and Mark Cavendish in this summer’s Tour de France, cycling is the third most popular recreational activity in the UK. An estimated 3.1 million people ride a bicycle each month.

Where to ride There are Cycling Clubs for cyclists of all abilities based near Woolwich, Eltham, Bexleyheath, Sidcup, Orpington and the Bexley area, with regular organised rides.

As a form of exercise, cycling has broad appeal.

Toddlers, pensioners, the able-bodied or people with disabilities can all enjoy cycling, if they have the right equipment. Cycling is one of the easiest ways to fit exercise into your daily routine as it’s also a form of transport. It saves you money, gets you fit and is good for the environment.

Or try one of the many well signposted cycle routes.

The Thames Path provides a high-quality, traffic-free walking and cycling route for the majority of the River Thames running throughout Royal Greenwich.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich also has a series of London Cycle Network routes connecting different areas of the borough.

It’s also a low-impact type of exercise, so it’s easier on your joints than running or other high-impact aerobic activities, but it still helps you get into and keep in shape.

For more information and free maps showing cycle routes through Royal Greenwich, visit the local cycle guides page on www.tfl.gov.uk.

Buying the right bike for you Your local cycle shop is the best source of advice and information to assist you in making the right decision, and, of course, nothing can substitute sitting on a bike and giving it a test ride to decide if it’s right for you, before you buy.

Greenwich Get Active cycle routes are ten leisure cycle maps showing short and longer leisure cycle rides around different parts of Royal Greenwich and are available on www.greenwichgetactive.com.

Each map covers routes taking 40 or 70 minutes.

You can also use the maps to plan your own cycling routes around the borough.

The Green Chain has developed 12 circular cycle routes on the South East London Green Chain. Each route starts from a train station making them easy to reach. Most of the routes are traffic free and suitable for beginners and families. Start with Route 1, the shortest ride at 1.6 miles and build up the longest ride at 7.7 miles.

For more information about ‘train2cycle’ routes, visit: www.greenchain.com

Regular cycling can help you lose weight, reduce stress and improve your fitness

Before you buy a bike, make sure you ask yourself some questions: Q. What type of cycling will I be doing?

A. To get the most out of your bike and enjoyment out of the experience, think about what type of cycling you will mainly be doing. Cycling for transport - such as to work or the shops. Cycling for leisure - such as along local cycle paths, forest routes or mountain biking.

Cycling for competition - such as road or off-road racing.

Q. What’s my budget?

A. You get what you pay for and never more so that when it comes to buying a bicycle. Try and get the best you can afford because it will ultimately be an investment in terms of quality components, features, durability and ride. A budget of around £250 is really the starting point for a quality adult bicycle for general leisure / transport use.

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Gallions Reach Dental Practice At Gallions Reach Dental Practice we have been replacing teeth and spaces with dental implants for the past 15 years. Of the 1000’s that we have placed, every implant has a story.

Dr Daniel Batman BDS, DPDS, DwSi, D.Implant Dent RCS

Last year, we treated a 39 year old female, she was incredibly nervous of the dentist and had not been for 10 years. Things had got so bad that she was gluing her teeth back into the gums as each one fell out.

The result was that she would not go out of her house. There was no cinema, no restaurants and no holidays. She refused to smile and would cover her mouth when she spoke. I have yet to ascertain what lead her to pick up the phone and make an appointment to see me. However, one Thursday in September she plucked up the courage and had an appointment for an implant consultation.

At this visit she explained her fears and what she wished to achieve, we discussed all her options from complete dentures to the more advanced “All on Four” implant treatment. At Gallions Reach Dental Clinic, we have dental sedationists who are used to working on nervous patients, so we were confident that we could help her.

Les Happee Tummeez fruits compotées

At that appointment she immediately said that she wished to proceed and she wished to have the “All on Four” dental implant treatment using intravenous conscious sedation. Thus, we embarked on a treatment plan that would involve multiple visits. She became much less nervous during the treatment, and struck up friendships with all our staff, particularly my nurse.

It wasn’t until the treatment was finished and a thank-you card arrived did I realise how much of an impact we had had on her life. All it takes is one card to remind us how lucky we are to be providing such a service to our patients. gallionsreachdentalclinic.co.uk Tel: 020 8310 4948 Bentham Road, Thamesmead, London SE28 8BE.

Can’t take the heat Apply either of Dermalogica’s primers first to provide a base to keep foundation in place throughout the day. Dermalogica’s ‘Redness Relief’ primer helps with reducing redness; its soothing, velvety silicones smooth the skin and strengthen the barrier protection whilst a SPF 20 shields the skin from irritation and UV rays.

Add that little je ne sais quoi to your everyday diet.

Crafted compotées with natural ingredients, steamed, crushed, mildly pasteurised, NO additive ! Suitable for gluten intolerants, vegans, diabetics and children from 6 months. Stay Happee Currently sold at Greenwich Baby Boutique 52 Greenwich Church Street, London SE10 9LB Call 07795965444 or e-mail hello@happeetummeez.com More on Facebook.com/leshappeetummeez or on Twitter @happeetummeez

Or Dermalogica’s ‘Skin Perfect’ primer will smooth away fine lines, brighten and prime for flawless skin, as well as prep for make-up application. Peptides and AGE Smart® actives help firm and shield against MMP and free radical damage, as sunscreens shield against sun damage. Formulated without artificial fragrances and colours.

Available from B Brown www.b-brown.co.uk.

020 8293 3939.

8 Old Dover Rd, Blackheath SE3 7BT.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME R IDIA N FO O D & DRINK

High Standards at the City View

Fine dining at City View means just that. Yes, the food is prepared, cooked and served by the students at the college and this means they are trained to the highest possible standards in culinary skills, and judging by this evening’s meal, the standard is high indeed. This evening, the menu isn’t long; therefore choice is limited, however we found a good choice and went with the flow.

