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Archive for the ‘London, England History’ Category

Relocation to London – Fun Pub Names

Wednesday June 13th, 2012

If you were recently visiting or moved to London in time for last week’s Diamond Jubilee, a stroll in the vicinity of Buckingham Palace likely took you past the object of today’s Relocation to London Fun Fact: The Bag o’ Nails pub. I’ll never forget first visiting this public house soon after my own relocation to London. It was spring, and my parents were in town, visiting Europe itself for their very first time. Sitting within the cozy wood-paneled intimacy of this quaint watering hole and reading up on the upcoming St. George’s Day, we toasted pints of Old Speckled Hen and wondered what in heck we were drinking and where we were drinking it. A bag of nails hardly sounds like inspiration for such an inviting place, and it’s taken me ever since my relocation to finally learn what it means…or at least the debate over what it means thanks to the book The Old Dog and Duck: The Secret Meanings of Pub Names…

Relocation to London – Team Literal’s Argument

Well, there’s evidently an old joke that goes something along the lines of a man walking into a pub and requesting a room for the night (most pubs do have living space above them, but how many still maintain it as their own lodgings, I couldn’t say—a lot have probably been converted to London apartments for rent that you might check out for your relocation to London. Anyway…). He’s told that one night costs a shilling or only sixpence if he makes his own bed. Presuming this means he just has to tidy the bed linens himself, the man opts for the latter and is handed a bag of nails and wood by the landlord. BAH-DUM-BUM! *ting*

Ah, it’s been four years since my relocation to London, but ye olde British humour never indeed gets olde…So this is what they’ve been telling each other while we Yankees crack priest-and-rabbi jokes.

Relocation to London – Team Figurative’s Argument

Okay, so moving onward to a more literary, touchy-feely interpretation than one would think “Bag of Nails” would derive from, some say it has its origins in mythology. If you say the name five times fast, it arguably starts to sound similar to “bacchanals,” so it’s possible, just possible, that “bag of nails” is what the word was bastardized into over time. Bacchanals were ancient Roman ritual celebrations of Bacchus, the god of wine and debauchery (equivalent to the Greek Dionysus). Rites in his name involved heavy drinking and wild dancing in an attempt to reach a state of divine ecstasy in communion with the god himself. Perhaps, then, particular pubs were named for the hedonistic revelry found within them—step inside a Bag of Nails pub after your relocation to London and decide for yourself. In fact, this is something you should probably research veeerrry thoroughly. And surely participating directly in the ritual would be a most effective way to find the answers you seek…

Relocation to London – Team Historical’s Argument

No one makes a relocation to London without inevitably learning bits of history about its various locations, so you might as well add this to the list. If there’s one thing the British are adamant about, it’s getting their history right, so apparently the Bag o’ Nails pub I specifically referenced earlier isn’t buying what Team Figurative has to say; however, its owners do lean toward the side of Team Literal, if not its particular explanation (that it stems from a joke). While I can’t speak for other establishments of this name, the particular Bag o’ Nails near Buckingham Palace claims to have originally been a blacksmith’s or ironmonger’s shop. The traditional sign for ironmongers was a picture of a bag of nails. Thus, it’s possible the pub took its name in homage to the building’s history when the Bag o’ Nails first opened in 1774. Even this explanation could fall into dispute, however, in the event the owners had just wanted to pick a respectable name versus anything scandalous that could reflect badly on the royal servants frequenting it.

So what are YOU inclined to believe? Does it even matter when the nectar of Bacchus is in the rack and Old Speckled Hen on tap? No indeed, you might not trouble your weary head with such speculations, but you’ll surely want to visit a Bag of Nails or one of its kin to decompress after your relocation to London!

