Technology and Travel
I thoroughly enjoyed our holiday in Croatia last year and it did much to restore my confidence in travelling. Previously my views on visiting other countries had been greatly influenced by the films Raid on Entebbe and Midnight Express. As January was such a bleak month here in the UK, Mrs P and I decided we couldn’t wait until summer for another holiday and so decided to book something for the end of March. So we visited our local Travel Agents and decided upon a river cruise. We’ve been interested in these since we saw a travel show with Susan Calman. River cruises are a horse of a different colour, compared to sea cruises. They’re a great way to visit cities of note, often bringing you right into the heart of them. River cruise ships are a lot smaller with less passengers than ocean faring vessels. They also attract quite different travellers. Let it suffice to say that a sea cruise doesn’t offer the cultural experience that I am looking for.
TUI Skyla River Cruise Ship
I thoroughly enjoyed our holiday in Croatia last year and it did much to restore my confidence in travelling. Previously my views on visiting other countries had been greatly influenced by the films Raid on Entebbe and Midnight Express. As January was such a bleak month here in the UK, Mrs P and I decided we couldn’t wait until summer for another holiday and so decided to book something for the end of March. So we visited our local Travel Agents and decided upon a river cruise. We’ve been interested in these since we saw a travel show with Susan Calman. River cruises are a horse of a different colour, compared to sea cruises. They’re a great way to visit cities of note, often bringing you right into the heart of them. River cruise ships are a lot smaller with less passengers than ocean faring vessels. They also attract quite different travellers. Let it suffice to say that a sea cruise doesn’t offer the cultural experience that I am looking for.
We’ve booked a 4 day cruise of the River Danube starting in Vienna then stopping at Bratislava and Budapest. The cruise is all inclusive, providing three meals a day with drinks. The outgoing and return flights are also part of the overall cost. The cruise ship, the TUI Skyla, has two restaurants and bars, four desks and provides various activities and services for up to 77 passengers. Although large, the cruise ship is not overwhelming. It certainly seems to be a practical and comfortable means to visit European cities of culture. On paper it seems ideal for someone like me, who likes “frictionless” travel. The only aspect I don’t care for is flying but it is a necessary evil. On this occasion, we will be travelling from London Heathrow which I have not done before. Setting aside this issue, if the holiday proves to be to our liking, no doubt we’ll book another more comprehensive cruise in the future.
Budapest, Hungary
When we booked our last holiday, we did so via TUI (a German multinational leisure, travel and tourism company) at one of there stores. All necessary arrangements were made on the day we booked including the hotel, flight and excursions. They even helped us with booking a lounge at the Gatwick airport. We left the store with nothing further to do other than check in at the airport when it was time to travel. This time we booked via a third party agents, Hays Travel. Had I realised that the actual cruise was run by TUI, I would have booked direct with them. This is not because I have any complaint about the quality of service from Hays Travel but because it has added a degree of complexity to the proceeding. In fact booking a River Cruise has proven more involved than a simple stay at a hotel. Furthermore, there has been an ongoing assumption that I am, by default, familiar with the associated complexities of contemporary travelling.
Because I booked through a third party, administrative access to my booking is shared across two computer systems. This is then further complicated by the fact that the cruise is via a subsidiary company of TUI’s, namely Marella Cruises. Hence I had to input various details such as passport numbers, next of kin and health declarations across three websites. I then had to use a fourth website for booking the excursions available in Vienna Bratislava and Budapest. I also had to add additional apps to my phone so I can keep abreast of any changes to our itinerary or provide any other details that may be required. Travel for UK citizens has become more complex since Brexit. Hence I now have apps for TUI, Hays Travel, British Airways and No 1 Lounges on my phone. Because we’re going to the airport the day before our flight and have booked a hotel room via Premier Inn, I also have their app as well, although I do use this outside of holidays. Despite all this technology, I have paper copies of all tickets and bookings as back up in case things go wrong.
No 1 Lounge Heathrow Terminal 3
When we booked the cruise, because it was two month in advance, not all of the aforementioned websites were accessible. Plus, no one told me that we had to provide information to different organisations or that we had to pre-book all excursions. I only found out about all of these requirements purely by accident, when I phoned TUI because I couldn’t see my booking via their app. Until then I assumed that all information required by third parties was shared from the original booking and that anything else would be dealt with when on the actual cruise ship. I also found out by accident that Hungary doesn’t use the Euro, so I’ve got to buy some Forint before we travel. Furthermore, there have been numerous emails sent from TUI that I haven’t received, despite the address being correct. For someone who doesn’t like loose ends, this hasn’t been an optimal experience. I am still looking forward to the holiday but the technology that exists to manage it doesn’t seem especially “joined up”.
Some people may think my concerns are unfounded. Perhaps they are. However, my background is in IT, project management and therefore I am at heart a problem solver. When I see multiple apps and websites which do not seem to communicate with each other especially well, I just see multiple points of failure. The fact that I have to use two apps to manage my booking, proves that the system isn’t optimal. I found it interesting that when in Croatia last year, the tour guide had both a tablet with booking details and a backup clipboard with paper printout. Similarly in our hotel, restaurant bookings, sun lounger towels and other services were all done manually. All ran efficiently. It will be interesting to see whether all the technology associated with my cruise works as intended or not. If not I am prepared for such things and I’m sure they’ll be staff to address such problems. But it does raise the question of our reliance on technology and of its efficiency.
Old Farm Park COVID Memorial
There are approximately 4000 parks and green spaces in Greater London. Bexley Borough alone has over 100. Public parks and green spaces are vital to modern cities, providing essential health, environmental and social benefits. They boost physical and mental wellbeing by reducing stress and providing a place for exercise. Furthermore they enhance urban sustainability, mitigate heat, and provide a sustainable environment for a wildlife. Parks are often a venue for social activities and events and as such are an important part of the local community. Going to the park has always been a part of my life. I live next to Old Farm Park in Sidcup and have made use of this recreational space throughout my life. I used visit with my parents in the seventies, when I was a child. Thirty years later my son, father in-law and I would fly kites there. Now I take my grandchildren to Old Farm Park as it now has a playground.
There are approximately 4000 parks and green spaces in Greater London. Bexley Borough alone has over 100. Public parks and green spaces are vital to modern cities, providing essential health, environmental and social benefits. They boost physical and mental wellbeing by reducing stress and providing a place for exercise. Furthermore they enhance urban sustainability, mitigate heat, and provide a sustainable environment for a wildlife. Parks are often a venue for social activities and events and as such are an important part of the local community. Going to the park has always been a part of my life. I live next to Old Farm Park in Sidcup and have made use of this recreational space throughout my life. I used visit with my parents in the seventies, when I was a child. Thirty years later my son, father in-law and I would fly kites there. Now I take my grandchildren to Old Farm Park as it now has a playground.
Because there is an abundance of parks in the UK, they can sometimes be taken for granted. They’re often seen as local resources that you use and you don’t really think about beyond the fact that it is there. However, as these green spaces are frequently in prime locations in urban areas they are often targetted by property developers. In 2019 Bexley Council decided to resolve its financial issues by selling off one of its parks. It was a controversial decision and it was strongly reisted by residents of the borough. Even the local MP at the time, thought it unwise policy. Despite concerns, the council decision was final and Old Farm Park was selected to be sold. Fortunately, due to an access road running behind some of the houses that back onto the park, only half of the land was bought by property developers. Hence in early 2020 Old Farm Park was partitioned and building began on sixty homes in the eastern half.
Up until 2020, Old Farm Park was effectively just a field with trees around the edges Some areas were specifically left unmaintained to accommodate “rewilding”. When the park was partitioned it was decided to landscape the remaining area and build a path to circumnavigate it. Exercise areas and a children’s playground were also added. Areas of rewilding were kept and a pond was built with decking looking out over it. No doubt this redevelopment of the park was undertaken to increase the desirability and marketability of the new housing estate. Residents opinions on this makeover were mixed. The quality of some of the work was questionable and as a result, the paths have been repaired several times already. The pond was not correctly constructed and as such, has never maintained a body of water for more than a few day. Yet despite these short comings, Old Farm Park is a pleasant and safe environment.
The pandemic and the accompanying lockdown was certainly made more manageable by numerous parks in this borough. The provided a degree of freedom from the confines of our own homes and a means to meet family and friends in a safe fashion. Therefore I was both surprised and pleased to see that a decision was made by the council to redevelop the failed pond in Old Farm Park and repurpose it into a rock garden and COVID memorial. The work was carried out towards the end of February and the memorial was officially opened on Sunday 8th March. During 2020-21 over 720 people died COVID-19 in Bexley Borough. My father passed away in hospital in September 2020, although not from COVID. However, due to the lockdown, I only visited him once. Hence this is a matter close to my heart and I am pleased that there is now a place of remembrance locally. It is important that the pandemic is not quickly forgotten, so this is a welcome addition to Old Farm Park, which is itself an invaluable community asset.
British Optical Association Museum
There is no shortage of interesting and good quality museums in London. In many respects tourists and visitors are spoilt for choice. More often than not, it is the most well known institutions such as the British Museum or Victoria and Albert Museum that gain the most attention. However, there are many hidden gems to discover if you take the time to look further. A prime example being The British Optical Association Museum which I had the pleasure of visiting today. The museum’s function is to promote the optometry profession and raise public awareness of its past and ongoing role within society. The museum has a well conserved collection of exhibits and provides a venue for presentations, learning and research services. There is also an excellent tour hosted by museum curator Neil Handley (PhD, AMA, FRSA) in which he gives a concise, interesting and at times a witty overview of the history of optometry in the UK and its current role.
There is no shortage of interesting and good quality museums in London. In many respects tourists and visitors are spoilt for choice. More often than not, it is the most well known institutions such as the British Museum or Victoria and Albert Museum that gain the most attention. However, there are many hidden gems to discover if you take the time to look further. A prime example being The British Optical Association Museum which I had the pleasure of visiting today. The museum’s function is to promote the optometry profession and raise public awareness of its past and ongoing role within society. The museum has a well conserved collection of exhibits and provides a venue for presentations, learning and research services. There is also an excellent tour hosted by museum curator Neil Handley (PhD, AMA, FRSA) in which he gives a concise, interesting and at times a witty overview of the history of optometry in the UK and its current role.
