Is that the Cavern Club in Liverpool? Or another one.
To my knowledge there is only one Cavern Club and it is located in Liverpool.

http://www.hydrous.net/~twang/photos/liverpool/cavern%20club%20(Small).JPG

Thanks for that reply Philip.

Thanks for that reply Philip.
No problem

When the offer came up of the removal of the original London Bridge, the person or bodies behind the Amercan side of the deal thought it was Tower Bridge that was on offer, hence the deal being past through with out a hitch.

Also, to make shipment of the building blocks of the bridge easier, only the outside (viewing) parts of the bricks were sawn off and pieced together over in Arizona. The remaining blocks were discovered in Devon years later.
thanks for getting the story on this Philip.

thanks for getting the story on this Philip.
There are further details on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Bridge

There are further details on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Bridge
thanks, there is a lot of good information and history of the bridge.

thanks, there is a lot of good information and history of the bridge.
Well thats my lot for this morning, I am now to work breathing some London fresh air

Well thats my lot for this morning, I am now to work breathing some London fresh air
alrighty then. It was good seeing ya mate. 8)

Well thats my lot for this morning, I am now to work breathing some London fresh air


Urghh don't go down into the tubestations, the nasal passages get BLACK as coal  especially in Central London in the summer  :P :P


Actually I'd like to make that a question, why is there so much pollution down there?

Urghh don't go down into the tubestations, the nasal passages get BLACK as coal  especially in Central London in the summer  :P :P


Actually I'd like to make that a question, why is there so much pollution down there?
It probably has nowhere else to go ! Have you ever seen the mice in underground stations they are completely black too.

It probably has nowhere else to go ! Have you ever seen the mice in underground stations they are completely black too.

Aww I know, the poor tiny little things, my friend reckons they are a breed modified over the years and specific to the tubestations, as normal mice wouldn't last 2 minutes in there, their lungs must be shot with all that toxic rubbish they're breathing in. Yeah I suppose the ancient systems don't have adequate ventilation, yet the Victorians were supposedly expert engineers??
it's awful down there in the Summer isn't it.

Aww I know, the poor tiny little things, my friend reckons they are a breed modified over the years and specific to the tubestations, as normal mice wouldn't last 2 minutes in there, their lungs must be shot with all that toxic rubbish they're breathing in. Yeah I suppose the ancient systems don't have adequate ventilation, yet the Victorians were supposedly expert engineers??
it's awful down there in the Summer isn't it.
I know horrible, one day last summer our tube train was delayed for ages, because it was so hot and packed full of people three people passed out.  :-\\

Urghh don't go down into the tubestations, the nasal passages get BLACK as coal  especially in Central London in the summer  :P :P


Actually I'd like to make that a question, why is there so much pollution down there?
Flatulence from the mice?

It probably has nowhere else to go ! Have you ever seen the mice in underground stations they are completely black too.
I have seen mice scampering around, but I think traps are laid out now.

Aww I know, the poor tiny little things, my friend reckons they are a breed modified over the years and specific to the tubestations, as normal mice wouldn't last 2 minutes in there, their lungs must be shot with all that toxic rubbish they're breathing in. Yeah I suppose the ancient systems don't have adequate ventilation, yet the Victorians were supposedly expert engineers??
it's awful down there in the Summer isn't it.
Maybe the mice down there are a Victorian breed of mice, than the modern streetwise mouse?

I know horrible, one day last summer our tube train was delayed for ages, because it was so hot and packed full of people three people passed out.  :-\\
If you can take the Bus on warm days.

What are some of the best restaurants in London?

Maybe the mice down there are a Victorian breed of mice, than the modern streetwise mouse?



:D :D  er okay

Will you be willing to sponsor an American girl's trip to London? lol  ;)

Will you be willing to sponsor an American girl's trip to London? lol  ;)
My access for extra money is rather limited.

If you can take the Bus on warm days.
So about the double decker buses, would you recommend being seated in the lower half  or on the upper deck and why?  8)

So about the double decker buses, would you recommend being seated in the lower half  or on the upper deck and why?  8)


Upstairs.  The view is better

Upstairs.  The view is better
If I were to take a vacation to your country, I'm gonna rely on you all for tips. thanks. I was watching The Mummy Returns tonight and they were in a double decker bus and it made me wonder if they still use them.

If I were to take a vacation to your country, I'm gonna rely on you all for tips. thanks. I was watching The Mummy Returns tonight and they were in a double decker bus and it made me wonder if they still use them.


The ones you saw in the film were probably Routemasters.  These are being phased out but there is a replacement double decker in use.

modified to add.  Pictures: first the old style, and then the new.

My access for extra money is rather limited.


Yes, it was promised to me remember?

The ones you saw in the film were probably Routemasters.  These are being phased out but there is a replacement double decker in use.

modified to add.  Pictures: first the old style, and then the new.



As a kid it was considered cool (and the only place) to sit in the back seat, you know the couch seat at the top of the stairs.
Godd we used to have some fantastic times and laughs going to school etc on the bus   ;D ;D


http://www.routemaster.org.uk/association_files/rmnwthum.jpg

So about the double decker buses, would you recommend being seated in the lower half  or on the upper deck and why?  8)
Depends on the situation, if carrying shopping or with children in arms, then downstairs. Upstairs is for tourists.

Upstairs.  The view is better
I agree.

The ones you saw in the film were probably Routemasters.  These are being phased out but there is a replacement double decker in use.

modified to add.  Pictures: first the old style, and then the new.

The number 9 route is still a Routemaster.

http://www.routemaster.org.uk/icons/bellmed.gif
DING DING

http://www.routemaster.org.uk/icons/bellmed.gif
DING DING
Hold tight please, no standing on top!

The number 9 route is still a Routemaster.
number 9,  number 9, number 9,  number 9, number 9,  number 9, number 9,  number 9,

number 9,   number 9, number 9,   number 9, number 9,   number 9, number 9,   number 9,
Which brings us back to Abbey Road.

Which brings us back to Abbey Road.
Not that the number 9 bus will take you there for it's route is Hammersmith to Aldwych, and back.

Not that the number 9 bus will take you there for it's route is Hammersmith to Aldwych, and back.


Philip is this the only route now served by the old Routemaster? since they took most of them out of service.  :( :(
I felt sure there is also a route in sarf' London that still uses this style of bus?

Philip is this the only route now served by the old Routemaster? since they took most of them out of service.  :( :(
I felt sure there is also a route in sarf' London that still uses this style of bus?
I had a feeling it was the only one left.

Who is going to ask me about the Sultan's Elephant?

Philip will you tell us about the Sultans Elephant?  ;D

My attachment is to big, let me try again.

The Sultan's Elephant is story protrayed in live street entertainment in central London.

They had a special here on Public Broadcasting called "1940 House".  In it a family in England had to live for six weeks as they would have had to in 1940.  Very interesting, did it show over there?  Do the older ones ever talk about what it was like during the blitz and rationing?  It was much different over here during WWII since we did enter it so late, and other than Pearl Harbor, we didn't have to deal with getting bombed and stuff.  The only first person experience was with the soldiers, and most, like my father, never talked about it.

They had a special here on Public Broadcasting called "1940 House".  In it a family in England had to live for six weeks as they would have had to in 1940.  Very interesting, did it show over there?  Do the older ones ever talk about what it was like during the blitz and rationing?  It was much different over here during WWII since we did enter it so late, and other than Pearl Harbor, we didn't have to deal with getting bombed and stuff.  The only first person experience was with the soldiers, and most, like my father, never talked about it.
The programme 1940 House was shown over here and was repeated on TV over Easter for I remember watching some of it then. The older ones (parents) were of my age or younger did experience WW2 first hand.

One reason for the lack of bombings in the USA was the distance, USA is simply to far for the planes to travel.

They had a special here on Public Broadcasting called "1940 House".  In it a family in England had to live for six weeks as they would have had to in 1940.  Very interesting, did it show over there?  Do the older ones ever talk about what it was like during the blitz and rationing?  It was much different over here during WWII since we did enter it so late, and other than Pearl Harbor, we didn't have to deal with getting bombed and stuff.  The only first person experience was with the soldiers, and most, like my father, never talked about it.
Details found on http://www.channel4.com/history/microsites/0-9/1940house/

.

One reason for the lack of bombings in the USA was the distance, USA is simply to far for the planes to travel.



Well yes, I know that.  But I wonder if there are visible signs of the blitz still in London, and if, maybe when you
were young you saw some reminders of it, or remember older people who would talk about it at all.

Well yes, I know that.  But I wonder if there are visible signs of the blitz still in London, and if, maybe when you
were young you saw some reminders of it, or remember older people who would talk about it at all.
My Dad's family are from Kent and they saw quite alot of bomb action. My Grandad was an Air Raid Warden in London. My Dad can remember rationing and things like planes coming down and having to get up in the night to get into the air raid shelter, he was 10 when the war ended.My Nan talked about it if you asked her.
My friend's Nan was from a tiny, remote village in Oxfordshire.She told this story of when an American bomber crash landed near her home.All the villagers went to watch and as it turned out it was one of the all coloured American squadrons. She said they all ran screaming into thier houses because they thought they were aliens as they had never seen a black man before ! You just can't imagine that can you ?   