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Relocation to London – London Leaders

Sunday June 10th, 2012

A relocation to London is more than just packing up and finding a new London apartment; it’s moving into history in the making—this year and last year’s grand royal events being prime examples. I got too caught up in the Diamond Jubilee last weekend to continue my Sunday British history series, but in the wake of celebrating the current monarch, today I’m back to explore one of Elizabeth II’s historical predecessors to enhance your relocation to London. Last time, we looked at Queen Anne, successor to joint monarchs William and Mary and the last of the House of Stuart. Today, then, begins the House of Brunswick as a member of its Hanover line succeeds to the throne as King of England: George I.

Relocation to London – The Hanover Handover

George I has been the Elector of the German province of Hanover since 1698. A Protestant, his accession as Great Britain’s’ new monarch in 1714 satisfies the 1701 Act of Settlement that bans Catholics from doing so (and thereby over 50 closer claims to the throne, including Queen Anne’s Catholic brother James). Thus, we see George make a relocation to London of his own as he takes on his new role in a new country. Already in his 50s, George arrives with his opportunist entourage in tow: a slew German advisors and friends, two mistresses (he divorced his wife on grounds of adultery and kept her prisoner in a castle), and German and Turkish servants. Hopefully when you yourself make a relocation to London, you’ll be more keen to assimilate  than George here—he can’t be bothered to learn to speak English and all-around remains decidedly German, spending as much time in Hanover as he can.

Between this and his greedy groupies, King George isn’t the most popular guy in England. A year after his coronation, he already must suppress a Jacobite rebellion seeking to install James Stuart as King, but the protest proves a failure, as does another uprising in 1719. With Tories backing the Jacobites, George turns his favor to the Whig party, which remains dominant for many years to come.

Relocation to London – The Country on Constitutional Cruise Control

King George I‘s lack of interest in British customs and frequent visits home served to leave England on its own for the most part. After the Jacobite rebellion, the nation settles into a period of relative peace, but it’s not totally running on auto-pilot: the first Prime Minister, Robert Walpole, is appointed in a brand new role created to rule in the King’s stead. With Walpole’s good governance at the helm (he rescues Britain’s economy after the South Sea Company venture absolutely tanks in 1720, bringing down many investors’ fortunes with it) and Parliament serving as the government’s legislative branch and the King’s ministers its executive branch, Britain is that much closer to achieving a modern constitutional monarchy.

Relocation to London – George Did Do Some Stuff

George actually did contribute some skillful decision in foreign policy matters during the early part of his reign. From 1717 to 1718, he forged an anti-Spain alliance with France, and he and his Whig ministers succeed in keeping the country out of war until a decade into his son’s reign. George I isn’t too keen on this son of his, and the feeling is evidently mutual. Though George II will be George I’s successor (wait, is this the House of Brunswick or Foreman?), the King doesn’t involve his son in much of the government’s affairs. This disdain isn’t to stop George II’s accession to the English throne, however, on his father’s death in 1727.

May all be more amiable in your household if you’re making a relocation to London with family, and may you acclimate to the UK’s culture and traditions better than ol’ George did. :)

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Living In London – History Of London Coliseum

Tuesday April 3rd, 2012

No one will miss a trip to The London Coliseum. Now being owned by The English National Opera Company, London Coliseum attracts tourists and residents from all around the globe. This is in large part to its expansive history and old age. Despite it being quite an old monument to view for people living in London, the coliseum is still very much in business with events taking place here from time to time.

The Opening

On December 24th 1904, people were given a real treat because this was the date when The London Coliseum opened its doors to guests. The coliseum was opened with one intention in mind and that was for it to be a ‘Variety Show’. Oswald Stoll came up with the master plan to construct a theatre of this size and beauty and his dream could not come true until he purchased an expansive area of land in the year 1902. Despite Mr. Stoll deciding it would be a good idea to design The London Coliseum; it was not him who built it.  Frank Matcham, a talented theatre architect built the coliseum. For people, The London Coliseum was set to rival The Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

About The Coliseum

More than 2,358 people could and still can fit inside The London Coliseum, meaning that the aim to rival the largest theatre in the city was a success. Four levels were present inside including the Dress Circle, Balcony, Grand Tier and Stalls. Unlike many other theatres of this era, The London Coliseum did not possess a pit, making it stand out from the other buildings in and around the city. In recent times, the pit is known as the orchestra pit, meaning this was often a necessity back in the days when opera and classical music was enjoyed widely. However, this did not ruin the coliseums success. With a 92’ deep, 55’ wide stage, the coliseum was an expensive project to make for people living in London to enjoy.

