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 Ceremonial gateway |
Trafalgar Square London, London WC2 United Kingdom http://www.roll-of-honour.com/... |
This ornate, Edwardian arch (which usually goes unnoticed) spans the entrance to The Mall from Trafalgar Square. Commissioned by Edward VII, the arch is actually a set of five arches in Portland stone which mark the royal route to St Paul's Cathedral. Traffic and pedestrians pass through the outer arches, while the central arch remains closed except when it is opened to allow the sovereign to pass through on state occasions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Skeet  |
 Photo: Kev Purcell |
 Photo: Nic Walker |
 Photo: Felippe Kanashiro |
 Photo: Djenan Kozic |
 Photo: Kamio Chambless |
 Photo: Dan Drinkard |
 Photo: Clarice Meadows |
 Photo: rachel_holley |
 Photo: gilesrapkin |
 Photo: Calum Handforth |
 Photo: Mark Opina |
 Photo: Flavia Oliveira |
 Photo: Jochus |
 Photo: Colleen Byrd |
 Photo: Paul Austin |
 Photo: Ashlee Dupray |
 Photo: Maria Kristin Steinsson |
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Spectacular indeed! |
Bloomsbury London, London WC1A 2LS United Kingdom |
Once known as Southampton Square, Bloomsbury, an area in central London, is one of the earliest public squares of the city. Over the years the place has seen a number of restorations. The numerous alleyways and Georgian terraces form its core attractions. Bloomsbury is mostly a residential area and it houses prestigious institutions like the University of London, the British Museum and the University College Hospital. But explore this area on foot if you want to take in the architecture and other details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bradley Fulton |
 Photo: folk on LiveJournal |
 Photo: Philip Stobbart |
 Photo: Benjamin Rouquette |
 Photo: koalawrangler |
 Photo: gazkinz |
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Collection of old masters, prints and drawings |
Somerset House Strand London, London WC2R ORN United Kingdom +44 20 7848 2777 http://www.courtauld.ac.uk |
The Courtauld Institute is a fabulous private gallery that has been compared with New York's Frick Collection. Here you will find one of the world's best collections of impressionist art, admirably housed in Somerset House, a stunning 18th century building that is among London's most beautiful structures. The Institute is a premier centre for the study of the history of western art, and is one of the top art history institutes in the world. It also forms an integral part of the University of London, and has a collection of three million photographs and 130,000 books. You can feast your eyes on paintings by Boticelli, Breughel, Van Dyck, Rubens, Monet, Fra Angelico, Cezanne and Perugino. On the first Saturday of every month, the gallery organises a special activity for children. The admission fee is GBP5 and concessions are also available. Free admission available on Mondays upto 2p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Monroe |
 Photo: Alex Lunin |
 Photo: Adam Skolik |
 Photo: Ariane Belisle |
 Photo: Steve Rosebush |
 Photo: Rosemary Clark |
 Photo: claire morales |
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For Complete Relaxation |
10 Monmouth Street London WC2H 9HB United Kingdom +44 20 7806 1000 http://coventgardenhotel.co.uk... cghmasseuse@firmdale.com |
If you want your mind and body to relax, then there is no better place than Covent Garden Hotel Spa. The therapy at the spa will take you to a different world. The team of highly specialized therapists will make you their top priority and you would experience a calmness of mind, body and spirit. The Spa offers a Matispa Wrap treatments like Hot Cocoa Wrap for relaxing, energising treatment with Reviving Mineral Wrap and Green Tea and Strawberry Wrap! You can also get Swedish massage, Specialist massage along with Manicure and Pedicure treatments. The Spa is open 7 days a week and offers late evening appointments as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mimers, market and a mechanical museum |
The Market Covent Garden London, London WC2E 8RF United Kingdom +44 870 780 5002 http://www.coventgardenmarket.... aspedding@nelson-bakewell.com |
