So, last night I decided to go to the pictures, and when I trawled through that enormous film list of mine, I discovered that I could delete about 50 films from the top of the list, that weren't showing for the rest of the week! Not at times that suited, anyway.
This left me with.. What If. Now, I was a bit dubious about this. It's a rom-com with Daniel Radcliffe, and I remember him appearing on a talk show recently to promote it, and looking very, very awkward. But anyway, I said I'd go.
The nearest place showing it was the Odeon Kensington, so I had a vigorous walk there yesterday evening. Ah, it was nice to get out again - I haven't been out since Sunday! It's also a while since I've been up this way. The door to the self-service machine lobby was locked, it being past 9, so I entered the main foyer, and bought my ticket from a human. They might have improved their customer service, because it was no time before someone came to tear my ticket - v unusual for this venue. He mentioned that the standard seats were the first three rows, or the back row.
He could've saved some time by telling me to just not sit in the fourth row, which was the premier row - this screen only has five rows altogether! Anyhow, the third row was just fine. Interestingly, the trailers included one for Horns, a horror film to be released at Hallowe'en, also starring Daniel Radcliffe. Hmm - Harry Potter as the devil, following Harry Potter as the romantic hero. You don't think they might be trying a bit too hard to find a new niche for him?
Now, I came very close to walking out during the first scene - mainly because it features Daniel heavily, as you would expect - also because it seemed as though this was going to be ridden with rom-com cliches. Sorry Daniel, I just don't buy you as a leading man, I think. You're just too awkward. I know this character is supposed to be shy and retiring, but - does he have to be cringeworthy?
Daniel Radcliffe, for me, is lacking something - charisma, maybe. I didn't buy him as a romantic lead, and I groaned inwardly when he attempted comedy. Stiil n all, I'm glad I decided that one scene in was too early to make up my mind - because everything else about the film is rather good! It's got a cool soundtrack, I liked all the other characters - the female lead is cute and quirky, the guy who plays her cousin has a knack for comedy. Even the female lead's boyfriend, Daniel's love rival, is a likeable soul, but one whom you could learn to despise. The film even has an international element - it's set in Toronto (ooh, a film made in Canada that admits it was made in Canada! how rare) but the boyfriend conveniently gets a job transfer to Dublin, allowing Daniel and the girl to get closer. But then she goes to visit the boyfriend to try to rekindle their relationship, so we get that international bit. Oh, and Daniel's character is downplayed a bit. So I quite enjoyed most of the film.
Except the last scene, which has a bit more of Daniel in it again than I would've liked. Nah, I don't think he'll be winning me over any time soon. Hey-ho, good luck to him.
Well, I could go out tonight - or I could stay in and wash my hair, which is sounding more attractive. I'm back in Ireland for the weekend, and for Monday, it's looking like a film again. Luckily, the film list for next week is waay less - full - than this week's, so I've done it already, and after I reject a documentary about Donald Trump, I have a choice of three for Monday: Finding Fanny - an Indian rom-com, In Order of Disappearance - a Norwegian thriller, and One Night in Istanbul, a comedy about British soccer fans abroad.
And would you believe, in the few hours between checking those ratings and checking the links again to add here, the ratings for two of those three have shifted! Now that's fast.. Right then, it's looking like Finding Fanny for Monday. For the moment..
Thursday, 11 September 2014
Tuesday, 9 September 2014
Tourist London - Part 3 (Sunday)
No buses to research on Sunday - I'd done that already and the route hadn't changed. My guests were flying out of Stansted at 5, and we had decided they'd take the Stansted Express from Liverpool Street Station. Spitalfields Market and Brick Lane are within walking distance from there, so we had a rough plan to explore in that direction.
We took the #11 bus - one of the best for sightseeing - from Victoria to Liverpool Street, the end of the line. The bus was one of the heritage Routemaster, old-style buses that run on some routes, with access from any door if you have Oyster, and two sets of stairs leading upstairs. You can also hop on and off between stops - not that we needed to. The journey was fun, passing many landmarks..
St. Paul's. Impossible to get a good shot here, the streets are so narrow.
The Gherkin, on the left
Spitalfields was just a couple of minutes walk away, and we spent a lovely time browsing the stalls, and buying a couple of things. For lunch, we ate at the market - we had been thinking of Brick Lane, but were enjoying the atmosphere, and stayed where we were. We ate at Gourmet Burger Kitchen, and ate heartily indeed, unable to finish what we'd ordered. A trip to Montezuma's chocolate shop completed our visit, and as we exited, we came across a concert in progress under an awning at the entrance, and we stopped for a while to listen before I put them on the train.
A quiet evening ensued, and I've spent most of my time since trawling through the new film lists - a process I only finished last night! I didn't bother going out last night.. For tonight, I see Autobahn is showing, in the King's Head in Islington. This is a series of short plays, each featuring two characters sitting in the front of a car, and I heartily recommend it. However, I saw it some years back at the Galway Arts Festival, and frankly they staged it in a way I think can't be beaten. They stationed four cars in front of the theatre, and two or three audience members at a time got into the back seat of each car, then the actors got in the front. When each play ended, the audience members got out and went to the next car. Now, you can't beat that for intimacy - a play happening in the front seats while you eavesdrop from the back! So I'll skip this production - although the King's Head is a nice venue, and I do recommend it. Alternatively, there's Eye of a Needle, at the Southwark Playhouse. Sounds good.. but confidentially, I might stay in tonight too! I need to get my head together..
We took the #11 bus - one of the best for sightseeing - from Victoria to Liverpool Street, the end of the line. The bus was one of the heritage Routemaster, old-style buses that run on some routes, with access from any door if you have Oyster, and two sets of stairs leading upstairs. You can also hop on and off between stops - not that we needed to. The journey was fun, passing many landmarks..
St. Paul's in the distance
St. Paul's. Impossible to get a good shot here, the streets are so narrow.
The Bank of England 
We arrived at Liverpool Street and deposited their bags at the Left Luggage office beside Platform 10. We had three hours for the basic price. We bought their train tickets - not an easy job, considering the queue at the ticket office, and that of the four ticket machines for the Stansted Express, three were out of order - and they only take cards. Then we returned their Oyster cards, and we were off.