Closure & Re-Opening

Although The London Coliseum garnered much attention, money was not well spent due to it closing down in the year 1906. Nevertheless, a renovation and re-opening in December 1907 meant that the theatre had a second chance at success.  After this time, many programs were created and the theatre was well-known for being a favored destination for musical and opera performances. If you are here, take a trip to the theatre, which has now been restored greatly.

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London Apartments For Rent – The Cambridge Theatre

Tuesday April 3rd, 2012

As one of the many famous theatres to visit when living in or near London apartments for rent, The Cambridge Theatre is a favorite for many people. With fantastic shows taking place here today, including Roald Dahl’s Matilda musical, this theatre is very current with constantly updated events. The history of this building is interesting to learn about and displays why this is such a well-known area to visit when residing in London apartments for rent.

The Opening

On September 4th 1930, The Cambridge Theatre opened its doors to people living in and around London apartments for rent. Gee constructed the theatre while its design was down to help from Guthrie, Wimperis and Simpson. The theatre can hold up to 1,275 people and is situated over three levels, meaning that watching musicals in The Cambridge Theatre promises you an exceptional view. Whitehall, Phoenix and the Prince Edward theatre are just some of the many other theatres that opened in the same month as The Cambridge Theatre. Despite it opening alongside many others, much praise was given to this one in particular. Many reviews were released regarding the opening of this theatre near London apartments for rent, all of which were relatively positive.

Appearance Of Theatre

The Cambridge Theatre has transformed slightly in appearance since its opening near London apartments for rent. While now it maintains a more modern feel, back in 1930, things were a bit different. The windows of the theatre were metal with an entrance canopy and a stone exterior. The interior of The Cambridge Theatre was the most intriguing part, with a ribbed ceiling and concealed lighting fixtures. Despite this being desirable as a new theatre for the 1930’s, the 1950’s saw a redecoration. Due to unfavorable opinions from particular newspapers near London apartments for rent, The Cambridge Theatre was decorated with chandeliers and painted in a deep red.

Past Shows At The Cambridge Theatre

Of course, The Cambridge Theatre is renowned for its many shows, and these shows still go on today. With modern renditions of well-known plays and musicals today, there is an interesting list of schedules from previous years. Examples are Elizabeth of England, The Greeks Had A Word For It, A Night In Venice and Distinguished Gathering. More than 433 performances took place for ‘A Night In Venice’ and many opera and ballet shows could be viewed at The Cambridge Theatre too. If you are interested in visiting this historical landmark near your London apartments for rent, book tickets beforehand for your favorite show.

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Find A Flat In London – The Apollo Victoria Theatre

Tuesday April 3rd, 2012

After you find a flat in London you will be inundated with choices of theatres to attend. One of these theatres is the Apollo Victoria Theatre and this building is the perfect choice for groups of friends or families to attend. With many new musicals taking place here including ‘Wicked’, the Apollo Victoria Theatre is still running many years after its construction. Learn a bit about the history of this building, to make your visit when you find a flat in London that bit more exciting.

The Opening

The Apollo Victoria Theatre was opened in the year 1930; much like other theatres you will see when you find a flat in London, including The Cambridge Theatre. The building was constructed by E. Wamsley Lewis and this was for the purpose of Provincial Cinematograph Theatres. The luxuriously designed exterior and interior was a sight for sore eyes and saw many people discussing it shortly after its grand opening. At the beginning of its years, the Apollo Victoria Theatre offered guests the chance to view many live shows. However, shortly after, the theatre was transformed into more of a cinema atmosphere. Within the first decade of its existence, those who managed to find a flat could pay to see famous bands perform here.

