Skip to Content

London History

The Hidden Secrets of the Thames Barrier

You might have seen pictures of the Thames Barrier – London’s series of protective flood barriers that stretch across the Thames from Woolwich to Newham – but how much do you really know about them? Discover the story behind this iconic London dam.  London’s tale stretches back through time. Officially established during Roman times, and …

Read More about The Hidden Secrets of the Thames Barrier

Kensal Green Cemetery: Discovering West London’s Victorian Gem

The oldest and largest of London’s “Magnificent Seven” burial grounds, Kensal Green Cemetery is one of West London’s most intriguing spots.  Why Visit Kensal Green Cemetery?  Set over 72 acres, Kensal Green Cemetery was inspired by Paris’ world famous Pere Lachaise cemetery. The oldest of London’s ‘Magnificent Seven’ cemeteries, it’s also the city’s oldest commercial …

Read More about Kensal Green Cemetery: Discovering West London’s Victorian Gem

Harry Beck: The Tale of The Genius Behind London’s Tube Map

Every Londoner knows that the tube is one of the quickest and easiest ways to travel around the city – but understanding how it works? That’s in no small part down to the map that helps you navigate it. Discover the story behind Harry Beck – the man behind the London Underground Map.  Whilst to …

Read More about Harry Beck: The Tale of The Genius Behind London’s Tube Map

Cheyne Walk: A Jaunt Along Chelsea’s Star-Studded Street

Chelsea’s iconic Cheyne Walk stretches along the River Thames and has long attracted the rich and famous to the area’s impressive mansions.  Although Cheyne Walk takes its name from William Cheyne, Viscount Newhaven who was the owner of Chelsea Manor until 1712, the first address to be officially built on the road belonged to none …

Read More about Cheyne Walk: A Jaunt Along Chelsea’s Star-Studded Street

The Hidden Secrets of The Trafalgar Square Lions

Look at any photo of Trafalgar Square and you’ll notice that the imposing Nelson’s Column is surrounded by four rather casual-looking lions. But do you know why these lions were chosen? Fear not, as we’re about to lift the lid on the hidden secrets of the Trafalgar Square Lions. The popular tourist hotspot Trafalgar Square …

Read More about The Hidden Secrets of The Trafalgar Square Lions

Discover London’s Roman Past: Billingsgate Roman House and Baths Have Reopened

Looking to explore London’s Roman history? Billingsgate Roman House and Baths have finally reopened after many months of closure.  Traces of Roman London can be seen in a number of spots throughout the capital, from the unearthed Mithraeum Temple to the wall that previously enclosed the ancient city, but one of my favourite places to …

Read More about Discover London’s Roman Past: Billingsgate Roman House and Baths Have Reopened

20 Interesting Great Fire of London Facts We’ll Bet You Never Knew

Think you know everything there is to know about the 1666 fire? We’re about to blow your mind with these Great Fire of London facts.  As one of the most famous fires in history, the Great Fire of 1666 swept through the capital, leaving a trail of devastation and desperate Londoners behind it.  Leaders at …

Read More about 20 Interesting Great Fire of London Facts We’ll Bet You Never Knew

Brixton Windmill – Discover the Secrets of London’s Last Working Mill

Are you ready to discover the Brixton Windmill?  I’ll let you in on a little secret – not even many locals living outside of its immediate vicinity know about this unusual landmark that serves as a reminder of the area’s former agricultural past.  Venture away from Brixton station, past a small row of shops at …

Read More about Brixton Windmill – Discover the Secrets of London’s Last Working Mill

The Painted Hall, Greenwich – Discover the UK’s Answer to the Sistine Chapel

Discover the Painted Hall in Greenwich – London’s answer to the Sistine Chapel.  I don’t say this lightly… but Greenwich’s Painted Hall is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited in London.  Situated on the southern banks of the River Thames, inside the Old Royal Naval College, this is a stunning Baroque …

Read More about The Painted Hall, Greenwich – Discover the UK’s Answer to the Sistine Chapel

The Hidden Secrets of The Greenwich Foot Tunnel

Everyone knows about London’s bridges – Tower Bridge, London Bridge… even the controversial Millennium Bridge (which had to close as soon as it opened for some time because it wobbled too much). But did you know about the Greenwich Foot Tunnel?  Deep under the Thames lies a public pathway between the north and south side …

Read More about The Hidden Secrets of The Greenwich Foot Tunnel