The Gherkin, on the leftA quiet evening ensued, and I've spent most of my time since trawling through the new film lists - a process I only finished last night! I didn't bother going out last night.. For tonight, I see Autobahn is showing, in the King's Head in Islington. This is a series of short plays, each featuring two characters sitting in the front of a car, and I heartily recommend it. However, I saw it some years back at the Galway Arts Festival, and frankly they staged it in a way I think can't be beaten. They stationed four cars in front of the theatre, and two or three audience members at a time got into the back seat of each car, then the actors got in the front. When each play ended, the audience members got out and went to the next car. Now, you can't beat that for intimacy - a play happening in the front seats while you eavesdrop from the back! So I'll skip this production - although the King's Head is a nice venue, and I do recommend it. Alternatively, there's Eye of a Needle, at the Southwark Playhouse. Sounds good.. but confidentially, I might stay in tonight too! I need to get my head together..
Tourist London, Part 2 (Saturday)
Saturday dawned with work to be done, as our plans had changed and, with District and Circle lines out of action, I had to research bus routes. They wanted to go to Harrod's, I wanted them to see the V&A, and it turned out they're only ten minutes walk apart, so that was a perfect pairing! Just take the Cromwell Road exit from the V&A and turn left. Initially, I discovered we could take the Victoria line, followed by the Piccadilly line, to South Kensington for the V&A, so that's what we agreed to do, and I met them at Victoria Tube Station. After a bus ride (the C1) that, ironically, took me right past the V&A and Harrod's. Ah well.
My guests declared they'd slept very well, that the hotel was comfortable and quiet - and despite only continental breakfast being available at the weekends, they were delighted with the selection. Enchanted by the hotel overall, in fact!
The Tube was about as packed as I've seen it - all the tourists diverting from District and Circle, of course. So we had a crammed ride, but fortunately not many stops. Again, I say, if it's crammed, head for either end of the platform, so as to board the very front or back of the train - it's less crowded there.
We disembarked at South Ken, and took the subway to the V&A, passing the obligatory busker, who was blaring out jazz. Had a lovely stroll around the V&A - photos here. It's a gorgeous museum of art and design, with a statue hall at the subway entrance, and highlights including a large jewellery gallery and an enchanting gallery of stained glass and religious metalwork. We were also particularly taken by the silver gallery, and my guests were delighted by the central garden, with its feature pond, and people sitting around, eating ice cream and having drinks from the stall, and children paddling in the pond. We agreed that this is a most liveable city. If you can handle the rent/mortgage..
By the time we left, we were getting hungry, but the museum cafe was packed and we decided to search further. On the way to Harrod's, we passed a pub called the Bunch of Grapes, and since pubs generally do food, we said we'd give it a try. It turned out to be an excellent lunching spot - not too busy, reasonably priced, good service, and delicious food. I was boring and had the hunter's chicken again (obviously an English pub lunch staple), and my guests had traditional fish n chips.
Saturday afternoon was primarily given over to shopping. After lunch, we detoured to a nearby souvenir shop, then it was Harrod's turn. It was as crowded as ever, of course, and impossible to navigate. Bears, as ever, featured heavily. We did make a point of visiting the shrine to Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed, the former owner's son, who was going out with her when they were killed in a car crash. The shrine is on Lower Ground level, at the bottom of the famous Egyptian escalator. Now, the shrine itself, with pictures of them both, and candles, is one thing - but in my opinion, the large statue that stands between it and the book of condolence - which is still open - and depicts both apparently setting free some kind of bird.. that's a bit much. Anyway, now you know where to find it.
We took the #74 bus from just across the road to Oxford Street, alighting for Primark, which one of my guests had a particular interest in visiting. We other two made for Selfridges, just up the road, where we had less interest in shopping and more in just having a drink in the cafe and relaxing. We were on our way to the toilets when we passed the new cinema! They only opened it about a week ago - I'd forgotten all about it. They seem to be showing mainly classics - we were browsing the listings when an usher emerged and asked whether we were going to a film. "No," we said - but she invited us in for a look around anyway. The interior is dark, the walls decorated in dark grey and hung with film photos. The bar is small and intimate, lined with comfortable seating, and staffed by people who looked quite bored, kitted out in 50s-style usher uniforms. So we decided to have another drink there, occupying the plush sofa. On our way out, we had a peek at the cinema, which had comfy-looking double seats. Definitely a welcome addition to a busy store on a busy street, this cinema will provide welcome respite after a hard day's shopping. Or indeed, somewhere to plonk the less enthusiastic shoppers in your group!
Mind you, our trip to the toilets was less successful. Oh, we made it to the toilets all right, and did what we needed to - but the queue was horrendous, and the state of the cubicle floors was woeful, filthy and splashed: despite the lady going around with a mop. Ugh. Proceed with caution.
Our bus stop to head southwards was conveniently located just outside. We texted our companion to meet us there when she was done. Now, I had method in directing us southwards - unbeknownst to my guests, I had booked tickets for all of us to an all-male burlesque show - Briefs, the Second Coming - at the Spiegeltent in London Wonderground. Thing was, the show was at 7.30, I still had to pick up the tickets, and we weren't going to be able to get a bus all the way there. From the convenient map on the bus stop, I could see that three of the four buses that stopped there went to Trafalgar Square, which was the best we could do. As she kept texting us to say she was delayed, I began to get a little worried..
Well, she showed up just past 6.30, with stories of unbelieveable queues, and how she ended up just pulling clothes on over what she was wearing, in front of a mirror, to save queueing time. She was delighted though - apparently, the range is much better here than in Ireland. And off we went to Trafalgar Square, on the #6, which happened to be the next bus along, and passed some interesting sights on the way. And when we alighted, I had to balance my understandable desire to race down the road with the knowledge that the longer I kept this a surprise, the better the surprise would be - so I couldn't seem to be in too much of a hurry. We took a route down Villers Street, so I could show them some restaurants where we might eat later - L' Ulivo appealed. (I was just worried someone was going to suggest we eat now..!)