Appearance Of Theatre

The appearance of the Apollo Victoria Theatre was just as astounding as the acts that performed for people who find a flat. Scallops situated around an expansive dome meant that the Apollo Victoria Theatre seemed lavish. Guests could arrive and exit through two different entrances at the theatre, exaggerating its size. In 1930 and some years that followed, the theatre took on an underwater theme that excited people greatly at the time. Since then, much renovation has taken place and it remains a popular theatre for people who find a flat.

Shows At The Apollo Victoria Theatre

It is not surprising that the Apollo Victoria Theatre held many performances. Nowadays, these performances continue and many are held on more than one occasion due to the popular demand from guests of the theatre. Yes, Prime Minister is one show that is currently open at the Apollo Victoria Theatre. If you are interested in watching something else, consider Meow Meow,  Blithe Spirit, My Trip Down The Pink Carpet, All My Sons, Debbie Reynolds, The Gruffalo, Marilyn, Camille The Dark Angel, Carrie’s War and many more, but be sure to book tickets before you arrive.

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London Natural History Museum

Sunday March 18th, 2012

After you invest in apartments for rent, you should start thinking about sightseeing around the city. There is a multitude of different locations to venture to including the Royal Opera House, the Tower of London, London Dungeons and Madame Tussauds. Although these are fantastic places to go to if you want to have a fun-filled event and learn something new about the city, the London History Museum is recommended. Learn how the History Museum can broaden your child’s knowledge on the city and its history when you get an apartment for rent.

Teach Your Kids About History

It is essential that your children learn about the history behind London when you get an apartment for rent. To be living in a city that is so enveloped in tales and interesting stories makes it an intriguing area to reside. At the London History Museum, much can be uncovered including various books, journals and manuscripts. In addition to this, your kids can view some fantastic exhibitions displaying a range of dinosaurs, architecture and other skeletons. The museum is set in a beautifully constructed cathedral, which is free of charge to enter. Visits can take place every day of the year, besides December 24th-26th. Your children, no matter what their age, will enjoy everything the museum has to offer when getting an apartment for rent.

Special Activities For Children

Although the London History Museum caters very much to all ages, it particularly caters to children living in apartments for rent. A thirst for knowledge is something to be admired and when your kids view the fascinating sculptures and pieces of history before their eyes, they will undoubtedly be nagging you to view more. Some special areas are present in the museum for young children such as the Discovery Room, where kids can have a hands-on approach to history, and various gallery trails detailing beautiful parts of history and wildlife. To make the trip memorable after moving into apartments for rent, consider picking up a pen and a clipboard when you arrive, so that your kids can document what they see and learn.

Book A Children’s Party

If, when you move into apartments for rent, you will be celebrating a child’s birthday, you should seriously think about organizing one at the London History Museum. Owners at the museum enjoy setting up fun days for the children. This is beneficial for socializing after your move and meeting other like-minded parents. Carefully designed birthday cards, party invitations and party snack boxes are included in the price of a party here, so think about speaking with a member of staff when you get apartments for rent.

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Living in London – Big Ben

Wednesday March 14th, 2012

One of the most iconic, easily recognizable symbols of London and England in Big Ben and Americans should make an effort to visit the behemoth.  Technically, Big Ben is really St. Stephen’s tower which is Parliaments official clock tower.  Over the last century the clock has risen in fame and importance as one of London’s cultural icons.  Today, those living in London can visit the clock tower and even climb to the top.

History of Big Ben

Technically named St. Stephen’s tower, Big Ben was constructed in 1859.  The bell inside the tower (the real Big Ben) weighs nearly fourteen tons and is named after either Sir Benjamin Hall, a well-loved politician of the day, or Benjamin Boxer, a well-known boxer.  The man for whom the bell was originally dedicated is not known with only speculation remaining. Big Ben strikes on the hour and four smaller bells strike every quarter hour.