This area was formerly home to London's fruit and vegetable market, which has now moved down to the New Covent Garden Market in Bermondsey. Today, it is a collection of stores that sell a variety of goods, from antiques and crafts to pictures and handmade clothing. There's also an open-air cobbled area where miming and juggling acts can occasionally be found. Musicians regularly play in the pretty courtyards around the market stalls. There are also a few places to eat lunch or grab an ice cream. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dhruba Bandopadhyay |
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Big musicals behind the neo-classical facade |
Catherine Street London, London WC2B 5JF United Kingdom +44 20 7494 5000 http://www.londontheatre.co.uk... |
The Drury Lane Theatre Royal is famous for its long running musicals, including My Fair Lady and the now departed Miss Saigon. It's the world's largest working theatre and the auditorium seats 2,300 people, and has been in use since 1663. Tours of the theatre are available every day - costumed guides take you through its history and the people associated with it - the latter include playwright Richard Sheridan, actress (and mistress) Nell Gywnne, and the clown Grimaldi. There are seats reserved for wheelchairs. All wheelchair users must contact customer services when booking. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jared and Corin |
 Photo: Corey Meredith |
 Photo: piperdaisy |
 Photo: Janell Kristen |
 Photo: Michaela Forbes |
 Photo: Rick Lyford |
 Photo: Ingrid Sabitzer |
 Photo: jo-h |
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Know the secret handshake? |
60 Great Queen Street Covent Garden London, London WC2B 5AZ United Kingdom +44 20 7395 9251 |
In the heart of London stands a huge, not entirely inconspicuous, grey building. This is the headquarters of the United Grand Lodge of England, the governing body of English and Welsh Freemasonry, and, surprisingly, its open to the public. Built in 1931, after the original 1776 building was declared structurally unsound and demolished, it was paid for by private contributions and stands as a memorial to those who gave their lives in the First World War. Hourly tours of the Halls nineteen lodge rooms and Grand Temple are available and you can also visit the library and museum, if you so desire - and no, you don't need to know the secret password or handshake to get in. Admission: free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kunal D Patel |
 Photo: majorarcana |
 Photo: Guy Veale |
 Photo: Alex Norton |
 Photo: Patrick Cates |
 Photo: Scott Thompson |
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A House Of Splendor |
Somerset House Strand London WC2R1LA United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7420 9400 http://www.gilbert-collection.... info@gilbert-collection.org.uk |
This incredible collection of decorative arts is one of the most important bequests ever made to the British nation. A gift from Sir Arthur Gilbert, a Londoner who moved to California in 1949, and handed over the collection to the nation in 1996. The collection consists of European silver, gold snuff boxes and treasures as well as Italian mosaics. The collection also showcases, masterpieces by Paul de Lamerie, Paul Storr, and other leading English and Continental artists. Check out the royal gates from a monastery in Kiev, an Indian Maharaja's silver elephant chair, as well as a 16th century jewelled partridge from Nuremberg. Plus many, many more interesting artifacts! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: simplemortel |
 Photo: Keith Guthrie |
 Photo: Wéi Jìng (Michael) |
 Photo: Kelly Cheng |
 Photo: Gareth Harfoot |
 Photo: DoppelFrog |
 Photo: Elly Reynolds |
 Photo: myrtlemount |
 Photo: gail delderfield |
 Photo: Larina |
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A Russian Winter In London |
South Building, Somerset House Strand London WC2 R1LA United Kingdom +44 020 7845 4630 http://www.hermitagerooms.org.uk |
The Hermitage Rooms were opened to the public in 2001 and are located in the restored South Building of Somerset House. It consists of five furnished rooms with changing exhibitions from the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. The splendour of the former Winter Palace has been recreated in miniature, using smoked-glass chandeliers, rich curtaining and marquetry floors. Previous exhibitions have included, 'Treasures of Catherine the Great'and 'French Drawings and Paintings: Poussin to Picasso'. Currently on display is the exhibition titled, 'Avant-garde Porcelain from Revolutionary Russia', showing till July 2005. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Ferbert |
 Photo: Jamie |
 Photo: megpickard |