Well yes, I know that.  But I wonder if there are visible signs of the blitz still in London, and if, maybe when you
were young you saw some reminders of it, or remember older people who would talk about it at all.


Yes, growing up, my Father played in the bomb sites, he said they would go and find the electric meters etc and break them open to retrieve the coins inside.

As a youngster there were still bomb sites in our part of London but almost none. Mainly just houses that had been destroyed and never rebuilt, the rubble had gone quite a few years before hand but it was still odd to have a row of 40 or so houses and then a space and then 40 more on the other side of it.

Well yes, I know that.  But I wonder if there are visible signs of the blitz still in London, and if, maybe when you
were young you saw some reminders of it, or remember older people who would talk about it at all.
My mother lived through WW2, and still recounts stories of the time. I remember whole vasts of land awaiting redevelopement when younger. But for now, London has every piece of land covered.

My Dad's family are from Kent and they saw quite alot of bomb action. My Grandad was an Air Raid Warden in London. My Dad can remember rationing and things like planes coming down and having to get up in the night to get into the air raid shelter, he was 10 when the war ended.My Nan talked about it if you asked her.
My friend's Nan was from a tiny, remote village in Oxfordshire.She told this story of when an American bomber crash landed near her home.All the villagers went to watch and as it turned out it was one of the all coloured American squadrons. She said they all ran screaming into thier houses because they thought they were aliens as they had never seen a black man before ! You just can't imagine that can you ?     
A pleasant little story.

They had a special here on Public Broadcasting called "1940 House".  In it a family in England had to live for six weeks as they would have had to in 1940.  Very interesting, did it show over there?  Do the older ones ever talk about what it was like during the blitz and rationing?  It was much different over here during WWII since we did enter it so late, and other than Pearl Harbor, we didn't have to deal with getting bombed and stuff.  The only first person experience was with the soldiers, and most, like my father, never talked about it.



Yes, growing up, my Father played in the bomb sites, he said they would go and find the electric meters etc and break them open to retrieve the coins inside.

As a youngster there were still bomb sites in our part of London but almost none. Mainly just houses that had been destroyed and never rebuilt, the rubble had gone quite a few years before hand but it was still odd to have a row of 40 or so houses and then a space and then 40 more on the other side of it.


If you see some of the Ealing Films from the 50s, like Hue and Cry and The Lavender Hill Mob, the bombed parts of the City of London are visable.

My grandmother was a German Jewish refugee on the kindertransport, she left for London from Berlin when she was 16 in 1939. Her father was a piano store owner and social worker, and then later a masseuse in this country. She at first was taken in by a rich family who wanted to use her as their maid, then ended up staying with a working-class family who treated her well. She worked scrubbing floors at an insane asylum for servicemen, and I think somehow got educated in her spare time. She ended up with a scholarship to Sarah Lawrence College, moved to the Bronx (New York City), and then became one of the first women to graduate from Columbia...I know she stayed in the subways during the blitz.

My grandmother was a German Jewish refugee on the kindertransport, she left for London from Berlin when she was 16 in 1939. Her father was a piano store owner and social worker, and then later a masseuse in this country. She at first was taken in by a rich family who wanted to use her as their maid, then ended up staying with a working-class family who treated her well. She worked scrubbing floors at an insane asylum for servicemen, and I think somehow got educated in her spare time. She ended up with a scholarship to Sarah Lawrence College, moved to the Bronx (New York City), and then became one of the first women to graduate from Columbia...I know she stayed in the subways during the blitz.


Now that is the story of America!  :)

My friend's Nan was from a tiny, remote village in Oxfordshire.She told this story of when an American bomber crash landed near her home.All the villagers went to watch and as it turned out it was one of the all coloured American squadrons. She said they all ran screaming into thier houses because they thought they were aliens as they had never seen a black man before ! You just can't imagine that can you ? 
 


My father said when he was stationed in the Netherlands during the war that they had women coming out of the woodwork.  They had never seen black men before, and my Dad and a couple of his mates were soooo good looking!  He wouldn't go to far into the story, but I got the feeling they had quite a good time.  My father was Creole from Louisiana and spoke French, in France his buddies used him as a translator. 

Now that is the story of America!   :)
My father said when he was stationed in the Netherlands during the war that they had women coming out of the woodwork.  They had never seen black men before, and my Dad and a couple of his mates were soooo good looking!  He wouldn't go to far into the story, but I got the feeling they had quite a good time.  My father was Creole from Louisiana and spoke French, in France his buddies used him as a translator. 


Columbia Law School, minor correction. My family has very classic "American" type stories to it. My other grandmother's father was born dirt poor outside Vilnius in Lithuania, a charity case, came to the Lower East Side in the early 1900s to work at a hat factory, went to high school at night, and became a respected general practitioner who had the first car on his street and lived in a fancy Bronx apartment.

Columbia Law School, minor correction. My family has very classic "American" type stories to it. My other grandmother's father was born dirt poor outside Vilnius in Lithuania, a charity case, came to the Lower East Side in the early 1900s to work at a hat factory, went to high school at night, and became a respected general practitioner who had the first car on his street and lived in a fancy Bronx apartment.


Have you ever been to the Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side.  It is fantastic, and gives insight into what life was life for immigrants who came to New York.  I would highly recommend it to everyone.
www.tenement.org

oops, sorry to hijack the thread, now back to London,

My mother lived through WW2, and still recounts stories of the time. I remember whole vasts of land awaiting redevelopement when younger. But for now, London has every piece of land covered.


Yes, even in Brixton it seems odd that everything is being covered.

Of course, to me it just seems odd that anybody would pay to live in Brixton  ;D

Have you ever been to the Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side.  It is fantastic, and gives insight into what life was life for immigrants who came to New York.  I would highly recommend it to everyone.
www.tenement.org

oops, sorry to hijack the thread, now back to London,


I actually went once. It's pretty startling for me to think my great-grandparents grew up like that or worse, and that the old country was so bad that they stuck around.

what are some traditional London food items from the pubs and restaurants or homemade that you don't find anywhere else.  8)

Have you ever been to the Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side.  It is fantastic, and gives insight into what life was life for immigrants who came to New York.  I would highly recommend it to everyone.
www.tenement.org

oops, sorry to hijack the thread, now back to London,
No problem

what are some traditional London food items from the pubs and restaurants or homemade that you don't find anywhere else.  8)
Most pubs now serve food, usaully a good range for a healthy choice. Though in the past you would expect Ploughman's Lunch, cheese, salad and a roll.

http://www.capergreen.com/new_food_pix_greenwich/Ploughmans%20LR.jpg

Most pubs now serve food, usaully a good range for a healthy choice. Though in the past you would expect Ploughman's Lunch, cheese, salad and a roll.

http://www.capergreen.com/new_food_pix_greenwich/Ploughmans%20LR.jpg


that looks pretty substantial, maybe throw a banger in there  ;D  to fill in the gaps

that looks pretty substantial, maybe throw a banger in there  ;D  to fill in the gaps
It was only there to break the fast before the meal at the day.

I saw somewhere on the internet about this London dish that is like a pie and the filling contains eel???  :o  Do you  know what I'm talking about?

I saw somewhere on the internet about this London dish that is like a pie and the filling contains eel???  :o  Do you  know what I'm talking about?
it is a east London thing, serve with mash and liqour.

I am still search for the recipe of the liqour.

it is a east London thing, serve with mash and liqour.

I am still search for the recipe of the liqour.
and do you also like steak and kidney pie or is that also an east thing

and do you also like steak and kidney pie or is that also an east thing
Yeap the same.

Without checking, liquor contains like a parsley sauce.

Yeap the same.

Without checking, liquor contains like a parsley sauce.
that sounds good to me. If I ever visit, i want to try it all  ;D

and do you also like steak and kidney pie or is that also an east thing


My local butcher makes a lovely steak and kidney pie.  I recommend you try one

If you like kidney  :P
I prefer steak and mushroom or steak and ale !

If you like kidney  :P
I prefer steak and mushroom or steak and ale !

The kidney is the best bit!

My local butcher makes a lovely steak and kidney pie.  I recommend you try one
I would love to and i will as a minor goal in my life  :)


If you like kidney  :P
I prefer steak and mushroom or steak and ale !
that sounds good too. I think if I ever plan a trip, you all can help with itinenary and daily menu  8)

My local butcher makes a lovely steak and kidney pie.  I recommend you try one
You are making me hungry now!

I would love to and i will as a minor goal in my life  :)
that sounds good too. I think if I ever plan a trip, you all can help with itinenary and daily menu  8)


Eat as much Indian food as possible, it's amazing. Avoid some of the Italian food.