Keeping Time

Big Ben’s accuracy to time is amazing and can only be attributed to the geniuses of the clockmakers, Edmund Beckett Denison and Edward John Dent.  The clock must be wound three times a week and old fashioned pennies are used inside the mechanism to help keep the clock running smoothly.  The size of the clock is enormous.  Each side of the tower features a clock that is twenty-three feet in diameter with hour hands reaching nine feet long and minute hands reaching fourteen feet.

Big Ben Tours

Visitors to Parliament are able to tour St. Stephen’s Tower.  Unfortunately due to high demand clock tour tours must be scheduled far in advance.  The cost of a tour is £15 and children under eleven are not allowed on the premises for safety reasons.  The tours occur Monday through Friday (except holidays) and are available three times per day.  Visitors, whether local or foreign, must provide personal information to screen for possible problems. The tour itself begins at the base of the tower and guests climb over three hundred steps to hear Big Ben strike on the hour.

While living here expats should take every opportunity to experience London culture in all its glory.  Although Big Ben is a major tourist attraction it is an integral part of English heritage and history.  Planning a visit to Parliament and including a tour of Big Ben is a wonderful way to learn more about England while living in London.

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Living in London and Its Traditions

Monday March 12th, 2012

One of the best parts of living in London is its traditions.  A city steeped in history and tradition American moving here are often surprised to discover how very little they know about a city from which many an ancestor heralded.  Since the United States was originally founded by British citizens many of the customs and traditions were transferred to US soil, but many purely London traditions remain unknown to Americans.  While enjoying their time here all American expats should make an effort to learn about London traditions, many of them centuries old.

Ceremony of the Keys

With the United States being such a young country it is easy for Americans to forget how old England is.  The Ceremony of the Keys is a seven hundred year old tradition that still takes place today.  Every evening at precisely 9:53 PM the Tower of London’s gates are locked by the Chief Warder.  After all gates are locked a trumpet is sounded and the ceremony is complete. The Chief Warder is part of the Yeoman Warders, or more commonly known as ‘Beefeaters’.  They have been responsible for the care and safety of the London Tower since the fourteenth century.  The public is invited to view the Ceremony of the Keys but tickets must be reserved.

The Changing of the Guards

Perhaps the most well-known tradition the Changing of the Guards is a tradition that dates back to the seventeenth century when guards were employed to protect the sovereign residences.  Since that time guards have stood watch over the palaces and, like clockwork, replace each other in grand style.  The most popular sight to watch this ceremony is at Buckingham Palace where at 11:30 AM every other day a colorful and intriguing Changing of the Guards happens.  The ceremony is forty-five minutes in length and spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good vantage point.  The ceremony in seasonal and occurs every other day so visitors are encouraged to check for days before arriving.

State Opening of Parliament

Every year the new Parliament year is celebrated with an day full of elaborate ceremonies.  To begin the festivities a royal procession take to the streets of London leading the way to the Houses of Parliament.  Next, the Yeoman (bodyguards of the Royals) search the basements of the Houses of Parliament to make sure no threat lie there in anticipation of the Queen’s arrival (this tradition began in the seventeenth century after a foiled plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament). Next, the Black Rod (the Queen’s Messenger) calls the members of the House of Commons to the House of Lords where the Queen reads the Queen’s Speech before returning to Buckingham Palace.

These are only three of many London traditions that all expats living in London of which should be aware.  All those from another countries should take the time to discover the vibrant, interesting and rich heritage that has made this the great city that it is today.

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Top 10 Historical Attractions For People Living In London

Thursday March 1st, 2012

Living in London is sure to give you plenty of things to do and what is most appealing about this city is the number of historical sites it boasts. Here are the top 10 historical attractions that people living in London really ought to check out if they are to make the most of their relocation.

1.    Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey tops the list of historical attractions for people to visit. The abbey is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Consider asking about discount for infants when you visit and be sure to check out the burial places of many famous kings and queens.