 Photo: Mark Ferbert |
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Discover the History of Surgery |
35-43 Lincoln's Inn Fields Royal College of Surgeons London WC2A 3PE United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7869 6560 http://www.rcseng.ac.uk/servic... museums@rcseng.ac.uk |
Discover almost everything about the history and development of surgery. Located in Holborn, the museum is found in the Museum Mile district. It is predominantly made up of the collection of John Hunter, the 18th century surgeon and anatomist. The eight galleries explore almost everything to do with the history of surgery including the 'Story of Surgical Instruments,' which explores the design, manufacture and development of surgical instruments in the medical and dental professions. The museum is successful in providing a deep, detailed insight into the world of surgery. Make use of the free guided tours every Wednesday at 1p. Admission is free. - Jason Mawdsley Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adam C Cresswell |
 Photo: stacey shintani |
 Photo: Teresa Flores |
 Photo: karakola |
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Buses, trains and trams |
39 Wellington Street London, London WC2E 7BB United Kingdom +44 20 7565 7299 http://www.ltmuseum.co.uk/ resourcedesk@ltmuseum.co.uk |
Explore the history of London and its transport since 1800 with the history and origins of buses, trams, trains, taxis, river boats, cycles and walking. Also in the museum are films, posters and working models of modern and older transportation modes. Displays and shows include the role and varied experiences of women working for London Transport and the history of London Transport during World War II. Utilizing actors, interactive displays and even bus simulators, this really is a journey you won't want to miss. Other highlights include Harry Beck's original 1930s artwork for the famous Underground map and interactive "Futures" and "Coming Soon Galleries," which showcase our impact on the environment of future London. If you thought you had seen it all, think again. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bob Richards |
 Photo: nm156_nl |
 Photo: Alan Mead |
 Photo: Kira Boross |
 Photo: Nick Page |
 Photo: Raymond.UK |
 Photo: translboro |
 Photo: Anna Faherty |
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Skin care for men |
27 Shorts Gardens London WC2H 9AP United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7240 4048 http://www.nickelspalondon.co.uk/ info@nickelspalondon.co.uk |
Nickel Spa promises luxury in its soothing pink and aqua state-of-the-art interiors. The 'Love Handle Wrap', involving vigorous massage will help you do away with that extra bit. There are 'Deep Tissue', 'Hot Stone' or 'Aromatherapy' massages for relief from daily stress. The facials leave you feeling energized. The usual beauty regime includes waxing, manicure and pedicure. The Nickel Spa also offers expert advice on treatments like Botox. There is a signature range of products and gift sets available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Showcasing contemporary photography |
5 & 8 Great Newport Street London, London WC2H 7HY United Kingdom +44 20 7831 1772 http://www.photonet.org.uk/ info@photonet.org.uk |
The Photographers' Gallery was the first independent gallery in Britain to be solely devoted to photography. It has an ever-changing programme of exhibitions, focusing on the best in international contemporary photography. A visit here is always full of surprises, as no two exhibitions are alike. This is a thriving place that attracts all those interested in viewing or producing photographs, so its surprising that its still one of London's less well-known galleries. There's also an excellent bookshop, which stocks over 5,000 titles and runs a worldwide mail order service. The gallery is hoping to move to larger premises, but hasn't yet been successful in finding a suitable location. There's no admission fee, but they do rely on people becoming members to keep running. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adriana Henriquez |
 Photo: Zorilla |
 Photo: chowen |
 Photo: shannon mcclean |
 Photo: Craig Wilson |
 Photo: Amrish_fj |
 Photo: Cliff Shephard |
 Photo: GaijinDa |
 Photo: tetrasync76 |
 Photo: Jerry Cooke |
 Photo: Damon Kim |
 Samuel Pepys' world |
17 Fleet Street London, London EC4Y 1AA United Kingdom +44 20 7936 4004 http://www.information-britain... |
