Wednesday 17 December 2014

Quirky London's Cinemas

Quirky London's Cinemas

Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square
This is the only cinema in London where no one is going to ask you to be quiet. In fact, this experience is all about audience participation. Sing along or wear your favourite PJ for an all-night pyjama party.


Everyman in Belsize Park
If you like the smell of expensive leather and plush seats then this is the best place to watch a movie. So far, there are six venues across town, posh food and no sticky carpets around. Warning: you might get too cosy on the super-comfy seats.


Electric Cinema in Portobello
It is one of the oldest and lovelies cinemas in London. There are the front-row seats with six luxurious, velvet-lined double beds and you are welcome to warm yourself up with cashmere blankets, perfect for romantic date.


ArtHouse in Crouch End

This was branded as London’s Best Cinema by Time Out very recently. Since its opening in March 2014, it has been causing buzz and regulars say they love its friendly atmosphere. And popcorn costs just £1.75. Sold!


And let us know how you got on!

Monday 27 October 2014

Day of indulgence in London


Let yourself go and indulge in one of London’s best locations either for a relaxing spa day or with day of pampering and taking that extra time out of your day, just for you and only you!


Spa London
Whether for a relaxing massage, scrub or a facial they have the thing for you.
Address: Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre, Adelaide Road, NW3 3NF

Luna & Curious
A splash out occasion or just a browse on 1000s of household items can be found here.
Address: 24-26 Calvert Avenue, E2 7JP

Tea Smith
A relaxing tea rooms in Spitalfields to be enjoyed with family and friends.
Address: 6 Lamb Street, E1 6EA

Reform Social & Grill
Afternoon tea, providing post-lunch items like steaks and a selection of wines.
Address: Mandeville Place, W1U 2BE

Hawksmoor Spitalfields
Indulging in the best steaks money can buy would be the best way to end a day full of luxury.
Address: 157 Commercial Street, E1 6BJ

The Berkeley Spa
Treatments and a swim with a view of Hyde Park what more can you want!
Address: The Berkeley, Wilton Place, SW1X 7RL

Trilogy
The ultimate jeans shop. Trail, fitting, altered, and you’re good to go.
Address: 22 Kensington Church Street, W8 4EP


The sky is truly the limit with what kind of indulgence day you set out and how far you’d like to take your day. It’s not every day we can use our time to ourselves and let go of all our worries, so take a stand today and enjoy the best of London’s indulging features!

Friday 10 October 2014

Ice Skating Rinks in London

Ice Skating Rinks in London

Glide your way round ten of the best ice skating rinks which London has to offer. These rinks can be enjoyed during the day or at night when displayed lights give the atmosphere a more magical feel to it for skaters.

With combining ice skating rinks made indoors and outdoors certain preferences can be met this way, with some ice rinks providing other activities nearby such as food stalls and Winter Wonderland offering their outdoor theme park in the middle of iconic Hyde Park.


London Ice Rink Locations

Natural History Museum Ice Rink

Natural History Museum Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD, Thu Oct 30 - Sun Jan 4


Canary Wharf Ice Rink
Canada Square Park, Sat Nov 1 - Fri Feb 27

Skate at Somerset House

Somerset House Strand, WC2R 1LA, Tue Nov 11 - Sun Jan 11


Ice Skating at Wembley Park

 Wembley Park, Fri Nov 14 - Sun Jan 4

 

Broadgate Ice Rink

 Exchange Square, Mon Nov 17 - Thu Feb 26

 

Westfield London Ice Rink

Westfield London Ariel Way, W12 7SL, Thu Nov 20 - Sat Jan 3


Ice Skate Vauxhall

 Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, Fri Nov 21 - Sun Jan 4


Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park, Fri Nov 21 - Sun Jan 4

 

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

 Hampton Court Palace East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU, Fri Nov 21 - Sun Jan 4

 

Winterville Ice Rink

Victoria Park Victoria Park Rd, E3 5SN, Tue Dec 2 - Wed Dec 31



For first time skaters or less confident ones on the ice, ice guides are available at some ice rinks along with penguin skating aids at £5 for all ages. This is a great outdoor activity for the whole family and you might even forget it is freezing out there!