2.    Tower Of London

Everyone should visit the Tower of London, which is open to the public every day of the week between the months of March and October. Tours are available here, which is advisable if you want to learn about the history behind the tower. Dating back to the year 1066 makes the Tower of London a truly fascinating place to visit.

3.    St. Paul’s Cathedral

Christopher Wren built St. Paul’s Cathedral and its beautiful architecture is still in its greatest form, even today.  The cathedral can be viewed Monday to Saturday for a small fee. Save money by booking your tickets as a family group.

4.    Westminster Hall

Back when William the Conqueror reigned, the houses of parliament were a must-see sight for people living in London. Now, Westminster Hall is what has withstood those many years. Generally, guests can visit on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

5.    St. James’s Palace

No family should miss a visit to St. James’s Palace, which is the historical site that Henry VIII built. This exceptional building was once home to Elizabeth I, George I and many other acclaimed monarchs.

6.    Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is open to tourists and people throughout the entire week, from the hours of 10am to 7pm. Here, you can learn about many past Princes and Princesses who lived in the grounds many years ago.

7.    Buckingham Palace

One of the most notable historical landmarks to view when living in London would be Buckingham Palace. The palace is the residence of Her Majesty The Queen, so if you are hoping to experience some luxury, a visit here will not leave you feeling disappointed.

8.    Banqueting House

As the first Renaissance building in the United Kingdom, the Banqueting House is a favorite for people living in London. Constructed in the 17th century, this attraction can be viewed for a small fee through Monday to Saturday.

9.    Temple Church

Paying £3.00 gets you into the Temple Church, which was built by military monks in the year 1185. This is one of the grandest and oldest buildings in the entire city, making it a great experience for couples and families.

10.  Lambeth Palace

If you are living here and are an avid reader, consider a visit to Lambeth Palace, where the oldest English library can be found. This is based near the River Thames, providing people easy access to the historical grounds.

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A Day Trip to Stonehenge after Moving to London from America

Friday January 13th, 2012

When moving to London from America families often have a long list of places they want to visit during their stay in England.  While many of the locations are within London a few of England’s most noteworthy historical sites are outside of the city and require a little planning to make a family trip work.  Once such favorite day trip for any family moving to London from America is Stonehenge.

The easiest way to get to Stonehenge from London for families moving to London from America without a personal vehicle is to take the train to Salisbury.  Once in Salisbury a bus can take families directly to the monument.  There are several buses each day to and from the historical site.  Taxis are also available for any family not wanting to wait on a bus.

Stonehenge is over five thousand years old.  Prehistoric people erected the monoliths over the period of about one thousand years.  Wood was also used but has long since decayed.  Although no one knows the real purpose of the site many experts believe it was built for rituals, religious purposes or to study astronomy.  Archeological excavations have been routine in and around Stonehenge for many centuries.  Today, it is still an active archeological site with new discoveries still amazing tourists.  Any family moving to London from America will have a thrill of their lives experiencing the excitement and wonder of visiting one of the world’s most intriguing mysteries.

Today Stonehenge is protected by the British government and managed by English Heritage which is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.  The park is open every day of the year except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.  Hours of operation vary depending on the season and prices are very reasonable.

Families moving from America should not miss the once in a lifetime opportunity to experience what many only dream about.  Stonehenge is one the world’s most beloved and discussed mysteries.  Many claim the rock formation has mystical and healing powers and many say they experience such powers upon visiting.  If looking for a memorable day trip for one’s family after moving from America Stonehenge should be at the top of the list.

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Knitting for Any American Moving to London

Thursday January 12th, 2012

As an American moving to London one might find they have more free time than they had previously in the States.  A new unknown city thousands of miles away from friends and family can leave a person with a lot of time on their hands.  If one finds themselves like this during the winter season it is an excellent opportunity to learn the traditional British craft of knitting.  Popular across all of Europe (and beyond) for almost the last millennium the ancient craft almost went away save for a resurgence in popularity during the last decade.