The British Optical Association Museum is located in a charming Georgian house, on Craven Street, just off the Strand in Central London. The building is a striking mix of old and new, containing rooms filled with period character but with modern illumination and a clean contemporary aesthetic. The tour begins immediately in the hall of the building, featuring a display on how the optometry profession has been perceived and portrayed over the years. It features various items such advertising signage as well as more esoteric items such as a Playmobil opticians set, to a “visually impaired” Barbie doll. There is also a display dedicated to Harry Potter featuring various sets of glasses used on the feature films. The success of the films made glasses fashionable and desirable among young people and set a trend for retro frames. Apparently this particular display attracts a great deal of visitors, hence it being moved to the lobby.
Downstairs, the majority of the museum’s collection is housed within two rooms. The Giles Room contains sight-testing equipment, ophthalmic lenses, examples of the symbolism of the eye, ocular anatomy models and contact lenses. The Sutcliffe Room exhibits antique spectacles and other vision aids, including sunglasses and monocles. There are also other examples of visual equipment such as spyglasses, opera glasses, telescopes, microscopes and cameras. A display of celebrity eye and sunglasses proved especially popular. The display cases are mainly made of glass and the rooms are well lit. Many of these interesting artifacts and exhibits require to be put in context, which is provided by curator Neil Handley as visitors peruse the display. Neil explains what is on display, giving factual information, anecdotes and pop culture asides. His tour is informative but far from dry, making the point how eye tests and wearing glasses are an integral aspect of everyday life and our culture.
The British Optical Association continues to represent the UK optometry profession at multiple levels, providing clinical guidelines for those in the profession and consulting at government level. The British Optical Association Museum does a very good job of explaining the associations work in layman’s terms. The museum also has a strong message about eye care, as curator Neil Handley states in his tour. Your eyes are organs and as such are vulnerable to disease. Therefore they should feature in your healthcare regime. Hence the importance of having your eyes tested regularly. Overall, the British Optical Association Museum offers an engaging and thought provoking tour. It is also a source of interest for historical building aficionado’s and even has the bonus appeal of having its own resident ghost (allegedly). If you are looking for a less mainstream museum and happy to explore more niche interests, then the British Optical Association Museum will prove very rewarding.
Capel Battery
The artillery battery at Capel-le-Ferne was built between 1941 and 1942, following the fall of France, on the orders of Winston Churchill. Located between Dover and Folkestone, the battery consisted of three 8-inch high-performance guns, provided by the Royal Navy. The battery was intended to provide anti-shipping defence in the English Channel. The site was manned by men of the 520 Coast Regiment Royal Artillery. Over the course of World War II, the battery expanded in size, eventually encompassing multiple Nissen huts, several roads and 19 military buildings. Anti aircraft defence was provided by two 40mm Bofors guns. Over the course of the war, the Capel Battery engaged enemy shipping on four separate occasions and also took part in fifteen practice shoots. In 1944, due to the decreased threat, the battery was placed in “care and maintenance”. The guns were removed in 1952 and the building demolished in the early 1980s
The artillery battery at Capel-le-Ferne was built between 1941 and 1942, following the fall of France, on the orders of Winston Churchill. Located between Dover and Folkestone, the battery consisted of three 8-inch high-performance guns, provided by the Royal Navy. The battery was intended to provide anti-shipping defence in the English Channel. The site was manned by men of the 520 Coast Regiment Royal Artillery. Over the course of World War II, the battery expanded in size, eventually encompassing multiple Nissen huts, several roads and 19 military buildings. Anti aircraft defence was provided by two 40mm Bofors guns. Over the course of the war, the Capel Battery engaged enemy shipping on four separate occasions and also took part in fifteen practice shoots. In 1944, due to the decreased threat, the battery was placed in “care and maintenance”. The guns were removed in 1952 and the building demolished in the early 1980s
Today, two thirds of the old Capel-le-Ferne battery site is now buried under the Battle of Britain Memorial, which was built in 1992. However, the remaining part of the battery (specifically No1 Gun) is now a museum, run by father and son team, John and Martin Button. Opened in 2023, the Capel Battery is dedicated to preserving and displaying the remains of the site and restoring previously existing facilities where it can. To date, the crew shelter, gun store and compressor house, along with the underground plotting room have been fully excavated. Two replica Nissen huts have also been built on their original locations. The site is also home to a 50mm Anti-Aircraft Bofors gun, an AFV434 REME armoured repair vehicle and other military equipment .
BL 8-inch MkVIII Naval Gun
On Saturday 16th August, I was fortunate to have a tour of the Capel Battery. Myself and my colleagues were given leave to look around the site by Martin Button, who also made himself available to answer questions both about the battery’s history and his ongoing plans for development. The former placement for No1 Gun has been fully excavated exposing where the base ring traversing mechanism would have been located. Likewise the bunker behind has also been cleared of undergrowth. Restoration has begun on all the concrete infrastructure, although it is a slow and costly undertaking. However, despite being an ongoing project, the concrete infrastructure that remains is more than sufficient to convey the scale of the naval gun that was installed. The site is about 400 yards from the cliff edge and looks out over the Straits of Dover.
The foundations of many of the prior outbuildings have also been discovered including officers’ mess, guard room canteen, storage and sleeping quarters. Several underground facilities have also been located such as the Operations Room, the Medical Dressing Station along with the Battery Plotting Room. Not all of these are accessible due to underground collapse, or for practical health and safety reasons. Of all of these, the Battery Plotting Room remains the most intact, located 50 feet or more underground. It can be accessed via two vertical ladders and contains much of the trunking and ducting from the original period. It is a substantial structure designed for half a dozen men. It is from here that data was analysed to compute precise gun-laying instructions.
No 1 Gun placement excavation and restoration
Another interesting aspect of the Capel Battery is the owner’s prodigious collection of World War II memorabilia. There is an original Willys MB Jeep and a Land Rover 101 Forward Control, along with radio equipment, an Observer Instrument and much more. All of which contribute to making this former military site an important historical resource. Unfortunately, Folkestone & Hythe District Council are currently in dispute with the Capel Battery’s owners over technicalities regarding the site’s museum status. Hence there is currently a concerted effort by both the owners and supporters of the site to raise the profile of the Capel Battery, thus increase the number of visitors and to raise further funding for excavation, preservation and restoration. I feel that the museum as it stands has a lot to offer and would like to see it reach its full potential. I therefore hope the owners are successful in their endeavours.
Kent Battle of Britain Museum
There are an estimated 2,500 museums in the UK. This number has grown significantly over time, more than tripling between 1960 and 2017. While it is laudable that so many of these institutions exist, they do not all receive equal interest or publicity. Some museums dominate in their respective fields and drown out others that have a similar theme. With this in mind, I was unaware of the Kent Battle of Britain Museum until a friend recently brought it to my attention. After yesterday’s visit my initial thoughts are what a treasure trove it is. According to the museum’s website it is the world’s largest Battle of Britain collection of memorabilia. This includes planes, uniforms, weapons and related artefacts from over 700 crashed aircraft. Furthermore, the museum tells the story of this battle without bias, choosing to highlight both the historical and the human aspects of the conflict. It is often very poignant.
There are an estimated 2,500 museums in the UK. This number has grown significantly over time, more than tripling between 1960 and 2017. While it is laudable that so many of these institutions exist, they do not all receive equal interest or publicity. Some museums dominate in their respective fields and drown out others that have a similar theme. With this in mind, I was unaware of the Kent Battle of Britain Museum until a friend recently brought it to my attention. After yesterday’s visit my initial thoughts are what a treasure trove it is. According to the museum’s website it is the world’s largest Battle of Britain collection of memorabilia. This includes planes, uniforms, weapons and related artefacts from over 700 crashed aircraft. Furthermore, the museum tells the story of this battle without bias, choosing to highlight both the historical and the human aspects of the conflict. It is often very poignant.
The museums’ collection is displayed via two hangers and the old operations building, as it is located on what remains of the former RAF Hawkinge site. Upon exiting the main entrance and ticket office, you step into a grass quadrangle with a collection of aircraft on display. These include a Heinkel He 111H-6, Junkers Ju 52/3M (CASA 352L), Bristol Blenheim Mk. IV (Bolingbroke), three Gate Guardian Hurricanes. There is also a replica of a long range Fieseler Fi.103 V-I Flying Bomb that was built for the film Operation Crossbow (1965), along with a V2 combustion chamber and rocket exhaust. Several of the aircraft are currently undergoing restoration using modern materials. At present, their current state of disassembly affords a fascinating view at the airframes and the overall construction.
The Stuart-Buttle hangar (dedicated to the memory of Squadron Leader Stuart-Buttle), contains full sized replicas of Hurricane and Spitfire aircraft. These were built for the 1969 film Battle of Britain, much of which was filmed at Hawkinge. There is also a Boulton Paul Defiant, interceptor aircraft with its rear facing turret. This seldom seen and rare aeroplane is painted in its daytime camouflage, prior to it being withdrawn and repurposed as a night fighter. The hangar is also home to both a de Havilland Tiger Moth and a North American Harvard. There are also multiple Rolls Royce Merlin engines along with period vehicles such as a Bedford MW truck, an Austin Tilly light van and a Beavertte armoured car.
The Lord Dowding Memorial Hangar and the Operations Block house a prodigious collection of artefacts. The centrepiece in the second hangar is a replica of a crashed replica Messerschmitt Bf 109E, again from the Battle of Britain film. There is also a collection of Daimler-Benz engines and numerous parts from downed planes. The most noticeable aspect of these is that each has a detailed history, identifying the plane and pilot and who they were shot down by. These details have a great impact. The Operations Block houses further artefacts from crashed and destroyed aircraft, along with items belonging to aircrew. Bent machine guns and crushed radial engines succinctly demonstrate the kinetic forces involved in an air crash. Again many of the items have very personal stories associated with them.