Gazpacho isn’t just cold, it’s chilled, and in the heat of summer it can be a startling cooler of a soup. We enjoyed the island of salsa and the crisp, ciabatta flutes in the green soup. It’s obvious that a lot of attention is paid to the presentation of each dish and I’m looking forward to meeting the students at the end of the meal to find out the ingredients.

Grilled green and white asparagus with a perfect soft, poached egg and Béarnaise sauce, a light second course, beautifully fresh and subtly flavoured, made silky with yellow egg yolk and Béarnaise melding into a sauce. A bottle of white Rioja was the perfect match.

27

Nicola Berry Takes Tea The walls are decorated with shelves of pretty china and old-fashioned kitchen utensils and these give the room real character.

The Bull’s Head on Royal Parade, Chislehurst, is something of an institution. The restaurant was periodically refreshed, as was the menu, and it was all perfectly pleasant but there was never really anything to get excited about.

How things have changed! A stylish new conservatory has been added on to the back of the restaurant, and what a difference it’s made. The room is now light and airy and furnished in what can only be described as an eclectic mix of rattan chairs and comfy sofas.

POP UP

A choice of main course offered Fillet of Brill with prawns, summer vegetables and Pernod reduction, or duck supreme and Confit (de Canard) with apple sage and white bean cassoulet and root vegetables.

And so to tea, or in my case A Most Traditional Afternoon Tea. I took a friend (a discerning friend where china is concerned) who quickly gave the vintage-style cups and saucers her seal of approval. Everything was exactly as it should be: the freshest finger sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and clotted cream and an enticing selection of what the menu calls “Cakes, Delicacies and Delights.” There’s also a veritable wardrobe of loose-leaf teas to choose from, all of which are served in attractive china teapots.

Overall the experience was enchanting, and I don’t use the word lightly. It’s the perfect place for a girly get-together, a birthday celebration or just a special treat. But word is spreading fast, so book ahead, especially at the weekend.

A Most Traditional Afternoon Tea is £15.00 per person. www.thebullsheadhotel.co.uk 020 8467 1727 Royal Parade, Chislehurst Kent. BR7 6NR

20% Off

We opted for the duck, a clever combination of tender duck breast served with confit, which flakes beautifully into shreds, with crusty textured edges and the rich full taste of the duck. It was truly irresistible (sorry, brill!)

Luckily a little time passed before the sweet trolley visited, laden with tortes and cheesecake. Any choice of these would have been fine, and my cheesecake was light and delicate and the chocolate torte was ‘to die for’.

We sat with filter coffee watching planes take off and land at the City Airport, but no famous Turner sunset, not this night.

Fine dining for £20 each ‘plus wine’ is very reasonable, then meeting and chatting with the students post-dinner, was, as they say, priceless.

Michael Breese

The Plateau Restaurant, Bar & Grill pop-up bar is located in Canada Square Park. Visit the pop up bar until Friday 18 September and receive 20% off when dining at Plateau Restaurant, Bar & Grill, Canada Place.

www.shootershill.ac.uk/restaurant reservations call 020 8319 9790.

Shooters Hill Campus, Red Lion Lane, London, SE18 4LD

www.plateau-restaurant.co.uk.

020 7715 7100. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

M E R IDIA N FO O D & DR IN K

29

Kitcho By Ajiichiban re opens Found in translation - the luck of ‘Kitcho’ and the best taste of A ‘ jiichban’, combines to create a stunning new restaurant.

Tempting Sushi, crispy Tempura and succulent chicken Teriyaki – Kitcho by Ajiichiban brings a taste of Japanese food back to west Greenwich.

The number five is considered important in Japanese culture, and this extends to its food traditions as well. Food should be enjoyed with all five of the senses and of those five, sight figures predominately in Japanese cuisine. In fact, it can be considered just as important as taste as the artistic arrangement of food adds so much to the enjoyment of the meal.

Maze Hill

The extensive menu contains a selection of jewel-like sushi and Sashimi and an amazing range of fresh fish and seafood dishes including salmon, tuna and soft shell crab. Plus a variety of Japanese curries and traditional Ramen soups, a spicy Miso base including noodles, fish cake and char siu.

Whether it’s a stop for a quick lunch with friends or a more leisurely dinner, Kitcho is the perfect choice.

Kitcho by Ajiichiban 020 8691 5511 57 Greenwich High Road, Greenwich SE10 8JL

A MEAL FOR TWO

Win a meal for two plus a bottle of wine.

To enter go to www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/win or send a postcard with your name, address and daytime telephone to 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley, Kent DA5 2EE.

Columbia Wharf a truly unique property Following a multi-million pound extensive renovation and rebrand, DoubleTree by Hilton London Docklands Riverside re-opens in Rotherhithe. Spread across three buildings – including the Grade I-listed Columbia Wharf dating back to the 17th century – the 379-room hotel enjoys stunning views across the Thames and boasts London’s only dry dock and private pier with exclusive river ferry service.

Add to this, two expansive riverside terraces, one complete with bar and barbecue and the other a cigar terrace; and a range of stunning and versatile events spaces. DoubleTree by Hilton London Docklands Riverside, 265 Rotherhithe Street, SE16 5HW. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.DoubleTree.com or call 020 7231 1001.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME R IDIA N ART & DESIGN

Turner Contemporary

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CURRENT EXHIBITIONS Selection of prints from local artists Until 9 Aug – Jennifer Jokhoo. 11 Aug-30 Aug – Tammy Mackay. Tues–Sun, 10am– 5.30pm. 020 8858 1569. Greenwich Printmakers Gallery, 1A The Market, SE10 9HZ. Until 15 Aug Stripping the Willow An exhibition of Sculpture by Julian Wild.

The Lobby, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf E14 5AB. Until 16 Aug The Greenwich group of London Independent Photography Annual Exhibition.