This interesting exhibit can be found on the infamous Fleet Street, the erstwhile centre of the newspaper industry, in an area that is still a little medieval in character. Number 17 has existed in many different guises including a tavern and a waxworks, and is one of the few Jacobean houses in the capital surviving in good condition. Prince Henry's Room itself has a unique 16th century plasterwork ceiling to admire. The room takes its name from the fact that the initials PH and the feathers of the Prince of Wales appear in the design, although no one knows the reason for this. The room houses an exhibition devoted to one of London's most enduring literary favourites, Samuel Pepys. Pepys' diaries document life in late 17th century London including a dramatic account of the Great Fire of London in 1666, and are full of amusing anecdote and historical interest. Visiting this exhibition is a great starting point for finding out more about him. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: iekika_ana |
 Photo: Dan Steadman |
 Photo: Mark Rigby |
 Photo: Moacir P. de Sá Pereira |
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Impressive Building, Impressive Courts |
Strand Charing Cross London WC2A 2LL United Kingdom +44 207 947 6000 http://www.hmcourts-service.go... |
Commonly referred to as the Law Courts, the Royal Courts of Justice are housed in an impressive gray stone Victorian Gothic building built in the 1870s. Inside London's last built example of Gothic revival architecture are over 1,000 rooms in the main building itself and 3.5 miles worth of corridors. The Court of Appeal and the High Court of Justice of England and Wales both hold court here. Most court sessions are open to the public, but it depends on the nature of the case being held. The main criminal court (Crown Court) is housed separately in the Central Criminal Court, popularly known as the Old Bailey. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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London's premiere cultural house is back |
Bow Street London, London WC2E 9DD United Kingdom +44 20 7304 4000 http://www.royaloperahouse.org/ |
The Opera House is even more impressive than before. The period building has been restored to its original glory and continues to be the largest opera and ballet venue in London, showcasing the works of the Royal Ballet, Royal Opera and ROH Orchestra. Expect famous tenors, famous ballerinas and famous audience members as part of the revamped program. In an active attempt to rope in the masses, a range of cheap tickets will be offered for all performances. You can even take in the stunning architecture without going to a show—the entrance hall and exhibitions are open for viewing and backstage tours. Call the box office for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Hill |
 Photo: Jane Sartin |
 Photo: Andrew Finden |
 Photo: Urszula Grubb |
 Photo: Mr Atrocity |
 Photo: Hannah Baker |
 Photo: Nigel Godden |
 Photo: Adriana Henriquez |
 Photo: Sander-Martijn |
 Photo: Keshav Mathew Lewi |
 Photo: Jonathan August |
 Photo: jaremfan |
 Photo: The Lone Beader |
 Photo: jonsbedsit |
 Photo: Droplet Chiu |
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Send me to Heaven! |
12 Floral Street Covent Garden London, London WC2E 9DH United Kingdom +44 20 7420 5151 http://www.thesanctuary.co.uk/ info@thesanctuary.co.uk |
This day spa and fitness club for women offers a wide range of beauty treatments and facilities. Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, it is a perfect place to indulge after a hard day's shopping. The air is very humid and there is a very spectacular swimming pool to dive into or just swing over on a trapeze. Other highlights include a large gym and a dance studio. Treatments include Turkish Rasul, reflexology and massage. The Sanctuary's own shop sells products used in the spa, including brands such as Decleor, Guinot and Thalgo. They also sell their own range of bath and body products plus their own slippers, robes, CDs and tapes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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As easy as it gets |
67 Neal Street London WC2H 9PJ United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7836 1296 http://www.simplespa.co.uk/ spa.reception@accantia.com |