We trekked the steps up to the bridge - I think I'm more accustomed to them; it's a bit of a hike! We took the right side up, so they could have a view of the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. Well, it's a beautiful view - but I could've cursed their photo-taking as I tried to hurry them along (gently), the box office now in sight! Finally, I asked the one to go find the other, as I had a bit of business to conduct yonder. "Ok," she said, and off I dashed. By the time I had the tickets, my other guest had reappeared, and both were staring at me curiously. "C'mon, ladies," I said, "we have a queue to join!"
Well, they were delighted! Firstly, by the fantasy-land that is the Wonderground. I pointed out the foodstalls and the carousel that doubles as a bar, but we really didn't have any time to explore as I hurried them towards the spiegeltent. Anyway, we made it with five minutes to spare, and were lucky to get three seats together. And I still hadn't told them what they had come to see! Finally, I gave them the title.
I don't really think a more detailed explanation would've done this show justice. Spangly costumes gave way to barely-there costumes, held on with a lick and a prayer. It was raucous, it was irreverent. Bananas featured prominently. The show also incorporated some circus, and the opening act, gymnastics on a suspended ring, was stupendous - my stand-out moment. I've never seen a gymnastics act performed so gracefully and fluidly. And all to a thumping soundtrack.
Mind you, we were to be glad to be in the back row. Banana peels flew everywhere, whizzing past our heads. The guy with the flaming ring got quite close to the front row - and the last act featured water so prominently (and enthusiastic splashing) that the front row was given plastic sheeting to hold over themselves: but even in the back row, we got splashed. Still, all in a night's fun, eh? The show is fantastic fun, and was a sell-out, from what I could see. Booking definitely recommended - runs until the 28th. (BTW, what is it about Aussies and circus acts? Do they have an enormous circus school in Australia or something that keeps churning them out, so they keep streaming over here? Well, keep 'em coming!)
We were well ready to eat afterwards. I took them back via the other side of the bridge, to show them the gorgeous view of the City, St Paul's, and the South Bank, and we took the overhead passageway back to Villiers Street because of the construction work at Embankment. The meal was excellent, with warm and friendly Italian service, and we got a window seat to watch the passers by.. I'll be back.
On the way back for the night, we took a small detour to see the buzz of Leicester Square and Theatreland, and wandered past Chinatown and down Shaftesbury Avenue to Piccadilly Circus. The city that never sleeps entertained us properly, before we took the Tube home. I sent my charges on their way at Green Park, to change to the Victoria line - the reverse of the journey we'd taken in the morning. Well, apparently they made it to Victoria all right. Unfortunately, they got lost in the train station, having taken the wrong exit. Ah well, all's well that ends well, and they did get to their beds eventually!
Right, lunch beckons! Just one more blog to do for the weekend.. Sunday brought a wee bit more sightseeing.
My guests declared they'd slept very well, that the hotel was comfortable and quiet - and despite only continental breakfast being available at the weekends, they were delighted with the selection. Enchanted by the hotel overall, in fact!
The Tube was about as packed as I've seen it - all the tourists diverting from District and Circle, of course. So we had a crammed ride, but fortunately not many stops. Again, I say, if it's crammed, head for either end of the platform, so as to board the very front or back of the train - it's less crowded there.
We disembarked at South Ken, and took the subway to the V&A, passing the obligatory busker, who was blaring out jazz. Had a lovely stroll around the V&A - photos here. It's a gorgeous museum of art and design, with a statue hall at the subway entrance, and highlights including a large jewellery gallery and an enchanting gallery of stained glass and religious metalwork. We were also particularly taken by the silver gallery, and my guests were delighted by the central garden, with its feature pond, and people sitting around, eating ice cream and having drinks from the stall, and children paddling in the pond. We agreed that this is a most liveable city. If you can handle the rent/mortgage..
By the time we left, we were getting hungry, but the museum cafe was packed and we decided to search further. On the way to Harrod's, we passed a pub called the Bunch of Grapes, and since pubs generally do food, we said we'd give it a try. It turned out to be an excellent lunching spot - not too busy, reasonably priced, good service, and delicious food. I was boring and had the hunter's chicken again (obviously an English pub lunch staple), and my guests had traditional fish n chips.
Saturday afternoon was primarily given over to shopping. After lunch, we detoured to a nearby souvenir shop, then it was Harrod's turn. It was as crowded as ever, of course, and impossible to navigate. Bears, as ever, featured heavily. We did make a point of visiting the shrine to Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed, the former owner's son, who was going out with her when they were killed in a car crash. The shrine is on Lower Ground level, at the bottom of the famous Egyptian escalator. Now, the shrine itself, with pictures of them both, and candles, is one thing - but in my opinion, the large statue that stands between it and the book of condolence - which is still open - and depicts both apparently setting free some kind of bird.. that's a bit much. Anyway, now you know where to find it.
We took the #74 bus from just across the road to Oxford Street, alighting for Primark, which one of my guests had a particular interest in visiting. We other two made for Selfridges, just up the road, where we had less interest in shopping and more in just having a drink in the cafe and relaxing. We were on our way to the toilets when we passed the new cinema! They only opened it about a week ago - I'd forgotten all about it. They seem to be showing mainly classics - we were browsing the listings when an usher emerged and asked whether we were going to a film. "No," we said - but she invited us in for a look around anyway. The interior is dark, the walls decorated in dark grey and hung with film photos. The bar is small and intimate, lined with comfortable seating, and staffed by people who looked quite bored, kitted out in 50s-style usher uniforms. So we decided to have another drink there, occupying the plush sofa. On our way out, we had a peek at the cinema, which had comfy-looking double seats. Definitely a welcome addition to a busy store on a busy street, this cinema will provide welcome respite after a hard day's shopping. Or indeed, somewhere to plonk the less enthusiastic shoppers in your group!
Mind you, our trip to the toilets was less successful. Oh, we made it to the toilets all right, and did what we needed to - but the queue was horrendous, and the state of the cubicle floors was woeful, filthy and splashed: despite the lady going around with a mop. Ugh. Proceed with caution.
