Alan Dotchin Blog

Adam Kay: A Particularly Nasty Case
2025-09-04 19:30 - 21:30 UTC
Overview
Lee Martin for Gag Reflex presents
A PARTICULARLY NASTY CASE: A MURDEROUSLY FUNNY EVENING WITH ADAM KAY

Join BAFTA-winning writer and comedian Adam Kay for an evening of hilarious and horrifying anecdotes, as well as a unique insight in to the British healthcare system as he takes the audience behind the blood-splattered blue curtain. Adam will be joined in conversation by another famous face (unless they cancel at the last-minute) who will act as your guide throughout the evening as Adam launches his debut crime novel, A Particularly Nasty Case.
Expect tales from the wards, exclusive readings from and insight into his much-anticipated and hugely gripping new medical mystery at this one-night only (per city) event. The show will also include an audience Q&A with Adam, author of multi-million global bestseller This is Going to Hurt.
These dates are the only opportunity to get a personalised signed edition of A Particularly Nasty Case (included in the ticket price).

Ticket purchase includes a copy of A Particularly Nasty Case. Your book will be available for collection on the night. Book RRP normally £20.

Flying Scotsman Cab Access
2025-08-31 12:00 - 13:00
From 5 August Flying Scotsman is back at Locomotion this summer—what memories will you make with the famous locomotive?
Flying Scotsman train rides
Selected dates in August 2025 | £5
Not many people can say they have been on a train hauled by Flying Scotsman. This is your chance for a ride along our historic railway line, powered by the legend.
Book tickets now for Flying Scotsman train rides.
Flying Scotsman cab access
28–31 August 2025 | Free
Climb inside Flying Scotsman’s cab while it’s on static display, where you can marvel at its intricate controls and many pipes and gauges.
Book tickets now for Flying Scotsman cab access.
Curator evening with Flying Scotsman
29 August 2025 | £120
Guests will be treated to a drinks reception on arrival and time to mingle with the curator before starting your special curator-led tour showcasing the history of the Flying Scotsman service and the legendary locomotive itself.
This is a special evening with limited numbers to give a personal experience.
Book tickets now for Flying Scotsman curator evening.
Flying Scotsman: The ultimate footplate experience
SOLD OUT!
Looking for the experience of a lifetime? Climb onto Flying Scotsman’s footplate while it’s in full steam running on our historic railway line to experience the sights, sounds and smells of serious steam power. You’ll be on board for around 30 minutes, where you can chat to the driver and fireman for two runs up and down our section of S&DR line.

Flying Scotsman Experiences
2025-08-31 11:20 - 15:40

Train Rides
2025-08-31 11:00 - 15:30
Journey back in time for a ride behind our replica of Stephenson’s Rocket.

Hop on board for an authentic train ride at our museum.
The journey takes you along the original line of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, past the museum’s Main Hall and back towards the historic coal drops—the perfect way to take in our main sights and truly appreciate the power of a locomotive.
Tickets are available from the Welcome Desk on the day of your visit.
Please note this event has limited capacity.
Rides are subject to availability and the engine used may be subject to change. A replica Stephenson’s Rocket is currently in service, but our diesel shunter is on standby in case we encounter mechanical issues.
Please arrive at the platform at least 10 minutes before the experience begins. Latecomers may not be admitted.
Exclusive Rocket footplate rides
Celebrate 200 years of modern train travel this summer with a rare opportunity to ride on the footplate of our working replica of Stephenson’s Rocket and talk with the driver and fireman. You will observe real steam operations on the footplate of Rocket whilst it pulls our passenger steam rides along the original route of the Stockton and Darlington Railway.
Rocket footplate rides are only available on selected dates in July and August. Numbers are limited and pre-booking is essential. Tickets are £50. Only available to age 18+. Book tickets now for Rocket footplate rides.
Accessibility
Due to the historic nature of the carriage, unfortunately it may not be possible to facilitate access for all wanting to ride.

Kynren an Epic Tale of England
2025-08-30 20:15 - 21:45
Travel through time and watch legends come to life
Kynren – An Epic Tale of England returns to its spectacular Bishop Auckland stage in County Durham.
Running every Saturday evening throughout the summer from 19th July to 13th September, the 90-minute show is a truly unique experience not available anywhere else in the UK.
Performed by a 1,000-strong cast and crew on a 7.5-acre outdoor stage, this multi-award-winning live action spectacular delights and dazzles the senses, with its mix of hand-to-hand combat, daring stunts, incredible horsemanship, stunning pyrotechnics and amazing special effects.
Rated ‘Excellent’ on TripAdvisor, Kynren provides an unforgettable experience taking audiences on a thrilling adventure through 2,000 years of history.