Eat as much Indian food as possible, it's amazing. Avoid some of the Italian food.
I tend to avoid Indian Food, but do enjoy Italian amd chiese.

Are we just taking Fish and chips for granted because everyone knows about them ?? I mean you can't get more British than a good fish and chip supper, with mushy peas and a mug of tea MMMMMMmmmmmmmm.  :)

What is that poem about the different church bells of London?

What is that poem about the different church bells of London?

That would be the Nursery Rhyme Oranges and Lemons

Oranges and lemons
Say the bells of St Clements
You owe me five farthings
Say the bells of St Martins
When will you pay me?
Say the bells of Old Bailey
When I grow rich
Say the bells of Shoreditch
When will that be?
Say the bells of Stepney
I'm sure I don't know
Says the great bell at Bow
Here comes a candle to light you to bed
Here comes a chopper to chop off your head

Chop chop chop chop the last man's head!

^ Thanks for posting that rhyme, I'd forgotten all about it and used to sing it as a kid.



Philip is it true that technically you are not classed as a true Cockney, if you were not born within hearing distance of the Bow Bell in the old City of London??

What are some of the best restaurants in London?


Looks up^^^^^

Looks up^^^^^

There are some fantastic restaurants in the Capital including The Ivy, Langans etc Philip can fill you in.

Me and a friend once went to The Ritz on Piccadilly for afternoon tea. I swear to God it was sooo posh and they sat us right in the middle of everyone, we were so embarrassed we couldn't stop laughing. Everyone was sipping tea from dainty fine bone china cups with their little fingers cocked, all the while nibbling at delicious sandwiches and fancy cakes while a 20's style Band played.

There are some fantastic restaurants in the Capital including The Ivy, Langans etc Philip can fill you in.

Me and a friend once went to The Ritz on Piccadilly for afternoon tea. I swear to God it was sooo posh and they sat us right in the middle of everyone, we were so embarrassed we couldn't stop laughing. Everyone was sipping tea from dainty fine bone china cups with their little fingers cocked, all the while nibbling at delicious sandwiches and fancy cakes while a 20's style Band played.


Thank you, I guess he missed it the first time(this has happened in two threads so far).

^ Thanks for posting that rhyme, I'd forgotten all about it and used to sing it as a kid.



Philip is it true that technically you are not classed as a true Cockney, if you were not born within hearing distance of the Bow Bell in the old City of London??
That is the true definition of a Cockney.

There are some fantastic restaurants in the Capital including The Ivy, Langans etc Philip can fill you in.

Me and a friend once went to The Ritz on Piccadilly for afternoon tea. I swear to God it was sooo posh and they sat us right in the middle of everyone, we were so embarrassed we couldn't stop laughing. Everyone was sipping tea from dainty fine bone china cups with their little fingers cocked, all the while nibbling at delicious sandwiches and fancy cakes while a 20's style Band played.
The Ivy is where the Celeb go to, along with Joe Allens'. I just go to the run-of-the-mill restaurants.

What are some of the best restaurants in London?



Thank you, I guess he missed it the first time(this has happened in two threads so far).


Aha I see now  :D 

Philip, can you tell us about any notable restaurants in the Capital please, some of the so called celeb chefs own quite a few now, like Marco Pierre White et al.

Philip, can you tell us about any notable restaurants in the Capital please, some of the so called celeb chefs own quite a few now, like Marco Pierre White et al.
Brian Turner owns a few nationwide chain of restaurants, but has a restaurants at the Millennium Hotel in Grosvenor Square and Turner's Grill at the
Copthorne Hotel in Slough.

Gordon Ramsay is based at Claridges.

Anthony Worrall Thompson has four restaurants around the south of England, but in London has the Notting Grill, in Notting Hill.

At the last count Ainsley Harriet does not have a restaurant.

More later.

Eat as much Indian food as possible, it's amazing. Avoid some of the Italian food.
I'm not a big fan of Indian food, but at a couple of parties, thats what was catered and as you said, it was amazing. I even finished what my wife didn't eat  ;D


Are we just taking Fish and chips for granted because everyone knows about them ?? I mean you can't get more British than a good fish and chip supper, with mushy peas and a mug of tea MMMMMMmmmmmmmm.  :)
I would eat fish and chips everyday until my doctor warns me not to. Then I'd get a new doctor.

so should fish and chips be eaten with splashes of malt vinegar?

I would eat fish and chips everyday until my doctor warns me not to. Then I'd get a new doctor.

so should fish and chips be eaten with splashes of malt vinegar?


For me it is lightly dashed with vinegar, but has anyone tried mayonaisse.

so should fish and chips be eaten with splashes of malt vinegar?


Yessum Mike, but I drench mine in vinegar and too much salt, mushy peas are always good too, crikey I'm getting hungry now.  


For me it is lightly dashed with vinegar, but has anyone tried mayonaisse.


Sometimes lemon juice is nice too, and yes I love mayo on the chips.

Over here it is standard to have fish and chips(we call them french fries) with ketchup or tarter sauce,  I prefer the fish with malt vinegar or lemon and salt, and the fries with ketchup. :)

Yessum Mike, but I drench mine in vinegar and too much salt, mushy peas are always good too, crikey I'm getting hungry now.  

Sometimes lemon juice is nice too, and yes I love mayo on the chips.
I like it the way you do, but no mayo. i like mayo on sandwiches, but I prefer it made as a tartar sauce with my fish and chips and ketchup for the chips/fries.. This topic does make one hungry  8)

I like it the way you do, but no mayo. i like mayo on sandwiches, but I prefer it made as a tartar sauce with my fish and chips and ketchup for the chips/fries.. This topic does make one hungry  8)


'Does make one hungry?'    ;D  you sound like a lardy-dah Brit  :)

'Does make one hungry?'     ;D  you sound like a lardy-dah Brit   :)
do i sound like one?  I do not aspire to be one  :)  i think she just called me a fat ass brit wannabe  ;D  ;D

do i sound like one?  I do not aspire to be one  :)  i think she just called me a fat ass brit wannabe  ;D  ;D


When, and if you ever come to the UK, we should go to Harry Ramsdens who makes delicious fish and chipples  ;D

You can't get a lard arse if you play all that basketball.

When, and if you ever come to the UK, we should go to Harry Ramsdens who makes delicious fish and chipples   ;D

You can't get a lard arse if you play all that basketball.
I will come to the UK and we're definitely going there for fish and Chipples (I hope thats just a fried potatos)  and thank you in that I ain't a lard-arse  ;D  ;D. I played 2 games last night and went a perfect 9 for 9 at the plate. speaking of plates, all this talk of fish made me want some and unfortunately it's frozen but they are whole filets and they're in the oven gettin nice and crispy.

All this talk about food is making me hungry.

All this talk about food is making me hungry.
perhaps eat fish on Friday?

perhaps eat fish on Friday?
I am eating fish this friday ! I plan to have Fishfingers and chips for my tea tonight. Yum  :)

As to the vinegar/ mayo thing. Yes it has to be malt vinegar and I to like mayo on chips once in a while, but then I am a quarter Dutch and they started that whole idea so I figure that's where I get the liking.
99% of the time it has to be ketchup and only Heinz will do !! 

Philip have you noticed how all us other Brits keep hijacking your thread when it's about food.  ;D

When they recently retired all of the remaining "Routemaster" double-decker buses, was that just the older ones that were 'rounded' ?

Or have all double deckers disappeared ? (which would be a crying shame)  :(

When they recently retired all of the remaining "Routemaster" double-decker buses, was that just the older ones that were 'rounded' ?

Or have all double deckers disappeared ? (which would be a crying shame)  :(


Someone else asked a simlar question.  I don't live in London so I don't know if all the Routemasters have gone.  They have been replaced with a new design of double decker though.

Are all Londoners either hoodies or snobs?  ;)

Are all Londoners either hoodies or snobs?  ;)
Hoodies ??

Someone else asked a simlar question.  I don't live in London so I don't know if all the Routemasters have gone.  They have been replaced with a new design of double decker though.




There was an article on our news about how the last one had been withdrawn from regular service, but some had been retained for "special services and occasions".

Thanks Gis, the rest answered my question  :)

Thanks Gis, the rest answered my question  :)


Gis?  I know we are both female and from the UK but surely you've learned to tell us apart by now?

Gis?  I know we are both female and from the UK but surely you've learned to tell us apart by now?
I should think so too !
Maybe being online at such an unusual time has addled his brain.  ;D

I am eating fish this friday ! I plan to have Fishfingers and chips for my tea tonight. Yum  :)

As to the vinegar/ mayo thing. Yes it has to be malt vinegar and I to like mayo on chips once in a while, but then I am a quarter Dutch and they started that whole idea so I figure that's where I get the liking.
99% of the time it has to be ketchup and only Heinz will do !! 
I'm sure you Brits get the best fish and chips available and I'm jealous. the mayo thing is definitely frowned upon here in the states, yet tartar sauce is made with mayo and we love that on our fish. and ketchup (heinz) is what we keep here in my house is also the preferred brand. We should get a free bottle for the advertisement. Enjoy your fish today Gis.