The transition can be a difficult time for an American moving on their own or with a family.  Sometimes it is helpful to just keep one’s hand busy and knitting is great for that.  Finances can also be strained for an American moving to London – especially in this economy!  Knitting costs only a few pounds to get started since knitting needles and yarn is all that is required.

There are many yarn shops located in London and classes for every level of knitter are also common.  Any American moving to London would be welcome for the British are very proud of their traditional arts and crafts.  For those wishing to use knitting as a medium to meet other people searching for a meet-up group based on knitting is the way to go.

England has a long history with knitting and many an American moving to London is surprised to learn how the craft has grown and changed from its earliest days.  Even the name ‘knitting’ is believed to derive from the Old English cnyttan, or to knot. For families moving here there is no better way to introduce the entire family to a traditional British craft than to knit.  Every member of a family can do it and there are plenty of resources in London to help one get started.

Although England no longer campaigns to ‘knit for victory’ as it did during World War II, many a Londoner is fond of the craft.  Whether an American moving here is familiar with the craft from their days back in the States or it is completely new knitting is a wonderful hobby that can open doors to new friendships in a new city.

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London Neighborhoods – Greenwich

Friday January 6th, 2012

London neighborhoods vary in personality and cost of living.  Because of that no one can say with certainty which one of the many lovely neighborhoods is right for each family.  Before an international relocation families are encouraged to discuss their home needs with a relocation service where London relocation agents will explain the subtle differences between favorite neighborhoods.

One of the best kept secrets in local neighborhoods is Greenwich.  Located in South London this lovely community seems to be in a world of its own.  With no tube station it is in the city but outside of it at the same time.  Beautiful Georgian and Victorian homes line the small streets alive with quirky boutiques and unique restaurants.

On top of being an affordable place to live after moving families can enjoy many of London’s most significant historical sites and museums in Greenwich.  Some of the more famous are:

1)    The National Maritime Museum:  home to the national collection of artifacts of England’s long maritime history.  The buildings located at the museum are of great historical significance.

2)    The Royal Observatory: This is home to the center of the world. Literally. In 1675 Charles II declared that it represented the middle of the world.  Today, the Greenwich Median Time (GMT) is still the starting point of each new day.

3)    Greenwich Park: Most famous for the views of the city from its hills.  It is also home to the Royal Naval College, National Maritime Museum and will house stadiums for the 2012 Olympics held in London.

4)    Greenwich Market: One of the larger markets.  It is comprised of several markets such as the Greenwich arts and crafts market, Flea Market, Antique Market and Central Market.

Any family or individual moving who values historical landmarks and trying to decide between neighborhoods should consider Greenwich.  With its reasonably priced housing, close location to the city and beautiful Greenwich Park anyone would do well if living there.  With so many choices in neighborhoods it is best to narrow the list before discussing housing with relocation agents and Greenwich would be a great addition to that list.

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Places to Visit after Moving to London England – Buckingham Palace

Wednesday January 4th, 2012

Many Americans have one tourist destination in mind after moving to London England – Buckingham Palace.  The home to England’s queen and backdrop to several centuries of British history, the palace epitomizes the British experience to so many American expats.  Now, thanks to a special limited time opening private tours are made available in Buckingham Palace.

The process of moving to London England can be exhausting for families coming from the United States.  After adjusting to the weather and new time zone a break from all the stress related to any move is much due.  This January those moving to London England are in for a fabulous treat when the doors of Buckingham Palace are open for a very select showing of some of England’s greatest treasures.

Built in the early eighteenth century Buckingham Palace (known then as Buckingham House) was the residence of the Duke of Buckingham.  During the nineteenth century it was enlarged and used by King George III as a residence for Queen Charlotte.  It was finally adopted as the official residence of the British monarch in 1837 by Queen Victoria.