Bishop Auckland
2025-08-30 - 2025-08-31
Bishop Auckland is a historic market town in County Durham, England, known for its rich heritage and strong ties to the Bishops of Durham, who once resided at Auckland Castle. The castle, now a major visitor attraction, has been at the heart of the town for over 900 years and is surrounded by beautiful parkland and gardens. Bishop Auckland is also famous for the annual Kynren outdoor performance, which brings local history to life through dramatic storytelling. Traditionally a centre for coal mining and industry, the town has evolved into a hub for tourism, culture, and local commerce, while retaining its close-knit community feel and charming blend of historic architecture and modern amenities.

Auckland Castle Deer House: A Monument to Pastoral Power and Bishopric Grandeur
2025-08-30
The Deer House at Auckland Castle is an elegant 18th-century Gothic Revival building set within the castle’s historic deer park in Bishop Auckland. Built in 1760 for Bishop Richard Trevor, it served as a grand folly and shelter for the deer, while also acting as a striking focal point within the landscaped parkland. Designed to impress visitors, the structure features ornate battlements and arched windows, blending practical use with architectural beauty. Today, the Deer House stands as a rare and well-preserved example of its kind, reflecting both the wealth of the Prince Bishops and the fashion for picturesque estates in the Georgian era. It remains an atmospheric reminder of the park’s history and an important part of the Auckland Castle estate.

The Faith Museum – Exploring Belief Across 6,000 Years in Bishop Auckland
2025-08-30
The Faith Museum in Bishop Auckland is the first museum in the UK dedicated to exploring the history and meaning of faith. Opened in 2023 as part of The Auckland Project, it is housed within a striking modern building connected to the historic Auckland Castle. The museum takes visitors on a journey through 6,000 years of faith in Britain, from prehistoric sacred objects to contemporary expressions of belief. Its exhibitions include artefacts, artworks, and interactive displays that explore how faith has shaped communities, identities, and traditions across the centuries. By presenting diverse stories and perspectives, the Faith Museum encourages reflection and dialogue, making it both a place of learning and a space for personal contemplation.

Auckland Palace: The Majestic Seat of the Prince Bishops of Durham
2025-08-30
Auckland Palace, also known as Auckland Castle, is a historic landmark in Bishop Auckland that has served as the residence of the Bishops of Durham for over 900 years. Originally established as a hunting lodge in the 12th century, it was transformed into a grand palace reflecting the wealth and power of the Prince Bishops. Today, the palace is at the heart of The Auckland Project and has been carefully restored to showcase its magnificent state rooms, impressive art collections, and rich history. Visitors can explore its connections to figures such as Bishop Trevor, who acquired the celebrated Zurbarán paintings, and discover how the palace played a central role in the spiritual, political, and social life of the region. Blending medieval origins with Georgian elegance, Auckland Palace stands as a symbol of heritage and renewal in Bishop Auckland.

Fifteas Vintage Tearooms
2025-08-30
Fifteas Vintage Tea Room in Bishop Auckland is a charming café that transports visitors back to the 1950s with its nostalgic décor and retro atmosphere. Styled with period furniture, vintage music, and authentic memorabilia, it offers a unique setting to enjoy freshly prepared food and a wide selection of teas and homemade cakes. The tea room is well-known for its friendly service and traditional afternoon teas, making it a popular stop for both locals and tourists exploring the town. Combining comfort, character, and a touch of old-fashioned glamour, Fifteas Vintage Tea Room provides a memorable experience that captures the spirit of a bygone era.

The Spanish Gallery, Bishop Auckland: A Window into Golden Age Spain
2025-08-30
The Spanish Gallery in Bishop Auckland is the UK’s first gallery dedicated to the art, history, and culture of Spain. Opened in 2021 as part of The Auckland Project, it showcases an outstanding collection of Spanish masterpieces, including works by renowned artists such as El Greco, Zurbarán, Velázquez, and Murillo. The gallery’s design evokes the atmosphere of a traditional Spanish casa and includes a recreation of a typical Golden Age chapel, immersing visitors in Spain’s artistic and religious heritage. Alongside its permanent collection, the gallery hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programmes, and cultural events that highlight the deep connections between Bishop Auckland and Spanish art, particularly through the famous Zurbarán paintings housed in nearby Auckland Castle.