Philip have you noticed how all us other Brits keep hijacking your thread when it's about food.  ;D
I'm sure he doesn't mind and you're all from the London area and Philip is so easy going. I like hearing about the different experiences from different people there.

sure he doesn't mind and you're all from the London area and Philip is so easy going. I like hearing about the different experiences from different people there.


I'm not from London.  I've only been there two or three times.  Although in terms of American distances I probably live quite close to the capital, it's only 100 miles or so

perhaps eat fish on Friday?
So it is Friday.

Philip have you noticed how all us other Brits keep hijacking your thread when it's about food.  ;D
I do not mind one little bit, I enjoy food.

When they recently retired all of the remaining "Routemaster" double-decker buses, was that just the older ones that were 'rounded' ?

Or have all double deckers disappeared ? (which would be a crying shame)  :(
Good question, I don't know?

Someone else asked a simlar question.  I don't live in London so I don't know if all the Routemasters have gone.  They have been replaced with a new design of double decker though.


...and bendi-buses.

Are all Londoners either hoodies or snobs?  ;)
Not all of them, I am neither. Hoodie is a young thing, snobs are in certain areas.

I'm not from London.  I've only been there two or three times.  Although in terms of American distances I probably live quite close to the capital, it's only 100 miles or so
In return, I have never been to Leicestershire,

I'm not from London.  I've only been there two or three times.  Although in terms of American distances I probably live quite close to the capital, it's only 100 miles or so
Karen, I thought since the thread said ask anything about London, that you were from there also. I almost forgot that England is more than just London. The more I talk with all of you, the more i want to take a trip there.

Not all of them, I am neither. Hoodie is a young thing, snobs are in certain areas.


I haven't seen many hoodie wearers in the square mile  ;D ;D

Not all of them, I am neither. Hoodie is a young thing, snobs are in certain areas.


I agree, you aren't. ;)

Have you taken the Chunnel?

Have you taken the Chunnel?
Channel Tunnel, yes.

Your favourite London landmark/landmark that is most special to you?

Your favourite London landmark/landmark that is most special to you?
For me it is Lord's Cricket Ground. For modern London I am fond of the London Eye, and for historical London it must be St Paul's Cathedral.

For me it is Lord's Cricket Ground. For modern London I am fond of the London Eye, and for historical London it must be St Paul's Cathedral.
I guess Hampton Court wouldn't really count as it is the outskirts of London, but what about Big Ben or the Tower?

Where is the burial place for the beautiful and dearly missed Lady Di ?

I guess Hampton Court wouldn't really count as it is the outskirts of London, but what about Big Ben or the Tower?
For me, all that is within the M25 is London, but in truth it is in Surrey.

Most of the building in London interest me, but St Paul's stands out the most.

Where is the burial place for the beautiful and dearly missed Lady Di ?
Her burial place is on an island at Althorpe House in Northamptonshire, open to the public only for a select number of days.

Her burial place is on an island at Althorpe House in Northamptonshire, open to the public only for a select number of days.
If and when i come to the UK for a vacation/trip I want to visit her memorial.  :(

What's your favorite London museum? I really enjoyed the National Gallery.

Is "bangers and mash" really as gross as it sounds? 

Is "bangers and mash" really as gross as it sounds? 


Bangers and Mash is just sausages and mashed potatoes. I personally don't find sausages disgusting, but if you told me just exactly what they put in them I would. 

What's your favorite London museum? I really enjoyed the National Gallery.
I like the South Kensington museum complex that contain The Science, Geologicial, Natural History and the Victoria & Albert, for if bored with one there is another close by.

Is "bangers and mash" really as gross as it sounds? 
No, the meal is delicious.

What type/flavor and brand of tea is your preference

What type/flavor and brand of tea is your preference
Any tea that has a pleasant taste, Earl Grey and some herbals.

Any tea that has a pleasant taste, Earl Grey and some herbals.
I like Earl Grey, and have taking a liking to green tea, but usually stick with plain old Lipton tea. There is a brand called Tetley that claims to be English

There is a brand called Tetley that claims to be English
Yes.

Is Devonshire cream good?  I know that sometimes you put it on scones when you're having tea.

Is Devonshire cream good?  I know that sometimes you put it on scones when you're having tea.
Having not had it for somewhile, I remember it being delicious,

Having not had it for somewhile, I remember it being delicious,


Is Devonshire Cream the same as clotted cream?  If it is I remember having it and the thought of it
makes my mouth water.  It is another reason for visiting. 

Is Devonshire Cream the same as clotted cream?  If it is I remember having it and the thought of it
makes my mouth water.  It is another reason for visiting. 
Devonshire Cream is a clotted cream, but I would like to put it to the test.

I like Earl Grey, and have taking a liking to green tea, but usually stick with plain old Lipton tea. There is a brand called Tetley that claims to be English
Lipton's is the tea of the devil ! It's horrible, and the only tea you get in America. I resorted to taking my own teabags with me the last two times I visited America, I know how terribly British ! ;D

Is Devonshire cream good?  I know that sometimes you put it on scones when you're having tea.
You really cannot beat a good cream tea. MMMMMMmmmmmmm  :)

Lipton's is the tea of the devil ! It's horrible, and the only tea you get in America. I resorted to taking my own teabags with me the last two times I visited America, I know how terribly British ! ;D



Where do you visit when you come over?  We have aisles of tea for every taste. 

Where do you visit when you come over?  We have aisles of tea for every taste. 
Last two times was Florida. It does seem to be the only tea you get in restaurants though........... Actually to be fair it is about 5 or 6 years since I was last there so I guess tea drinking could have changed beyond all recognition!

Last two times was Florida. It does seem to be the only tea you get in restaurants though........... Actually to be fair it is about 5 or 6 years since I was last there so I guess tea drinking could have changed beyond all recognition!


No, Florida explains it.  It's not so much the USA as where you are in the USA  ;)

No, Florida explains it.  It's not so much the USA as where you are in the USA  ;)
Ahh, fair enough. Weird though considering the amount of Europeans who visit Disney !

Lipton's is the tea of the devil ! It's horrible, and the only tea you get in America. I resorted to taking my own teabags with me the last two times I visited America, I know how terribly British ! ;D

I have never drank tea in the US.

I have never drank tea in the US.
If it's Liptons you ain't missing a thing !!  ;D

I hear due to Global Warming, 'white Christmases' are getting to be a really rare event in London. Do you miss them?

I hear due to Global Warming, 'white Christmases' are getting to be a really rare event in London. Do you miss them?
We do have snow other times of the year, but it is very rare to fall at Christmas.

Philip, did you or any of our other English members see the special interview with both of the young Princes, William and Harry?  8)

Philip, did you or any of our other English members see the special interview with both of the young Princes, William and Harry?   8)
I made a special point in not watching it, but have seen clips on TV.

I made a special point in not watching it, but have seen clips on TV.
I was fairly impressed at the fun personalities of the boys. I take it you are not a fan of the royals or the show just not your cup of tea?

I was fairly impressed at the fun personalities of the boys. I take it you are not a fan of the royals or the show just not your cup of tea?
You could say that.

You could say that.
"Long ago, life was clean, sex was bad, not obscene, and the rich were so mean, stately homes, for the lords. Croquet lawns, village greens, Victoria, was my Queen, Victoria, Victoria, Victoria, 'toria.  lyric from my favorite song by The Kinks  Victoria do you know if they were from Liverpool or London or where?

"Long ago, life was clean, sex was bad, not obscene, and the rich were so mean, stately homes, for the lords. Croquet lawns, village greens, Victoria, was my Queen, Victoria, Victoria, Victoria, 'toria.   lyric from my favorite song by The Kinks  Victoria do you know if they were from Liverpool or London or where?
The Kinks came from the Crouch End and Muswell Hill area of North London.

The Kinks came from the Crouch End and Muswell Hill area of North London.
not too far from where you are?  I enjoy them immensely. 
excerpt below taken from ray davies speech as the band was inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame
Having gone from British Invasion hitmakers to late Sixties cult heroes to bonafide arena-filling rock stars in the Seventies and Eighties, the Kinks are, it would seem, cult heroes again for the time being - a position that their bright and sometimes discomfited leader no doubt savors. On the eve of their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, Ray Davies had this to say: "The Kinks have always been outsiders. I'm an outsider. To be accepted is unique for us. I'm pleased for the people who believed in me all along. It's nice for them to know that their faith wasn't misplaced." To quote a slogan popular with those who love the band, "God Save the Kinks."

not too far from where you are?  I enjoy them immensely. 
excerpt below taken from ray davies speech as the band was inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame
Having gone from British Invasion hitmakers to late Sixties cult heroes to bonafide arena-filling rock stars in the Seventies and Eighties, the Kinks are, it would seem, cult heroes again for the time being - a position that their bright and sometimes discomfited leader no doubt savors. On the eve of their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, Ray Davies had this to say: "The Kinks have always been outsiders. I'm an outsider. To be accepted is unique for us. I'm pleased for the people who believed in me all along. It's nice for them to know that their faith wasn't misplaced." To quote a slogan popular with those who love the band, "God Save the Kinks."
Around ten miles, and is best describe as up hill.

