Christmas is Coming – Things to do in London

Craig Gambell, our new Scape blogger, gets us in the Christmas mood!

Some people start planning their Christmas months in advance, but if you’re anything like me and leave things to the last minute, keep reading for a guide of some of the best thingsto do during the Christmas build up (other than just eating from your advent calendar!)

Christmas lights
Okay so by the time you read this, you may have missed the big “turning on of the lights”. But rest assured! You can still view them (and update your Instagram, of course) until early January. Oxford Street will light up for a 55th year this year, filling the sky with over 1000 glowing orbs. And if that isn’t picturesque enough for you, then don’t worry! There are many more locations with a beautiful display of lights, including Regent Street and Covent Garden.

Winter in London

Read what Sandip has to say about experiencing London in the winter months.

It’s not long now until the clocks go forward, and the warm autumn breeze is replaced by dark and chilly winter nights. But have no fear, for there’s no better place in England than London to spend your winter evenings. It might be warmer and cosier indoors, but trust me there’s plenty going on in the capital to keep you entertained. You could indulge yourself at the theatre, step aboard the Alternative London Tour, or be dazzled by the Lord Mayor’s fireworks display. Here’s my list of the best things to do this winter in London.

Popular theatre shows
You’ve not experienced London until you’ve been to the theatre, and this winter there are some jaw-dropping shows that will keep you thoroughly entertained. Firstly, Beverly Knight returns to the West End in new hit musical Memphis; whilst Cats returns at the London Palladium for a twelve week residency starring music superstar Nicole Scherzinger. Off-West End there’s the fierce and disturbing World War Two epic The Curring Room, and The Way Back Home at the Southbank Centre. You can find London’s theatre programme here.

Alternative London Tour
Scape East students, you’ve been living in East London for a while now, maybe you’ve already experienced some of the events I shortlisted for Scape. If not, this leftfield tour is a must, see your local area as you’ve never experienced it before. An original tour taking you on a non-stop journey into the heart of London’s vibrant and diverse East End.

Experience terror at the British library
Britain’s most comprehensive display of Gothic literature and artefacts goes on display at the British Library in their new exhibition, Terror and Wonder: The Gothic Imagination. This is a more intellectual and informative day out, and ties in nicely with upcoming Halloween! If you want to explore the dark-side of British literature, delve into vampire slaying-kits, or even experience how gothic heritage has infused our daily lives, then you and this exhibition are an ideal fit.

The Lord Mayor’s firework display
This year on Saturday November 8th, London celebrates the new Lord Mayor. For over 799 years the new Lord Mayor (not Boris Johnson, but the newly elected Ambassador of the City of London) has walked, trotted and even fought his way through the congregated crowds to swear an oath of loyalty. This year the celebrations begin with a morning river pageant, followed by an afternoon procession through the centre of London, and finishing in the evening with an impressive fireworks display.

Halloween events in London
It’s almost that time of year again, when London is gripped by ghost stories, and spooky goings-on. There are plenty of events to keep you entertained for this year’s celebrations. There are plenty of parties taking place across the capital, all you need to do is get down to your local costume shop and pick out something that will scare. There are also a number of Halloween themed events across London ready to give you the scare of your life.

This was by no means an exhaustive list of things to do this winter in London, but it’s a good starting point. Remember to stay safe, and more importantly have fun.

Top 10 Things to do in Greenwich – Part 2

Read Part 2 of Paula’s Guide to Greenwich – scroll down for Part 1!

Following on from Paula’s first post, below are 5 more essential trips that you need to make in Greenwich.

Cutty Sark
Right on the river, the Cutty Sark Pub has been around for a long long time. With a friendly and rustic feel, the pub has a lot of character and there is a great selection of beers and food. When the weather is great you can sit outside and take in the awe-inspiring views of the River Thames. Just how long has the Cutty Sark been around for? The actual tavern was built over 200 years so you will be immersed in a piece of history.