This show gives each member the chance of exhibiting one photo of a subject of their own choice - so look out for an eclectic collection of excellent images. www.thegreenwichgallery.com 020 8465 5968 The Greenwich Gallery, Linear House, Peyton Place, Greenwich SE10 8RS

Founded and opened in 2001 to celebrate and build on the artist JMW Turner’s association with Margate, Turner Contemporary is one of the UK’s leading art galleries. Designed by Sir David Chipperfield, the gallery has fast become a visitor attraction of national and international importance.

Situated on Margate seafront, on the same site where Turner stayed when visiting the town, Turner Contemporary presents a rolling programme of temporary exhibitions, events and learning opportunities which make intriguing links between historic and contemporary art.

The gallery offers a space for everyone to discover different ways of seeing, thinking and learning.

This summer, Turner Contemporary presents over 25 landscapes and portraits by Margate artist Christopher Alexander. The exhibition gives an overview of the artist’s practice from the 1950s until the late 70s and is the most comprehensive exhibition to be shown in the Kentish artist’s hometown to date.

Christopher Alexander - Landscape Oil Study

Many of the works have not been publically exhibited since the artist’s death in 1982.

Always experimental with materials, exhibited works include chalk, pastel and pencil studies, oil paintings and etchings. His artistic process was concerned with recording a subject in the simplest and most direct way and many of the displayed works depict Margate, its inhabitants and surrounding areas. Throughout his prolific career, Alexander produced over 3000 drawings, paintings and prints.

Christopher Alexander - Figure Study

www.turnercontempoary.org.

Tel: 01843 233000.

Turner Contemporary Gallery, Rendezvous, Margate, Kent CT9 1HG.

Fri 14 - 31 Aug LIGHT MATTERS WAYNE FOSKETT is showing Cyanotypes and Anthotypes and his pinhole photographs with ANN HILLARY painter and printmaker.

Light intrigues both artists technically and for its effect on mood and atmosphere.

Free at Made in Greenwich Gallery, 324 Creek Road, Greenwich, SE10 9SW. Open daily 11-5.30, except 17 & 24 August.

Windows Galleries: Mala Siamptani Mala’s latest collection explores the effects of infection, by bacteria, micro-organisms, parasites or viruses, have on form.

Windows Galleries: Julian Tschollar Julian’s desire is to create images whose visual impact lies in their narrative potential using the human figure as the substrate for his paintings.

Daily. Free.

Windows Galleries: Canada Walk, Canada Place, Canary Wharf.

Canary Wharf E14.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N

THE MAGNERS GREENWICH COMEDY FESTIVAL Ed Byrne Bridget Christie

WOOLWICH SINGERS

A community choir. No audition required to join. The aim is to sing together and have fun! £2 per week, refreshments provided. 6.30pm-8pm. Call 07812 477 775 Public Hall, Wellington St, Woolwich SE18 6PW (entrance via Town Hall)

EVERY THURS BLACKHEATH MORRIS MEN

Practice 8.45-10pm. St Marks Church Upper Hall, Greenwich South Street SE10. Free. Contact John on 020 8461 2440. www.blackheathmorris.com Ivo Graham Adam Buxton

ROTARY CLUB OF GREENWICH.

For like-minded business people to meet & help the community. If visiting please contact Sarah Campbell 07958527877 Old Colfeans Rugby Football Club, Horn Park, Eltham Road SE9 8UE.

David O’Doherty Rich Hall

From the 16-20 September, a quality crop of comedians including Reginald D Hunter, Adam Buxton, Rich Hall, Ed Byrne, David O’Doherty, Tim Key, Bridget Christie, Ivo Graham, Paul Foot, Henning Wehn, Richard Herring, Sara Pascoe, Nick Helm, Luisa Omielan, Jerry Sadowitz and many more will descend on Greenwich’s most iconic location for another round of awardwinning comedy in sublime surroundings.

Ten up and coming comedians are set to go mic to mic this year as they compete to be crowned the UK’s hottest new comedy talent.

Magners New Comedy Act 2015 will see the promising acts perform in front of a judging panel of comedy heavyweights, with the final taking place at the Magners Greenwich Comedy Festival on Sunday 20 September.

EVERY FRI LUNCHTIME CONCERT

1pm – 2pm. Free. www.charlton-house.org 020 8856 3951. Charlton House, Charlton Rd; SE7

GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY

UNTIL 18 AUG SUMMER SCREENS

Judo training sessions for anyone aged 10 years and over. If you do not have a judo suit wear baggy t-shirt and old jog bottoms. From beginners upwards.

8.15-9.30pm. £3 per session. Call Lorraine on 07932767385 or email lollyjudo1975@aol.com.

NCCA Community Hall, 217 Maryon Road, Charlton SE7 8DB.

UNTIL OCT CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS

2ND SAT OF EVERY MONTH WOOLWICH FARMERS MARKET

2015 marks the 50th anniversary of Churchill’s death A variety of stalls selling quality, artisan food that’s it also marks 75 years since he made his ‘finest hour’ been grown or produced locally. 10am-3pm. No.1 speech on 20 Aug 1940. Step back in time and discover Street, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich SE18. his secret underground headquarters. Daily 9:30-6pm.

Adult-£16.35, Child (5-15, under 5’s free)-£8.15. 020 7930 6961. Churchill War Rooms, Clive Steps, King EVERY SUNDAY Charles Street London SW1A 2AQ

EVERY MON ROTARY CLUB OF LEWISHAM & PENGE

Monthly lectures at King William Court, Room 315, University of Greenwich, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10. 8pm on 2nd Monday of the month, Local businessmen and women giving help locally, except April & August. Refreshments from 7.15pm. national and internationally. We meet at 7pm for a 020 8852 7873 or www.gdfas.org dinner, with speakers on a variety of subjects. Contact Peter Earll 020 8303 3361 or Alan Davis 020 8467 2032. Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley.

SAT 8 AUG COMMUNITY OPEN DAY AT THE FAN MUSEUM

A day out at the fan museum with Guided tours and Fan-making Demonstrations. 11am-5pm. Free. See www.thefanmuseum.org.uk for more information. The Fan Museum, 12 Crooms Hill, Greenwich SE10 8ER.