Our bus stop to head southwards was conveniently located just outside. We texted our companion to meet us there when she was done. Now, I had method in directing us southwards - unbeknownst to my guests, I had booked tickets for all of us to an all-male burlesque show - Briefs, the Second Coming - at the Spiegeltent in London Wonderground. Thing was, the show was at 7.30, I still had to pick up the tickets, and we weren't going to be able to get a bus all the way there. From the convenient map on the bus stop, I could see that three of the four buses that stopped there went to Trafalgar Square, which was the best we could do. As she kept texting us to say she was delayed, I began to get a little worried..
Well, she showed up just past 6.30, with stories of unbelieveable queues, and how she ended up just pulling clothes on over what she was wearing, in front of a mirror, to save queueing time. She was delighted though - apparently, the range is much better here than in Ireland. And off we went to Trafalgar Square, on the #6, which happened to be the next bus along, and passed some interesting sights on the way. And when we alighted, I had to balance my understandable desire to race down the road with the knowledge that the longer I kept this a surprise, the better the surprise would be - so I couldn't seem to be in too much of a hurry. We took a route down Villers Street, so I could show them some restaurants where we might eat later - L' Ulivo appealed. (I was just worried someone was going to suggest we eat now..!)
We trekked the steps up to the bridge - I think I'm more accustomed to them; it's a bit of a hike! We took the right side up, so they could have a view of the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. Well, it's a beautiful view - but I could've cursed their photo-taking as I tried to hurry them along (gently), the box office now in sight! Finally, I asked the one to go find the other, as I had a bit of business to conduct yonder. "Ok," she said, and off I dashed. By the time I had the tickets, my other guest had reappeared, and both were staring at me curiously. "C'mon, ladies," I said, "we have a queue to join!"
Well, they were delighted! Firstly, by the fantasy-land that is the Wonderground. I pointed out the foodstalls and the carousel that doubles as a bar, but we really didn't have any time to explore as I hurried them towards the spiegeltent. Anyway, we made it with five minutes to spare, and were lucky to get three seats together. And I still hadn't told them what they had come to see! Finally, I gave them the title.
I don't really think a more detailed explanation would've done this show justice. Spangly costumes gave way to barely-there costumes, held on with a lick and a prayer. It was raucous, it was irreverent. Bananas featured prominently. The show also incorporated some circus, and the opening act, gymnastics on a suspended ring, was stupendous - my stand-out moment. I've never seen a gymnastics act performed so gracefully and fluidly. And all to a thumping soundtrack.
Mind you, we were to be glad to be in the back row. Banana peels flew everywhere, whizzing past our heads. The guy with the flaming ring got quite close to the front row - and the last act featured water so prominently (and enthusiastic splashing) that the front row was given plastic sheeting to hold over themselves: but even in the back row, we got splashed. Still, all in a night's fun, eh? The show is fantastic fun, and was a sell-out, from what I could see. Booking definitely recommended - runs until the 28th. (BTW, what is it about Aussies and circus acts? Do they have an enormous circus school in Australia or something that keeps churning them out, so they keep streaming over here? Well, keep 'em coming!)
We were well ready to eat afterwards. I took them back via the other side of the bridge, to show them the gorgeous view of the City, St Paul's, and the South Bank, and we took the overhead passageway back to Villiers Street because of the construction work at Embankment. The meal was excellent, with warm and friendly Italian service, and we got a window seat to watch the passers by.. I'll be back.
On the way back for the night, we took a small detour to see the buzz of Leicester Square and Theatreland, and wandered past Chinatown and down Shaftesbury Avenue to Piccadilly Circus. The city that never sleeps entertained us properly, before we took the Tube home. I sent my charges on their way at Green Park, to change to the Victoria line - the reverse of the journey we'd taken in the morning. Well, apparently they made it to Victoria all right. Unfortunately, they got lost in the train station, having taken the wrong exit. Ah well, all's well that ends well, and they did get to their beds eventually!
Right, lunch beckons! Just one more blog to do for the weekend.. Sunday brought a wee bit more sightseeing.
Sunday, 7 September 2014
Tourist Weekend! Friday
Friday
Phew, what a weekend! So, as I mentioned, I had friends come to London for the weekend. Dashed through work on Friday so I could go meet them at lunchtime - I had a half day. I needn't have been quite so worried - turned out they took a slower bus than recommended.. :-) and I arrived at Victoria before they did.
Well. Yes, I did arrive at Victoria. So were they to do. However, I have never before been to the Victoria Coach Station, and just assumed it was in the main building, along with the bus, rail, and underground stations. So I followed the signs that said "bus" and positioned myself there. Sure I was in the right place, I refused an offer of help from one of the people standing around waiting, employed to give it. After a while though, it began to bother me that the only buses I could see were London buses.. so I had a wander, and came across a sign (in the train station) for the coach station. Somewhere else entirely. Wonderful.
It was at that point that they phoned me to say they'd arrived. I naively asked whether they could possibly come to the train station. I didn't realise that the coach station is several streets away and very badly signposted, both on approach and the building itself. I wandered out onto the street, trying to get directions from them and being woefully confused that none of us could see the same things. In due course, I came across a map that directed me to the coach station - even when I did find the right street, and was walking alongside the station, I didn't realise it until I happened upon the entrance at the end! Jeez, talk about the poor relation of the stations..
Anyway, once I got that far, I found them. We were all hungry, it being lunchtime, and stopped at the first eatery we came across - the Traveller's Tavern, in the station itself. We easily got a table, ordered and paid at the bar. I can testify that their hunter's chicken is delicious! The pub itself is attractively decorated, and service comes with a smile. We were well fed by the time we ventured outside to figure our way back to their hotel, so they could leave their bags.
They were staying at the Grange Rochester - which we were glad to find (eventually). In retrospect, we took a slightly roundabout route - but then, as I say, I've never before been to the coach station. Anyway, we eventually came to the filling station at the junction with Rochester Row, which meant we were nearby. This would be their nearest stop to fill up on the essentials. Sure enough, we were at the hotel minutes later.