The Kinks came from the Crouch End and Muswell Hill area of North London.


Muswell Hillbilly
Kinks


Cos I'm a Muswell Hillbilly boy,
But my heart lies in old West Virginia,
Never seen New Orleans, Oklahoma, Tennessee,
Still I dream of the Black Hills that I ain't never seen.

Which is the fashion capital of the English speaking world: London or New York (or another city)?

Which is the fashion capital of the English speaking world: London or New York (or another city)?
London seems to be the fashion capital for every new season there is always a London Fashion Week, and the designers for the USA come over in their flocks to capture the market over here.

London seems to be the fashion capital for every new season there is always a London Fashion Week, and the designers for the USA come over in their flocks to capture the market over here.


What is the socio-economic profile of your neighbourhood?

Will we ever find out the what happened to the 7th Earl of Lucan?  Did anyone inherit his title?

What is the socio-economic profile of your neighbourhood?
There is no real industry to my area, it is mainly residental, of the expensive household kind (few celebs too). The ethnicity is multi-racial, you name the race, there is someone here. I hope I answered your question to the fill, if not please ask again.

Will we ever find out the what happened to the 7th Earl of Lucan?  Did anyone inherit his title?

After the events of the murder of the nanny in 1974, Richard John Bingham, 7th Earl of Lucan disappeared. Now he is legally dead, but his whereabouts still unknown, and his son and heir George Charles Bingham, has the title Lord Bingham and has taken over his father's estate.

Philip, did you or any of our other English members see the special interview with both of the young Princes, William and Harry?   8)


I'm guessing you are referring to the one hosted by Ant and Dec?

I think it's just a media circus thing to show that the Royals are not a bunch of stuck up sods . . . but they are.

Am I a monarchist? As you can probably tell from my above answer no - and there aren't many about in England under the age of 60 either.  ;D

After the events of the murder of the nanny in 1974, Richard John Bingham, 7th Earl of Lucan disappeared. Now he is legally dead, but his whereabouts still unknown, and his son and heir George Charles Bingham, has the title Lord Bingham and has taken over his father's estate.


Not to be confused with another Lord Bingham who is a senior 'Law Lord'...

There is no real industry to my area, it is mainly residental, of the expensive household kind (few celebs too). The ethnicity is multi-racial, you name the race, there is someone here. I hope I answered your question to the fill, if not please ask again.


Which neighbourhood do you live in, exactly?

Do you know the actual stats, like median age, percent under 15/over 65, percent born overseas, average income, unemployment.etc of your local area?

Which neighbourhood do you live in, exactly?

Do you know the actual stats, like median age, percent under 15/over 65, percent born overseas, average income, unemployment.etc of your local area?
The area is Notting Hill, and the details you require should be in the last census, let me check.

What's the building called with the archway just the other side of the road from Victoria Park?  There's a statue of a General or someone on a horse in the middle of the brick walk. You go thru the archway and you are standing next to mounted horse guard,  and there are white and red cross flags flying on top, then across the street and around the corner from Trafalgar?  Where the multitude of "don't feed the Pigeons" pigeons hang out by the monument I can never remember the name of. 


If you knowthe answer, and you probably do, IM. me please. I am looking at vacation pictures here and I know my directions maybe a little off, but I know I am close in my description. however, all the maps I had an the local friends I was with were no help in the actual name of the place.

What's the building called with the archway just the other side of the road from Victoria Park?  There's a statue of a General or someone on a horse in the middle of the brick walk. You go thru the archway and you are standing next to mounted horse guard,  and there are white and red cross flags flying on top, then across the street and around the corner from Trafalgar?  Where the multitude of "don't feed the Pigeons" pigeons hang out by the monument I can never remember the name of.   


If you knowthe answer, and you probably do, IM. me please. I am looking at vacation pictures here and I know my directions maybe a little off, but I know I am close in my description. however, all the maps I had an the local friends I was with were no help in the actual name of the place.
When you ask of Victoria Park do you mean St James Park which runs the length of The Mall, and if so due you Admiralty Arch?

What's the building called with the archway just the other side of the road from Victoria Park?  There's a statue of a General or someone on a horse in the middle of the brick walk. You go thru the archway and you are standing next to mounted horse guard,  and there are white and red cross flags flying on top, then across the street and around the corner from Trafalgar?  Where the multitude of "don't feed the Pigeons" pigeons hang out by the monument I can never remember the name of.   


If you knowthe answer, and you probably do, IM. me please. I am looking at vacation pictures here and I know my directions maybe a little off, but I know I am close in my description. however, all the maps I had an the local friends I was with were no help in the actual name of the place.


http://mijnposter.nl/thumbs/636/030s.jpeg

Admiralty Arch

My question is about England, and perhaps London, I don't know. the question is "Where were the scenes filmed, from The Beatles movie A Hard Days Night", especially the parts where the boys are being chased thru the streets by maniacal crazed girls. Was it Liverpool?

My question is about England, and perhaps London, I don't know. the question is "Where were the scenes filmed, from The Beatles movie A Hard Days Night", especially the parts where the boys are being chased thru the streets by maniacal crazed girls. Was it Liverpool?


Seems to be mainly around London

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0058182/locations

My question is about England, and perhaps London, I don't know. the question is "Where were the scenes filmed, from The Beatles movie A Hard Days Night", especially the parts where the boys are being chased thru the streets by maniacal crazed girls. Was it Liverpool?
I was going to say mainly London, but Karen has answered for me.

Seems to be mainly around London

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0058182/locations
Regarding:

Notting Hill Gate, Notting Hill, London, England, UK
(chase scenes)

I must re-watch the movie and work out the precise roads, etc.

Dear Mr. Phil of Notting Hill...

Do you scarper when the carnival is on?

(With all that racket, I know I bloody well would...)

Dear Mr. Phil of Notting Hill...

Do you scarper when the carnival is on?

(With all that racket, I know I bloody well would...)
If there is cricket on that Bank Holiday Weekend I am there, but generally we lock ourselves in.

Dear Mr. Phil of Notting Hill...

Do you scarper when the carnival is on?

(With all that racket, I know I bloody well would...)
One year it did rain and I stayed in.

The U.K. is  comprised of Wales, England, Ireland, and Scotland? Is that correct

The U.K. is  comprised of Wales, England, Ireland, and Scotland? Is that correct
The United Kingdom is a political union made up of four parts, often called the constituent countries or the Home Nations. They are England, Scotland, and Wales on the island of Great Britain, and Northern Ireland on the island of Ireland.

The U.K. is  comprised of Wales, England, Ireland, and Scotland? Is that correct


True for a few years, until what is now Eire broke away just after World War I...

True for a few years, until what is now Eire broke away just after World War I...
By saying Ireland I meant to say Northern Ireland

Is a farthing the same as a half-penny?  How many shillings in a pound?  Is the difference between pounds and
pounds sterling just that one is paper and the other coin?  What is a sovereign(monetarily)?

Is a farthing the same as a half-penny?  How many shillings in a pound?  Is the difference between pounds and
pounds sterling just that one is paper and the other coin?  What is a sovereign(monetarily)?
This was the denomination of the Pound Sterling before decimalisation.

There was:

2 Farthings to a Half-Penny
2 Half-Pennys to a Penny
12 Penny to 1 Shilling
20 Shillings to 1 Pound

Made from gold, a sovereign was worth the value of 1 Pound Sterling.
Pound is the currency of the United Kingdom, and it is a simple version of saying Pound Sterling.

Pound is the currency of the United Kingdom, and it is a simple version of saying Pound Sterling.


Perhaps to distinguish it from pound weight?

This was the denomination of the Pound Sterling before decimalisation.

There was:

2 Farthings to a Half-Penny
2 Half-Pennys to a Penny
12 Penny to 1 Shilling
20 Shillings to 1 Pound

Made from gold, a sovereign was worth the value of 1 Pound Sterling.
Pound is the currency of the United Kingdom, and it is a simple version of saying Pound Sterling.


And not forgetting the sixpence (tanner), as traditionally found in Christmas puddings!

1 shilling was also known as a 'bob'...and what was known as a 'florin' (2 shillings) was more commonly known as 'two bob'...

And, of course, the very strange looking threepenny bit (which became 'rhyming slang' for something!)

Confusing? No wonder we went decimal...!!

A threepenny bit

http://www.coinage-sales.co.uk/grafix/genericoins/threepenny100.png

A threepenny bit

http://www.coinage-sales.co.uk/grafix/genericoins/threepenny100.png


Half my weekly wage, that is!

Put it away, you'll make me jealous!