RAMBLING CLUB

SAT 8- 14 AUG THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING ERNEST

CHARLTON JUDO CLUB

Stimulating lectures and intriguing outings. Fourth Thursday of the month except Aug and Dec 2.30pm. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk St Mary’s Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackeath SE3.

Get ready to Ping! As Table tennis tables pop up in Canary Wharf, inviting all to play. Showcase Matches 10-14 Aug 12noon–2pm at Jubilee Place. Free. Mon-Fri 11am-5.30pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 12pm-6pm. West Wintergarden & Jubilee Place, Canary Wharf E14

BROMLEY GREEN GYM

Classes connecting Tango with health and well being, for men and women. 7.15pm - 9.15pm. Beginners and intermediate classes. £7. West Greenwich Community Centre, 141 Greenwich High Road, SE10 8JA.

Tickets are now on sale greenwichcomedyfestival.co.uk

BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY

FRI 7- 16 AUG PING! TABLE TENNIS AT CANARY WHARF

A 51/2 - mile linear walk from Richmond Station to Barnes Bridge mostly along the Thames towpath. Meet 9.50am under the clock in Waterloo Mainline Station for the 10.03 train to Richmond or meet at Richmond Station at 10.30am. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome.

The festival will be brimming full of bars, gourmet grub from street food vendors plus an array of delights from a pop-up restaurant giving audiences the ultimate festival dining experience.

Watch nail-biting live action from F1 motor racing to opera to film screenings on the large screen. Daily.

One-to-one instrumental & vocal tuition for all age Free. See canarywharf.com for more information. groups, plus a range of courses.

Canada Square, Canary Wharf E14.

The Conservatoire, Lee Road Blackheath, SE3.

Info: 020 8852 0234 or info@conservatoire.org.uk

Meeting for worship. 10.30am-11.30am every Sunday, and 1-1.30pm on 2nd Tues of each month. Visitors welcome. For more details, including room hire on 07908 587 695 or email quakerhall@aol.com. Quaker Meeting House, Lawn Terrace, Blackheath SE3 9LL.

TANGOWORKOUT

Meeting weekly to carry out wildlife gardening tasks to bring back some of the site’s heritage, and transform the space for the benefit of wildlife and the local community. www.tcv.org.uk. Free. 11am2pm. 07740 899 689. College Green & Slip, West Street, Bromley, BR1 1PA.

ONGOING ART, DRAMA, MUSIC, LANGUAGE & WINE COURSES

BLACKHEATH QUAKERS.

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SOCIETY,

Blackheath. Services and Sunday School held at the Clarendon Hotel, Blackheath at 11am. Also at the Clarendon Hotel, our monthly Testimony Meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month at 8pm.

By Oscar Wild. A handbag! Need we say more. 8pm.

Sun 5pm. £13. 020 8694 1888 or online at www. thelondontheatre.com. London Theatre, 443 New Cross Road SE14 6TH.

SUN 9 AUG MUSIC IN GREENWICH PARK

Sponsored by The Friends of Greenwich Park.

Greenwich Concert Band playing at the Greenwich Park Bandstand at 3pm. Free admission. Great Cross Ave, Greenwich Park SE10 8QY.

AJ BELL TRIATHLON

Attracting over 13,000 participants, from elite athletes to complete novices. A new bike route will take all triathletes through Canary wharf. Free. All day. More info on www.the londontriathlon.co.uk. Canary Wharf E14

TUES 11 AUG TWILIGHT DELIGHTS

Canary Wharf celebrates the 100th birthday of Ol’ Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra with all the favourites such as Under My Skin, Fly Me to the Moon and of course, My Way. Free admission. 7pm. Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf E14.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

E:MAIL events@meridian-magazine.co.uk

FRI 14 AUG DEREK NASH PLUS GUESTS

Leading UK saxophonist, leader of the award-winning Sax Appeal, co-leader of funk/groove band Protect The Beat. 8:30pm. £10 door, £9 online (www.

Jazznight.co.uk). Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE.

FRI 14, 15 & 16 AUG CANARY WHARF JAZZ FESTIVAL

The Canary Wharf Jazz Festival returns with another weekend of sassy sounds and sublime music. Fri 7-10pm, Sat 3.15-10pm & Sun 1.30-8.15pm.

Free. Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf E14.

SAT 15 AUG SUMMER SWING & JAM PARTY Cabaret and live music hosted by Temujon Gill and Sunanda Biswas. Limited place so book on www. temujingill.com. 020 8858 1749. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road Blackheath SE3 7SE.

SUN 16 AUG MUSIC IN GREENWICH PARK

The London Gay Symphonic Winds performing at the Greenwich Park Bandstand. 3pm. Free admission.

Great Cross Ave, Greenwich Park, SE10 8QY.

JAZZ NIGHTS

Trevor Harrington Trio and open mic guest spots. 7.3010.45pm. £5. www.jazznights.co.uk Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley Hill, Kent BR1 4JD.

TUES 18 AUG TWILIGHT DELIGHTS

Get in the groove and join us for a fun filled trip back to the seventies Music and Dance. A great excuse to boogie on down! Free admission. 7pm. Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf E14.

THURS 20 AUG OLD DIRTY BRASSTARDS

A 10 piece drum and brass outfit playing an booty bumping mix of tunes from the Beatles through to Lady Gaga and Daft Punk with a little Uptown Funk tossed in for good measure! 8pm. Free. 020 7412 8778.

Brookland Bowl, The O2, Peninsula Square SE10.

FRI 21 AUG FRIENDS FRIDAY - BEING A CHILD EVACUEE IN THE WAR

Tony Lord - local historian, writer and author. Talks about his childhood when evacuated to Tunbridge Wells at the early years of the Second World War. 1-3pm. Free for Friends, £5 for Guests. Bakehouse Theatre, Friends of Age Exchange, Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.

