Top 10 Restaurants in London
September 28, 2007
4 of the restaurants below are owned and managed by Gorden Ramsay and another 1 restaurant is where Gordon Ramsay likes to dine on a night off. We just wanted to make it clear that we have no affiliation with the 3 Michelin star chef, it’s that he has set the new standard for London’s fine dining, it was impossible to not include them with our top 10 London restaurants list.
In no particular order, here are the top 10 resturants in London based on “Buzz”, service, food and atmoshphere.
1. Gordon Ramsay at 68 Royal City Avenue
Gordon Ramsay has become a celebrity chef in the UK and the US after many successful TV shows, although he is unlike most celebrity chefs as he was the first UK chef to be awarded 3 Michelin stars at this Royal city aveneue restaurant.
Each meal served offers exquisitey simple French cusine, enthusing the senses with subtle falvours, creative flair and a delicate finesse.
Cuisine: Simple French with style!
Reservations:
Reservations must be booked 2 months prior to your requested booking date on +44 207 3524441
Opening Times:
Lunch: 12pm – 2.30pm
Dinner: 6.30pm – 11pm
Dress Code:
Very smart. Jeans, T-Shirts or sports ware are not accepted.
http://www.gordonramsay.com/royalhospitalroad/
2. Petrus
Another restaurant under the Gordon Ramsay wing, Petrus is one of the finest French restaurants in London, and possibly the whole of the UK. Petrus, situated in The Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge, has rich ambience with claret tones and dramtic interior.
What’s special about this restaurant is that they offer a chefs table, a dinning table situated more of less in the Kitchen, so you can see the chefs at work!
Marcus Wareing, the head chef, offers modern French cusine presented with exquisite detail and precision with an outstanding backdrop.
Cuisine: Modern French
Reservations:
Reservations can be made online (http://www.gordonramsay.com/petrus/reservations/) or via telephone on: +44 7235 1200
Opening Times:
Lunch: 12pm – 2.30pm
Dinner: 6pm – 11pm
Dress Code:
Very smart. Jeans, T-Shirts or sports ware are not accepted.
3. The Gun
No trip to London is complete without a great dinning experience at a traditional british pub with gastro cusine. The Gun, located in the Docklands, offers real log fires in the winter or a beautiful riverside terrace for the summer.
The main dining area features crisp linen & fresh flowers & there are notable private rooms. But it is the generously portioned food that really captures the imagination; current favourites include moist potted duck, savoury mutton pie topped with tender flaky pastry & the outrageously good sticky toffee pudding. Pub grub (sausages, sandwiches) is served in the bar. Service is generally fast & friendly while an impressive, mostly French wine list is broken down into user-friendly style categories, with more than two dozen choices by the glass
Cuisine: Gastro
Reservations:
Reservations can be made via telephone: 020 7515 5222
Opening Times:
11am – 11pm
Dress Code:
Smart/casual
http://www.thegundocklands.com
4. Pasha
Pasha offers authentic Moroccan cusine and genuine hospitality with food inspired by home style cooking, created for sharing and bought to the table in a continuses flow… the traditional morcan way of eating!
The Interior and atmosphere in Pasha, located in old Gloucester Road, is described as one of the most impressive in London’s restaurants, with most furniture imported direct from Marocco.
Cuisine: Moroccan
Reservations:
Reservations can be made via email: info@pasha-restaurant.co.uk
Opening Times:
12am – 11.30pm
Dress Code:
Smart/casual
http://www.pasha-restaurant.co.uk/
5. BoxWood
Boxwood Café is an oasis to unwind from the action Knightsbridge. The bar and layout creates a nice cosmopolitan atmoshphere, whilst a chic interior takes informal dinning to new hights.
From the Veal and foie gras burger to the grilled black angus rib-eye chop with beef marrowbone and port wine braised shallots, this is simple home style food with a creative twist and quality that is hard to match.
Reservations:
Reservations can be made via email boxwoodcafe@gordonramsay.com or telephone: 020 7235 1010
Opening Times:
Lunch: 12pm – 4pm
Dinner: 6pm – 11pm
Dress Code: Casual
http://www.gordonramsay.com/boxwoodcafe
6. Clos Maggiore
Clos Maggiore, is often described as the ideal romantic eating spot before taking in a show at one of the many near by theaters in Convent Garden.