Included in the tour is a walk through nineteen staterooms and guests will be able to admire some of the palace’s finest art, up close and personal.  After an approximate two hour tour of the palace visitors are invited to enjoy a glass of champagne on the West Terrace which overlooks the palace gardens (weather permitting).  After the chore of moving to London England a tour such as this is just what the doctor ordered.  For those unable to get tickets to this exclusive tour several other palace tours are ongoing or seasonal throughout the year.

After moving to England making time for oneself can be difficult.  Relocation agents recommend to help ease the transition new Americans to the city should try and explore as much as possible between juggling a new job and family commitments. Visiting the palace would be a perfect date night event for busy parents.  Part of the excitement of moving to London England is experiencing firsthand the history of England and seeing sights that one has only been able to see in books.

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Enjoy Local Festivals after Moving to London

Tuesday January 3rd, 2012

After moving to London many families like to explore and discover cultural traditions of their new home country.  England is deeply steeped in ancient traditions and beliefs and many are still practiced today.  With the New Year upon us and families often looking for ways to celebrate every family after moving to London should consider a visit to the Twelfth Night Festival.

The Twelfth Night Festival takes place outside London’s Globe Theatre, best known for being home to Shakespeare’s plays.  On the twelfth night of Christmas, also Epiphany in the Christian calendar, a celebration with its roots in ancient English tradition takes over the streets.  Many moving to London enjoy this celebration as they are able to take part in a truly British experience, one not found in the States.

Many moving here do not realize that much of the Christian calendar was taken directly from Pagan holidays.  Such is the case with Epiphany.  The Twelfth Night Festival aims to celebrate the Pagan rituals that saturated the country long before Christianity moved upon its shores.  This event is free and besides the cold temperature makes a wonderful way to end the Christmas festivities after moving to London.

The festival begins with Green Man arriving by boat from the Thames River.  This Green Man is not unique to British tradition.  He appears in many customs from cultures around the world like Canada and Belgium. For the twelfth night festivities he is covered in holly making him known often as The Holly Man.

Once he lands upon the shores he is greeted by the Mummers, a cast of actors who perform a play in celebration of the Holiday.  After the play small cakes are handed to the crowd.  Hidden inside two cakes are a pea and a bean.  Whoever finds the hidden pea and bean inside their cake is crowned king and queen and leads the procession to George Inn in Borough High Street to continue with the merriment.

With January being such a dreary month it is no surprise that those moving here may enjoy any festivity they find.  With just a little effort and an open mind families from the states can make the most of their time discovering interesting cultural practices after moving.

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James II, King of England

Sunday January 1st, 2012

Hello there, Weekend Warriors! Continuing with our British history lessons on Britain’s monarchs (if you’re relocating to London and wanting to learn more about it), today we meet the successor of King Charles II: James II.

Like his brother Charles, James II was exiled to France when Cromwell took over as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth in Britain. When Charles II returned to restore the monarchy, James likewise came back and was ultimately named Charles II’s heir to the throne. This had initially met with resistance given James II’s Catholic faith, but Charles II’s efforts in his later years to secure his brother’s position were not in vain: as James takes to the throne in 1685, he inherits a Tory-dominated Parliament and strong executive office. You might recall from my last Weekend Warrior Sunday post that King Charles II did indeed have sons; the reason his brother James is now king is because none of Charles’s sons were born to his wife. Ah, such technicalities…

As a result, early in King James II‘s reign, he faces resistance from one of his illegitimate nephews vying for the throne, the Duke of Monmouth. This Protestant rebellion is squashed after the Battle of Sedgemoor in 1685, and Judge Jeffries presides over the “Bloody Assizes” in doling out punishment in the form of execution, torture, or slavery; the Duke of Monmouth himself is beheaded gruesomely. It’s only a matter of time, though, before King James II meets more resistance, and from within his government at that. His appointments of Catholics in high places is looked on with disfavor, and he loses his Tory support. Doh!

Join me next week to see how this King of England fares through the rest of his reign as opposition stacks against him. And as you wage your own battle against the London property market in implementing your international relocation to London, enlist the services of the London Relocation agency to make sure all runs in your favor.

 

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