Mining Art Gallery: A Tribute to the Soul of the Coalfields
2025-08-30
The Mining Art Gallery in Bishop Auckland is a unique cultural space dedicated to celebrating the art and heritage of the North East’s mining communities. Opened in 2017 as part of The Auckland Project, it houses an impressive collection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures created by former miners, most notably from the renowned Gemini Collection. The works vividly capture the harsh realities of life underground as well as the camaraderie, resilience, and spirit of mining communities. Alongside its permanent displays, the gallery hosts temporary exhibitions and educational activities that explore both the industrial past and its lasting impact on local identity. The Mining Art Gallery not only preserves the memory of coal mining but also showcases the creativity and voice of those who lived and worked in this defining industry.

Auckland Tower – The Gateway to Bishop Auckland’s Heritage
2025-08-30
Auckland Tower is a striking contemporary landmark in Bishop Auckland, serving as both a gateway and viewing platform for visitors to the historic Auckland Castle and the wider town. Opened in 2018 as part of The Auckland Project, the tower stands 29 metres tall and features a distinctive design inspired by medieval siege engines and watchtowers. From its viewing platform, visitors can enjoy panoramic views across the town, the castle grounds, and the surrounding Durham countryside. Inside, the tower also acts as a welcome centre, offering information about local attractions and the story of Bishop Auckland’s heritage. Blending modern architecture with historical inspiration, Auckland Tower is both a symbol of regeneration and an introduction to the area’s rich history.

Bishop Auckland Town Hall
2025-08-30
Bishop Auckland Town Hall is a striking Victorian Gothic building at the heart of Bishop Auckland, County Durham. Originally opened in 1869, it has long served as a focal point for the town’s civic, cultural, and social life. The Grade II listed building has undergone significant restoration and now operates as a vibrant arts and cultural venue, housing a theatre, art gallery, library, and café. It regularly hosts exhibitions, live performances, film screenings, and community events, making it both a heritage landmark and a hub for modern creativity. The Town Hall stands as a symbol of the town’s rich history while continuing to play an active role in its cultural regeneration.

Shakespeare’s Globe: A Living Tribute to England’s Greatest Playwright
2025-08-26 11:00 - 12:00
Shakespeare’s Globe is one of London’s most iconic and culturally significant landmarks. Situated on the south bank of the River Thames, near London Bridge, it is a modern reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, which was co-founded by William Shakespeare in 1599. This theatre serves not only as a venue for performances of Shakespeare’s plays but also as an educational and cultural hub that preserves the traditions of Elizabethan theatre for contemporary audiences. The Globe stands as a testament to Shakespeare’s enduring legacy, showcasing the vibrancy, drama, and innovation of his works while offering a unique window into the world of 16th and 17th-century theatre.

Borough Market
2025-08-26 10:00 - 11:00
Borough Market, located near London Bridge, is one of the city’s oldest and most famous food markets, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. Today, it is a vibrant hub for food lovers, offering an incredible variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and international street food. From locally baked bread and cheeses to exotic spices and gourmet dishes, the market showcases both traditional British fare and global cuisines. Its lively atmosphere, historic setting, and diverse range of traders make it a popular destination for both Londoners and tourists. Beyond food, Borough Market also hosts events, tastings, and cooking demonstrations, celebrating London’s rich culinary culture.