Reservations:
Reservations can be made via telephone: +44(0)20 7379 9696
Opening Times:
Lunch: 12pm – 2pm
Dinner: 5pm – 11pm
Dress Code: Smart
7. The Ivy
If you want to be seen with the stars and celebrities, then there is one one restaurant in the whole of London where you are always gareenteed to see them: The Ivy. Located within the theature district, The Ivy has long been the place to be seen dinning, which is why they have a 3 to 6 month reservation waiting list.
The Ivy offers simple great British cuisine at the highest quality, such as Fish and Chips, Caesar Salad or you could try the famous cottage pie.
Reservations:
Reservations can be made via telephone: 020 7836 4751
Opening Times:
Lunch: 12pm – 3pm
Dinner: 5.30pm – 12pm
Dress Code: Smart/casual
8. Melati
Melati is one of the most authentic maylasian restaurants in London, with it’s many awards and lo9ng standing history.
Malaysian favorites such as Beef rending, Nasi Goring and laksa are found on the menu with a great varitory of other meat, fish and vegetarian dishes.
Reservations:
Reservations can be made via telephone: +44(0)20 7 437 2745
Opening Times:
Lunch and Dinner: 12am – 11pm
Dress Code: casual
9. Notting Grill
Notting Grill which is run by the popular Chef Antony Worall Thompson is suited in West London and welcomes its guest by brick walls and wooden tables. The Notting Grill holds an international class with its delicious cuisines. It’s menu carries different variety of dish from all around the world. You can join in either to have a cup of tea or have a full meal in tapas style with your friends. The Wiz is a never to be missed place if you visit London and you can also see the chef working in kitchen while you have your dinner.
http://www.awtrestaurants.com/nottinggrill/
Reservations:
Reservations can be made via telephone: +44(0)20 7 2291500
Opening Times:
Lunch: 12am – 3pm
Dinner: 6.30pm – 11pm
Dress Code: casual/smart
10. Marcus Wareing at the Savoy Grill
This is one restaurant which was frequently visited by the Winston Churchill. Its sleek design, banquet tables lighting and oak panel gives the feel of a modern day Europe. The menu includes world famous dishes like Lobster Thermidore, Pan-Fried Sea Bass and Roast Venison. This restaurants imports fresh cheese from France for all of its dishes and you should find a difference of taste in this restaurant.
Reservations:
Reservations can be made via telephone: +44(0) 20 7592 1600
Opening Times:
Lunch: 12pm – 3pm
Dinner: 6.00pm – 11pm
Dress Code: smart
Top 10 Theater Shows in London
September 27, 2007
So, you’re in London, and you love theater shows, right? Then what are you waiting for? London has some of the best theater shows in the world, rivaled only by the glamour of Broadway in New York City. Check out some of these marvelous shows done by some of the best actors in the world.
Have a look at the link below for the latest deals from TicketMaster:
THEATER TICKETS
1. The Lion King
The Lion King is a spectacular musical show based on Disney’s animated film, The Lion King. Featuring music by world famous artists Elton John and Tim Rice, this stage show has won many awards all across the UK and the world. The show also consists of eye popping special effects and remarkable costumes. The show is based in the Serengeti Plains, and includes many exotic tunes of Africa, which will delight viewers of all ages.
2. The Phantom of the Opera
Who hasn’t heard of The Phantom of the Opera? Now that you’re in London, you’ll get to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event, live! Created by Andrew Lloyd Webber, this grand musical tells the tale of the Phantom that haunts the Paris opera, all to make his protégé Christine become the lead actress of the opera. If you’re in London, you don’t want to miss this classic show.
3. Monty Python’s Spamalot
The legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table is once again retold by Spamalot (played by Eric Idle). This popular show is modified from the script of the riotous comedy, Monty Python and the Holy Grail. This is the show that everyone is talking about in London’s entertainment circle. The demanding role of Sir Galahad is played by Graham McDuff, who replaced longtime actor Christopher Sieber.
4. We Will Rock You
Remaining members of the famed rock group, Queen, and Ben Elton bring you this pulsating musical live on stage in London! The setting is an ultramodern world where rock music is taboo! Now Galileo (Elton) and his band must save the world and show them the true power of rock music. The show contains classics like: We are the champions, We will Rock you, and Somebody to love.