Wednesday 20 August 2014

Exciting things coming to London by 2050


Exciting things coming to London by 2050


As you can imagine London will be busier than ever by the time we reach 2050. London is the place to be with its edgy fashion sense, fine dining destinations and funky night life. By the time we get to February 2015 there will be 8.6 people roaming around London streets, up by 37% since 2011’s census.

This massive increase within London’s population will only mean London becoming even more multicultural, this will definitely be making some sort of history. It is said 1.5 million homes will need to be built to accommodate all these people, which would require an extra 9,000 hectares of garden space equivalent to 63 Hyde Parks, if there’s even enough space for such gardens.

The tube as a whole will play an immense role on London and how it operates, it is said that for every square metre on a train four people will be standing. There are many ways London will be assisting to the new upcoming circumstances such as establishing crossrail 1 by 2018, and later may focus on the institution of crossrail 2 & even 3. Transport capacity will need to increase by 70% to support the future extreme demand for transportation.


As for the roads and car traffic of London there are talks of having a new London ring road constructed entirely or partly by 2015, and the idea of self driving cars (yes, really) is on the agenda, too.  There are some very exciting times ahead of us!

Friday 25 July 2014

Guide to Notting Hill Carnival 2014

Guide to Notting Hill Carnival 2014

If you are planning to visit next month’s Notting Hill Carnival, this guide will help you to prepare well for this truly amazing event. Let’s start with date and the parade route. On Sunday 24th of August, the main parade will start at 9 am on Great Western Road, continue along Chepstow Road and Westbourne Grove, then down to Ladbroke Grove. The Carnival will continue on Monday 25th of August (UK Bank Holiday), starting at 9 am, too.

How to reach Notting Hill
Public transport will be restricted and expect many congested routes. Plan your journey ahead on www.tfl.gov.uk . Useful tip is to arrive either early or later in the afternoon.

Tube: Notting Hill Gate
This station will be exit only between 11 am and 6 pm during both days.

Ladbroke Grove – station will be closed on both days
Royal Oak and Westbourne Park – Exit only between 11 am and 6 pm on both days
Bayswater, Paddington and Queensway will run as usual.
Other stations which could be used: High Street Kensington, Holland Park, Queens Park

Bus: Additional bus services will be running, however there will be no buses entering the Carnival areas on Sunday and Monday. Local night buses also will be diverted to different routes.

Bike: Be aware that Bike-docking stations in Chepstow Villas and Pembridge Road might be removed for Carnival.

Staying safe during Carnival
We have seen few riots and incidents during past years so pay attention to your safety and safety of others. Do not carry expensive items with you and always carry bags with secure zip. Police officers will be on hand in all areas of Carnival, if you see anything suspicious please, seek the help. Carry a bottle of water with you and apply sunscreen when needed.

Children’s Day
Sunday is a family-friendly day with smaller crowds and fun vibe. If you can, carry children in smaller baggies or in baby slings. Ear defenders for small babies might come handy.

Useful tips
It will be easier to use the public transport instead of driving a car. Your day will be more enjoyable in comfortable shoes. Do plan your toilet stops as big queues are very common and carry a hand sanitizer and some tissues.


Monday 14 July 2014

The Portobello Film Festival

Portobello Film Festival

This Film Festival was created in 1996 in order to provide a platform for new upcoming film-makers and promote movies in different formats. ‘The biggest celebration of independent film in Europe’ is one of the greatest descriptions which it has earned over the years.

Simply said The Portobello Film Festival shows tomorrow’s films today. When the Festival first opened, there was no venue to show the movies in. Unfortunately, The Electric Cinema did not re-open until 2001. As it has always had free entry some film-makers’ works were screened in various venues such as parks, bars and theatres.

The Festival organisers have a strong commitment to screen all films which have been submitted and to provide free entry for everyone.  The festival has managed to expand internationally, showing the work of directors of the future at Cannes, Macau and Venice since 2000. Most of the films are firstly showed at The Portobello Film Festival, followed by Edinburgh and Cannes.

An audience of fans has grown rapidly from just 1000 to over 15,000. The year 2000 was the most memorable event so far when organisers received over 300 brand new independent shorts and features. Screening time has reached an unbelievable 144 hours shown over two weeks. The technical quality of films has increased since 1996 as well as the number of films submitted for viewing. Film makers from all around the world have shown interest and submitted some remarkable pieces of work. For more info visit www.portobellofilmfestival.com .