Notting Hill Carnival 2025
2025-08-25 10:30 - 17:30
Notting Hill Carnival: A Celebration of Culture, Diversity, and Music
The Notting Hill Carnival is one of the most iconic cultural festivals in the world, celebrated annually in the heart of West London. Known for its vibrant parade, spectacular costumes, infectious music, and delicious food, the carnival has become a symbol of multiculturalism, unity, and community in the United Kingdom. With its roots deeply embedded in Caribbean culture, the carnival has evolved into a celebration that showcases diversity and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of London’s immigrant communities. This article will explore the history of the Notting Hill Carnival, its cultural significance, its impact on London and beyond, and what makes this event so unique.
Origins of the Notting Hill Carnival
The origins of the Notting Hill Carnival can be traced back to the 1950s when the Caribbean community in London sought to bring their cultural heritage into the mainstream. It was the brainchild of Trinidadian activist and performer Claudia Jones, who is widely regarded as the “Mother of the Notting Hill Carnival.” The first incarnation of the carnival took place in 1959 and was a small-scale indoor event held at St. Pancras Town Hall, aimed at celebrating Caribbean culture and providing a platform for the local community.
However, the modern version of the carnival as we know it today began in 1966, when Jamaican-born Londoner Rhaune Laslett helped organize the first outdoor procession through the streets of Notting Hill. The event was a response to the increasing tension and social unrest in the area, which had witnessed riots and protests over the years. The carnival’s organizers aimed to create a sense of unity and belonging within the community, and to demonstrate the vibrant and positive side of Caribbean culture.
The first outdoor Notting Hill Carnival featured a modest parade with a handful of floats, steel drum bands, and dancers. The event was a resounding success, attracting thousands of spectators. Over the following years, the carnival grew exponentially in size and popularity. By the 1970s, it had become a massive street festival, featuring elaborate costumes, live music performances, and a larger-than-life parade that took over the entire neighborhood of Notting Hill. It also attracted people from different backgrounds and cultures, which helped cement its status as a truly multicultural event.
Cultural Significance and Evolution
The Notting Hill Carnival holds immense cultural significance for the Caribbean community in London and the wider British population. For the Caribbean diaspora, the carnival is a powerful expression of identity and pride. It celebrates their heritage and history, while also providing a platform for showcasing Caribbean art, music, and traditions.
The carnival has also played a pivotal role in breaking down racial and social barriers. It emerged during a time when racial tensions were high in the UK, particularly between the Caribbean and Afro-Caribbean communities and the white working-class population. The Notting Hill Carnival provided an opportunity for people from diverse backgrounds to come together, celebrate, and experience a shared sense of community. It became a symbol of resistance against the negative stereotypes often associated with the Caribbean community, and a way to challenge the racism and discrimination that many faced on a daily basis.
As the carnival grew, it began to reflect the diverse and evolving nature of London’s immigrant communities. While it retained its Caribbean roots, the event also embraced other cultural influences, including African, Latin American, and European traditions. The inclusion of a wide range of musical genres, such as soca, calypso, reggae, dub, salsa, and hip-hop, helped diversify the carnival and attract a broader audience. Today, the Notting Hill Carnival is a celebration of global culture, and it brings together people from all walks of life, regardless of their ethnicity, background, or nationality.
Over the years, the carnival has expanded beyond the streets of Notting Hill and has become an event that brings together people from all over the world. It now attracts over two million visitors each year, making it one of the largest street festivals in Europe. The carnival’s popularity has led to its recognition as a key cultural event, and it is now a fixture in the London cultural calendar. It has also inspired similar festivals in other parts of the world, including the Caribbean and North America.
The Parade: A Dazzling Display of Music, Dance, and Costumes
The heart of the Notting Hill Carnival is the parade, which takes place over the August bank holiday weekend. The parade is an explosion of color, music, and movement, featuring hundreds of performers dressed in elaborate costumes that reflect Caribbean traditions and modern fashion. The costumes are one of the most iconic aspects of the carnival, and they are often designed to be bold, intricate, and visually striking.
The parade is a procession of costumed performers who dance and march to the rhythm of the music, with the sound of steel drums and live bands filling the air. The performers are often divided into different “mas” bands, each with its own theme and style. These bands are made up of dancers, musicians, and artists who spend months preparing for the carnival. The costumes range from glamorous feathered ensembles to elaborate representations of Caribbean folklore and history. Some costumes can weigh several kilograms and require the performers to train and rehearse for months to be able to carry them with grace and style.
In addition to the vibrant costumes, the parade is accompanied by an array of musical performances. Steel drum bands, also known as pan bands, are a key feature of the event, playing rhythmic Caribbean beats that energize the crowd and set the tone for the carnival. Soca and calypso music, with their infectious rhythms and upbeat lyrics, are also central to the carnival, as are reggae, dub, and dancehall. Throughout the streets, sound systems blast these musical genres, and dancers take to the streets, celebrating in a wave of joy and exuberance.
Food, Music, and Carnival Spirit
The Notting Hill Carnival is not just a visual spectacle; it is also a feast for the senses, with an abundance of food, music, and culture on display. The streets of Notting Hill come alive with food stalls offering a tantalizing array of Caribbean dishes, such as jerk chicken, curried goat, rice and peas, fried plantains, and dumplings. These traditional dishes are enjoyed by carnival-goers and reflect the diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. The food vendors offer a taste of home for many Caribbean immigrants and provide a delicious experience for visitors from all over the world.
Beyond food, music is the lifeblood of the carnival, with live performances and sound systems filling the air with rhythm and energy. The carnival is an experience that engages all the senses – the sights of colorful costumes and grand floats, the sounds of steel drums and soca beats, the smell of sizzling street food, and the palpable sense of joy and excitement in the air.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite its cultural significance and popularity, the Notting Hill Carnival has faced its share of challenges and controversies. The event has, at times, been marred by violence and crime, with incidents of disorder, clashes with police, and anti-social behavior. In response to these issues, organizers have worked hard to improve safety measures, increase security, and ensure that the carnival remains a family-friendly event. The carnival has also faced criticism from some quarters for its perceived commercialization, with concerns that the event’s roots in community and cultural activism may be lost in the spectacle.
Conclusion
The Notting Hill Carnival is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of culture, identity, and community. It is a vibrant, colorful expression of the Caribbean diaspora’s contribution to British society and a reminder of the power of music, dance, and food to unite people from all walks of life. With its history rooted in resistance and unity, the carnival continues to inspire millions of people each year, offering a window into the rich cultural tapestry that makes up modern-day London. Through its evolution, the Notting Hill Carnival has become a symbol of diversity, multiculturalism, and inclusivity, demonstrating the strength and beauty of the city’s immigrant communities and their enduring cultural impact.