JAZZ NIGHTS

Mardi Gras Jazzband. £10/£9. www.farnboroughjazz. co.uk Farnborough Jazz Club, Sports Club, Farrow Field, next to The Woodman Pub, High Street, Farnborough, Kent, BR6 7BA.

SAT 22 AUG RAMBLING CLUB

An easy 5 mile linear walk from Ashwell and Morden Station to Royston Station. Meet 9.50am Kings Cross Station to catch the 10.05 train. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome.

SAT 22 – 23 AUG LATE BLOOM AT THE PERFORMANCE SPACE

An opportunity to showcase budding local performers with music, dance, theatre and performance for all ages to enjoy. Registration is required. Visit space.org. co.uk or call 020 7515 7799 to register. Free. 12 noon-6pm. Canary Wharf E14.

SUN 23 AUG MUSIC IN GREENWICH PARK 2015

The Silver Ghosts (with swing-time dancers) playing at the Greenwich Park Bandstand. 3pm. Free admissions.

Great Cross Ave, Greenwich Park SE10 8QY

WED 26 AUG THE LUNCH MARKET

The super popular monthly Lunch Market continues to offer all sorts of tempting and tasty treats for a lunch with a difference. 11am-3pm. Free admission.

Montgomery Square, Canary Wharf E14

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A DECADE OF PANTOMIME SUCCESS James Haddrell, Director of Greenwich Theatre, considers what makes a successful pantomime As I sit down to write this the sun is shining, the school holidays are looming and our big musical summer season is just a week away, but while the world is focused on summer I am writing this in a break from auditions for our annual pantomime.

Pantomime is probably the one constant in my year. While we are rehearsing one year’s show we are deciding which title to pick for the following year, we’re on sale for next year before the show has finished this year, and we’re making plans throughout the year in between.

If anything this year’s show has been in our minds for even longer. It’s a special anniversary year for us - our tenth year of working with writer/director/ dame, Andrew Pollard and musical director, Steve Markwick.

To celebrate we are producing the country’s only pantomime adaptation of Red Riding Hood and we are delighted to be welcoming back Anthony Spargo (an unforgettable Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood) and Alim Jayda (the feline hero of Puss In Boots) to join a host of newcomers in the show.

Over the last ten years we have seen the success of the Greenwich Theatre pantomime grow and grow, becoming the annual cornerstone in the family programming at the theatre and being hailed by the British Theatre Guide as one of the best pantomimes in the country.

So what makes it so successful?

I think it’s down to

Andrew Pollard returns for his tenth pantomime a combinationof things, but we always make sure that we have a strong story populated with characters who really care about what’s happening around them, rather than just stringing a series of routines together, the music is always chosen to drive the show with a high level of energy that barely lets up, and we work with some of the best performers in the business. Ours is not a celebrity pantomime, but as I take a break from auditions I can tell you that the standard of performer this year is as high as ever, with people auditioning for us from across the West End. Finally, to keep the show fresh, we always try and find a new signature moment or special effect for the show. Sometimes it’s clear what that will be – the giant in Jack & the Beanstalk or the flying carpet in Aladdin – but sometimes it’s less obvious. For Robin Hood we worked with a magic consultant for the first time ever, to make Maid Marian levitate and then disappear, and for Puss In Boots we created a magic shoe shop with shelves of shoes dancing by themselves.

For this year’s show we can promise something new, but to find out what it is you’ll have to come and see the show!

Red Riding Hood opens at Greenwich Theatre on Fri 20 November.

Box Office 020 8858 7755 www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk

WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N THURS 27-MON 31 AUG TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL

JAZZ NIGHTS

Jacci Norris with The Jazznights ensemble Free 2.304.30pm. www.jazznights.co.uk Cock Inn, Shoreham Over five days, 13 tall ships will be running paid cruises Lane, Halstead, Kent, TN14 7DD. up and down the Thames between 12 noon and 10 pm. Viewing is free. Paid cruises – Day cruises £59.90 WATERLOO - THE BEST OF adults, Evening cruises £79.90 Discounts apply for children, students and seniors(65+). To book go to ABBA TRIBUTE SHOW www.sailroyalgreenwich.co.uk. Royal Arsenal Pier, Phenomenal new tribute show, Waterloo looks back at Woolwich SE18 6EF the sensational rise to stardom of Abba and gives fans the opportunity to experience the thrill of a live Abba Show. 7.30pm. Tickets from £20. 0844 871 7620.

THURS 27 AUG Churchill Theatre, High St, Bromley, Kent BR1 1HA.

BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY MON 31 AUG SAT 5 SEPT No meeting today so here is the news about our next LOVE ME TENDER outing – a visit to Apsley House and the Wellington Arch, on Oct 23 with a guided tour timed uniquely to watch the Household Cavalry thunder through this famous edifice. To book, come to our next meeting at St Marys Church hall, SE3 at 2-2:30pm on Sept 24 when you can also catch a brilliant lecture on the Festival of Britain. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk

SAT 29 AUG UP THE CREEK COMEDY CLUB

Josh Howie, Paul Myrehaug and Joe Bor. 7pm-2am.

Show starts at 9pm. £14. www.up-the-creek.com.

020 8858 4581. Up the Creek, 302 Creek Road, Greenwich SE10 9SW.

SUN 30 AUG MUSIC IN GREENWICH PARK 2015

The Southwark Concert Band playing at the Greenwich Park Bandstand, 3pm. Free admission. Great Cross Ave, Greenwich Park SE10 8QY

Packed with 25 of the best-loved songs by The King himself. 7.30pm (Thu and Sat mat 2.30) Tickets from £17. 0844 871 7620. Churchill Theatre, High St, Bromley, Kent BR1 1HA.

FRI 4 & 5 SEPT LEVEL 42

2015 saw Level 42 kicking off the year with a tour of Japan, then into the festival season across the UK and Europe culminating in London for this one-off show.

