The Old Palace Tour - Somerset House - FREE - ★★★


Most of us have been to an event in the courtyard of Somerset house, outdoor films in summer or skating in the winter. We've also enjoyed some great exhibitions. Indeed, there is always something happening here. But how much do you know about the house's history? The former home to a young Elizabeth I and three Catholic queens of the Stuart dynasty the edifice was re-built in the 18th century, and it is a fascinating place. This tour is a pleasant way to discover another aspect of London's rich history and includes a visit to the odd and slightly creepy Strand Lane Baths.

 Reviewed by J.C.

  Our Score:  ☆☆☆ 

 WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Every Tues 12:45 pm & 2:15 pm.
Free tickets available at the Information Desk in Seaman's Hall (6 per person max).
Tours meet there and last about an hour.
Nearest tube: Temple
https://www.somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on/old-palace-tour?
Map & Location: Strand, London WC2R 1LA, UK

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Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score: ☆☆☆☆☆

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Private Apartments Tours: 1:15 pm & 2:00 pm Sir John Soane's museum, Lincoln's Inn Fields Nearest tube: Holborn https://www.soane.org
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Gresham College Lectures - FREE - ★★★★★

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Gresham College is a fascinating institution that has been providing free lectures for over 400 years. Currently the College offers over 130 annual lectures and events. The range of subjects covered by their eminent lecturers is vast: law, literature, music, medicine, economics, astronomy, computer science.... The variety is amazing and the Gresham professors are leading scholars in their fields. The College is located in Barnard's Inn, but lectures are in various venues including the London Museum. The College has been recording its lectures since the 1980s and live streams all lectures. There are now over 2,000 lectures available on its website and on YouTube.
Reviewed by J.C.
 Our Score: ☆☆☆☆☆
WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE: Times and Dates vary Barnard's Inn, High Holborn Nearest tube: Chancery Lane http://www.gresham.ac.uk
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