Buckingham Palace Gardens
2025-08-24 18:30 - 19:00
The gardens at Buckingham Palace are a stunning and historic part of the royal residence, covering over 40 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Featuring formal flowerbeds, sweeping lawns, a large lake, and a variety of trees and shrubs, the gardens provide a serene and picturesque setting for royal events and private enjoyment. They are famously the venue for the annual Garden Parties hosted by the monarch, where thousands of guests gather to celebrate British traditions. Visitors can explore parts of the gardens during special tours, enjoying the combination of natural beauty, horticultural artistry, and a unique glimpse into royal life in the heart of London.

State Rooms at Buckingham Palace
2025-08-24 16:30 - 18:30
The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are the magnificent reception rooms used by the British monarch to host official events, ceremonies, and state occasions. Lavishly decorated with fine art, gilded furnishings, and grand chandeliers, these rooms reflect centuries of royal history and the elegance of British ceremonial life. Key highlights include the Throne Room, the Music Room, and the Ballroom, each designed to impress and accommodate large gatherings. Open to the public during certain times of the year, the State Rooms offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur, artistry, and historical significance of one of the world’s most famous royal residences.

Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace
2025-08-24 15:30 - 16:30
The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace is an impressive working stable and carriage house, responsible for the care of the royal horses, carriages, and ceremonial vehicles. Dating back to the 1820s, it showcases the rich traditions of the British monarchy, including the famous Gold State Coach, used for coronations and major state occasions. Visitors can explore the elegant stables, view the historic carriages, and learn about the work of the dedicated staff who maintain the royal horses and vehicles. The Royal Mews offers a fascinating insight into both the pageantry and practical operations of the monarchy, blending history, craftsmanship, and royal tradition in one remarkable attraction.

King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace
2025-08-24 14:30 - 15:30
The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace is a grand and historic room within the palace, designed to display the Royal Collection of art. Stretching along the east front of the palace, it was originally created in the early 19th century and showcases a series of important paintings, many of which were acquired by previous monarchs. With its high ceilings, ornate decorative details, and large windows overlooking the gardens, the gallery reflects the elegance and grandeur of the palace’s interiors. Today, the King’s Gallery remains a key part of public tours at Buckingham Palace, allowing visitors to admire both the architecture and the remarkable artworks that celebrate Britain’s artistic heritage.

Royal Day Out
2025-08-24 14:00 - 19:00
What’s included in your Royal Day Out ticket?
A Royal Day Out ticket gives you access to all three venues at Buckingham Palace – the magnificent State Rooms of Buckingham Palace, The King’s Gallery and the Royal Mews with 10% discount on ticket prices.