Greenwich Theatre
Greenwich Theatre offers an alternative way to spend your evening. It is relaxed, intimate and features a wide array of shows throughout the year. Originally a music hall, live performances have been taking place at the site for the past 150 years. Today, the theatre has an ethos of supporting grass roots theatre where ‘exceptional graduate performers’, young companies and Emerging Artists festival all feature. Martin Luther King, written by Ewan Hooper, the Vortex featuring Vivien Merchant and Timothy Dalton, Chekhov’s Three Sisters and John Mortimer’s A Voyage Round My Father have all featured at the theatre.

Fashion in Greenwich
Shopping in Greenwich can only turn out to be fun. As you stroll through the town there is a wide realm of boutiques and stores. Here is a selection of some of the shops you can find. Bullfrog’s Shoes offers a varied selection of shoes. ‘Meet Bernard’ offer highbrow fashion for the modern man/woman. A Greenwich favourite, Joy has the latest highstreet fashions for women and men.

Café Rouge
Having a coffee and breakfast at Café Rouge on a quiet morning is a real treat. The inexpensive French themed restaurant has a delectable variety of fresh patisseries such as pain au chocolat, pain au raisin, or croissants which comes with a petit pot of jam for £2.50. If you prefer a cooked breakfast, ‘Oeufs Bénédicte’, ‘Omelette’ and ‘Le Petit Déjeuner Végétarien’ are all on the menu. Café Rouge of course, is part of a mainstream chain and can get mighty busy but if you get the chance to go on a quiet morning or evening its well worth the journey.

Oliver’s Music Jazz Bar
Music makes the world go round and in Greenwich there exists one of the most famous venues: the o2, which of course showcase some of the most popular acts in the world. However there is another side to Greenwich. Oliver’s Music Jazz Bar. If you enjoy live music then Oliver’s Music Jazz Bar is a must! A complete hidden gem, Oliver’s showcases live jazz ‘of the highest calibre’ featuring internationally acclaimed musicians from the UK, America and beyond. It has a cosy ambiance where you can really enjoy good music and unwind.

Top 10 Things to do in Greenwich – Part 1

Read Part 1 of Paula’s Guide to Greenwich – scroll up for Part 2!

With its own vibe, leafy Greenwich is unique. It is rich in history whilst being a stone’s throw away from the city. So you end up being in one of the most beautiful towns whilst being in London. There are clubs, pubs, shops, independent traders, a comedy club, museums and so much more. Here is a selection of some of the top 10 things to do when you are in Greenwich.

Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park has to be one of the most breath-taking parks in London, if not England. The scenic 183 acres of green land first opened in the 13th century and is the oldest enclosed Royal Park. Situated on a hilltop, the luscious park boasts impressive views of Blackheath, Greenwich, the River Thames, Docklands and the City of London. The park is so extensive that you will definitely find a spot to relax, even on a hot summer’s day. The National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House are at the base of the park. Discover where east meets west at the Greenwich Meridian line by trekking up to the Royal Observatory which is at the top of the hill. The park opens every day at 6am.

Greenwich Picturehouse
In the heart of Greenwich, Greenwich Picturehouse showcases the latest blockbusters. The cinema has a modern atmosphere and is home to five screens – with the intimate Screen 5 being a highlight. It allows you to feel completely at home whilst watching your favourite films. You can plan a nice evening at Greenwich Picturehouse, where you have a meal before your film as the Rivington Grill and Tapera are next to the cinema. If you fancy a tipple, there is a bar located at the top of the building and the views aren’t bad either. Students get discounts for cinema tickets.

Greenwich Market
London is a haven for markets and Greenwich has its own unique contributions to add to the mix. With a boutiquey feel, Greenwich Market is London’s only historic market that is found within a World Heritage site. The market stalls sell food, jewellery, arts and crafts, clothes antiques and beauty products. There is also an assortment of pubs, restaurants, cafés and wine bars.