Dates for this year Portobello Film Festival: 28thAugust - 14th September 2014

Friday 30 May 2014

Best events in August

Best events in August


Another week and there is another post from us to help you to plan your summer. Same as events in June and July, August's events will not disappoint anyone. We promise!

Summer Screening at Somerset House
Date: 7-20th of August
Each summer, London's most beautiful open-air cinema in Somerset House, shows several unforgettable old and new movies. This year is especially unique, as Film4 cinema celebrates its 10th birthday. Some of tickets are already sold so be quick if you want to be part of this great experience.

Africa Fashion Week
Date: 7-9th of August
Africa Fashion Week is the biggest African event in Europe. First time it was held in London in 2011 and since then due to its big success it has happened annually. This show celebrates the work of African inspired designers in the UK and all around the world. Expect some interesting creations.

Prudential Ride London
Date: 9-10th of August
It is an annual 2-days festival of cycling, some call it a true legacy of the 2012 Games. Last year Prudential Ride was a big success for the city as well as a great sport event. Fast it has became world's leading cycling event and legacy of the The 2012 Olympics will live on.

Notting Hill Carnival
Date: 25-26th of August
Since 1966, the carnival has been held in the area of Notting Hill each summer. This is the largest festival celebration in Europe and attracts visitors in large numbers. Loud music and tasty Caribbean food are just few things to look forward to. Unmissable event in August!

International Jewellery London
Date: 31-2nd of September
It is London's exclusive jewellery event where highly talented British and International designers are hand-picked to show their work. Be first to see future trends in jewellery market. It takes place in London Olympia.

Portobello Film Festival
Date: 28-14th of September
The Film Festival is the UK's biggest independent film competition and was created in 1996 in order to lift the state of British film industry and provide platforms for new film-makers to showcase their work. Admission is free.


Thursday 22 May 2014

What's on in June?

What's on in June?

As promised in our previous post, we are back with more hot events for month of June.

Hampton Court Festival is promising spectacular summer night concerts with American legends The Beach Boys. 11-24th of June

Trooping the Colour: The Queen's Official Birthday is celebrated on 14th of June each year with impressive display of pageantry.

The world's greatest restaurant festival is back in Regent's Park from 18-22nd of June. Expect anything from sushi making to champagne masterclass.

The oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, Wimbledon is on from 23rd of June until 6th of July. It has never failed to disappoint us.

Pride London celebrates gay and lesbian people and culture each year with amazingly colourful parade of marchers, dancers and singers. 28th of June is the date to remember if you want to be a part of this big street party.

Capital FM Summertime Ball promises world-class line up and the biggest ball ever in Wembley! You will see the performances from Pharrell, David Guetta, Cheryl Cole and many more. We cannot wait!

Biggest boy band of the moment One Direction is playing Wembley from 6th until 8th of June. It is their first appearance at this iconic venue.

These are just few great events happening in the capital in June.

For more info click here.

Thursday 8 May 2014

This year festivals in London

This year festivals in London

London is getting hot with this year festivals. Would you like to do some rocking in Hyde Park, having a picnic at Kew Gardens, dancing the night of at LoveBox or dining with the stars of MasterChef at Taste of London? 

Here is the list which tells you where/when to do it all: 

1. LoveBox
Date: 18-19th of July
Where: Victoria Park, London
Headliners: M.I.A., Nas, Chase and Status, A$AP Rocky
The Vibe: Good times start here.


2. Taste of London
Date: 19-22nd of June
Where: Regent's Park, London
Chefs: Michel Roux Jr, Monica Galleti
Special guests: cupcake queen Lili Vanilli
The Vibe: Tasty foodie haven.


3. Barclaycard British Summer Time
Date: 4-13th of July
Where: Hyde Park, London
Headliners: Black Sabbath, The Libertines, Backstreet Boys
The Vibe: Lots of good music in one place.

4. Wireless
Date: 4-6th of July
Where: Finsbury Park, London
Headliners: Kanye West, Pharrell, Drake, Rudimental, Bruno Mars...
The Vibe: The biggest stars in one very cool place.


5. Kew The Music
Date: 16-20th of July
Where: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Headliners: Elvis Costello, Bjorn Again, Jools Holland, Bill Bailey
The Vibe: Chilled out festival with good tunes.

These are just few awesome events which are happening in London this summer. For more great summer events check back here soon!