The King’s Gallery
Your Royal Day Out includes a visit to The King’s Gallery to see the exhibition The Edwardians: Age of Elegance. This new exhibition will explore the opulence and glamour of the Edwardian era through the lives and tastes of two of Britain’s most fashionable royal couples – King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, and King George V and Queen Mary.
Read more about The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace.

EXHIBITION
The Edwardians: Age of Elegance
The King’s Gallery, Buckingham PalaceDaily

The Royal Mews
You will also visit the Royal Mews which is one of the finest working stables in existence and responsible for all road travel arrangements for The King and members of the Royal Family. You will see historic coaches and carriages, including the Gold State Coach and the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, the newest coach at the Mews.
Read more about the Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace.

The Gold State Coach at the Royal Mews.Copyright: Royal Collection Enterprises Limited©

The State Rooms of Buckingham Palace
Your Royal Day Out includes a tour through the magnificent State Rooms in Buckingham Palace which are used by The King for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining. Each room is furnished with many of the treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens; sculpture by Canova; and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world.
This summer, you can also enjoy the special exhibition The King’s Tour Artists in the Palace Ballroom.
After the State Rooms your visit finishes with a walk through the garden, with splendid views of the Palace and the famous lake.
Read more about the State Rooms, Buckingham Palace.

The Throne Room in Buckingham PalaceCopyright: Royal Collection Enterprises Limited©

Eating and Drinking
Drinks, cakes and sandwiches are available in the Garden Café at the end of the State Rooms tour. Situated overlooking the Palace’s lawn and lake, the Café is a great place to relax.
Food and drink are not available at The King’s Gallery or the Royal Mews but there are many cafés and restaurants nearby. Eating and drinking are not permitted inside any of the venues.

Itinerary

Your Royal Day Out will last approximately 4 and a half hours.
Your Royal Day Out includes The King’s Gallery, the Royal Mews and the State Rooms, visiting all three venues on the same day.
When buying your ticket you will select a time for your entry into the first venue to start the Royal Day Out.

Example timings:
Enter The King’s Gallery 12:00
Enter the Royal Mews 13:15
Enter the State Rooms 14:15
Visit ends around 16:30

On the day
The three venues have separate entrances located close together along Buckingham Palace Road.

Map showing all three venues you will visit on a Royal Day OutCopyright: Royal Collection Enterprises Limited©

To start your Royal Day Out you should go to the entrance for the first venue you’re visiting. You can also collect your tickets here if necessary.
You will go through airport-style security checks at each venue. In the State Rooms pushchairs will have to be checked in and reclaimed after your visit and some items are not permitted at all. Read more about Buckingham Palace security and luggage.
Toilets and baby-care facilities are available at each of the venues. In the State Rooms these facilities are only available at the end of your visit, once you enter the Garden.
The visitor route includes a 500m walk through the south side of the garden to exit Buckingham Palace. Alternative arrangements can be made for visitors with access requirements; please contact the Specialist Sales team on +44 (0)303 123 7324 or email specialistsales@rct.uk.

Access information
All venues are fully accessible but wheelchair access or step-free access to the State Rooms must be pre-booked by contacting the Specialist Sales team +44 (0)303 123 7324 or email specialistsales@rct.uk.
We offer a free access companion ticket for disabled visitors.
Read more about access at The King’s Gallery, the Royal Mews and the State Rooms.

Tower of London
2025-08-24 10:30 - 13:30
The Tower of London is one of the most iconic historic landmarks in England, located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1078 as a fortress and royal palace, it has played many roles throughout history, including a prison, treasury, armory, and even a royal zoo. Its most famous feature, the White Tower, stands as a symbol of Norman power and medieval architecture. Over the centuries, the Tower became infamous as a place of imprisonment and execution, holding notable figures such as Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Thomas More. Today, it is home to the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom and serves as a major tourist attraction, offering a vivid glimpse into over 900 years of British history.

The Royal Observatory
2025-08-23 17:00 - 19:00
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, is a historic scientific institution best known as the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian, the line of 0° longitude that divides the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth. Founded in 1675 by King Charles II, the observatory was established to improve navigation at sea by providing accurate astronomical data. Its first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed, laid the foundations for precise star mapping, and over the centuries it became a world-leading center for timekeeping and astronomy. Today, the Royal Observatory is a popular museum where visitors can stand astride the Prime Meridian, explore historic telescopes, and learn how astronomy and navigation helped shape modern science and global travel.