And, of course, the very strange looking threepenny bit (which became 'rhyming slang' for something!)
Regarding the slang was it "Threepenny bit" or "Threepenny bits" you had in mind?

Regarding the slang was it "Threepenny bit" or "Threepenny bits" you had in mind?


Normally used in the plural term (for obvious reasons!)

Normally used in the plural term (for obvious reasons!)
I thought so, as trained on the slang used in Steptoe and Son?

I thought so, as trained on the slang used in Steptoe and Son?


I'm not certain whether it started there or not...the coinage was around before the programme was...

I'm not certain whether it started there or not...the coinage was around before the programme was...
I meant my awareness of the slang in general came from that programme.

I meant my awareness of the slang in general came from that programme.


Begging your pardon, Mr. Philip...

My 'training' of slang came from my father and (more particulary) his brothers...

Hardened East-End mob, that lot!

Begging your pardon, Mr. Philip...

My 'training' of slang came from my father and (more particulary) his brothers...

Hardened East-End mob, that lot!
Like rubbing shoulders with the Kray Twins?

Does anyone wish to ask me about the Kray Twins?

http://www.routemaster.org.uk/icons/bellmed.gif
DING DING
We're all going on a summer holiday!

My local butcher makes a lovely steak and kidney pie.  I recommend you try one
Yes please.

How often does it actually rain, would you say?

How often does it actually rain, would you say?
On average, last April saw a rainfall of 46.0mm and May had 112.1mm. It seems it will rain at least once a week.

How often does it actually rain, would you say?
The last time it rain in London, it was last Tuesday, six days ago. Then it did pour down.

How often does it actually rain, would you say?
It has not rained overnight.

How often does it actually rain, would you say?
No rain today, yet.

I live and breathe London everyday, so why not ask me any question about this great metropolis.


  Anyone living (or born) within the sound of the bells (St. Pauls?) are referred-to by some as "Cockneys"?  True?

   Anyone living (or born) within the sound of the bells (St. Pauls?) are referred-to by some as "Cockneys"?  True?


Not quite.  You need to be born within the sound of the bells from the church of St Mary le Bow to be considered a Cockney.

Not quite.  You need to be born within the sound of the bells from the church of St Mary le Bow to be considered a Cockney.


  Oh, I see...

  So "Cockney" isn't considered derogatory..? 

I don't think so.  But then you wouldn't mistake me for one.

Actually in some ways it seen as desirable, proving you are 'one of the people'.  this has lead to some people being labelled Mockney (Jamie Oliver, TV chef, being a prime example)

I don't think so.  But then you wouldn't mistake me for one.

Actually in some ways it seen as desirable, proving you are 'one of the people'.  this has lead to some people being labelled Mockney (Jamie Oliver, TV chef, being a prime example)


  The Briton that Britons love to hate...Jamie Oliver....

Like rubbing shoulders with the Kray Twins?


You may find this hard to believe, but some of my dad's elder brothers actually did!

They were all lumped in the same school and (according to legend), my uncle actually came off tops in a playground 'scrap' with Ronnie!

Not quite.  You need to be born within the sound of the bells from the church of St Mary le Bow to be considered a Cockney.


Actually, there's not a lot of distance in between...about five minutes walk...

You may find this hard to believe, but some of my dad's elder brothers actually did!

They were all lumped in the same school and (according to legend), my uncle actually came off tops in a playground 'scrap' with Ronnie!


Not in The Bilnd Beggar?

Not in The Bilnd Beggar?


As my uncle is still very much alive (yet tentatively) kicking, I should hope not!

As my uncle is still very much alive (yet tentatively) kicking, I should hope not!
That is good to hear.

As my uncle is still very much alive (yet tentatively) kicking, I should hope not!
Paul talking of east London, last Friday on a Thames boat trip with work colleagues, I saw something for the first time in my life. The bastions rising on Tower Bridge, for someone who has London to his heart, it was a magical moment.

Paul talking of east London, last Friday on a Thames boat trip with work colleagues, I saw something for the first time in my life. The bastions rising on Tower Bridge, for someone who has London to his heart, it was a magical moment.


Bascules, I think is the word, Mr. Philip...

A wonderful piece of Victorian design and construction, that...

Yet I've only seen it opened once myself!

This, remember, was the bridge that some American thought he was buying when we flogged the old London Bridge off to him!

I'll bet that superb sight did nothing congestion-wise...Rotherhithe Tunnel is currently closed and Tower Bridge is taking the brunt of the traffic!

Bascules, I think is the word, Mr. Philip...

A wonderful piece of Victorian design and construction, that...

Yet I've only seen it opened once myself!

This, remember, was the bridge that some American thought he was buying when we flogged the old London Bridge off to him!

I'll bet that superb sight did nothing congestion-wise...Rotherhithe Tunnel is currently closed and Tower Bridge is taking the brunt of the traffic!
Thanks, for the word came over the PA System on hte boat and it was a bit windy.

Paul talking of east London, last Friday on a Thames boat trip with work colleagues, I saw something for the first time in my life. The bastions rising on Tower Bridge, for someone who has London to his heart, it was a magical moment.


We saw them open last year (or maybe the year before) when we went to London.  We had a ride on the London Eye and then a boat trip down the Thames.

Is it Battersea Bridge that was completely built by women ?? I'm pretty sure it that one........

Is it Battersea Bridge that was completely built by women ?? I'm pretty sure it that one........
Just found it it was Waterloo bridge !

Is it Battersea Bridge that was completely built by women ?? I'm pretty sure it that one........
It was Waterloo Bridge, built by women during the WW2, the building commenced in 1942 and completed in 1945. I have been told the foreman was male.

So Philip, where are some of the bars staying open 24/7 what with the new licenses?

So Philip, where are some of the bars staying open 24/7 what with the new licenses?
Let me checked.

Have you ever been to the Tower of London and if so, have you ever seen any of the ghosts that haunt the place?





Cat

I just saw on the news that London is the fifth most expensive city to live in. How can one manage to live there if they aren't a celebrity. How expensive is it really? Or, is it an exaggeration?

I just saw on the news that London is the fifth most expensive city to live in. How can one manage to live there if they aren't a celebrity. How expensive is it really? Or, is it an exaggeration?
The expensiveness and living in London I have already explained in this thread under the explanation of London Weighing.

I have celebs surrounding me.

Certainly more expensive than the rest of the UK, for living, travel, mortgage, entertainment, etc. But for me it is here is were I work, if I lived further away I would be spending more on travel tickets. (By the way I walk to and from work each day).

Have you ever been to the Tower of London and if so, have you ever seen any of the ghosts that haunt the place?





Cat
Yes I have been several times to the Tower of London and only seen the Crown Jewels once. As for any of the ghosts no, but the Tower is famous for due to the executions that took place there.

The expensiveness and living in London I have already explained in this thread under the explanation of London Weighing.

I have celebs surrounding me.

Certainly more expensive than the rest of the UK, for living, travel, mortgage, entertainment, etc. But for me it is here is were I work, if I lived further away I would be spending more on travel tickets. (By the way I walk to and from work each day).
The last I read Oxford is now on a par with London as far as the cost of living goes but we don't have the same wages and no weighting either it sucks.  >:(

Yes I have been several times to the Tower of London and only seen the Crown Jewels once. As for any of the ghosts no, but the Tower is famous for due to the executions that took place there.



I know that the Tower of London is famous for its ghosts. I heard that it is probably the most haunted place-possibly in the entire world.




Cat

The last I read Oxford is now on a par with London as far as the cost of living goes but we don't have the same wages and no weighting either it sucks.  >:(
...but you still have your students with their bicycles.

I know that the Tower of London is famous for its ghosts. I heard that it is probably the most haunted place-possibly in the entire world.

Cat
I am not sure on the most haunted place-possibly in the entire world, but the village of Pluckley in Kent is regarded as the most haunted village in England.

How often does it actually rain, would you say?
It chucked it down today, it was so hard it stopped play at Wimbledon.

So Philip, where are some of the bars staying open 24/7 what with the new licenses?
There must be one somewhere.

The expensiveness and living in London I have already explained in this thread under the explanation of London Weighing.

I have celebs surrounding me.

Certainly more expensive than the rest of the UK, for living, travel, mortgage, entertainment, etc. But for me it is here is were I work, if I lived further away I would be spending more on travel tickets. (By the way I walk to and from work each day).


Sorry for the redundant question!  :-[

Sorry for the redundant question!  :-[
Thats all right, but I should have posted the link at the time.

Thats all right, but I should have posted the link at the time.


No worries, love

I know that the Tower of London is famous for its ghosts. I heard that it is probably the most haunted place-possibly in the entire world.




Cat
and THEY can't afford london either.

and THEY can't afford london either.
Not a ghost of a chance?

Not a ghost of a chance?


I like to watch Cash in the Attic and Treasure Hunt on the BBC America channel. I noticed that they have a tendency of using A LOT of REALLY BAD puns. After reading your last post, I wonder if that is a British thing or just the writers of the shows.