It is the intimate history associated with these collections that makes them so compelling. Although some have been donated by the families of such notables as Lord Dowding, Sir Keith Park, many others are from local families who had a close connection to the RAF. It highlights the fact that WWII was fought by everyday people, who did extraordinary things out of necessity. I don’t want to disparage other museums but there is a trend at present to curate to a minimalist standard. Focusing on key points such as statistics or known figures to present a tight and focused message. Yet the human aspect of WWII can be somewhat lost with this approach. Infographics can convey data but sometimes it is vital to give a name and show a photo of a man or woman, for context and empathy.
The sheer volume of content on display at Kent Battle of Britain Museum is another interesting point in itself. It brings home the scale of the Battle of Britain by showing so many relics and remnants. The number of crashed planes is not an abstraction but something that can plainly be seen and quantified. Both my parents grew up through WWII and it was in many ways a defining aspect of their lives. It was a subject that was regularly broached during my childhood in the seventies. Hence, for me, that era of conflict is easily conceptualised. However, younger generations do not have the benefit of such a direct connection. Hence WWII can be just as remote as the Napoleonic Wars or the Crusades. The personal stories and sheer volume of content available in Kent Battle of Britain Museum effectively bridges that gap.
It is apparent after visiting Kent Battle of Britain Museum that it would benefit from more space so that visitors could get better access to the displays. No doubt I am preaching to the choir on this matter and those running this museum are abundantly aware of the situation. As it stands, the museum does much with the resources it has. There is far more to see beyond the items I have referenced. There is a fantastic set of bronze statues , The Spirit of the Few Memorial, along with a memorial to the “Czech cloverleaf”; four Czechoslovak pilots from No. 303 Squadron. There is also a very well presented armoury. However, due previous thefts and the very personal nature of some of the items on display, the museum at present has a no photography policy. I was very fortunate that museum Chairman Dave Brocklehurst MBE, allowed me to take pictures of the aircraft in the quadrangle under supervision, for which I am very grateful.
I was adhering to a very tight and specific itinerary yesterday and although I spent sufficient time to get the measure of Kent Battle of Britain Museum, I shall definitely be returning so I can immerse myself further in the various collections. There are several members of staff who are available to provide facts and background information to visitors that I’d like to talk to. I thoroughly recommend the museum both to those with a casual interest in the Battle of Britain as well as amateur historians and aficionados. It is important to support smaller and local museums as they often have just as much to offer as their larger and wealthier counterparts. That is especially true of Kent Battle of Britain Museum, which focuses upon a very specific and well known aspect of UK history and explores it in a very unique and thought provoking way.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is so much more than just a neolithic, historical structure of note. It is of great spiritual importance to many, representing ceremonial practices and ancient worship. It is also seen as a conduit to a wider connection to the cosmos. It is after all a celestial calendar, according to one of the theories regarding its purpose. It also has a strong significance in pop culture. Hence, due to its history, symbolism, religious connotations and overall sense of mystery it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a globally recognised symbol of ancient Britain. As such, it has always been somewhere that I have wished to visit. Today, as we were relatively nearby in Ringwood and the weather was pleasant, Mrs P and I decided to go to Salisbury and see this iconic structure for ourselves.
Stonehenge is so much more than just a neolithic, historical structure of note. It is of great spiritual importance to many, representing ceremonial practices and ancient worship. It is also seen as a conduit to a wider connection to the cosmos. It is after all a celestial calendar, according to one of the theories regarding its purpose. It also has a strong significance in pop culture. Hence, due to its history, symbolism, religious connotations and overall sense of mystery it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a globally recognised symbol of ancient Britain. As such, it has always been somewhere that I have wished to visit. Today, as we were relatively nearby in Ringwood and the weather was pleasant, Mrs P and I decided to go to Salisbury and see this iconic structure for ourselves.
Stonehenge is maintained by English Heritage, a charity that manages over 400 historic monuments, buildings and places throughout England. Tourists are greeted by a substantial visitors centre upon arrival, featuring an exhibition regarding the history of Stonehenge and various support facilities such as cafe, shop, picnic areas and toilets. There is a large car park which requires the PayByPhone app for payment. English Heritage members park for free, as long as they clearly display their membership sticker. Visitors can walk to the stones, which takes about 25 to 30 minutes, depending on your pace. Alternatively, there is a shuttle bus service that regularly travels between the two sites. This takes between 5 to 10 minutes. A path goes all the way around the circle and is a mixture of both hard-standing and grass. At some points, you are as close as 5m (16 feet) from the stones.
The stones at Stonehenge are approximately 4,500 years old, dating back to the late Neolithic period around 2500 BC. But they are far more than the sum of their parts. There is an interesting atmosphere among the visitors, many of whom are pursuing a spiritual dimension to their pilgrimage. Despite the background noise of traffic passing on the nearby A303 road, there is an air of stillness surrounding the stones themselves. I found most of my fellow visitors were quite quiet, as people tend to be when they visit a cathedral. As for Stonehenge itself, it is suitably impressive. It has a very organic ambience, despite obviously being hand crafted from stone. You can completely walk around the circle and photograph it from all sides. During our visit it became quite overcast, which in many respects made the photos I took on my phone more atmospheric.
After spending about 30 minutes or so, contemplating the stone circle, we returned to the visitor centre and the exhibition. The current exhibition explores the story of not only the stone circle but the wider landscape, as well as the people who lived in the vicinity. Using a combination of audio-visual displays and ancient objects, it seeks to show what life was like at the times and what part the stone circle played within the local community. There are over 250 archaeological objects and treasures that have been discovered in the immediate area. Ranging from jewellery, pottery and tools, to ancient human remains. There is a forensic reconstruction of a 5,500 year old man, based on the aforementioned bones found near Stonehenge. Yet despite the amount of data available, much still remains unknown.
Stonehenge is a singularly enigmatic place of interest, mainly due to the age of the site and the degree of mystery that still persists around how it was built and what its exact purpose was. Irrespective of the crowds of visitors and the temperamental nature of the weather, Stonehenge maintains an imposing presence. It certainly lends itself to a great deal of contemplation. That being said, it doesn’t have to be all serious. As ever I lapsed into thinking about the various pop culture references regarding Stonehenge, such as Halloween III: Season of the Witch, Night of the Demon and of course Spinal Tap. Overall, I found my visit to this iconic stone circle very rewarding. I suspect it is even more enthralling at specific times of year, such as the summer solstice when sunrise aligns with specific stones within the circle. I suspect I shall make a return visit in the future.
The Sea
I enjoy visiting the coast. I always have. I find the sight and sounds of the sea very calming and thought provoking. There is something about seeing the ocean stretch out to the horizon and its implied enormity, that gives you a sense of perspective. The UK is a seafaring nation and therefore it is an integral part of our history and national identity. Hence a strong nautical theme and a sense of its importance has bled through into our popular culture. It is therefore quite common for people to have a positive attitude towards the sea and its associated leisure activities. I like to visit the coast at various times of the year and walk along the beach, just listening to the waves, lost in my own thoughts. This is not a hard thing to do in the UK, as no one lives further than 70 miles (113 kilometers) from the coast.
Hythe Beach
I enjoy visiting the coast. I always have. I find the sight and sounds of the sea very calming and thought provoking. There is something about seeing the ocean stretch out to the horizon and its implied enormity, that gives you a sense of perspective. The UK is a seafaring nation and therefore it is an integral part of our history and national identity. Hence a strong nautical theme and a sense of its importance has bled through into our popular culture. It is therefore quite common for people to have a positive attitude towards the sea and its associated leisure activities. I like to visit the coast at various times of the year and walk along the beach, just listening to the waves, lost in my own thoughts. This is not a hard thing to do in the UK, as no one lives further than 70 miles (113 kilometers) from the coast.
I often write summaries of my various travels and they are frequently just summaries of a few historical facts associated with the places I’ve visited. I would, on this occasion, like to discuss two places that I’ve recently been to and offer a different perspective. The first is Swalecliffe, which lies between Whitstable and Herne Bay. This small coastal area looks out over the North Sea. It has a rugged strip of grassland that leads down to the pebble beach, which has wooden groynes to prevent shoreline erosion. The road, Marine Crescent, runs parallel to the beach and the houses along it all have balconies, observation decks or other means by which their owners can sit and enjoy the seaview. There is a promenade adjacent to the beach and various facilities available along it, including some very colourful beach huts.
Swalecliffe Beach
We visited the beach on 30th April, roundabout 10:45 AM. We were making our way along the coast, Eastward, stopping anywhere along the way that took our fancy. What attracted us to the beach at Swalecliffe was the fact that there was a sea mist at the time, although it was receding. So we parked up and took a leisurely stroll. At the time the beach was mainly empty. There were some dog walkers and a few people fixing their beach hut. The sea mist was at the time halfway up the beach but slowly vanishing in the sunlight. It was very picturesque but there was also a vague supernatural aspect to it all. I immediately thought of a particular M. R. James’ ghost story that featured a sinister figure, obscured by sea mist and on the periphery of one’s vision. Sadly, the moment didn’t last long. In less than 30 minutes the mist had gone leaving just a scenic pebble beach but it was a striking experience.
Today, Mrs P and I visited Southbourne Beach, located in Bournemouth. It is a popular, Blue Flag award-winning beach known for its cleanliness and wide sandy and shingle expanse. It is one of those beaches that is popular with locals but not necessarily well known to the wider population. Tourists tend to head to Bournemouth. Southbourne beach, set below a cliff, is accessible via the zigzagging Fisherman's Walk from Southbourne High Street. It offers amenities like accessible toilets, kiosks, and lifeguard services. It is an extremely clean and tidy beach, with wide expanses of sand and shingle. When it is warm and sunny, such as today, it is the sort of beach where you can happily spend hours just relaxing and daydreaming. It has ample facilities and a great ambience. It also has the benefit of not being crowded.