5. Mamma Mia!
You’ll want to see the show that over 10 million people have went crazy about, Mamma Mia! Set in the world of a mother (Donna played by Louise Pitre) and a daughter (Rosie played by Judy Kaye), who could have 3 possible dads, this show will lift your spirits and let you soar through an experience you’ll never forget.
6. Mary Poppins
The movie that’s been rocking the big screen for 40 years is now on the stage as well. Based on the award winning Walt Disney movie, this show has followed in the movie’s footsteps, by winning 2 Oliver awards. There is only one word to describe this show: supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!
7. Billy Elliot the Musical
Based on the film that was all the rage in Britain, this musical also contains music by Elton John, the proclaimed artist. It’s the stage story of a young boy who adores ballet and battles to prove that he can, and will, do what he loves. This show has won 4 Oliver awards out of 9 nominations for the award.
8. Wicked: The untold story of Wizards of the Oz
This prequel to the Oscar-winning film, The Wizard of Oz, tells the story of Elphaba and the gorgeous, admired Glinda, who build an improbable companionship. The musical tells their tale and how they became the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch.
9. Chicago
Chicago is about the tale of chorus girl, Roxie, who killed her lover, but gets released with the assistance of a dodgy lawyer, Billy Flynn. She joins forces with assassin Velma to open an unusual nightclub performance. This show will make for an amazing night out for any adult!
10. Les Miserables
The epic musical that swept the world and has won international awards is something you don’t want to overlook. It tells of a heroic tale of obsession and devastation, based in a nation in the hold of a rebellion. A dramatic rework of Victor Hugo’s stunning success, this show has thrilled audiences for 21 years.
Top 10 Shopping Streets of London
September 25, 2007
Shopping Streets have always been a center of attractions for people visiting London. These streets carry a long history along with them as well provide shoppers one stop destination for all their needs. There are many amazing shopping joints and streets in London that has been long cherished and still has same charisma of pulling shoppers toward itself. Here we list some few top shopping streets of London:
1. Oxford Street
One of the busiest streets of London, Oxford Street started as a Roman road which crossed London to south east coast. This street has many restaurants and bars along with the largest store of Selfridges that was established in 1907. The restaurants in Oxford Street provides every type of food ranging from international to modern British cuisine. Oxford street is also the home for the flagship store of H$M which offers latest quality fashion designs in very cheap price. You can also get great labels like Dior
and Gucci in very cheap rate in this store. Oxford Street is famous for cloth shops, record shops and department stores. It has every thing that a traveler wants in his tour.
2. Regent Street
Regent Street is the most elegant steert in London’s West End. It has a long lineup of Regency Building and is home for two most popular stores called Liberty & Co and Hamleys. The best way to see Regent Street is through front seat of a double decker bus. Regent Street is the best place to be in Christmas. Each and every tree is lit up in Christmas by a Celebrity which brings a new wave to Regent Steert. This street is the best place for shopping art objects in London. Regent Street has large space for office accommodations in the upper floors of its building and is features as standard location on London version of Monopoly board game.
3. Covent Garden
Covent Garden is situated in the eastern part of City of Westminster and southwest part of London Borough of Camden. It is popular for its shopping stores, street
performers and entertainment houses. The Royal Opera House and St Paul’s Church both are located here. Covent Garden was a market for flower, fruit and vegetables from 1500 to 1974 and when it was relocated to New Covent Market this place has becomes a for shoppers paradise for all kinds of goods. Soho, Holborn and Bloomsbury are
few extraordinary place located around Covent Garden. It is the center point of retail business for fashion focused young people. You can find almost any kind of dress and design in this street.
4. Bond Street
Bond Street is one of the major London shopping street that run from Mayfair to Piccadilly in the south to Oxford Street in the north. It is an up market street with lots of classical stores and joints available here. It is one of the main streets in West End district. Bond Street is known to be the most fashionable street since 18th century. Bond Street was named after Sir Thomas Bond who purchased a mansion in Piccadilly. Bond Street was once popular for art dealers and antique shops which remained in Bond Street for hundred of years but now these places have been taken by fashion boutiques and upmarket designer showrooms.