7pm. £33.10-£44.40. www.axa.com. indigo at The O2, Millennium Way, Peninsula Square SE10 0AX.

SAT 5 SEPT RAMBLING CLUB

A 6-mile circular walk taking in the countryside near Osterley. Meet at 11am Osterley Underground Station.

Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details.

New members welcome.

ONBLACKHEATH Running across the weekend of 12th and 13th September, OnBlackheath promises a celebration of music, food and arts, alongside a vast array of entertainment and activities for families and friends, on the beautiful Blackheath Common in South East London. This year’s headline acts will be platinum selling five piece ELBOW and pop icons MADNESS with support from MANIC STREET PREACHERS, KELIS, LAURA MVULA, ANNA CALVI, JACK SAVORETTI and the cast of SUNNY AFTERNOON: THE KINKS MUSICAL. Tickets are available for the whole weekend, or for just the Saturday and Sunday. Children aged 12 and under get in free.

Visit www.OnBlackheath.com for the latest information!

MARYON WILSON ANIMAL PARK Join us from 10am every Saturday for a tour of the animal pens where you can come in and meet all of our wonderful animals! You’ll hear about what they like to eat, how they live and what they get up to in the park!

Tours are completely free, but donations to the charity are welcome on the day. Tours start at the entrance to the deer pen and are currently limited to the first 30 people, so we recommend getting there early to avoid disappointment. Please make sure you wear suitable footwear when inside the animal pens – it can get pretty muddy and slippery if it rains!

Please note: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Tours will be taking place on the following dates: 8, 15, 22 and 29 August and will last approximately 60 minutes. Maryon Wilson Animal Park, Flamsteed Road, Charlton SE7 8HT.

UNTIL 31 AUG TUES 11 AUG AGAINST CAPTAINS ORDERS AT ORIENTEERING AT THE MARITIME MUSEUM WOODLANDS FARM Against Captains Orders invites audiences too cast off into an exciting world of maritime history, daring-do and adventure. £19.75 per person (members save 20%). From 10 o’clock daily. National Maritime Museum, Romney Rd, Greenwich SE10 9NF

APIARY DAYS AT OXLEAS WOOD APIARY

Learn how to be a beekeeper at these hands on sessions. 1-5pm. £40 per session. Oxleas Wood Apiary, Castle Woods Lane, SE18 3JA

THURS 6 AUG POND EXPLORERS

Be a pond explorer! Using your net, catch and identify invertebrates hiding beneath the water and see them up close with video microscopes. 1- 3pm. £15 per family (2 adults, up to 3 children). To book, email enquiries.ldn@field-studies-council.org. Greenwich Park SE10.

FRI 7 AUG ALL HANDS ON DECK AT THE CUTTY SARK

Get hands-on and learn essential sailor skills with Greenwich’s very own Sea Cadets who will be on board for the summer holidays. 12noon-4pm. Members free, adults (16+) £12.15, Children (5-15) £7, Family (2 adults 2 children) £11.50. Cutty Sark Clipper Ship, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT.

SUN 9 - 11 AUG THEATRICAL 30S

A variety of dance and theatre performances for all the family. 11am-5pm. Adult £13.00, Child £7.80, Concession £11.80, Family £33.80, Members Free. See www.english-heritage.org.uk for more information. Eltham Palace and Gardens, Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE.

Try Woodlands Farm Orienteering courses to see how good you are at navigating. £1 per child. 10am-2pm.

At Woodlands Farm, 331 Shooters Hill, DA16 3RP.

WED 12 AUG WELLING CHARITY TOY AND TRAIN FAIR

The Association of Bexley Charities charity toy and train fair with Model Railways, books, photos, teddy bears and much more. 6.30-9.30pm at the Falconwood Community Centre, 32 Falconwood, The Green, Welling, DA16 2PG Adults £1, children free.

THURS 13 AUG BARCLAYS CODING PLAYGROUND

One-day event to teach children about coding and how to code computers. For children aged 7-17. For more information, see www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk.

9am-6pm. Free. The Forum at Greenwich, Trafalgar Road, London, SE10 9EQ

BE A FARMER FOR THE DAY AT WOODLANDS FARM

Join in and have a go at feeding and weighing the animals, and walking the fields to check on them all. Only suitable for children over 8 years old. £3 per child (adults free). 10am-12pm and 2-4pm. Call 020 8319 8900.

At Woodlands Farm, 331 Shooters Hill, DA16 3RP.

SUN 16- 18 AUG UGLY BUG SAFARI

Small game hunters wanted. Grab a magnifying glass for the big hunt for some mini beasts. 11am-5pm.

Adults £13, Children (5-15 yrs) £7.80, Concs £11.80, Families £33.80 English Heritage Members Free. www.english-heritage.org.uk more info. Eltham Palace and Gardens, Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE.

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JOIN THE BIG BIRD HOUSE TOUR ‘The Big Birdhouse Tour’ in partnership with the RSPB, Europe’s largest nature conservation charity, will be bringing art and nature to life as they tour with 15 larger than life birdhouses, each individually and artfully designed by well-known British talent, to raise money for the RSPB. The tour will arrive at intu Bromley on 11 August. There will be the opportunity to learn more about the RSPB, sign up as a member, and give nature a home in your own garden by buying an RSPB classic nest box from the customer service desk. www.intu.co.uk/bromley.

High St, Bromley BR1 1DN

THURS 20 & 27 AUG BAT WALK AT WOODLANDS FARM

Discover the bat population of woodlands farm on this evening walk. You will need sturdy footwear, suitable outdoor clothing and a torch. Not recommended for children under six. £5 per adult, £3 per child. 8pm-9pm.

At Woodlands Farm, 331 Shooters Hill, DA16 3RP.

SUN 23- 25 AUG KINGS AND QUEENS

Put on a right royal welcome at Eltham Palace as we teach you to avoid the pitfalls of palace life and impress your regal rulers. 11am-5pm. Adults £13, Children (5-15 yrs) £7.80, Concessions £11.80, Families £33.80 English Heritage Members Free. www. english-heritage.org.uk for more infor. Eltham Palace and Gardens, Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE.