Both of these visits highlight the fascinating quality of the sea. The sea mist at Swalecliffe invoked a sense of fascination at a natural phenomenon that I had never seen before. It also had a sense of mystery as it is an occurrence that has been used as a plot device in many books over the years. My experience at Southbourne beach was far more about the inherent calmness of the environment. It is the perfect place in good weather to switch off and relax, or ruminate upon benign, idle thoughts. Furthermore, irrespective of the season or indeed the beach itself, I think that it is the rhythmic quality of the sea that is the key to its calming presence. That combined with the sea air and its negative ions seem to have a very uplifting effect upon one’s mood. Yet despite all these factors, I have never felt disposed to venture out upon the sea. I much prefer just to observe and contemplate it.
Knole
Knole is a country house in England and a former archbishop’s palace that is currently owned by the National Trust. It is located within Knole Park, a 1,000-acre (400-hectare) estate that lies to the south-east of Sevenoaks in west Kent. The existing structure of the house dates back to the mid-15th century, although there were significant expansions in the 16th and particularly in the early 17th centuries. Its Grade I listing signifies its combination of late-medieval to Stuart architectural styles. This is especially evident in its central façade and state rooms. In 2019, a comprehensive conservation initiative titled “Inspired by Knole” was completed to restore and enhance the buildings’ structures. This was beneficial to the preservation of its significant collections. The adjacent deer park has also endured since 1600.
Knole is a country house in England and a former archbishop’s palace that is currently owned by the National Trust. It is located within Knole Park, a 1,000-acre (400-hectare) estate that lies to the south-east of Sevenoaks in west Kent. The existing structure of the house dates back to the mid-15th century, although there were significant expansions in the 16th and particularly in the early 17th centuries. Its Grade I listing signifies its combination of late-medieval to Stuart architectural styles. This is especially evident in its central façade and state rooms. In 2019, a comprehensive conservation initiative titled “Inspired by Knole” was completed to restore and enhance the buildings’ structures. This was beneficial to the preservation of its significant collections. The adjacent deer park has also endured since 1600.
Today, Knole is a well-preserved early Jacobean renovation of a medieval archbishop’s palace. Constructed and expanded by the Archbishops of Canterbury after 1456, it evolved from an even older manor house. During the Tudor period, it became a royal residence when Henry VIII hunted in the area and deemed it a suitable home for his daughter, during his separation from her mother, Catherine of Aragon. Elizabeth I is also reported to have visited the estate. From 1603 onwards, Thomas Sackville transformed Knole into an aristocratic treasure house for the Sackville family, who were notable and influential figures in court circles. The showrooms of Knole were designed to impress guests and showcase the family's wealth and status. Over the span of more than 400 years, his descendants undertook three additional phases of rebuilding and furnishing Knole.
Frances Cranfield, the Countess of Dorset, and Richard Sackville, the 5th Earl of Dorset, were married in 1637. This alliance between the Sackville and Cranfield families played a pivotal role in the restoration of the Sackville fortunes following the Civil War, during which numerous paintings and pieces of furniture at Knole were sold. Furthermore, it ensured that the collection of furniture and paintings gathered by Frances’ father would ultimately be transferred to Knole. The life and career of their son, Charles Sackville, the 6th Earl of Dorset, significantly influenced the Knole we know today. At the close of the 17th century, Charles procured Stuart furniture and textiles from royal palaces due to his position as Lord Chamberlain of the Household to William III.
In spite of such wealth, Charles nearly brought Knole to financial ruin, a predicament that was resolved by his son, Lionel, through a succession of successful public roles, culminating in his elevation to the title of 1st Duke of Dorset in 1720. Lionel’s grandson, John Frederick Sackville, the 3rd Duke of Dorset, was a notable patron of the arts. He acquired European Old Master paintings alongside works by contemporary English artists, thereby establishing a collection of national importance. Many of the pieces he collected are displayed in the showrooms today, including paintings and sculptures he obtained during his Grand Tour of Europe. He also acquired works by Thomas Gainsborough and maintained a close friendship with and patronage of Sir Joshua Reynolds.
The Knole offers a well curated route through the house that highlights many of its stand out features and key items from its textile, furniture and painting collections. Highlights include “the Great Screen” in the main hall with its rich carvings and embellishments. Then there is the reclining statue, “La Baccelli”, by John Baptist Locatelli next to the main staircase. There are numerous guides and volunteers available to answer questions and provide insight into various aspects of the house and grounds. Outside in the park, there are three walks around the estate of varying distance and difficulty. They are rugged and suitably picturesque, affording an opportunity to see the extremely tame park deer. If you have an interest in places of historical interest and country walks, Knole has a great deal to offer. It is also ideally placed, being a short distance from Sevenoaks which offers a wealth of attractions itself.
Thoughts on Holidays
Mrs P and I travelled to Croatia on Friday 13th June for our summer holiday. We spent one week in Makarska, which is located on the Dalmatian coast. My last international holiday was to Malta in 2004. Since then we have done a lot of travelling in the UK and Mrs P has vacationed abroad with other family members. However, she stated last September that she wanted to go “somewhere warm” for our next holiday. So this trip was booked and has been “something to look forward to”, or a source of stress slowly inching closer, depending upon your perspective. In many respects this holiday has been a big deal for me. I don’t enjoy travelling at all with all its accompanying logistical, bureaucratic and “people” issues. However, I have no problem with being elsewhere. I eagerly await teleportation technology to become commonplace. Once I arrived at our hotel, I quickly switched to holiday mode and I am happy to confirm that I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
Mrs P and I travelled to Croatia on Friday 13th June for our summer holiday. We spent one week in Makarska, which is located on the Dalmatian coast. My last international holiday was to Malta in 2004. Since then we have done a lot of travelling in the UK and Mrs P has vacationed abroad with other family members. However, she stated last September that she wanted to go “somewhere warm” for our next holiday. So this trip was booked and has been “something to look forward to”, or a source of stress slowly inching closer, depending upon your perspective. In many respects this holiday has been a big deal for me. I don’t enjoy travelling at all with all its accompanying logistical, bureaucratic and “people” issues. However, I have no problem with being elsewhere. I eagerly await teleportation technology to become commonplace. Once I arrived at our hotel, I quickly switched to holiday mode and I am happy to confirm that I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
I knew that travelling from London Gatwick, even in the earlier hours of the morning, was going to be stressful. The airport is busy 24 hours a day. So I took the precaution of booking a room at the Premier Inn the day before our flight, so we didn’t have to get a taxi at “stupid o’clock”. Hence we spent the afternoon and evening relaxing in the bar and restaurant on Thursday and retired at a sensible time, as we had to get up at 3:00 AM the next day. Early Friday morning we dropped off our baggage and went through security. Both of which were extremely busy. Fortunately, I had booked us into an airport lounge, so we didn’t have to wait in the public area which was already heaving by 5:00 AM. The seating in the lounge was comfy and there was a buffet available. It certainly helped reduce my stress levels. It was also very close to our departure gate, so all we had to do was relax and wait. I indulged my hobby of “people watching”, which proved most illuminating as it so often does.
Boarding the plane old school
Our flight was fine once it actually took off. Two hours fifteen minutes is hardly an arduous journey. My beef is with how long it takes getting passengers on and off the plane and the time that is lost waiting to take off. As ever with holidays to warmer climates, we were greeted by a wall of heat as we stepped off the plane. The average temperature in Croatia in June is usually 24°C (76°F). Due to a heatwave across the Mediterranean, it was often 27°C (81°F) during our stay. There was a rep from the holiday company waiting at Split airport and we were quickly directed to the coach that took us to our hotel. What I didn’t realise is that the Dalmatian coast is on the other side of a mountain range and so we subsequently had another two hour journey. However, this did afford an opportunity to spend some time familiarising myself with the Croatian landscape which is similar to that of Greece and Cypress, but more verdant.
According to their website, the Valamar Meteor Hotel is “stylish, bright and brimming with facilities” and I am happy to concur. Set next to a shady pebble beach near the heart of Makarska, this four star hotel features gorgeous outdoor and indoor pools, as well as a sun terrace overlooking the Adriatic sea. The stylish and contemporary furnished air conditioned rooms and suites offer views of either the sea or mountain. Immaculately presented with incredibly friendly and helpful staff, this is one of the best hotels I have ever stayed in. There are plenty of activities available for both adults and children, as well as excursions and tours. The bar and the main restaurant were outstanding. The latter offers the most extensive breakfast and dinner buffets I have encountered. Local delicacies, Mediterranean cuisine and simple staples were all available. I felt incredibly relaxed all the time and there were absolutely no language issues.
Krka National Park
Mrs P likes to sun herself on holidays. I will do this to a degree but will go walkabout when I’ve had my fill. Thankfully, the hotel had a game lounge furnished with half a dozen PlayStation 5s. There was often musical entertainment in the evenings and it was to a surprisingly good standard. We went on several excursions during the week. One to Krka National Park which was most impressive with its abundance of waterfalls. We also went on a tour of Trogir and Split. I particularly liked the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the remains of Emperor Diocletian’s Palace. An unexpected place of interest was a visit to the Olive Museum and later a trip to an olive farm. In such modern times it is easy to forget the importance of certain traditional industries and their significance to the history and economy of a country or region.
The Dalmatian Coast
The whole point of a holiday is to rest, relax and do things you may not do in the course of your daily life. My week in Croatia satisfied all these needs. On one occasion I left the hotel and walked through the town of Makarska. It was similar to any community with supermarkets and pharmacies. Being a resort there were a lot of shops selling souvenirs and such like and numerous restaurants. The cost of living is lower than that of the UK, giving me the brief illusion during my stay of being wealthy. The other stand out feature of Makarska was how clean and well maintained it is. But as 23% of Croatia’s GDP comes from tourism, such high standards seem self explanatory. Overall, this holiday has certainly done much to revise my views on international travel. It ultimately comes down to doing your research and making a discerning choice. I’m already considering where to go next and I may not wait until next year.