Queen's House
2025-08-23 16:30 - 17:00
The Queen’s House in Greenwich is a masterpiece of classical architecture and one of the most important historic buildings in Britain. Designed by Inigo Jones in 1616 for Anne of Denmark, wife of King James I, it was the first building in England to be constructed in the Palladian style, introducing a new era of elegant symmetry and proportion. Over the centuries, the Queen’s House became a royal residence and later part of the Royal Hospital for Seamen. Today, it forms part of the National Maritime Museum and houses an outstanding collection of fine art, including portraits by famous artists such as Gainsborough and Reynolds. Its striking black-and-white Tulip Stairs are particularly admired, making the Queen’s House a must-see highlight of Maritime Greenwich.

Painted Hall
2025-08-23 16:00 - 16:30
The Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is often called the “Sistine Chapel of the UK” because of its breathtaking baroque interior. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor, it was originally built as a dining hall for naval pensioners and completed in 1705. The magnificent ceiling and wall paintings, created by Sir James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726, celebrate Britain’s maritime power and the reigns of King William III, Queen Mary II, and Queen Anne. Covering over 4,000 square metres, the artwork is the largest painted ceiling in Europe and is filled with allegorical figures, gods, and symbols of naval strength. Today, the Painted Hall is open to the public as part of the Old Royal Naval College, offering visitors the chance to marvel at one of the finest achievements of British baroque art.

Chapel of St Peter & St Paul
2025-08-23 15:30 - 16:00
The Chapel of St Peter and St Paul, located within the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, is a beautiful example of 18th-century neoclassical design and one of London’s hidden gems. Completed in 1751, it was originally built as a place of worship for the seamen who lived at the Royal Hospital for Seamen. After a fire in 1779, the chapel was redesigned by James “Athenian” Stuart, who gave it its elegant interiors with classical columns, intricate plasterwork, and a striking pale blue and white color scheme. The highlight of the chapel is Benjamin West’s altarpiece, St Paul’s Shipwreck, which vividly depicts the saint’s survival at sea. Today, the chapel remains an active place of worship and a concert venue, admired for its serene beauty and remarkable acoustics.

Old Royal Naval College
2025-08-23 15:00 - 17:00
The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and one of the city’s most impressive riverside landmarks. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built between 1696 and 1712, it originally served as the Royal Hospital for Seamen, providing care for retired sailors. Later, it became the Royal Naval College, a training establishment for officers of the Royal Navy until 1998. The site is famous for its stunning Painted Hall, often described as the “Sistine Chapel of the UK,” with magnificent ceiling artwork celebrating British naval power and monarchy. Today, the Old Royal Naval College is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Maritime Greenwich and welcomes visitors to explore its rich history, grand architecture, and cultural events.

Cutty Sark
2025-08-23 14:00 - 15:00
The Cutty Sark, located in Greenwich, London, is one of the world’s most famous historic ships and a remarkable survivor of the great age of sail. Built in 1869, it was a British clipper ship designed for speed, originally used in the tea trade between China and Britain, and later for transporting wool from Australia. Renowned for its sleek design and fast voyages, the Cutty Sark became a symbol of maritime innovation and global trade during the 19th century. Today, it is preserved as a museum ship, allowing visitors to step aboard and explore its decks while learning about the lives of the sailors who worked on it. Suspended in a striking glass structure, the Cutty Sark stands as a tribute to Britain’s naval heritage and seafaring history.

Greenwich Market
2025-08-23 13:30 - 14:00
Greenwich Market is a lively and historic marketplace at the heart of Greenwich, London, known for its vibrant mix of arts, crafts, antiques, fashion, and street food. Dating back to the 14th century, it has evolved into a bustling spot where independent traders and designers showcase their unique creations, from handmade jewellery and artwork to vintage treasures and quirky gifts. Alongside the stalls, visitors can enjoy an impressive variety of world street food, offering flavours from across the globe. Surrounded by independent shops, cafés, and pubs, Greenwich Market is not just a shopping destination but also a cultural and social hub, making it a favourite stop for both locals and tourists exploring the area.