5. Chinatown
London’s Chinatown is located in the Soho area of Westminster City. It holds many Chinese restaurants, supermarkets and gifts shops and many other stores run by Chinese. London’s Chinatown may not have charm as Chinatown of San Francisco but it is a good place where you get quality food and can pass you time easily in evenings. It is a bit different place than any other shopping street in London. The center of attraction in Chinatown is the Chinese ambiance and feel of eastern culture. You can find lots of high quality souvenir shops in this street which are primarily run by Chinese community. You can find a mix-up of British and Chinese culture in Chinatown with phone booths in pagoda style sloping roofs.
6. Tottenham Court Road
Tottenham Court Road is a eclectic shopping street which is popular for its electrical shops which sells products ranging from cables to high end computers components. It also had many furniture shops including the famous Habitat and Heals. It is located in central London, running from St. Giles’ Circus to Euston Road. This road is one way and all the lanes in the road are northbound.
7. Carnaby Street
It is situated in the district of Soho and is near to Regent Street. It was named after a large building located to its east which was built in 1683. This street was built in year 1685 to 1687. In recent days Carnaby Street is one of the popular joint among young people because of its chain stores and popular restaurants. Carnaby Street is famous for having every type of clothing ranging from street wear, designer dresses to vintage clothing and house wares. You can find many authentic and normally affordable cloths for every one and every class in this street.
8. Leicester Square
Leicester Square is the heart of London. With more than 22 million people visiting this place every year, it is the center point of London. It consists of one of the biggest cinemas with largest screen and a capacity of almost 1600 people. This square is one of the main locations for film premiers. Every year this square hosts the London Film Festival and is also surrounded by floor mounted plaques of celebrities’ names and cast handprints.
9. Piccadilly
It is a significant London Street which is situated from Hyde Park Corner in the west to Piccadilly Circus in the east. It is located in the City of Westminister. Piccadilly consists of Fortnum & Manson, the Royal Academy and The Ritz hotel. It has many legendary clothing stores including the Simpson which was opened in 1930s but the shop closed in 1999 and since then it is the place for booksellers Waterstone’s. Piccadilly has some great mansions like Claredon House, Berkeley House, Sir John Denham’s House which were built in 17th century. Piccadilly is a historical place in London has all the features required for a complete street.
10. Queensway
Queensway is a major street in the Bayswater district of West London. There are significant numbers of hotels and restaurants usually run by Chinese, Asian and Mediterranean people. It also has many upmarket stores pubs and fashion joints. You can see lots of young people in this street as it a major attraction for fashion focused people. The popular Whiteleys Shopping Center is also situated in this street which was first built in 1867. Moreover the Queensway Shopping Arcade offers everything on sell from army and navy supplies to footwear and jewellery.
Shopping Streets in London are a great place to be if you ever visit London. They give you the real feeling of living London. You can admire the history of London as well do modern day shopping together at same time. The above list is an example of some good quality shopping street in London. You can find almost every type of shopping street in London that caters specifically to your need.
Top 10 London Websites
September 25, 2007
http://www.timeout.com/london/
Things to do in London including films, theatre, art, music and clubs.
http://www.tfl.gov.uk/
The official website of London Underground. Travel information, help with route planning, recruitment pages and general Tube news.
http://laterooms.com/
By booking up to seven days in advance, you can grab discounts of up to 70% on published room rates.
http://www.london.gov.uk/
A more serious site from the politicians running London. A good source of information unclouded by commercial incentive.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London
Information including history, past and present events in London.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/europe/england/london/
The ultimate guide book to London, find out all you need to know here on making the most out of any trip to London.
http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/best_of_britain/
Lots of interesting articles, lists, photos and more about Britain.
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/home/?ito=1639
Brought to you from The Evening Standard, This is London has up-dated listings on what’s happening in and around London.
http://www.visitlondon.com/
Another complete guide on what’s happening in London.
http://www.latenightlondon.co.uk/
London’s premier guide to bars, clubs and restaurants.
Top 10 London Movies
September 25, 2007
London has been the setting for many great movies over the years. Here is our list of the top ten best movies about London, set in London, or featuring London.
1. Mona Lisa
2. One Hundred and One Dalmatians
3. Notting Hill
4. Passport to Pimlico
5. Babylon
Directed by Franco Russo, this 1980 film does an excellent job of capturing the trials and tribulations of black urban youth. The reggae soundtrack provides an engaging backdrop.
6. Four Weddings and a Funeral
7. The Three Penny Opera
Made in 1931, The Three Penny Opera, is a highly adept remake of Bertol Brecht’s controversial and profound play about a prostitute. Lotte Lenya beautifully plays the leading role.
