Reaction, Impact, Feeling
Give some thought and consideration to the ‘place’ where you have had an unexpected but exciting reaction, impact or feeling or even perhaps been pleasantly surprised by its royal connection or history, it does not necessarily have to be the ‘grandest’ place in London, but just a place where you have been completely absorbed or quietly fascinated.
If you would like to share your views on what you have found to be extremely interesting please submit here.
For instance:
Twinings Tea Shop and Museum, 216 The Strand, London - King Charles II
Catherine of Braganza, wife of King Charles II, was a Portuguese princess. Catherine played her part in popularising ‘drinking tea’ in England, she did not introduce it but made it more fashionable.
It is reported that as soon as Catherine arrived in Portsmouth, England, (13th May 1662) she asked for a cup of tea, but none was available (tea was the favourite drink at the Portuguese court). Catherine was certainly the trend-setter of tea.
Twinings Tea Shop and Museum - is situated at 216 The Strand - opposite the Royal Courts of Justice. It is the oldest shop in Westminster and has been located at the same premises for over 300 years; it has a small museum which details the history of Twinings Tea. This is an outstanding tea shop with a wide selection of teas.
Monument to The Great Fire of London (provides a fantastic view of London) - King Charles II
In 1665 the Great Plague struck London killing over 60,000 people and in 1666, The Great Fire of London destroyed 70,000 homes but wiped out the plague.
The Monument was designed by Sir Christopher Wren (Doric stone column) which is located at the junction of Monument Street and Fish Street Hill. The Great Fire of London is probably one of the most famous events in the city’s history, it started at Thomas Fariner’s bakery, (Pudding Lane) on a Sunday night - it is a small lane close to the Monument.
The Monument is 202 feet in height and the nearest underground station is ‘Monument’ (Circle and District Lines.) It is just a 5-minute walk from London Bridge.
Royal Academy of Music Museum - King George IV
The Royal Academy of Music received its Royal Charter from King George IV in 1830, it is situated at 1-5 York Gate, Marylebone Road, London NW. Enjoy and witness centuries of music as well as fascinating things to explore such as historical instruments and manuscripts – it is the oldest conservatoire in the UK. (Tickets booked on-line approximately £1.95 see website).
Nearest underground station - Baker Street - from there a 4-minute walk to York Gate.
Open Monday - Friday 11.30 am - 5.30 pm.