Emmetts Garden
Emmetts Garden is an Edwardian estate situated on Ide Hill, close to Sevenoaks in Kent, UK. After a long and interesting history it is currently under the stewardship of the National Trust. Originally open farmland, the existing house was constructed in1860. The term “emmett” is a local dialect for ant, referencing the large anthills that populated the area until the 1950s. In 1890, the estate was acquired by Frederic Lubbock, a banker with a keen interest in horticulture. His elder brother, John Lubbock, 1st Baron Avebury, was a renowned authority on ants, which may have influenced Frederic's decision to purchase the estate. Today Emmetts Garden is open to the public and features several “hortus conclusus” (walled gardens) and a hillside trail that is famous for its Bluebells in the spring.
Emmetts Garden is an Edwardian estate situated on Ide Hill, close to Sevenoaks in Kent, UK. After a long and interesting history it is currently under the stewardship of the National Trust. Originally open farmland, the existing house was constructed in1860. The term “emmett” is a local dialect for ant, referencing the large anthills that populated the area until the 1950s. In 1890, the estate was acquired by Frederic Lubbock, a banker with a keen interest in horticulture. His elder brother, John Lubbock, 1st Baron Avebury, was a renowned authority on ants, which may have influenced Frederic's decision to purchase the estate. Today Emmetts Garden is open to the public and features several “hortus conclusus” (walled gardens) and a hillside trail that is famous for its Bluebells in the spring.
The gardens were first designed between 1893 and 1895, inspired by Lubbock's associate William Robinson. They are laid out in the fashionable Edwardian style popularized by Gertrude Jekyll. A shrub garden was added later, between 1900 and 1908. Following Lubbock's passing in 1927, the estate was taken over by American geologist Charles Watson Boise, who made several modifications to the house and gardens while preserving their original character. In 1964, Boise bequeathed Emmetts to the National Trust, which has since worked to uphold the botanical diversity cultivated by both men. Many of the mature trees and shrubs planted by Lubbock were lost in the Great Storm of 1987, but the storm also allowed more light into the gardens, prompting the National Trust to implement a thoughtful replanting initiative.
The grounds spans approximately six acres (around 2.5 hectares) and is situated on a prominent 600-foot (180 m) sandstone ridge, providing stunning views of the Weald and the North Downs. It primarily features an arboretum filled with trees and shrubs, including a remarkable 100-foot (30 m) Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) that survived the storm. Additionally, there is a rose garden adjacent to the Victorian house but this is not accessible to the public. Overall, Emmetts Garden is an excellent site for a spring walk. Those visitors seeking a leisurely pace can stroll around the walled gardens and enjoy the wide variety of plants. Walkers who desire a more robust challenge can take the hillside trail and if done in April will be rewarded by the Bluebells in bloom and an excellent view over Toys Hill.
Damerham
Damerham is a quaint rural village and civil parish located in the New Forest district of Hampshire, England. It is close to the market town of Fordingbridge. Damerham is distinguished by significant Neolithic and Bronze Age burial mounds. Historically, it was home to an Anglo-Saxon religious community and was referenced in the will of Alfred the Great, as it was at that time part of the royal estate. At the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, Damerham was recognized as a prominent settlement under the ownership of Glastonbury Abbey. It was mainly farms and agrarian small holdings. Today, the village still features a riverside mill and the church of Saint George date’s back to the Norman period. There is a church hall that hosts numerous local, seasonal events.
Damerham is a quaint rural village and civil parish located in the New Forest district of Hampshire, England. It is close to the market town of Fordingbridge. Damerham is distinguished by significant Neolithic and Bronze Age burial mounds. Historically, it was home to an Anglo-Saxon religious community and was referenced in the will of Alfred the Great, as it was at that time part of the royal estate. At the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, Damerham was recognized as a prominent settlement under the ownership of Glastonbury Abbey. It was mainly farms and agrarian small holdings. Today, the village still features a riverside mill and the church of Saint George date’s back to the Norman period. There is a church hall that hosts numerous local, seasonal events.
I had the pleasure of visiting Damerham today, as I was attending a family wedding and the reception was held at the village hall. The hall was built in 1996 and is situated next to the Allen River. This proved to be the perfect venue for a late winter afternoon wedding reception, as the weather was unseasonably pleasant, bright and warm. The riverside setting was ideal for wedding photos and the village hall amenities were more than adequate for a gathering of 70 plus guests. I took the time to take a stroll around Damerham prior to the reception getting into full swing and it is an extremely picturesque settlement. There is clear pride evident in the village, with so many committees and local bodies overseeing the upkeep and maintenance of facilities.
The church of St. George looks very imposing. It has served the community of Damerham for at least 900 years. It is likely that a Saxon church preceded it. The church is situated in a picturesque setting, positioned on a gentle rise that provides a view over a water meadow. It is an enchanting and harmonious structure that incorporates features from various architectural styles of churches dating back to the 12th century, while maintaining a balanced aesthetic that is not dominated by any single aesthetic. There are also numerous walking trails and footpaths throughout the local area, which highlight the natural beauty of the county of Hampshire. The village also has a wide variety of social clubs, with horticultural and gardening societies featuring prominently.
In many ways Damerham is the epitome of romantic preconceptions of a “rural Southern English village”. However, what struck me and left a very strong impression was a tapestry in the village hall celebrating the millennium of Damerham. There have been people living in this area for over a thousand years. This certainly provides a sense of continuity and I can see why the villagers are so proud of their home. Much of modern day life is ephemeral and yet in Damerham, there is a rich vein of history that runs all the way back to the stone age. A thousand-year-old village is a living testament to time, carrying the weight of history in its stones, streets, and traditions. Its existence raises deep questions about continuity, change, and the nature of human legacy. I look forward to returning at a later date and spending more time in this charming village.
Bodiam Castle
Bodiam Castle is a 14th-century moated castle located near Robertsbridge in East Sussex, England. It was built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a former knight of King Edward III. The castle’s primary purpose was to defend the local area against possible French invasion during the Hundred Years' War. Bodiam Castle has a quadrangular design and does not have a keep. All the various chambers and rooms were built adjacent to the outer defensive walls. The four corners and main entrance have towers, all of which feature crenellations. A substantial moat surrounds the castle, which served as a home for the Dalyngrigge family, as well as a seat of power to the manor of Bodiam. The castle remained within the Dalyngrigge family until the line became extinct. It remained a place of strategic importance during the War of the Roses and the English Civil War. It is currently owned and maintained by The National Trust.
Bodiam Castle is a 14th-century moated castle located near Robertsbridge in East Sussex, England. It was built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a former knight of King Edward III. The castle’s primary purpose was to defend the local area against possible French invasion during the Hundred Years' War. Bodiam Castle has a quadrangular design and does not have a keep. All the various chambers and rooms were built adjacent to the outer defensive walls. The four corners and main entrance have towers, all of which feature crenellations. A substantial moat surrounds the castle, which served as a home for the Dalyngrigge family, as well as a seat of power to the manor of Bodiam. The castle remained within the Dalyngrigge family until the line became extinct. It remained a place of strategic importance during the War of the Roses and the English Civil War. It is currently owned and maintained by The National Trust.
After the English Civil War, Bodiam Castle was partially dismantled, leaving the stone masonry but no internal structures. During the 19th century, the castle was partially restored and as of today remains in such condition. The barbican and gatehouse remain accessible and inside the castle visitors can look around the great hall, the kitchens and the Lord and Lady’s apartments. There is also a chapel with Flemish tiles and a carved screen. The postern tower is also available for viewing, after climbing a narrow stone spiral staircase. It does afford a good view over the castle grounds. Although the castle is incomplete, there is plenty of signage providing information about its strategic function, its residents and how it was built. There is some especially grim information about how the castle dealt with waste and that sewage was dumped into the moat.
The wider parkland and grounds that surround Bodiam Castle are made up of wetland, grassland, ancient trees and deadwood habitats. There are also archaeological features and walking routes throughout the grounds. This diverse combination of environments provides food, breeding sites and shelter for a broad variety of wildlife throughout the year. Bodiam Castle is also home to one of the most important roosts in the UK, for both Daubenton’s and Natterer’s bats. Depending on the time of year, some areas of the castle are temporarily closed when the bats are most active, such as when the bat pups are born and later, when learning to fly. The moat is also home to a variety of carp and other fish which will often congregate in the shade of the moat bridge.
Bodiam Castle is an interesting attraction offering historical insight and the opportunity for a walk in the East Sussex countryside. Anglers should note that it is close to the River Rother. For those with an interest in church architecture, St Giles’ Church is nearby in the village of Bodiam, which dates back to the 13th century. Furthermore, after several hours perusing Bodiam Castle, the village of Robertsbridge is nearby and is an ideal location for lunch. The only potential downside to a daytrip in this area is that it is really only accessible by car. There are direct trains from Victoria, Cannon Street and London Bridge to Robertsbridge and a bus service that links the surrounding villages but it is a rather “scenic route”. However, travel concerns aside, Bodiam castle is another fine example of a well presented historical site, managed by the National Trust and is well worth a visit, especially in good weather.
Brompton Cemetery
Today I went on an impromptu visit to Brompton Cemetery in West London. Established in 1837, the West of London and Westminster Cemetery (as it was originally known) is a private cemetery initially created as a business venture to capitalise upon the shortage of cemeteries within London. It also sought to cater to the prevailing culture of opulent Victorian funeral rites. However, after proving non profitable, the cemetery was bought by the UK government. It was subsequently incorporated into Crown Property and managed by The Royal Parks. It is one of Britain’s oldest and most distinguished garden cemeteries. There are currently 35,000 monuments, ranging from simple headstones to impressive mausolea. It is home to more than 205,000 resting places. The cemetery is also a haven for flora and fauna, providing a substantial semi rural environment amid urban central London.