Cat

I like to watch Cash in the Attic and Treasure Hunt on the BBC America channel. I noticed that they have a tendency of using A LOT of REALLY BAD puns. After reading your last post, I wonder if that is a British thing or just the writers of the shows.




Cat
It has (to me) been a British way of comedy. Throughout recorded comedy on record, old radio shows, films, etc. It thas been a main form the comedy. I will try and post some examples (non-copyright) later.

It has (to me) been a British way of comedy. Throughout recorded comedy on record, old radio shows, films, etc. It thas been a main form the comedy. I will try and post some examples (non-copyright) later.


You'll find (like most things in life) that there's good 'punnage'...

...and then there's the stuff I use!

Not necessarily a question about London, or the UK, but do you and most English prefer your tea light or dark, weak or strong? with or without cream/milk?
I prefer mine dark and strong and lightly sweetened.

Not too strong, not too weak, definatly with milk and half a sugar.  :)

not too weak, with milk, no sugar

Not necessarily a question about London, or the UK, but do you and most English prefer your tea light or dark, weak or strong? with or without cream/milk?
I prefer mine dark and strong and lightly sweetened.



I'm not British but I will answer this question. I like mine VERY STRONG. No milk, no sugar. Nothing but the tea bag-and I leave the bag in it so by the time I get down to the bottom of the cup, it is VERY ROBUST!!!  ;D ;D ;D



Cat.

Not necessarily a question about London, or the UK, but do you and most English prefer your tea light or dark, weak or strong? with or without cream/milk?
I prefer mine dark and strong and lightly sweetened.
For me I am currently avoiding milk and have my tea black.

The reason why milk was introduced to tea was that to stop cracking the china cups in the olden (Victorian and Edwardian) days. Milk was poured into the cup first, then the tea was poured from the teapot and if very hot the tea could ruin the cups. The milk would cool the tea down and will not crack the cups.

Not necessarily a question about London, or the UK, but do you and most English prefer your tea light or dark, weak or strong? with or without cream/milk?
I prefer mine dark and strong and lightly sweetened.


Yes that's how I like mine too  ;D

I can't drink tea, it makes me pee  :-[

Yes that's how I like mine too   ;D
I am going through a herbal and fruit flavoured stage at the moment.

I can't drink tea, it makes me pee   :-[
All drinks make you do that.

All drinks make you do that.


Caffeinated tea irritates  and causes me to run then when I get there suffer the trickle down effect.  It also causes me to have hellish nightmares.  Sounds  strange, I know, but that's what happens.

Caffeinated tea irritates  and causes me to run then when I get there suffer the trickle down effect.  It also causes me to have hellish nightmares.  Sounds  strange, I know, but that's what happens.
I can understand that for Caffeine must be a drug of one form.

I am going through a herbal and fruit flavoured stage at the moment.


Twinings Honey camomile and vanilla is very nice

Twinings Honey camomile and vanilla is very nice
It is the Twining Fruit Bliss range we have here, and I tend to avoid Camomile.

Philip, I was going past Whittards of Chelsea the other day and got my eye on some little bone china mugs, decorated with dear little rabbit/mice cartoons - I had to buy these 2

http://www.whittard.co.uk/images/productimages/details/aj23324.jpg

http://www.whittard.co.uk/images/productimages/details/aj23322.jpg

Philip, I was going past Whittards of Chelsea the other day and got my eye on some little bone china mugs, decorated with dear little rabbit/mice cartoons - I had to buy these 2

http://www.whittard.co.uk/images/productimages/details/aj23324.jpg

http://www.whittard.co.uk/images/productimages/details/aj23322.jpg
When you said Chelsea I thought that you were in Chelsea, it must have been a local branch up in Newcastle.

The cups are too decorative to drink from.

Today is 7/7...it's been a year.

What was London like today? ???

Today is 7/7...it's been a year.

What was London like today? ???
In my area of London, there was a police presence, with poice cars shooting back and forth.

Even yesterday, the police were at principal points of the transport infrastructure.

At the key points of last year, plaques have unvielled whith appropiate services.

Midday saw a two minute silence.

This evening a memorial service was held in Regent's Park.

Many tears have been shed.

When you said Chelsea I thought that you were in Chelsea, it must have been a local branch up in Newcastle.

The cups are too decorative to drink from.



Yes I bought them from a branch up in Newcastle, and like them because the china is so light to lift, and of course the pictures

Not necessarily a question about London, or the UK, but do you and most English prefer your tea light or dark, weak or strong? with or without cream/milk?
I prefer mine dark and strong and lightly sweetened.


Yes, that's fine by me too...

My sister is the complete opposite...gnat's p!ss being the appropriate phrase!

In my area of London, there was a police presence, with poice cars shooting back and forth.

Even yesterday, the police were at principal points of the transport infrastructure.

At the key points of last year, plaques have unvielled whith appropiate services.

Midday saw a two minute silence.

This evening a memorial service was held in Regent's Park.

Many tears have been shed.
There were police at Didcot and Oxford stations yesterday too, but then it is a main route into London.

Yes I bought them from a branch up in Newcastle, and like them because the china is so light to lift, and of course the pictures
I love Whitards, they do great 'tea' stuff. I have loads of their mugs they are so cute and Ian keeps breaking/chipping them so it's an excuse to buy more. I always draw smiling flowers so when I saw they had mugs with them on I had to buy 4. 4 mugs  with different smiling flowers on them he's broken 3 of them now, I was SO upset...........

I love Whitards, they do great 'tea' stuff. I have loads of their mugs they are so cute and Ian keeps breaking/chipping them so it's an excuse to buy more. I always draw smiling flowers so when I saw they had mugs with them on I had to buy 4. 4 mugs  with different smiling flowers on them he's broken 3 of them now, I was SO upset...........


Yeah they seem to have started selling more and more stuff over the past year or so?  My Swedish friend buys mountains of a certain blend of tea when she comes over to the UK, to take back for her dad as they can't get it over there  :)

Not necessarily a question about London, or the UK, but do you and most English prefer your tea light or dark, weak or strong? with or without cream/milk?
I prefer mine dark and strong and lightly sweetened.
With all my associates the taste in tea differs. There is no general liking.

Yeah they seem to have started selling more and more stuff over the past year or so?  My Swedish friend buys mountains of a certain blend of tea when she comes over to the UK, to take back for her dad as they can't get it over there  :)
England or UK, does have the best tea on offer.

What does it mean when you call someone a "cove"

What does it mean when you call someone a "cove"

Have you been reading Jeeves and Wooster or something similar??
A cove is a very old fashioned, affectionate word for a male friend like fellow or chap.

Have you been reading Jeeves and Wooster or something similar??
A cove is a very old fashioned, affectionate word for a male friend like fellow or chap.


English mysteries, Lovejoy, Inspector Jury, and the like

Have you been reading Jeeves and Wooster or something similar??
A cove is a very old fashioned, affectionate word for a male friend like fellow or chap.
Morse happens to be a favourite of mine.

Have you been reading Jeeves and Wooster or something similar??
A cove is a very old fashioned, affectionate word for a male friend like fellow or chap.
I make that too, a good male friend, or as you say a fellow or chap.

Morse happens to be a favourite of mine.


I like him, too.  I like British mysteries better than American.  Over here we have too much of the gratuitous sex and violence.  Then, too, when a novelist becomes popular their books become longer, they are paid by the word instead of the book, and they ruin their books with so much filler.

I like him, too.  I like British mysteries better than American.  Over here we have too much of the gratuitous sex and violence.  Then, too, when a novelist becomes popular their books become longer, they are paid by the word instead of the book, and they ruin their books with so much filler.
In its own way Morse is full of sex and violence, but is covered in a discrete role.

In its own way Morse is full of sex and violence, but is covered in a discrete role.


and discretion is the better part of valor....and literature.

and discretion is the better part of valor....and literature.
I may even start re-reading the books of Colin Dexter again

Did you like Morse on T.V ? I was in one episode briefly can't remember which one though.........
They filmed one at the library too and all the staff got to be extras but i refused because they wanted me to be a police woman. ::) i was young and foolish.

Did you like Morse on T.V ? I was in one episode briefly can't remember which one though.........
They filmed one at the library too and all the staff got to be extras but i refused because they wanted me to be a police woman. ::) i was young and foolish.
I have seen the majority of the Morse episodes and do recall one episode which features a library, I am trying to remember which one, but involved a shooting from a window of the college library, with the bullet aiming for a newly elected don/chair of a college while in ceremony robes.

I have seen the majority of the Morse episodes and do recall one episode which features a library, I am trying to remember which one, but involved a shooting from a window of the college library, with the bullet aiming for a newly elected don/chair of a college while in ceremony robes.
yeah they shot an opera singer by mistake, it was the library window the shot was fired from. It was called something of the gods, I can't remember the exact title........

yeah they shot an opera singer by mistake, it was the library window the shot was fired from. It was called something of the gods, I can't remember the exact title........
"Twilight of the Gods" When an unpleasant business tycoon and a world-famous opera singer are invited to receive honorary degrees by Oxford University, but the ceremony is halted when a sniper opens fire on the procession, and the singer is seriously wounded. But was she really the intended target?