It's a cosy place - quiet, they said afterwards. Lots of wood, lots of brass. Rather attractive. Too hot upstairs, as usual - there isn't any aircon either. They were to find London very humid all weekend, compared to what they're used to - but at least they were provided with two electric fans in what turned out to be quite a large room, with three beds. The room also provided a decent-sized ensuite, a flat-screen tv, a safe, and tea/coffee making facilities.
After a bit of r&r, we hit the town. The original plan had been to head to Notting Hill, but with a ghost walk planned for a specific time that evening, we figured that time was now against us. They suggested we stay more local, and I suggested that we skip straight to the bit of the itinerary that involved walking up to Buckingham Palace - not far, closer than the coach station - then up the Mall, drop into the ICA bookshop for a minute, and to Trafalgar Square, where we could decide what to do next.
They got Oyster cards on the way, at the Underground station. Seems the procedure has changed somewhat from when I got mine, some years back - in those olden days, you just paid for the credit on the card, and had to get it from a ticket office. Now, you can get them from a machine, and must pay a £5 deposit on each! (refundable if you return the card). Which means the card now costs £5, basically. Well, you need it for the buses - and with engineering works on both Circle and District lines this weekend, that was going to be necessary: and it's still much better value than cash, even when you can use that.
That done, off we went to Buckingham Palace. They were quite impressed to find it so close to their hotel, and we spent much time photographing each other in front of it. Time didn't allow us to go in. We then made our way up the Mall, stopping for refreshments - including some very tasty ice cream - at a kiosk in Green Park. Photos of the day available here. Progressing up the mall, we came across a pair of sentries guarding some side entrance or other. A number of tourists were gathered around, and as we were fumbling with cameras and deciding what photos to take, I guess someone must've got too close, because - for all their famous statue-like composure, one of the sentries completely lost it and roared to GET BACK! NOW!!! Um, yes. We all legged it.
We popped into the ICA bookshop briefly, where some purchases were made - it's got a very interesting range. We sat, chatted, and people-watched in Trafalgar Square for a while, having some more snacks at the café, wandered around Westminster, then made our way to Monument for the ghost walk. Corinna was our guide, and despite being softly spoken as she chatted to us beforehand, she was quite capable of projecting her voice as needed. I hadn't researched the guides beforehand, so it came as a surprise both to learn that she is an actor, and to have her burst into song - not once, but twice, on the tour. See, I've done this walk before - last Hallowe'en, in fact - but with a different guide (Shaughan), and not only are the guides different, but it transpires that they cover different routes, and have completely different repertoires of stories! So it is possible to take the same tour twice and have a completely different experience.
She led us on a merry trek for the next two hours, through narrow passageways and underpasses, over hidden bridges, around the City. We got to stand on a height, with a lovely view of the Thames, Tower Bridge and the Shard, as the daylight dimmed and the City lights came on. We unexpectedly got into a church, bombed during the Blitz and converted to a garden, and whose gate should have been closed by then. It was lovely, with a fountain in the middle, surrounded by benches - onto which we gratefully sank, as she regaled us with a tale of a ghostly white Persian cat, and a song. Our next musical interlude (which included seating too) was in the courtyard of the Guildhall, where she got us all to join in as a ghostly chorus. The tour ended in the Barbican, where we got to explore passageways I hadn't seen before.
The night ended with a seemingly interminable wait at Barbican Station for a Circle line train, so we could go direct. So much for a 15-minute wait between trains - we must have been waiting for twice that long when, just as we gave up and were planning an alternative route, one finally deigned to appear. We really needed to eat now, so figured the easiest was to head for the Buckingham Balti, near Victoria.
And so to bed. And so to bed for me now too, as it's past my bedtime.. more to follow, when I get a moment!
Phew, what a weekend! So, as I mentioned, I had friends come to London for the weekend. Dashed through work on Friday so I could go meet them at lunchtime - I had a half day. I needn't have been quite so worried - turned out they took a slower bus than recommended.. :-) and I arrived at Victoria before they did.
Well. Yes, I did arrive at Victoria. So were they to do. However, I have never before been to the Victoria Coach Station, and just assumed it was in the main building, along with the bus, rail, and underground stations. So I followed the signs that said "bus" and positioned myself there. Sure I was in the right place, I refused an offer of help from one of the people standing around waiting, employed to give it. After a while though, it began to bother me that the only buses I could see were London buses.. so I had a wander, and came across a sign (in the train station) for the coach station. Somewhere else entirely. Wonderful.
It was at that point that they phoned me to say they'd arrived. I naively asked whether they could possibly come to the train station. I didn't realise that the coach station is several streets away and very badly signposted, both on approach and the building itself. I wandered out onto the street, trying to get directions from them and being woefully confused that none of us could see the same things. In due course, I came across a map that directed me to the coach station - even when I did find the right street, and was walking alongside the station, I didn't realise it until I happened upon the entrance at the end! Jeez, talk about the poor relation of the stations..
Anyway, once I got that far, I found them. We were all hungry, it being lunchtime, and stopped at the first eatery we came across - the Traveller's Tavern, in the station itself. We easily got a table, ordered and paid at the bar. I can testify that their hunter's chicken is delicious! The pub itself is attractively decorated, and service comes with a smile. We were well fed by the time we ventured outside to figure our way back to their hotel, so they could leave their bags.
They were staying at the Grange Rochester - which we were glad to find (eventually). In retrospect, we took a slightly roundabout route - but then, as I say, I've never before been to the coach station. Anyway, we eventually came to the filling station at the junction with Rochester Row, which meant we were nearby. This would be their nearest stop to fill up on the essentials. Sure enough, we were at the hotel minutes later.
It's a cosy place - quiet, they said afterwards. Lots of wood, lots of brass. Rather attractive. Too hot upstairs, as usual - there isn't any aircon either. They were to find London very humid all weekend, compared to what they're used to - but at least they were provided with two electric fans in what turned out to be quite a large room, with three beds. The room also provided a decent-sized ensuite, a flat-screen tv, a safe, and tea/coffee making facilities.