8. Night and the City
9. Riff-Raff
10. The Great Rock’n’Roll Swindle
This 1980 documentary directed by Julien Temple covers the intriguing point of view of the Sex Pistol’s manager, Malcom McLaren, and how he feels that the Sex Pistols specifically and Punk Rock in general abused him.
Top 10 Hotels of London
September 25, 2007
London is one of the most historic and oldest living cities of the world. It has a rich heritage and has attracted tourists from all around the world. The traditional monuments and castles add a mystic feeling to the atmosphere of London and this feeling is well carried by the most Hotels in the city of London. Either you want a lazy afternoon tea or want to spend some luxurious nights in London; the hotels here provide you with all the amenities that will give you a royal feel.
Here we have presented a guide to Top 10 hotels of London:
1. The Ritz
The world famous Ritz is one of the most luxurious hotel in the heart of London. It was built in 1906 in Piccadilly which boasts a place for gentleman’s clubs and posh quality shops. Customer satisfaction is maintained highly and the atmosphere here retains the quality of a French country house. Though built with a classical atmosphere, this hotel comes with all the amenities of modern day like a fitness studio, hair salon to high quality meeting halls. Their afternoon tea parlors are one of the most popular places to hangout and never forget to have a cup of tea when you visit it the next time.
2. The Savoy
Hotel Savoy carries the history of London with itself. It is the place where Pavlova danced and once Churchill had his launch. It was first opened in 1889 and still maintains all its quality in eternal form. It has a splendid riverside view which is the biggest attraction for tourist. Savoy’s rooms still carry the feel of 20’s when Savoy was the center for cocktail scene. Besides having a traditional feel to its rooms and lounges, Savoy has all the modern amenities including afternoon tea and the most popular Savoy Grill.
3. Claridge’s
Claridge’s was built in 30’s and even today it delivers the same quality of luxury that it is popular for. Its standard for luxury is it’s trademark among the Hotels and its 230 rooms carries an unmatched Art Decor or traditional style while having some of the biggest rooms among the 5 star in London. Claridge’s spa and health club provides a royal feeling to its invitees and the Foyer and reading rooms are the best place to have the afternoon tea. Claridge’s is also famous for providing one the rarest quality of champagnes and its popular signature cocktail. It is a must visit hotel by any tourist once in a lifetime.
4. The Lanesborough
Lanesborough is one of the oldest hotels in London. Situated in London’s Hyde Park this hotel still has the unmatched feeling of 19th century. Though it has been built and restored throughout its lifetime but it carries the royal heritage and traditional touch. Its 95 rooms and suites boast of one of the finest furnishing of all time with many suites having a classical four poster beds. This hotel is one of the popular attractions among head of states and celebrities since it has got the amenities that suits popular personalities. Its lounge with glass roof and high water fountains with high palms make it an attractive place to hangout in lazy afternoons.
5. The Berkeley Hotel
The Berkeley hotel was designed by popular British architect Brain O’Rourke. This hotel has 160 lavish rooms and suites which boast of world class furnishing. The Berkeley is situated in the glamorous area which opens it doors to London’s most acclaimed shopping plazas. The finest fitness services and state of art swimming pools makes this hotel stand one step ahead of others. The Blue Bar is one of the most popular bar which serves Britain’s finest cocktail.
6. Brown’s Hotel
The Brown’s Hotel was built in 1837 with a view to serve the elite class and the aristocrats of London. It carries a long history and tales with it. The first ever telephone call in Britain was made from The Brown’s. Carrying a long story this hotel has all the amenities for the discerning traveler. It provides the traveler with finest art and auctioneers and even the famous store of St James’s is around this hotel. The typical English interiors puts this hotel in a distinguished class. The hotel’s restaurant also offers the traveler to choose from 1000 different variety of wines and the afternoon tea is a never to be missed thing in this hotel.
7. The Connaught
The Connaught is one of the most classical style hotels in London. It is suited in Mayfair which is the ideal location for a perfect treat after a whole day of shopping. It was built in 1897 and has more than 90 rooms with all the modern day amenities along with traditional touch. Though the Connaught is resembled to the English Country house its state of art Fitness Studio makes it one of the modern hotels of today. It was recently refurnished with many red and gold to match it’s mahogany bar.