TUES 25 AUG GRUFFALO DAY AT WOODLANDS FARM

Inspired by Julia Donaldson’s classic book, journey into the deep dark wood in search of a Gruffalo. Not suitable for buggies. 10.am-12pm and 1-3pm. £3 per child, adults free. To book, call 020 8319 8900. At Woodlands Farm, 331 Shooters Hill, DA16 3RP.

DAVID WOOD’S STORYTIME – THE GINGERBREAD MAN

David Wood, actor, author and playwright, presents his much loved book The Gingerbread Man. 11am & 2pm.

Adults £8, children £6. At Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, Greenwich SE10 8ES

SAT 29 AUG CRAFT AT THE WILDLIFE CENTRE

A chance for children to find out about the wildlife in Greenwich Park. Included are craft activities and guided tours of the Nature Trail. 1-30pm. Free. The Wildlife Centre, Near the South end of the lake in the Flower Garden, Greenwich Park SE10.

SUN 30- 31 AUG SPARK FESTIVAL LONDON

Be at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park for two days of activities all about the future. Help ‘knit a community’, build a hovercraft or see if you can stop a virus outbreak. 11am-6pm See www.ucl.ac.uk/ spark-festival for more information. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 2ST.

OLD COLFEIANS - A COMMUNITY SUCCESS Old Colfeians Rugby club has a thriving juniors rugby section, open to all ages and abilities. On any Sunday morning at Horn Park, home of Old Colfeians, you will see some 230 players aged 6 to18 hard at training or in matches, all facilitated by dozens of volunteer coaches, referees, managers, first aiders, and tea makers.

The 2015/16 season is an important one for the club with the boost expected from the Rugby World Cup.‘ OCRFC is currently recruiting for all ages see www.ocrfc.co.uk, try them out for free (see our advert on page 38).

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Summer Living: Kent to SE London Living on the boarders of south east London and Kent, you can easily dip your toes in at the coast, enjoy the charm of the countryside and explore all the wonders SE London continues to offer...

From the White Cliffs to the Cutty Sark, what will you do this summer?

Whitstable

Dover Castle

LOVE LOCAL

We’d love for you to share your favourite local family days out in Kent and SE London, too. Tell us on Twitter: @MeridianMagLDN Facebook: @MeridianMagazine and Instagram: meridianmagldn

Chislehurst Caves

Coastal calm

Countryside charm

London leisure

Margate and Whitstable are just two of the many gorgeous stretches of coastland, bays and coves you can enjoy and explore in Kent this summer.

To really get the best out of Kent’s countryside, they mustn’t be a better (or tastier) way than fruit and veg picking, followed by a picnic to gobble down your hand picked goodies, and finished off with a bracing country walk to appreciate the garden of England’s outstanding natural beauty. But there’s so much more...

Where do we possibly begin? It doesn’t matter if you grew up in the big smoke or have lived here forever, you can still be a tourist in your own town.

Here are just a few ideas to get you started.

Go and explore...

Margate has had a makeover. Not only has it got a gorgeous stretch of sandy beach to run wild on, but it now also has the Turner Contemporary gallery.

Some of you may also remember Dreamland amusement park- scrap that. It’s had an overhaul, and after an 11 year ‘save Dreamland’ campaign, it’s been re-born and re-imagined – with almost 30 rides and a huge events calendar, which includes sing-a-long Grease, a DJ set from Mike Skinner, family raves and a selection of visiting circuses, all happening in August alone, it’s one not to miss.

Whitstable and oysters go clam-in-clam, but with a vast array of niche and boutique shops and great places to eat and drink, it’s a beautiful place to spend a sultry summer afternoon, scoping out great foodie and arty haunts, too. There’s also the crab and winkle cycle route (originally a six-mile railway line running between Canterbury and Whitstable) which passes through beautiful countryside and woodlands.

Kent’s castles (whether it’s Leeds, Hever or Dover) are spectacularly stunning and drenched in Kent’s rich history, too. But best of all, there are plenty of summer activities to keep the kids entertained Dover Castle has it’s WW2 secret wartime tunnels which could stir the imagination of any difficult to impress kid, while costumed characters and battle re-enactments will please any younger children looking for fairy tale adventure.

Leeds Castle is also home to Go Ape Tree Top Adventure, which will wear out those high energy kids (and adults), as they zip-wire over the castle’s marvellous medieval grounds.

The Hop Farm family park has a whole host of events planned for the summer months, as well as a stream of attractions to entertain all ages, including a new roller disco arena. Pan for gold, go wild at soft play, get up close to the birds of prey or get lost in the magic castle...the choice is yours.

Greenwich is a great place to start any day out: There’s the Cutty Sark and the awe-inspiring National Maritime Museums and grounds, then across the road you have Greenwich Park, where you’ll find the Planetarium at the Royal Observatory.

Make sure you take a food break at Greenwich Market before moving down towards the peninsula, where you can hop on an Emirate Air Line cable car to enjoy views across the city or head in to The O2 for a huge range of summer activities. If you still have time, get onboard a Thames Clipper and take a boat ride into town, who knows where you’ll end up? Or head back to Greenwich and catch a show at Greenwich Theatre.

Don’t forget these tried and trusted SE London hotspots for great days out, too: Chislehurst Caves, Horniman Museum, Eltham Palace, Firepower – The Royal Artillery Museum; and take a look at our events listings for a fuller taste of what’s happening in SE London this summer.

Claire McKinson

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Immerse Yourself at The Jetty Welcome to Heartbreak Hotel, a utopia for lost souls and broken hearts, once a diamond on the English coastline, now as dilapidated and mysterious as the characters within its walls.

This summer, The Jetty – London’s most exciting new riverside arts venue - is transformed into the Heartbreak Hotel, an intricately designed purpose built structure where the audience check-in to an immersive and unique theatre event.