Friday 4 April 2014

Dining in the Dark - Dans le Noir London

Dans le Noir? 

The City of London offers pretty much everything and anything. But dining in the dark? I want to discover more.

Without argument it sounds like a fun social and sensory experience, it is something in between a show and a restaurant dinner. People come in to be entertained. Through this entertainment, dinners will have much deeper experience as a surprise. 
     
There are 4 different surprise menus :

White :  Chef Surprise - exotic and unusual

Blue : Fish and seafood menu

Red : Meat menu

Green : Vegetarian option

As you don’t know what you will eat, it’s difficult to choose the wine. I knew there is a catch! Whenever you are ready to enter the Dark Room, you will be introduced to your guide/waiter who will take care of your group during your dinner. You will be taken to your table in the dark. All guests must follow strict security instructions and never move in the Dark Dining Room without being led by a guide.



If you feel this is your cup of tea click on the link below and enjoy this rather unique experience!

Find out more 


Friday 21 March 2014

The Paddington Movie

The Paddington Movie

In November 2014, David Heyman, the UK's most successful film producer, will be bringing Paddington to the big screen in a major live action blockbuster movie featuring the best of British talent, both in front of and behind the camera.

This movie will tell the origin story of the little marmalade eating bear who dreams of visiting Britain and is sent from the deepest jungles of Peru to London. When he arrives at Paddington Station wearing a luggage label asking for someone to look after him, Paddington is taken in by the Brown family who join him on an adventure across London that helps him discover that there is a home for everyone in the greatest city in the world.

Paddington is shot on location across London (Paddington Station, Portobello Road, etc.) - with a CGI bear currently being added in Paddington will be released on Nov 28th by Studio Canal and will be the Christmas Family movie for 2014.

Friday 7 March 2014

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park


The Olympic Park is the perfect destination at any time of the year; whether it's a January visit to work off too much Christmas turkey at the Copper Box Arena gym, a picnic in the Park with friends on a hot summer’s day or trips up the ArcelorMittal Orbit to watch the London landscape change with the seasons.
There's also a packed programme of events all year round featuring concerts, art trails, London Lions basketball matches and much more. The Park is open 365 days of the year, is free to enter and there's a never-ending list of things to do. I have picked some of the best seasonal highlights to help you plan your perfect visit to the Park: 

Summer 
  • Keep the children entertained over the summer holidays with holiday clubs at the Copper Box Arena and Timber Lodge Café. Run by highly qualified leaders they are the perfect place for your child to try new sports and meet new friends.  
  • Pack a picnic rug and some sunscreen and head down to the Park for some family fun – the Tumbling Bay playground. 
  • As Wimbledon fever grips the nation book a court and head down to the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.

Winter 
  • Don't let the weather get you down! Choose from the Copper Box Arena or London Aquatics Centre gyms and get the endorphins pumping. Drop-in classes are available. 
  • Tuck into some winter warming food and drink on the Park; not to be missed Christmas treats are on offer at the Timber Lodge Café and south of the Park food kiosks. 
  • Take in the breath-taking views of the Park with a bird's eye view from the View Tube. 
  • Burn off the turkey with a winter stroll. Explore the sights at your leisure, or if you want to make sure you don’t miss anything, why not book onto one of the tours of the Park, and choose between walking, running or by boat!

Click on the link below to find out what's on during next few months.

Friday 17 January 2014

Sherlock at 24-25 Leinster Gardens, Bayswater

Sherlock at 24-25 Leinster Gardens, Bayswater


One of London’s unusual buildings has been revealed in the season finale of Sherlock.The genius detective shows Mary Watson a row of houses in Bayswater. Number 23 and 24 at Leinster Gardens could be any other 19th century west London terrace, but Holmes shows his assistant’s wife that the houses have manmade facade.
As the camera moves from the front of house and over the top of the roof, Holmes explains: “No doorknobs or letterbox and painted windows. 23 and 24 Leinster Gardens - the empty houses.In the programme an image of Mary’s face is projected on to the front as Holmes walks by with the character.
The false front was built in 1868, after the extension to the Metropolitan Line was cut through the middle of the street.  The frontage helped to cover the clouds of steam from the passing trains and also facade restored the continuation of the white terrace houses, so anybody walking past would not notice what the facade covers.

Next time you will be passing by, have a closer look!



One of London's 'false facades' at Leinster Gardens