8. Grosvenor House Hotel
Grosvenor House Hotels was built in 1927 on the land of 1st Earl of Grosvenor and it was designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. It is built on the famous Park Lane and has a spectacular view of Hyde Park and Mayfair. It hold a total of 448 bedrooms with lavish furnishing and all the modern day etiquette. The state of art health club and the bars add a extra features to this hotel’s beauty and service. Its bars are famous for its Italian food and mix of cocktails.
9. The Dorchester
The Dorchester is one of the popular places among the celebrities. It’s guest list has the name of many famous personalities of last two centuries. It has been visited by Alfred Hitchock, Brigitte Bardot to Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise. The ball room of this hotel once hosted the grand function of engagement of HM The Queen. This hotel has a mystical mixture of modern day amenities and feel of ancient Italian marbles and Georgian country house. It is one of the best hotels to have a romantic evening with its lavish spa or have some time out in Grill Room.
10. The Waldorf
The Waldorf is one of the finest hotels in the heart of the London. It was built in 1908 and since then has attracted most famous literary artist of its time. Its 292 bedrooms and suites have all the modern amenities as well as the classical English feeling. It is a place where many new things were born like the Tango was first introduced here and the morning breakfast in its Palm Court is one of the best retreats this hotel offers.
This is the list of 10 finest hotels in London, but London has more to give and say then a short list. Its atmosphere and traditional values add a splendid feeling to travelers dream.
Top 10 London Annual Events
September 24, 2007
1. New Year’s Day Parade
With over 10,000 performers parading across the streets of West London, the New Year celebration in London is the biggest of its kind in the world! The parade begins at the Parliament Square and ends at the Green Park. Along the way the parade passes through some of the worlds best known locations – White Hall, Trafalgar, Regent Street and Piccadilly to name a few. The ‘Borough Entry’ competition, in which all of London’s 32 boroughs take part in, is a treat for tourists and Londoners alike. The celebration also acknowledges the heroes from each borough during the New Year parade. The tradition began in 1987 as The Lord Mayor of Westminster’s Big Parade and 20 years later, it has become an integral part of the London’s cultural scene. This festive extravaganza is definitely the crown jewel of all events in London.
2. Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race
Every year, as the spring arrives, the Thames bares witness to one of the most popular sporting events in London. The Oxford University Boat Club and the Cambridge University Boat Club in their blue paddle boats set the river on fire as they try to out row each other. The race tests the resolve and endurance of the rowers as they paddle upstream along the mighty Thames. This occasion is watched by around 120 million people across the world! This, glorious tribute to the human spirit, is indeed one of London’s most celebrated events.
3. London Marathon
The London Marathon, held in April, is London’s largest socio-sporting event. A total of around 30,000 runners participate in what has now been officially recognized as worlds largest fund raiser! Last year’s collection was estimated to be a total of £315 million. The 42.195 km course begins at Blackheath and ends at The Mall. Many a historical monuments are traversed along the race course including the Houses of parliament and Buckingham Palace. Although this is serious athletic event involving big prize money, a bit of humour is also thrown in once in a while by enthusiastic runners wearing interesting costumes. For athletic buffs who wish to test their limits, the London Marathon is for sure the Holy Grail.
4. Chelsea Flower Show
In May, people from many distant reaches of the globe converge to appreciate the subtle floral beauty of unparalleled elegance. From its humble beginnings in 1911, this event has now become one of the most extensively covered events in London. Many have remarked that it is like the Paris Fashion Week, but for plants! If you are a person who likes to experience nature in all its splendour, the Chelsea Flower Show is the place to be.
5. Wimbledon Tennis
What can I say? The Wimbledon is the Mecca of Tennis! Held between June and July, the Wimbledon is the third grand slam event. The whole championship usually lasts for two weeks but it may be prolonged due to rain. Despite the extent to which the event is covered by the media, the tournament is still a great crowd puller. This year’s highlight was the Men’s singles finals between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. The two men fought with great determination but in the end Roger Federer came out the victor. For those who witnessed this clash of the titans, the moments would have been forever frozen in their minds!
6. Great British Beer Festival
Dubbed as the “biggest pub in the world” the Great British Beer Festival or GBBF is the Woodstock of beer guzzlers around the world. The Earls Court, London has been the venue for this event since 2006. During the five days of festivity, over 450 British breweries along with 200 foreign breweries flood the court with a variety of ales! Approximately 1000 volunteers render their honorary services to organize this grand event. The announcement of the Champion Beer of Britain award is also made during the GBBF.
