On Saturday I knew I was going to be racing all over the city – it’s the sort of weekend I tend to have when I am actually in London! I stuck my camera in my bag just in case and London rewarded me with some gorgeous blue skies and quirky sights.
I have mixed emotions about the fact that it’s now indisputably autumn. On one hand, I’m not a big fan of rain and cold. Yes, I know, I’m not living in my ideal climate here. But on the other hand, I love autumn days like this stunning one, and I’m looking forward to cosying up in winter scarves and layers, and maybe even some snow. That would definitely be a treat, at least the first time!
I know the river has been the beating heart of the city for centuries, but sometimes I forget that it’s still very much a place of work for many. I was reminded of this as I gazed over the Thames by this river boat sign. In addition, a reminder to ease down is always good to see in this busy life we lead.
So, Covent Garden is floating at the moment! This stunning optical illusion is the work of artist Alex Chinneck, who likes to play with preconceptions about architecture. It’s pretty intriguing to witness in person, so if you’re in or visiting London before October 24, be sure to check it out.
The Rising Sun pub on Tottenham Court Road has a beautiful facade that caught my eye, just as the light came from behind a cloud. Designed in 1897, I loved all the detail in the stonework.
This is the Fitzrovia Mural, which was painted in 1980 but is now looking a little worse for wear, and has even had graffiti added to its base. It is meant to show the life of the local community at that time, and I hope they restore it to its former glory soon.
I’d never heard of Heal’s before walking past it this weekend, but it has a fascinating history. Established in 1810 as a feather-dressing business, by the end of the 19th century it was one of the most well-known furniture suppliers in London, and built a name for itself thanks to its high calibre design. Heal’s opened its Tottenham Court Road site in 1840 in a purpose-built store, and I loved all the little decorative furniture details.
And then I saw a giant Hippo in the Thames. Meet HippopoThames. He is currently resident at St Katherine’s Docks, and is certainly worth a chat to. While he regales you with tales of his life paddling the waterways, you can marvel at his floating beauty. HippopoThames is the work of Florentijn Hofman, a Dutch artist, who is famous for his previous project, a giant inflatable duck, which even made it all the way to Auckland in New Zealand!
Slowly night fell, and I wandered home admiring this stunning sunset. I hope you enjoyed this glimpse of my autumn day in London.