Simple Spa treats people with all skin types but is specially meant for people with sensitive skin. It aims at giving you the best looking skin along with added knowledge on skincare. The range of products used here—cleansers, toners, exfoliators, treatment masks, moisturizers, eye care, massage and facial oils are designed in-house. With soothing massages like the facials, body massage, hands and feet massage, relaxing can be really 'simple' here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Antiquities & Art |
13 Lincoln's Inn Fields London, London WC2A 3BP United Kingdom +44 20 7405 2107 http://www.soane.org spalmer@soane.org.uk |
Sir John Soane, the eminent English architect and designer of the Bank of England, couldn't resist buying anything that might be collectable. His house is now a museum in which you can peruse his phenomenal collection of art and antiquities from around the world. Inside are Monument Court, the Egyptian Crypt and a mock-medieval ruin of a Monk's parlour and cloister. The Picture Room contains several paintings by William Hogarth, and another highlight of the exhibition is the Sarcophagus of Seti I. Fragments of different architectural eras are on display, including bits of the old House of Lords. The architecture of the house, especially the lovely coloured skylights, is also worth inspecting. A guided tour for £5 begins at 11 a.m. every Saturday, and a candlelit opening on the first Tuesday of each month is free of charge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Flatman |
 Photo: Annushka Sonek-Wienert |
 Photo: TimBrighton |
 Photo: Neil BPR Harris |
 Photo: Deborah |
 Photo: Arwen O'Reilly |
 Photo: Martin Richards |
 Photo: Chris Kendall |
 Photo: Zen Liu |
 Photo: Sandro Maggi |
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Open Air Fun |
Somerset House Strand London, London WC2R 1LA United Kingdom +1 020 7845 4676 info@rslit.org |
If you're looking for fun, this is the place to visit. A thriving cultural spot in London, this has an ice rink and holds special workshops, events and world class exhibitions. This magnificent 18th century building houses the celebrated collections of the Courtauld Institute of Art, Gilbert Collection and Hermitage Rooms. Enjoy the wonderful outdoor space with the incredible Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court and pop into one of the many cafes and restaurants that dot the promenade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Melyssa |
 Photo: Paul Robinson |
 Photo: Gaetan Lee |
 Photo: featherboa |
 Photo: Kate Goodacre |
 Photo: Jo Folkes |
 Photo: Martin Papworth |
 Photo: foxyfemke |
 Photo: Roberto Rubio |
 Photo: Claire Nguyen |
 Photo: Claire |
 Photo: Jon |
 Photo: Cat Munro |
 Photo: Tom Stenson |
 Photo: Richard Harper |
 Photo: sarah brown |
 Photo: Heather Lucas |
 Photo: Ramon Newmann |
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Okay to Laugh Aloud |
35 Little Russell Street London, UK WC1A 2HH United Kingdom +44 020 7580 8155 http://www.cartooncentre.com/ info@cartoonmuseum.org |
Only a rugby toss away from The British Museum, this is a great place to soak in Britain's quintessential sense of humour. With over 750 cartoons and caricatures, a library of 2500 comics, and 4000 books on the genre, the London Cartoon Museum is a must see for young and old. Spanning from 18th Century to present day comics (Tony Blair and the Queen are fair game), this museum illustrates a comprehensive look at history, through the comic's perspective. Remember, don't hold back the chuckles; laughing aloud is encouraged! Be sure to check out the hilarious greeting cards and books in the museum's gift shop, where London Pass holders will receive a 10% discount. Check website for rolling exhibitions. Admission: FREE for London pass holders, students, and those under 18; GBP3 for adults. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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From Shakespeare to the present |
Russell Street Covent Garden London, London WC2E 7PR United Kingdom +44 20 7943 4750 http://theatremuseum.vam.ac.uk tmenquiries@vam.ac.uk |
The Theatre Museum is home to the world's largest collection of all things relating to stage and screen, from marionettes to manuscripts. There are both permanent and changing exhibitions, as well as a daily programme of events, including guided tours, costume workshops and make-up demonstrations. The museum was first suggested in 1955 by Laurence Irving, grandson of Sir Henry, and actually opened in 1963 in an annexe of Leighton House. It now serves as an arena for promoting live performing arts with everything from the circus to music halls represented within its walls. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