7. Notting Hill Carnival
What began as a gesture to bring communal harmony between the various races in London in 1959 has now become a cultural Lollapalooza. This carnival, led by the Caribbean community, is distributed over two days – Sunday and the following Monday. The Sunday morning carnival, held on Children’s day, is a miniature version of the grand carnival held the following day. Over 300,000 people dressed in elaborate costumes turn the streets of Notting Hill into a cultural paradise. The magnificence of the Carnival can only be fully experienced in person. So next time you get a chance to visit London, be sure to time it right.
8. Opening of Parliament
The ceremony of Opening of Parliament is held in either October or November. The pomp and fervour associated with this occasion is unlike anything seen before. As in all the ceremonies, the opening of the parliament also involves some impressive theatrics like searching the parliament to prevent an imaginary Gunpowder plot, taking a hostage to ensure the safety of the monarch etc. A host of other associated practices can be seen as the reigning monarch declares the commencement of a session of Parliament. For all its vigour, the opening of the parliament epitomises the importance of democracy over autocracy and this is the final message behind this majestic affair.
9. London Film Festival
The London Film Festival, currently in the golden jubilee year, is the largest public film event in London. Roughly 300 movies from 60 countries are screened every year. The movies are selected to accommodate the tastes and styles of the multitude. Unlike other events of such kind, the public involvement in the LFF is what strikes out. Believe it or not directors, actors, stunt men etc actually encourage the audience to ask them questions relating to the film making process! Many awards and laurels are also awarded during the fest – the Sutherland Trophy being the most prestigious. Well, if you don’t fall in the category of filmmakers, you can obviously hit the streets for some good old entertainment.
10. Christmas Lighting Ceremonies
Well clichés apart, Christmas does come early in London! The spirit of Christmas shines bright from early November as the whole of London is set ablaze by a range of lights and ornamentations. Everywhere from Bond Street to Covent Garden, the splendid display of lights will dazzle you. For every beholder the nocturnal landscape of the entire city is transformed into a picturesque portrait whose magnificence will never be forgotten!
London Wallpapers Set #1 1024*768
September 24, 2007
Books about London
September 24, 2007
1. Lonely Planet London
Diverse, energetic and perennially inspiring, London has a lifetime’s adventures in one city. Stroll the Millennium Bridge from Tate Modern to St Paul’s, browse the boutiques of King’s Road and Brick Lane, explore Soho’s buzzing streets or Hampstead’s soothing heath. Temporary traveler or long-term Londoner, find the city’s heart with this smart and stylish guide.
2. Walking London – 30 original walks in and around London
3. Frommer’s London 2008
4. Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guide to London
5. Frommer’s Best Day Trips from London: 25 Great Escapes by Train, Bus or Car
6. WILT by Tom Sharp
7. Hotel Babylon
Top 10 London Blogs
September 23, 2007
http://london-underground.blogspot.com/
Discover the London Underground with one woman’s daily experiences of traveling on the London Underground subway system.
http://londonist.com/
Londonist is a website about London and everything that happens in it. That means news and events, restaurants and bars, happenings and goings-on. Londonist has an avid and growing readership, and an even more avid and growing staff.
http://www.londontheatreblog.co.uk/
The idea for this site was born from a simple passion for theatre. It is devoted to the intellectual exploration of contemporary performance in London and beyond.
http://londonbloggers.iamcal.com/
A directory of weblogs written by people who live or work in London, organized by the rather iconic London Tube map.
http://www.allinlondon.co.uk/blogs/myblog.php?user=21195
KimT’s Blog is ideal reading for those looking to keep the little people entertained on trips to London.
http://lndn.blogspot.com/
One man’s tales of living and working in London.
http://www.london2012.com/blog/
This is the vision that will define the venues that are built, the Games that are staged and the legacy we leave. This section gives you the run down on the Games and the people delivering them. You can also find out about the history of the Games in the UK and the new 2012 brand.
http://londonhotelnews.wordpress.com/
News and entertaining site straight from London.
http://rachelnorthlondon.blogspot.com/
Weblog of a London bombing victim and columnist for The Times newspaper.
http://www.londonlogue.com/
The one stop travel guide to London.