After a bit of r&r, we hit the town. The original plan had been to head to Notting Hill, but with a ghost walk planned for a specific time that evening, we figured that time was now against us. They suggested we stay more local, and I suggested that we skip straight to the bit of the itinerary that involved walking up to Buckingham Palace - not far, closer than the coach station - then up the Mall, drop into the ICA bookshop for a minute, and to Trafalgar Square, where we could decide what to do next.
They got Oyster cards on the way, at the Underground station. Seems the procedure has changed somewhat from when I got mine, some years back - in those olden days, you just paid for the credit on the card, and had to get it from a ticket office. Now, you can get them from a machine, and must pay a £5 deposit on each! (refundable if you return the card). Which means the card now costs £5, basically. Well, you need it for the buses - and with engineering works on both Circle and District lines this weekend, that was going to be necessary: and it's still much better value than cash, even when you can use that.
That done, off we went to Buckingham Palace. They were quite impressed to find it so close to their hotel, and we spent much time photographing each other in front of it. Time didn't allow us to go in. We then made our way up the Mall, stopping for refreshments - including some very tasty ice cream - at a kiosk in Green Park. Photos of the day available here. Progressing up the mall, we came across a pair of sentries guarding some side entrance or other. A number of tourists were gathered around, and as we were fumbling with cameras and deciding what photos to take, I guess someone must've got too close, because - for all their famous statue-like composure, one of the sentries completely lost it and roared to GET BACK! NOW!!! Um, yes. We all legged it.
We popped into the ICA bookshop briefly, where some purchases were made - it's got a very interesting range. We sat, chatted, and people-watched in Trafalgar Square for a while, having some more snacks at the café, wandered around Westminster, then made our way to Monument for the ghost walk. Corinna was our guide, and despite being softly spoken as she chatted to us beforehand, she was quite capable of projecting her voice as needed. I hadn't researched the guides beforehand, so it came as a surprise both to learn that she is an actor, and to have her burst into song - not once, but twice, on the tour. See, I've done this walk before - last Hallowe'en, in fact - but with a different guide (Shaughan), and not only are the guides different, but it transpires that they cover different routes, and have completely different repertoires of stories! So it is possible to take the same tour twice and have a completely different experience.
She led us on a merry trek for the next two hours, through narrow passageways and underpasses, over hidden bridges, around the City. We got to stand on a height, with a lovely view of the Thames, Tower Bridge and the Shard, as the daylight dimmed and the City lights came on. We unexpectedly got into a church, bombed during the Blitz and converted to a garden, and whose gate should have been closed by then. It was lovely, with a fountain in the middle, surrounded by benches - onto which we gratefully sank, as she regaled us with a tale of a ghostly white Persian cat, and a song. Our next musical interlude (which included seating too) was in the courtyard of the Guildhall, where she got us all to join in as a ghostly chorus. The tour ended in the Barbican, where we got to explore passageways I hadn't seen before.
The night ended with a seemingly interminable wait at Barbican Station for a Circle line train, so we could go direct. So much for a 15-minute wait between trains - we must have been waiting for twice that long when, just as we gave up and were planning an alternative route, one finally deigned to appear. We really needed to eat now, so figured the easiest was to head for the Buckingham Balti, near Victoria.
And so to bed. And so to bed for me now too, as it's past my bedtime.. more to follow, when I get a moment!
Thursday, 4 September 2014
Play: King Charles III
I was dying to see King Charles III. I've always had a fascination with royalty. Anyway, I didn't get a chance during its sold-out run at the Almeida - but now it's switched to the West End, and a while ago I got my chance, and booked a ticket for tonight, at Wyndham's Theatre, with a Time Out offer (since expired) of a Band C (the cheapest) ticket for £12.50 instead of the normal £17. Some Band C seats have restricted view, but I decided to take a chance.
So off I went this evening. This is the theatre just to the left of Exit 1 of Leicester Square Tube station, and I turned left immediately upon exiting, to be faced with a large crowd and a frazzled doorman, telling people to enter by the middle door if they had their tickets, and the side door to collect them at the box office. I don't think he had an option for buying tickets - I think, based on what I saw inside, that they were sold out.
I had a printed confirmation of my purchase - handy for them at the box office, they were frazzled too. Turned out I was in the Grand Circle. Also turned out that's not the top level, which is the balcony. Cool! So I climbed the stairs - which became ever narrower - and took my seat, which I have to say was an excellent one - towards the centre, no obstruction to my view - apart from the very front of the stage being cut off. I had a look around, and this theatre has very good sightlines - hardly any seats have real obstructions, I think. There are no central columns - the only barriers to a perfect view might be the railing at the edge of the balcony - which would be a slight imposition - and perhaps the ceiling overhang, which might spoil the view from the very back few rows. Certainly, I was delighted with my position - and for £12.50, too. Not a person there spent less, unless they got the ticket as a present - but I had a better seat than many. Decent legroom too.
Right then. This play starts with the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. The stage is supposed to be the interior of a palace - but hardly Buckingham Palace; the bare stone walls are more reminiscent of the Tower. The cast troops on, all dressed in black - the predominant costume colour for most of the play. They're all holding burning church candles. And they're singing the Agnus Dei. A live chamber orchestra accompanies them from one of the boxes. Let me tell you, when they break into song - and they do, a few times - it's spine-tingling.
We soon recognise some familiar faces. Charles doesn't really look like his namesake, but it doesn't take long to recognise him, and by extension, Camilla. My gosh though, there's no problem recognising Kate, with her trademark glossy mane (a wig, I wonder?) and Harry, with his ginger mop. William looks reasonably the part, but is helped along by his costume in the opening scene, which is identical to one we've seen - white shirt inside dark sweater. Well done, the casting director! William should've been a bit balder, though. We even get the ghost of Diana, with her trademark sideways step and downwards gaze, creating havoc as usual.