Today I went on an impromptu visit to Brompton Cemetery in West London. Established in 1837, the West of London and Westminster Cemetery (as it was originally known) is a private cemetery initially created as a business venture to capitalise upon the shortage of cemeteries within London. It also sought to cater to the prevailing culture of opulent Victorian funeral rites. However, after proving non profitable, the cemetery was bought by the UK government. It was subsequently incorporated into Crown Property and managed by The Royal Parks. It is one of Britain’s oldest and most distinguished garden cemeteries. There are currently 35,000 monuments, ranging from simple headstones to impressive mausolea. It is home to more than 205,000 resting places. The cemetery is also a haven for flora and fauna, providing a substantial semi rural environment amid urban central London.
There are regular open day events and tours around Brompton Cemetery. These are often themed around such things as famous military personnel, noble interments and historical figures. We had hoped to visit the catacombs which are substantial but all the day’s tours were sold out. Fortunately, we were able to get tickets for a general, hour-long tour around the cemetery which features a selection of the most notable graves. These included the following:
Emmeline Pankhurst: Leading suffragette.
Joseph Bonomi the Younger: Sculptor, artist, Egyptologist and museum curator.
John Snow: Anaesthetist and epidemiologist.
Chief Long Wolf: Oglala Sioux and veteran of the Battle of Little Bighorn.
Hannah Courtoy: An enigmatic figure whose opulent Egyptian style tomb is surrounded in mystery.
At first glance, it is somewhat incongruous to find such a decadent and substantive Victorian garden cemetery in the middle of central London, right next to Chelsea FC’s home grounds, Stamford Bridge. However, the cemetery is a relic from an age when death and funeral rites were far more complex and a significant aspect of the prevailing culture. Furthermore, expensive tombs were a form of conspicuous consumption and visiting cemeteries and admiring the architecture was considered morally uplifting and a broadening of one’s intellectual and cultural horizons. Nearly two hundred years later, Brompton cemetery now serves not only as a place of historical interest but also as a notable home for urban wildlife. As well as squirrels and crows, there are Kestrels and ring-necked parakeets. Throughout the year, there are such flowers as snow-drops, bluebells, wild lupin, foxgloves, broad-leaf pea, ferns and horsetail. This is a perfect environment for butterflies and other insects.
We started our tour at 3:00 PM on what was an unusually hot Sunday afternoon. It was 30 °C but fortunately there are quite a lot of trees to provide shade. The cemetery is laid out like a church with 4 central avenues forming a cross. Our guide took us round at a measured pace, spoke confidently and was happy to address any questions that arose. Sadly some of the graves are in a state of disrepair as the cemetery is not as well funded as it could be. The UK National Lottery has provided grants in the past for the upkeep of the grounds, particularly the chapel at the centre of the four avenues. Brompton Cemetery is a dog friendly environment with numerous taps and drinking bowls available. Overall, it was a most enjoyable afternoon out and I thoroughly recommend it, whether you’re just looking for a stroll or wish to immerse yourself in history and architecture.
Panoramic picture curtesy of Paul King.
Christmas Tree Farm
Christmas Tree Farm is a petting zoo, outside the village of Downe in the county of Kent. Despite its rural setting, it is actually only 15 miles from London, making it an ideal visit, as part of a day. The farm is home to a wide selection of domestic farm animals (and a few more exotic ones), all of which can be fed, stroked and lavished with attention by visitors. During the winter months, Christmas Tree Farm hosts Santa’s Grotto and as the name suggests is the place to find the perfect Christmas tree for your home. Entry prices are very reasonable, costing £6 per adult and £4 for children aged between 2 and 16 years old. Buckets of animal feed of varying size are also available for a small fee. There is a leisurely trail around the farm where the various animals are housed in pens and out buildings. There is also a Tea Garden where refreshments are available.
Christmas Tree Farm is a petting zoo, outside the village of Downe in the county of Kent. Despite its rural setting, it is actually only 15 miles from London, making it an ideal visit, as part of a day. The farm is home to a wide selection of domestic farm animals (and a few more exotic ones), all of which can be fed, stroked and lavished with attention by visitors. During the winter months, Christmas Tree Farm hosts Santa’s Grotto and as the name suggests is the place to find the perfect Christmas tree for your home. Entry prices are very reasonable, costing £6 per adult and £4 for children aged between 2 and 16 years old. Buckets of animal feed of varying size are also available for a small fee. There is a leisurely trail around the farm where the various animals are housed in pens and out buildings. There is also a Tea Garden where refreshments are available.
Myself and Mrs P were on grandparent duty today, looking after our grandson Oscar, who is 3. One of the main advantages of entertaining Oscar is his age. Unlike our twin granddaughters who are nine, Oscar’s aspirations and likes are far easier to cater for. Hence our visit to Christmas Tree Farm. Upon arrival, Oscar was most excited to see chickens, especially those varieties that have “hairy legs”, or feathers on their feet to you or I. He also enjoyed the “sheepey” and was relatively content to feed and stroke them. However, as we progressed around the farm it became apparent he was wary of any animal that was bigger than him. He still enjoyed looking at them but would not feed them. The animals are extremely tame and associate human visitors with being fed. They actively come to the fences and solicit petting and feeding by whinnying, stamping their feet or standing with their mouths open.
The weather was a pleasant 25° Celsius (77° Fahrenheit) with some clouds, making it a very enjoyable day for a walk. As well as chicken and sheep, there are pigs, goats, Shetland ponies, donkeys, cows, alpacas and rheas. In the outbuildings there are also rabbits and ferrets. The bucket of feed which consisted of grain and chopped root vegetables lasted for the majority of the walk. You have to be careful as some of the larger animals will try to make off with it. If visiting it is wise to wear appropriate footwear, as it can get muddy. Also, as this is a farm with animals, expect that organic aroma that is associated with livestock. We spent an enjoyable 75 minutes walking around Christmas Tree Farm and I thoroughly recommend it as part of a day out. Children these days are far more removed from nature and the farming industry. Christmas Tree Farm is an ideal medium for reacquainting them with both.
Holidays
In 1939 legislation was passed in the UK so that all employees had one week’s annual paid holiday per year. By the 1950s this had become two weeks and by the 1980s most people had at least 4 weeks of annual holiday. On top of this paid leave allocation, the UK currently has 8 bank holidays which provides further time off for employees. This culture of increasing amounts of annual leave also broadly coincided with air travel becoming more accessible. The first UK passenger jet service began in 1952. However, its cost excluded most people. However, as larger airliners with increased range became available, cheaper foreign holidays became more and more economically viable. European holidays became a reality in the 1960s and 1970s. By the 1980s long-distance holidays to other continents became ubiquitous and the package holiday became king. It is also worth noting that the Channel Tunnel opened in 1994, making car travel from Britain to Europe easier and more popular.
“We’ve gone on holiday by mistake”
In 1939 legislation was passed in the UK so that all employees had one week’s annual paid holiday per year. By the 1950s this had become two weeks and by the 1980s most people had at least 4 weeks of annual holiday. On top of this paid leave allocation, the UK currently has 8 bank holidays which provides further time off for employees. This culture of increasing amounts of annual leave also broadly coincided with air travel becoming more accessible. The first UK passenger jet service began in 1952. However, its cost excluded most people. However, as larger airliners with increased range became available, cheaper foreign holidays became more and more economically viable. European holidays became a reality in the 1960s and 1970s. By the 1980s long-distance holidays to other continents became ubiquitous and the package holiday became king. It is also worth noting that the Channel Tunnel opened in 1994, making car travel from Britain to Europe easier and more popular.
After that potted history of the growth of holidays in the UK, allow me to move onto the main point of this post. Whether you actually like holidays and their respective importance in your life. I grew up in the seventies and early eighties. As a child, going away for a holiday was not a yearly event. I can vaguely remember three major holidays that occurred up to the age of ten. One was in Cornwall when I was about 4 or 5 years old. The other two were both to the Isle of Wight, in 1975 and 1977. All were self catering holidays in rented cottages. We dined in for most of the time we were away. I believe there was one or two meals in a restaurant, which was a rare treat. I believe all holidays were due to my father getting a tax rebate, as he did a lot of contract work as well as teaching. I recollect talking to friends at school at the time and holidays within the UK were very much the norm. International travel did not become commonplace within my peer group, until the eighties.
Sandown, Isle of Wight. Circa early 1970s
Hence, because holidays were not a regular occurrence during my youth, I have reached adulthood without considering them an essential part of my life. My son, his wife and all their friends who are all in their late twenties and early thirties, take a contrary view. They think their civil rights have been violated if they don’t have at least two holidays abroad a year. But this is the culture of today. The average UK household spent £2000 on holidays in 2023. For context, the average UK salary is £34,963 per annum. From the various enquiries that I have made of friends and families, as to why they consider holidays so essential, it seems to come down to three main reasons. For rest, to experience new places and to be indulged. The latter is the one that intrigues me the most. I believe that social media is a major factor here. We see how the rich and famous live and we not only want but expect that life too. Many people believe “they’re worth it”.
I take a far more measured view towards holidays, as I’m sure you expected. I like travelling within the UK, staying in hotels and visiting places of interest, taking in the sights and enjoying local cuisine. I am happy to do that abroad, in principle. But the main impediment to that is travelling by plane. It is not something that I enjoy at all mainly because the type of travel that I can afford is not to my liking. I could travel in a more comfortable manner but that would make travelling as expensive as the holiday itself. I am also very “particular” about where I go. I am cognisant of the UK’s global historical legacy as well as the fact that certain elements of our society do not make a good impression abroad. Current geopolitical problems also determine where I will or won’t travel to. Then there is my own personal comfort zone. I’m not good at languages so I tend to rely heavily on nations that choose to speak English for the benefit of tourists.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Which brings me to the root of this blog post. Mrs P declared recently she wants to go abroad next year. Somewhere where it’s sunny but not excessively so. Humidity as well as insects that feast on your flesh are also a consideration. Once these requirements are met she is happy to relax by a pool and spend the majority of time within the hotel or resort if need be. Sadly, I find the prospect of a week of doing just this extremely dull. Furthermore, if I am going to spend £1,500 plus per person to travel abroad, I have much higher expectations of its entertainment prospects. However, due to the sheer variety of holidays available these days, a suitable compromise that pleases both parties is possible. So far we have decided to travel in June, prior to the school term ending. We have found a hotel which meets Mrs P’s criteria and also has a lot of culture and points of interest nearby. Tours are available from the hotel, which means I then have to do very little apart from travel from A to B. As for the destination, it looks like we’re going to the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia.