On arrival, why not check in at the concierge desk opposite North Greenwich tube station to an experience that starts as soon as you set foot on the Greenwich Peninsula (right next to the O2).

After a short walk, you’ll discover an abandoned industrial jetty, offering the best in immersive theatre, live music, a pop-up cocktail bar, highquality street food and spectacular views across the Thames.

Heartbreak Hotel is produced by Managing Mayhem and Zebedee Productions. Zoe Wellman of Zebedee Productions said, “Story, characters

and narrative are at the heart of everything we do.

Encouraging audiences to emotionally invest with the characters they meet, by relating to the stories being played out. Parts of the show are quite surreal but the characters and the experiences are all very human.”

The bar is open 6pm -midnight Tuesday to Saturday and 6-11pm Sundays with free entry, independent to The Heartbreak Hotel experience.

The fusion street food is not to be missed, with a choice varying from pulled pork and jambalaya to fish and chips and a brilliant selection of veggie options. Live music from various emerging artists will offer a brilliant soundtrack to the warm summer evenings on The Jetty, with DJs, acoustic sets and specially programmed nights.

Why not enjoy a cold drink in the sun? Whether it’s craft beer on draught direct from the local Meantime brewery, or a cocktail from the bespoke Heartbreak Hotel drinks menu in the Sky Bar, The Jetty is the perfect place to spend an evening this summer.

Accessible via land, water and air (North Greenwich tube, North Greenwich pier, Emirates Air Line).

For more info and to book tickets, visit: www.heartbreakhoteljetty.com Twitter: @HeartbreakJetty Facebook: /HeartbreakJetty Instagram: HeartbreakJetty www.thejettygreenwich.co.uk The Jetty, Greenwich Peninsula, London, SE10 0FL

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A new lease of life at Kidbrooke Village During the course of our lives, our lifestyle needs change. What suited us 10 years ago may be different to what we need now and when it comes to where you live, change can bring a whole new lease of life and open doors to new experiences.

Mr and Mrs Fuller used to live in a three bedroom semi-detached house near Downham in Catford, which had a 120ft garden. After living in the house for more than 20 years the couple were faced with the prospect of continuing to maintain an ageing house or finding somewhere new to live.

“We wanted to find a home which was more manageable, that would involve less maintenance and allow us to use our weekends to get out into London. By buying at Berkeley Homes, in Kidbrooke Village, we have been able to do that.”

Both Alan and Linda grew up in south London and following the move to Kidbrooke Village, which is set in 136 acres of greenspace, the couple of have been able to venture into the capital more regularly.

“Now more of our time is our own, we are able to get into London and do things that we were not able to do before. The transport links played a big part in our decision as the train station is just across the road. We can get into London Bridge within 15 minutes, Waterloo East in 20 minutes and Charing Cross in 24 minutes.

“We regularly walk into Blackheath to enjoy the various bars, restaurants and shops or even pop over to the 02 at the Greenwich Peninsula to take in a music concert at our leisure.”

More than just the home of the world famous O2 arena, Greenwich Peninsula has so much more to offer…

The newest addition to the Peninsula skyline is the new Intercontinental London O2 Hotel, which should open at the end of the year. With breath-taking views of the river Thames and Canary Wharf, it features 453 spacious guestrooms and suites, luxury spa with indoor pool, destination restaurants and bars - including an all-day dining restaurant, tea salon and glamourous ‘sky bar’ - and a dedicated conference centre with an impressive 3,100sqm pillarfree ballroom.

Just opened is the golf driving range, with 60 state-of-the-art bays and 300 yards of river frontage directly overlooking Canary Wharf and The O2. The range also offers flight technology and entertaining areas at each bay. Eight PGA qualified professionals are on hand seven days a week, and a specialist sports outlet: A1 Golf Store, for supplies. Golfers can pitch up and perfect their swing, with prices starting from as little as £6 for a bucket of 60 balls.

The centre also has a fine dining restaurant (Vinothecc Compass) complete with a Thames-view terrace and wine school, serving stellar vintages and unusual wines at affordable prices.

The Jetty is home to a pop-up theatre, cocktail bar and street food venue. Their BBQ menu is a labour of love, from special recipe gourmet burgers, to racks of ribs, smoked pork and calamari. It offers craft beer, on-draught and direct from the local Meantime brewery, or a cocktail from the rooftop bar: a specially constructed platform looking out across the river. Bar and BBQ are open Tuesday to Sunday, 6pm till midnight.

The O2 is more that the arena, it offers a complete package from pre-show drinks and dinner, to partying for the rich and famous at after-show parties.

With numerous restaurants and bars, a cinema, bowling and exhibition space, all under one roof, it’s the ultimate night out.

As part of their service charge the couple also have access to a private gym, cinema room, concierge and business facilities. Getting used to five star services has opened the Kidbrooke Village residents’ eyes and it is now a service that they have become accustomed to when travelling.

“Living at Wallace Court really is like living in a hotel, and we definitely believe we have bought the lifestyle promised to us. Now when we go on holidays our expectation is that a hotel matches the standard of our new home, as quality of the finish and the service we get living here it is worth paying that bit extra for in a holiday too. It makes our overall standard of living so much better. Our advice to people who are looking to move here is to get in quick before they all go.”

Find out more at www.kidbrookevillage.co.uk

At present, Elvis fans can get a personal insight into the life of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, through the largest Elvis retrospective ever mounted in Europe: Elvis at The O2.

With more than 300 artefacts, direct from the Presley family’s treasured Graceland Archives, the Elvis at The O2 exhibition chronicles the rise of the rock ‘n’ roll icon and how Elvis impacted popular culture around the world through his music, movies and personal style.

Until the end of September, you can enjoy a stunning night flight experience on Emirates Air Line. After 7pm each day, flight durations are extended to 25 minutes (round trip) so you can watch a stunning sunset over Greenwich Peninsula, as it comes alive after dark.

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