Well, the story is as follows: Charles no sooner takes the throne than he's confronted with a bill, presented to him by the Prime Minister of the day, that, in all conscience, he can't sign. O dearie me! See, the bill can't come into force without his signature - although there's no constitution, this is all based on tradition. Consternation! Is the throne toothless? Can it have no influence at all? Should it have? As the play progresses, each member of the family must define his or her role. And some of their decisions are indeed shocking.
I won't give the story away, but the audience's reaction was interesting. One act of defiance by Charles saw a member of the audience, seated in the balcony, clap loudly. Another plot twist heard a gasp from the stalls - followed by everyone else laughing at the gasp. Oh, and it ends with a coronation. Closet royalist that I am, it brought a tear to the eye as they processed onstage in their coronation robes. Gorgeous.
I'm highly biased, but this is a stirring production, whatever your feelings on the monarchy. Well, unless your feelings include absolute disgust - but then, why would you go to this? :-) Booking until 29 November - and booking is highly advised; I didn't see any free seats.
Of course, it lets out at the same time as all the other local theatres - so the Tube was packed. Here's a top Tube trip - on a crowded platform, aim for either end of the platform. Most people congregate at the middle - very few at the ends. I went to the end of the platform that corresponded to the back of the train, and can testify that there were plenty of seats in the last two coaches. Makes a huge difference.
So! My friends arrive tomorrow. Frankly, we have more on the itinerary than we'll ever manage, but on the list for tomorrow are Notting Hill, the V&A, The Mall, the ICA bookshop, Trafalgar Square, and a ghost walk. Well, y'know, it's better to have fallback options than not! Tourist London, here we come..
So off I went this evening. This is the theatre just to the left of Exit 1 of Leicester Square Tube station, and I turned left immediately upon exiting, to be faced with a large crowd and a frazzled doorman, telling people to enter by the middle door if they had their tickets, and the side door to collect them at the box office. I don't think he had an option for buying tickets - I think, based on what I saw inside, that they were sold out.
I had a printed confirmation of my purchase - handy for them at the box office, they were frazzled too. Turned out I was in the Grand Circle. Also turned out that's not the top level, which is the balcony. Cool! So I climbed the stairs - which became ever narrower - and took my seat, which I have to say was an excellent one - towards the centre, no obstruction to my view - apart from the very front of the stage being cut off. I had a look around, and this theatre has very good sightlines - hardly any seats have real obstructions, I think. There are no central columns - the only barriers to a perfect view might be the railing at the edge of the balcony - which would be a slight imposition - and perhaps the ceiling overhang, which might spoil the view from the very back few rows. Certainly, I was delighted with my position - and for £12.50, too. Not a person there spent less, unless they got the ticket as a present - but I had a better seat than many. Decent legroom too.
Right then. This play starts with the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. The stage is supposed to be the interior of a palace - but hardly Buckingham Palace; the bare stone walls are more reminiscent of the Tower. The cast troops on, all dressed in black - the predominant costume colour for most of the play. They're all holding burning church candles. And they're singing the Agnus Dei. A live chamber orchestra accompanies them from one of the boxes. Let me tell you, when they break into song - and they do, a few times - it's spine-tingling.
We soon recognise some familiar faces. Charles doesn't really look like his namesake, but it doesn't take long to recognise him, and by extension, Camilla. My gosh though, there's no problem recognising Kate, with her trademark glossy mane (a wig, I wonder?) and Harry, with his ginger mop. William looks reasonably the part, but is helped along by his costume in the opening scene, which is identical to one we've seen - white shirt inside dark sweater. Well done, the casting director! William should've been a bit balder, though. We even get the ghost of Diana, with her trademark sideways step and downwards gaze, creating havoc as usual.
Well, the story is as follows: Charles no sooner takes the throne than he's confronted with a bill, presented to him by the Prime Minister of the day, that, in all conscience, he can't sign. O dearie me! See, the bill can't come into force without his signature - although there's no constitution, this is all based on tradition. Consternation! Is the throne toothless? Can it have no influence at all? Should it have? As the play progresses, each member of the family must define his or her role. And some of their decisions are indeed shocking.
I won't give the story away, but the audience's reaction was interesting. One act of defiance by Charles saw a member of the audience, seated in the balcony, clap loudly. Another plot twist heard a gasp from the stalls - followed by everyone else laughing at the gasp. Oh, and it ends with a coronation. Closet royalist that I am, it brought a tear to the eye as they processed onstage in their coronation robes. Gorgeous.
I'm highly biased, but this is a stirring production, whatever your feelings on the monarchy. Well, unless your feelings include absolute disgust - but then, why would you go to this? :-) Booking until 29 November - and booking is highly advised; I didn't see any free seats.
Of course, it lets out at the same time as all the other local theatres - so the Tube was packed. Here's a top Tube trip - on a crowded platform, aim for either end of the platform. Most people congregate at the middle - very few at the ends. I went to the end of the platform that corresponded to the back of the train, and can testify that there were plenty of seats in the last two coaches. Makes a huge difference.
So! My friends arrive tomorrow. Frankly, we have more on the itinerary than we'll ever manage, but on the list for tomorrow are Notting Hill, the V&A, The Mall, the ICA bookshop, Trafalgar Square, and a ghost walk. Well, y'know, it's better to have fallback options than not! Tourist London, here we come..
Film: The Grand Seduction
Yes, yes - I actually did go out last night- just haven't had a moment to write about it till now! This was pretty much my last chance to see The Grand Seduction - at 7.3, it was the highest rated film for yesterday, but as of tomorrow, the highly rated documentaries are back and it probably wouldn't have a look-in. Autumn is upon us, eh? Anyhow, the closest place it's showing is the Odeon Panton Street - it's not widely available. So I checked to see how many Odeon points I'd saved, and was delighted to discover I had enough to get me in for free. That's two free films in a row, then..
I arrived slightly after the scheduled start time, in the middle of an ad for A Walk Among the Tombstones. So I can't testify as to how that looks - I didn't see enough. Soon enough, we were into the main feature. I was slightly dubious about seeing this, following a pretty terrible review of it in Friday's Standard, which can be best summarised as "Brendan Gleeson has a most peculiar accent, and it just isn't funny". Unfortunate, given that it's a comedy.