Travel does broaden the mind. There are many places in Europe and the wider world that I’d love to visit. However travelling is a pain in the butt. I would happily choose to be anaesthetised, if it meant I could avoid the prospect of enduring several hours on a plane but this is not a service that airlines offer at present. Sometimes for reasons of diplomacy, you have to go somewhere which isn’t your first choice and possibly do some stuff you’re not really that invested in. Such is the nature of holidays. I can at least take my laptop as wifi is ubiquitous these days. I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on holidays and travel, as where you live has an impact on where you tend to go. Neighbouring countries are convenient by nature. Then there is the matter of the US which is so vast, negates the need to travel abroad. Feel free to leave comments.
Whitstable Museum and Gallery
Today I had the pleasure of visiting the Whitstable Museum (or to give its full name Whitstable Community Museum and Gallery). This is a fine example of a local heritage centre that curates and displays artefacts and records that reflect the history and culture of the surrounding area. The museum located in Whitstable, Kent, is home to one of the world's oldest steam engines, as well as historical diving equipment that was developed locally. The history of the local oyster trade which has been an integral part of the community for centuries is also a key feature. Established in 1985, the museum was reopened in 2015 following a major refurbishment. There is also an art gallery featuring the paintings by local artists and artworks on loan from an international network of galleries.
Today I had the pleasure of visiting the Whitstable Museum (or to give its full name Whitstable Community Museum and Gallery). This is a fine example of a local heritage centre that curates and displays artefacts and records that reflect the history and culture of the surrounding area. The museum located in Whitstable, Kent, is home to one of the world's oldest steam engines, as well as historical diving equipment that was developed locally. The history of the local oyster trade which has been an integral part of the community for centuries is also a key feature. Established in 1985, the museum was reopened in 2015 following a major refurbishment. There is also an art gallery featuring the paintings by local artists and artworks on loan from an international network of galleries.
One of the things that impressed me about my visit, is the efficient use of space within the museum. There are collections about the natural world, the local oyster trade, early deep sea diving and marine salvage. There are further displays about shipwrecks and maritime archaeology. The museum is home to the unique 1830 steam locomotive Invicta, which operated on the Canterbury and Whitstable Railway. Alongside it is Whitstable's first horse-drawn fire pump, which required twenty-six volunteers to operate. The diving display includes standard diving dress incorporating the Siebe Gorman helmet. There are also relics from the East Indiaman Hindostan, which was wrecked at Margate in January 1803. There are also plenty of hands-on activities for children. They can hunt for shark’s teeth, dress up as a Victorian and complete a museum trail.
At present, the Whitstable Museum has a special exhibition celebrating the actor Peter Cushing. He lived locally with his wife Helen for 35 years until his death in 1994. Peter Cushing's six-decade career included appearances in Star Wars, more than 20 Hammer Horror films and two Doctor Who feature films. Among the previously unseen memorabilia are the carpet slippers that Cushing wore when playing character Grand Moff Tarkin (the boots supplied by the wardrobe department pinched his feet). There is also his bicycle which he used to ride around the town (inspiring the infamous song by The Jellybottys), a full-size Dalek and a life-size cast of his face used for prosthetic special effects for his part in Top Secret. An assortment of the actor's artwork is also on display including sketches and watercolours.
Like the rest of the Whitstable Museum, the Peter Cushing exhibition packs a great deal into a modest space and is a fitting tribute to not only a great actor but a unique gentleman. One is able to gain a degree of insight into the man, his love of acting and his wife, as well as his fondness for the local area. The exhibition certainly seems to be attracting fans from all over the world, judging by comments left in the visitors book. Overall, both this special exhibition along with the displays of local history, make the Whitstable Museum well worth a visit. The entrance fee is modest, considering how much the museum has to offer. It is important that communities have resources such as this available, to preserve the memory of the people and events that make up their heritage.
Here are some photos of the Whitstable Museum, Peter Cushing Exhibition and of the beach. Taken on Thursday 25th July 2024.
As an added bonus, here is the song “Peter Cushing Lives in Whitstable” by The Jellybottys, as referenced by comedian and Whitstable resident Alan Davis, on the TV quiz show QI.
Legendary Joust at Eltham Palace
Eltham Palace, located in South East London, was the childhood home of King Henry VIII in 1499. It was later used as a royal nursery for the infant Princess Elizabeth, born on 7th September 1533. It sports sumptuous grounds and ornamental gardens and was famous for its game hunting during the Tudor and Elizabethan periods. In the 1930s’ the property was owned by the Courtauld family, who built a sumptuous Art Deco style mansion and redeveloped the grounds. Today the entire property is owned and managed by English Heritage who have extensively restored much of the estate. It is therefore very fitting that this illustrious venue annually plays host to the Legendary Medieval Joust, during the summer months. Two days of historical pageantry, re-enactments and events for the entire family to enjoy. I last attended in 2015, so it was a welcome pleasure to return again yesterday.
Eltham Palace, located in South East London, was the childhood home of King Henry VIII in 1499. It was later used as a royal nursery for the infant Princess Elizabeth, born on 7th September 1533. It sports sumptuous grounds and ornamental gardens and was famous for its game hunting during the Tudor and Elizabethan periods. In the 1930s’ the property was owned by the Courtauld family, who built a sumptuous Art Deco style mansion and redeveloped the grounds. Today the entire property is owned and managed by English Heritage who have extensively restored much of the estate. It is therefore very fitting that this illustrious venue annually plays host to the Legendary Medieval Joust, during the summer months. Two days of historical pageantry, re-enactments and events for the entire family to enjoy. I last attended in 2015, so it was a welcome pleasure to return again yesterday.
This weekend’s Medieval Joust was an excellent example of the important work that institutions like English Heritage and The National Trust carry out with regard to maintaining British history and culture. It was also one of the most entertaining days out I've had for a long time. The Legendary Medieval Joust features a broad mixture of events ranging from exhibitions of hand to hand combat and falconry, as well as two bouts of exhibition jousting. For those looking for more sedate activities, the musical group Archaedium provides traditional music, and there’s an historically appropriate arts and crafts fair, providing insights into spinning and embroidery. Visitors can purchase a range of traditional food and drink, as well as jewellery and other handicrafts.
Before the first bout of jousting began, each knight held court outside their tent as they donned their armour. They spoke with great knowledge about their harness (A Middle English term, derived from Old French word “harneis”, meaning "military equipment") which weighed 70 lbs plus. They also showed great patience and good humour as they addressed a wealth of questions from the children, who hung on their every word. The joust itself followed the traditional rules and incorporated a lot of the associated pageantry. Being a display tournament the lances had non-lethal tips made from balsa as well as rounded pommels. However, it is still worth considering that each knight is riding a war-horse weighing over a ton, galloping at approximately 25 mph. That kinetic energy has to go somewhere.
Later on in the day there was an excellent exhibition of martial techniques which demonstrated the realities of Mediaeval hand to hand combat. It is a world apart from the stylised approach that the film industry takes and paints a very bleak and brutal picture of how fights were conducted. This also provided an opportunity to see the complexity and respective art of the hand crafted armour and weapons. All of which have all been faithfully recreated from period texts. This was nicely contrasted by the rather elegant and civilised world of falconry. The commentary provided by the lead falconer was both engaging and informative. The birds of prey were captivating as they flew low above the audience. Like so many of the day's activities, there was an opportunity for audience participation. There was also an innovative demonstration involving falconry and a kite.
The Legendary Medieval Joust also offered some great family entertainment in the guise of Tom Fool the Jester. He staged two amusing shows during the course of the day which appealed to both old and young alike. Mixing wordplay and slapstick along with fire eating, he proved a hit with the crowd. Tom Fool also provided his invaluable cheerleading services to the joust, keeping the crowd vocally engaged with the proceedings. It is also worth noting how accessible all the historians, re-enactment groups and entertainers were. All seemed more than happy to answer questions, pose for photographs and provide hands-on demonstrations of their respective arts and crafts. It was also very reassuring to see such an event so well attended, especially by so many families.
Despite occasional bouts of rain, those attending the event remained good humoured and enthusiastic. Again I would like to reiterate how well organised and run this event is by English Heritage. The activities were evenly distributed throughout the course of the day and each one was located in part of the Palace grounds affording the public a clear view. The highlight of the day was the joust itself, which is an incredible feat of horsemanship and martial prowess. It was even more enjoyable as last year’s Legendary Medieval Joust was cancelled twice. First due to excessive heat last summer and then due to the death of the Queen in the autumn. Hopefully, the success of this year’s event at Eltham Palace means that it will continue next summer. It provides not only invaluable historical insight but great entertainment.
Pictures courtesy of Paul King.
Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London
Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London is a step-free art trail and tourist attraction featuring the iconic animated character Morph. It is hosted by charitable organisation Whizz-Kidz, global event producers Wild in Art and Aardman. The trail features 56 super-sized sculptures of the much-loved children’s TV character, which are set among various iconic London landmarks including St Pauls, Tate Modern, Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe and Borough Market. It is a free public art trail and tourist attraction, designed by a variety of artists to excite and inspire people of all ages, whilst increasing public awareness about the need for young wheelchair users to be mobile, enabled and included in society. Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London runs from June 19th until August 20th 2023.
Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London is a step-free art trail and tourist attraction featuring the iconic animated character Morph. It is hosted by charitable organisation Whizz-Kidz, global event producers Wild in Art and Aardman. The trail features 56 super-sized sculptures of the much-loved children’s TV character, which are set among various iconic London landmarks including St Pauls, Tate Modern, Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe and Borough Market. It is a free public art trail and tourist attraction, designed by a variety of artists to excite and inspire people of all ages, whilst increasing public awareness about the need for young wheelchair users to be mobile, enabled and included in society. Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London runs from June 19th until August 20th 2023.
Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London provides the perfect opportunity to take a leisurely stroll around the capital, take in the sights and see if you can find all 56 of the Morph sculptures. Which is exactly what me and some friends did today.The weather was mainly sunny with a couple of showers but we managed to avoid these by stopping for breakfast at The Pommelers Rest. We managed to track down 37 Morphs between London Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Because the London Tourist season has begun, it was busy along The Queen’s Walk, Tower Bridge and The Tower of London. However, the crowds were amiable so taking photos wasn’t a problem. By the time we got to Leadenhall Market and the Lloyds building, the crowds of tourists were gone. It was quite tranquil winding through some of the alleys and passages around London’s financial district.
Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London not only provides the Pokémon-esque pleasure of collecting all the various Morph sculptures, but you also get to see a lot of London’s famous landmarks (as well as some of its not so well known points of interest). Tourists tend not to visit the business heart of London. Yet it is filled with imposing buildings, plazas and quite a lot of artwork. Another standout feature of the day was the camaraderie among those who were also following the trail. We bumped into several people with printed maps or using the phone app to find the various sculptures. Pleasantries were exchanged and often you’d tip one another off about statues that were in the area. Especially the few that were located in shop windows. It was a welcome change to see Londoners actually talking to each other.
We spent over four hours walking around London before we withdrew to The Ship and Shovell for rest and a much deserved pint. Overall, it was a most enjoyable day having walked about 9 miles. I’d certainly recommend Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London for those in position to walk the trail. The sculptures are most enjoyable and each one is unique, representing a specific theme or aspect of London life. The trail offers an opportunity to see a lot of London’s best locations and is a great way to acquaint yourself with the UK’s capital. You can find as many sculptures as you like but if you’re a completionist, there is an app available with a map with all the various locations marked. And let us not forget the underlying message from this undertaking, which is about making the country more wheelchair friendly and accessible to all.
IFS Cloud Cable Car
Regardless of whether you deem the IFS Cloud Cable Car a white elephant, a political folly or just a mistake in terms of tourism, it cannot be denied that the view it provides over South East London is impressive. At a height of 90 metres (300 feet), on a bright and sunny day you can see from City Airport to Canary Wharf. Located at Greenwich Peninsula, the IFS Cloud Cable Car (as it is now called) opened in June 2012. It was initially promoted as a viable form of public transport across the Thames, linking North Greenwich and Royal Victoria stations. In October 2012, nearly 100,000 journeys were made. However, after the London Olympics, passenger rates fell and since then IFS Cloud Cable Car has become more of a tourist attraction, rather than an integral means of commuting.
Regardless of whether you deem the IFS Cloud Cable Car a white elephant, a political folly or just a mistake in terms of tourism, it cannot be denied that the view it provides over South East London is impressive. At a height of 90 metres (300 feet), on a bright and sunny day you can see from City Airport to Canary Wharf. Located at Greenwich Peninsula, the IFS Cloud Cable Car (as it is now called) opened in June 2012. It was initially promoted as a viable form of public transport across the Thames, linking North Greenwich and Royal Victoria stations. In October 2012, nearly 100,000 journeys were made. However, after the London Olympics, passenger rates fell and since then IFS Cloud Cable Car has become more of a tourist attraction, rather than an integral means of commuting.
Today, myself, Mrs P, the son and the three grandchildren took a bus from Sidcup to Greenwich Peninsula. The IFS Cloud Cable Car is a short walk from the bus terminus outside North Greenwich station. Fares are £6 for adults and £3 for children between the age of 5 and 15. Children under 5 travel free of charge. It cost us £24 for a one way trip to the other side of the river. We took the lift from the ticket office to the cable car platform and within minutes several gondolas arrived. As it was 10:30 AM on a Thursday, during the Easter holidays, most of the passengers were tourists. Access is safe and easy. Staff are available to help passengers accordingly. We were fortunate to have a gondola to ourselves and as the weather was bright without too much cloud, we had optimal conditions to enjoy the 10 minute journey over the river Thames.
Greenwich Peninsula, Canary Wharf, Poplar and Silver Town have been extensively redeveloped over the last 40 years. There are a few cranes preserved for posterity indicating that the area was at one time, a busy dock. However the waterfront and surrounding areas are now home to the O2 Arena, the ExCel Centre, City Hall and an ever expanding number of luxury apartments (owned by Chinese property developers and Russian oligarchs). Opulent yachts are moored in the Royal Victoria Dock and planes come and go at City Airport. The area certainly presents the modern face of London. Furthermore, there are still large swathes of land in the vicinity that are currently under development, indicating that the view from the IFS Cloud Cable Car may well be even more impressive in 5 years time.
Upon arrival on the other side of the Thames, we walked to Royal Victoria station and made our way to Westminster to see The Houses of Parliament. We then took a stroll through Victoria Tower Gardens South and crossed the Thames again at Lambeth Bridge. We walked along Albert Embankment path, past the National COVID Memorial Wall. It was our intention to take a riverboat back to Greenwich but there were delays as only a partial service was running. So we crossed back over the river at Westminster Bridge and caught a train back home from Charing Cross station. I used my prepaid Oyster Card for the various bus, tube and train journeys and the total cost was £13.20 which is extremely good value. Overall it was an interesting and enjoyable day and I would recommend the IFS Cloud Cable Car for its London views.
Whitstable
To my surprise I found myself out and about today undertaking another day trip. This time we headed back to the sea and visited Whitstable, a town on the north coast of Kent adjoining the Greater Thames Estuary. It’s 5 miles (8 kilometres) north of Canterbury and 2 miles (3 kilometres) west of Herne Bay. The town was originally recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, under the name Witenestaple, meaning "the meeting place of the white post", a reference to a local landmark. By the late middle ages Whitstable had become a centre of Thames Estuary fishing, specifically for oysters. Today, the main activities at the harbour are fishing and processing, cargo handling and boat maintenance. The town has shingle/sandy beaches adjacent to the harbour, where swimming and water sports are popular. Whitstable Castle is situated on the border of Whitstable and off the coast is Kentish Flats offshore wind farm, consisting of 30 wind turbines.
To my surprise I found myself out and about today undertaking another day trip. This time we headed back to the sea and visited Whitstable, a town on the north coast of Kent adjoining the Greater Thames Estuary. It’s 5 miles (8 kilometres) north of Canterbury and 2 miles (3 kilometres) west of Herne Bay. The town was originally recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, under the name Witenestaple, meaning "the meeting place of the white post", a reference to a local landmark. By the late middle ages Whitstable had become a centre of Thames Estuary fishing, specifically for oysters. Today, the main activities at the harbour are fishing and processing, cargo handling and boat maintenance. The town has shingle/sandy beaches adjacent to the harbour, where swimming and water sports are popular. Whitstable Castle is situated on the border of Whitstable and off the coast is Kentish Flats offshore wind farm, consisting of 30 wind turbines.
There’s plenty to do and see in Whitstable. You can soak up the local history, peruse the quaint coastal streets and shops, or look in the estate agents windows and scream at the property prices. There are lots of traditional and brightly painted guest houses along the beachfront affording easy access to the shingle shoreline. Sailing and other activities are popular and as this is a working fishing town, the harbour is busy. If you’re looking specifically for culture, there are several art galleries supporting local artists as well as the Playhouse Theatre. There are a wide range of restaurants and bars to choose from. Being a fishing town many specialise in seafood with oysters being a locally sourced delicacy. There are numerous car parks strategically placed in the town centre and on its outskirts making local amenities very accessible. Overall Whitstable is well maintained and presented, exuding what is known as “British charm”.
However, despite all of these attractions, one of the reasons for our visit today was to pay homage to one of Whitstable’s greatest residents. Peter Cushing lived in the town for over 30 years. The actor originally visited Whitstable in the 1940s and two decades later bought a house for weekend use, which he later permanently lived in until his death in 1994. Cushing and his wife, Helen, loved Whitstable and were well known around town. A local beauty spot, near the High Street, has been named Cushing’s View. There is a Blue Plaque on one of the seaside cottages marking where they lived. Furthermore, there is a Wetherspoons pub in Oxford Street in the South West of town named after the actor. The Peter Cushing is a former music hall and cinema that has been converted into a themed “public house”. So naturally, Mrs P and I felt obliged to pay a visit and raise a glass to the man himself.
The Peter Cushing pub has turned the main entrance of this former theatre into a terrace for eating and drinking. The lobby is filled with movie memorabilia including vintage projectors and lighting equipment. The walls are adorned with posters for such films as The Hound of the Baskervilles (1959) and information about the famous Hammer studios star. There are also several paintings by Peter Cushing himself on display. Stepping through the lobby into the main seating area, I was struck by the opulent art deco design, bright chandeliers and the wainscoting. Above the bar there are images from The Curse of Frankenstein (1957) further Peter Cushing and Hammer themed artwork and paraphernalia around the walls. The entire area is beautifully air conditioned. It’s a far cry from some of the more contemporary Wetherspoons pubs I’ve visited recently and the theme is most certainly not just a gimmick.
We spent a pleasant morning and early afternoon in the town but left before 3:00 PM because the heat was building and the weather was becoming oppressive. Whitstable offers a more sedate alternative to traditional seaside resorts on the Southern coast of England, which tend to be more commercial and noisy. Whitstable exudes a picture postcard charm and will suit those who want a more leisurely pace. However, if you are visiting especially to dine in one of the local restaurants that specialise in seafood, you may wish to book in advance as they are a major attraction in themselves, especially when specific seafood is in season. Sadly, we did not do this and the restaurant we wanted to dine at couldn’t accommodate us until later afternoon. However, we found an alternative place to eat and so there was no major inconvenience. I look forward to returning to Whitstable possibly for a longer holiday, as it affords convenient access to Herne Bay, Canterbury and Broadstairs