"Twilight of the Gods" When an unpleasant business tycoon and a world-famous opera singer are invited to receive honorary degrees by Oxford University, but the ceremony is halted when a sniper opens fire on the procession, and the singer is seriously wounded. But was she really the intended target?


That's the one !

That's the one !
"Twilight of the Gods" sticks in my mind for Sir John Gielgud and John Bluthal both appear in that episode.

Hey Philip, what's all this fuss about some Pakistani allegedly having tampered with the cricket ball?  ???

Hey Philip, what's all this fuss about some Pakistani allegedly having tampered with the cricket ball?  ???
It is a long story.

Let me recall what has happened.

Last Sunday on the fourth day of the Fourth and Final Test between England and Pakistan at The Oval, London. It was about 14:30 when the umpire decided that the cricket ball had appeared to have been scrapped and the hem unpicked, of which only could be done by the hand of the fielding side, which was then Pakistan, England were batting. At the time Darrell Hair the umpire make the signal of five extra runs to added to the England total, and the cricket ball to be changed to another another ball of similar wear and tear for the amount of overs for the age of the damaged ball. The umpire could not pin-point anyone particular player at the time and play continued to the break for tea.

After tea had been taken, the two England batsmen, Collingwood and Bell, came back on to the field of play, all set set to play, but there was no Pakistan team or team member making any appearance but staying in the dressing room as a late protest. After two minutes of waiting, as in the Laws of Cricket, the umpires declared it a forfeited win to England and marched back to they own dressing room, along with the two England batsmen.

Around five or ten minutes later, the Pakistani team all ran on to the field, waited for a minute or so, and with no umpires or batsmen at the crease, all marched back to their dressing room.

As no individual player owned up to tampering with the ball, the captain (Inzaman-ul-Haq) bears the full responsiblity, and now is being charge by bringing the game into disrepute.

It is a long story.

Let me recall what has happened.

Last Sunday on the fourth day of the Fourth and Final Test between England and Pakistan at The Oval, London. It was about 14:30 when the umpire decided that the cricket ball had appeared to have been scrapped and the hem unpicked, of which only could be done by the hand of the fielding side, which was then Pakistan, England were batting. At the time Darrell Hair the umpire make the signal of five extra runs to added to the England total, and the cricket ball to be changed to another another ball of similar wear and tear for the amount of overs for the age of the damaged ball. The umpire could not pin-point anyone particular player at the time and play continued to the break for tea.

After tea had been taken, the two England batsmen, Collingwood and Bell, came back on to the field of play, all set set to play, but there was no Pakistan team or team member making any appearance but staying in the dressing room as a late protest. After two minutes of waiting, as in the Laws of Cricket, the umpires declared it a forfeited win to England and marched back to they own dressing room, along with the two England batsmen.

Around five or ten minutes later, the Pakistani team all ran on to the field, waited for a minute or so, and with no umpires or batsmen at the crease, all marched back to their dressing room.

As no individual player owned up to tampering with the ball, the captain (Inzaman-ul-Haq) bears the full responsiblity, and now is being charge by bringing the game into disrepute.


Thanks for enlightening me. :)

What will be the consequences of this tampering for the Pakistani captain, if he is found guilty?  ???

Thanks for enlightening me. :)

What will be the consequences of this tampering for the Pakistani captain, if he is found guilty?  ???
At the moment he  could suffer a ban of playing in eight international matches and most certainly fines in his match fee.

What are some of the most beautiful gardens in London?

What are some of the most beautiful gardens in London?
For interest and beauty, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is a must. Though there are other gardens dotted around central London, St James' Park, and Regent's Park. There is Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, but there are mainly full of grass, trees and memorials or statues.

Thanks for enlightening me. :)

What will be the consequences of this tampering for the Pakistani captain, if he is found guilty?  ???
Therre has been a further developement is all this, Umpire Darrell Hair offered to quit in exchange for $500,000 (

Is Samantha Fox from London, U.K.? ???

For interest and beauty, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is a must. Though there are other gardens dotted around central London, St James' Park, and Regent's Park. There is Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, but there are mainly full of grass, trees and memorials or statues.


I think I have heard of the Kew gardens. I had a feeling those were in London, but I wasn't sure - so I am glad you clarified :0) We just went to the Huntington Gardens in San Marino, California (near Pasadena) and they were by far the lovliest I've seen so far.

Is Samantha Fox from London, U.K.? ???
She was born in Mile End, London. On the edge of the East End.

I think I have heard of the Kew gardens. I had a feeling those were in London, but I wasn't sure - so I am glad you clarified :0) We just went to the Huntington Gardens in San Marino, California (near Pasadena) and they were by far the lovliest I've seen so far.
I will have a look at Huntington Gardens online to compare.

For interest and beauty, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is a must. Though there are other gardens dotted around central London, St James' Park, and Regent's Park. There is Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, but there are mainly full of grass, trees and memorials or statues.
Hampton Court has got some lovely gardens.

She was born in Mile End, London. On the edge of the East End.



You know of any other music artists from The London UK? ???

You know of any other music artists from The London UK? ???
They are plenty from London, the list could last a long time. those that spring to mind are Madness, David Bowie,and The Who. There are others like Yazz, if I think of others I will post them here.

You know of any other music artists from The London UK? ???
Marc Bolan

Hampton Court has got some lovely gardens.


And where is Hampton Court exactly?

And where is Hampton Court exactly?


If you can access Google Maps or Google Earth, type in the Postcode KT8 9AU and the application will take you straight there.

I will try that right now - thanks :0)

You know of any other music artists from The London UK? ???


Michael Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, both came from Dartford, which is now apart of Greater London

Hampton Court looks beautiful from above. I may use Google to see what their website is like, too.

Michael Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, both came from Dartford, which is now apart of Greater London


Not quite, Mr. Philip...Dartford is still 'proper' Kent (albeit by half a mile!)

Was there much noise over your way at the weekend what with the carnival?

Not quite, Mr. Philip...Dartford is still 'proper' Kent (albeit by half a mile!)

Was there much noise over your way at the weekend what with the carnival?
Is Dartford split by the M25?

Is Dartford split by the M25?


No...but what a wonderful idea...sticking a motorway right through the middle of the dump!

But sadly, the M25 is almost a mile east of Dartford...and I'm a mile and a half to the west...

No...but what a wonderful idea...sticking a motorway right through the middle of the dump!

But sadly, the M25 is almost a mile east of Dartford...and I'm a mile and a half to the west...
You have one of those shopping malls near you, is it Bluewater?

You have one of those shopping malls near you, is it Bluewater?


Sure do...Bluewater is one of the largest in Europe  :o

I think I've been there three times...that's more than enough!

And, if that doesn't satisfy anyone's shopping 'lust', there's always Lakeside on the Essex* end of the Dartford Tunnel... :D

(* also known as 'enemy territory'!)

Sure do...Bluewater is one of the largest in Europe  :o

I think I've been there three times...that's more than enough!

And, if that doesn't satisfy anyone's shopping 'lust', there's always Lakeside on the Essex* end of the Dartford Tunnel... :D

(* also known as 'enemy territory'!)
As long as you do not wear a hoodie.

As long as you do not wear a hoodie.


At my age, I think I'll be 'safe'... ;)

Hampton Court looks beautiful from above. I may use Google to see what their website is like, too.
It is, I love going there.

Hampton Court looks beautiful from above. I may use Google to see what their website is like, too.

It is, I love going there.


I have been there several times now and been in the maze many a time.

They are plenty from London, the list could last a long time. those that spring to mind are Madness, David Bowie,and The Who. There are others like Yazz, if I think of others I will post them here.



What about George Michael? ???

What about George Michael? ???
George Michael was born in East Finchley, London.

George Michael was born in East Finchley, London.



Thanks.

Why do they call England "Blighty"

Why do they call England "Blighty"
It

Wow interesting, I never knew that.

Wow interesting, I never knew that.
I heard that is was something like that before on the radio, and the Net comfirmed it for me, but there could always be others.

Has London Bridges ever fall down? ;D

Has London Bridges ever fall down? ;D
London Bridge been taken down and I think this has already covered in this thread.

London Bridge been taken down and I think this has already covered in this thread.


Where are London bridges located?

Where are London bridges located?


I believe the one they took down went to Arizona

I believe the one they took down went to Arizona


Wasn't it in London at first?

Wasn't it in London at first?
There was a famous London Bridge, famous for having shops and houses on it, I'll try and find a good image and I will continue.

What's the minimum wage in London?

What's the minimum wage in London?


London is the same for the whole of the UK, where the minimum wage is a legal right which covers almost all workers above compulsory school leaving age. There are different minimum wage rates for different groups of workers as follows:


The main rate for workers aged 22 and over is currently set at