Well, it just goes to show that comedy is subjective. I was hooked from the start. The story is set in a little Newfoundland fishing village, starved of work and desperate to attract a new factory to the area. One of the conditions is that they have a full-time doctor, and when they see a chance to attract a young doctor to the area, they jump at it, determined to make him fall in love with the place.
The humour is quite daft, the ploys they use are plain silly, and some of the plot points are too pat. But who cares - I thought it was hilarious, with a sweet, gentle humour and some gorgeous scenery. As for Brendan Gleeson's accent - not OTT for Canada, I would've thought, although I haven't been to Newfoundland (yet). And more to the point, it didn't stand out from the accent of his (Newfoundlander) co-star. Nuts to any bad reviews - go see.
Well, I barely have time to turn around before I'm off to King Charles III at Wyndham's Theatre tonight! You might recall, I got a cheap ticket for this from a Time Out offer, since expired. We shall see what they give me.. at least it's been a cheap week so far for me!
I arrived slightly after the scheduled start time, in the middle of an ad for A Walk Among the Tombstones. So I can't testify as to how that looks - I didn't see enough. Soon enough, we were into the main feature. I was slightly dubious about seeing this, following a pretty terrible review of it in Friday's Standard, which can be best summarised as "Brendan Gleeson has a most peculiar accent, and it just isn't funny". Unfortunate, given that it's a comedy.
Well, it just goes to show that comedy is subjective. I was hooked from the start. The story is set in a little Newfoundland fishing village, starved of work and desperate to attract a new factory to the area. One of the conditions is that they have a full-time doctor, and when they see a chance to attract a young doctor to the area, they jump at it, determined to make him fall in love with the place.
The humour is quite daft, the ploys they use are plain silly, and some of the plot points are too pat. But who cares - I thought it was hilarious, with a sweet, gentle humour and some gorgeous scenery. As for Brendan Gleeson's accent - not OTT for Canada, I would've thought, although I haven't been to Newfoundland (yet). And more to the point, it didn't stand out from the accent of his (Newfoundlander) co-star. Nuts to any bad reviews - go see.
Well, I barely have time to turn around before I'm off to King Charles III at Wyndham's Theatre tonight! You might recall, I got a cheap ticket for this from a Time Out offer, since expired. We shall see what they give me.. at least it's been a cheap week so far for me!
Tuesday, 2 September 2014
Film: The Hundred Foot Journey
Yep, happened again - it was lashing rain yesterday, and I couldn't be bothered heading out. Tonight, however, ShowFilmFirst played a blinder by actually letting me have a free film ticket! (As opposed to a ticket to a concert or a play.) Now, it's a long, long time since they managed to get an email to me in time for me to get a film ticket. I was doubtful it'd ever happen again. Indeed, they had a habit of not sending me the emails until the preview was already on and it was too late! Then they introduced a "premium" service (for a premium fee) for priority access to emails. Huh. Mind you, they had a customer satisfaction survey a while ago - maybe they listened..?
Anyway, they had a showing in the Vue Shepherds Bush, which was the closest to me, so I booked a ticket. And a lovely, sunny, warm day it was - such a contrast to yesterday. I walked from the office - you could get the Overground part of the way, but it's hardly worth it. Not on a warm, sunny day anyhow. I pretty much remembered the way, although it's quite a while since I walked up there. I showed my printed ticket at the barrier, he told me which screen it was in, and when I got there, I found that, although I was 15 minutes early, the screen was already pretty full. I ended up sitting in the front section - which was ok.
The film was The Hundred Foot Journey. It's a comedy, set in the south of France, where Helen Mirren owns a Michelin-starred restaurant and is appalled to find Om Puri and his family opening an Indian across the road! As the film progresses, however, both parties are to find how well the cultures combine.
It's terrific. Mainly, it's food porn - I was even inspired to cook afterwards, for the first time in years. And I'm not dead yet. The food is so lovingly shot.. the preparation is done with such care.. this film could yet make cooks of us all! The characters are engaging, and the story has a few really moving moments.
Mainly, it made me feel like an Indian - although that's not what I cooked in the end.
Well, tomorrow I might get to The Grand Seduction. We shall see - watch this space. For Thursday, as you might remember me saying, I got a cut-price ticket to King Charles III, through a Time Out offer - since expired. I've then got friends coming for the weekend - cue many touristy things! On Friday, we're thinking of a stroll around Notting Hill, then maybe the V&A, Trafalgar Square, and a ghost walk to finish off the day. More details to follow..
Anyway, they had a showing in the Vue Shepherds Bush, which was the closest to me, so I booked a ticket. And a lovely, sunny, warm day it was - such a contrast to yesterday. I walked from the office - you could get the Overground part of the way, but it's hardly worth it. Not on a warm, sunny day anyhow. I pretty much remembered the way, although it's quite a while since I walked up there. I showed my printed ticket at the barrier, he told me which screen it was in, and when I got there, I found that, although I was 15 minutes early, the screen was already pretty full. I ended up sitting in the front section - which was ok.
The film was The Hundred Foot Journey. It's a comedy, set in the south of France, where Helen Mirren owns a Michelin-starred restaurant and is appalled to find Om Puri and his family opening an Indian across the road! As the film progresses, however, both parties are to find how well the cultures combine.
It's terrific. Mainly, it's food porn - I was even inspired to cook afterwards, for the first time in years. And I'm not dead yet. The food is so lovingly shot.. the preparation is done with such care.. this film could yet make cooks of us all! The characters are engaging, and the story has a few really moving moments.
Mainly, it made me feel like an Indian - although that's not what I cooked in the end.
Well, tomorrow I might get to The Grand Seduction. We shall see - watch this space. For Thursday, as you might remember me saying, I got a cut-price ticket to King Charles III, through a Time Out offer - since expired. I've then got friends coming for the weekend - cue many touristy things! On Friday, we're thinking of a stroll around Notting Hill, then maybe the V&A, Trafalgar Square, and a ghost walk to finish off the day. More details to follow..
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