The Trafalgar
Trafalgar Café is a great greasy spoon that has been serving Greenwich tasty English breakfasts for ages. With a modest feel, the cafés’ generous portions will leave you feeling satisfied. Their fry-ups never disappoint and their servings of the classics are appetising too. Builder’s tea is the norm but that’s part of its charm and appeal. The busy Trafalgar Café is perfect for those days when you just want to tuck in and relax. You don’t need to spend a lot either – expect to pay under £7.00.

Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park is a peaceful paradise to unwind. A mesmerising range of wildlife exists in the Park. Expect exotic birds, frogs, fish, toads and newts along with many other animals. In warmer climes, the Park has dragonflies, damselflies, and beautiful butterflies. The Park has an inner and outer lake. The outer lake is open at all times and the inner lake area is accessible only through the Gatehouse during opening hours. Scape Greenwich is right next to the park so you don’t have to travel far to find a piece of serenity in London.

Freshers’ Guide to East London

Read on for Sandip’s advice on things to do in East London.

The summer sun has set and the autumn rain has arrived, but there is an aura of excitement in the air as hundreds of university fresher’s descend upon the capital this September to begin the next chapter of their lives. Living at Scape East is a brilliant choice; it’s situated in the vibrant and rustic East End of London and there are plenty of things to do. The East End’s patchwork of diverse settings means there’s something for every student.

There are the obvious things to go and see whilst living here at Scape East such as Victoria Park, the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and the shopping mall at Stratford. But the East End has so much more to offer you and that’s where this guide comes in; I’ve listed some of the best things to do and visit during your time at Scape East.

Art and music in East London
It may come as a surprise but there are some brilliant art exhibitions to explore here in the East End. Firstly, there’s the Whitechapel Gallery. This is the original East End gallery, which serves as a stage for both contemporary and classic artists. With nine galleries you’ll be able to experience (for free!) world renowned classical artists such as Pablo Picasso and Mark Rothko, as well as modern and contemporary greats such as Lucien Freud and Mark Wallinger.

Further to this there is the Wilton’s Music Hall, one of the East End’s best kept secrets. Here, a variety of distinctive, imaginative and diverse musical scores including theatre productions, comedy, cinema and cabaret is offered.

Hackney Empire and Rio Cinema 

Presenting old, traditional and hit productions from a bygone era in a contemporary manner, Hackney Empire is an essential excursion for all new East End students. Hackney Empire is renowned for housing great touring productions, world famous orchestras, and international comedians and musicians (Check out their autumn programme here).

If rustic cinematic entertainment isn’t for you, then perhaps the contemporary Rio Cinema at Dalston, may be more to your taste. With its mix of modern and classical films, it is a truly worthwhile visit.

East London markets
London is renowned for its many cultural and diverse markets and the East End is home to two of the best. Both Broadway Market and Spitalfields are short distances away from Scape East. At both markets you’ll find a mixture of students, locals and Londoners bustling through the stalls.

Broadway market is situated in Hackney next to the beautiful Regents Canal and is open every Saturday. At Broadway you’ll find everything you’ll need for your weekly shop at rock bottom prices. There are stalls selling organic fruit and vegetables, poultry and fish, as well as numerous pubs and restaurants to keep you entertained. At Spitalfields (located near Shoreditch) you will find a seven-day market with classic and vintage stalls. These offer cutting edge East End fashions, original artworks, quirky crafts. Also squeezed in are a number of food and drink stalls.

Food and drink
There are some great places to eat and drink in the East End. Firstly there’s the newly opened Dirty Burger restaurant on Mile End Road. Alternatively, Vietnamese food is available at the affordable Song Que restaurant in Shoreditch. If you fancy spending a night of your fresher’s week in slightly more extravagant surroundings then a trip to Les Trois Garcons on Brick Lane is essential. This French cuisine bar/ restaurant has an extravagant interior filled with stuffed exotic animals, bright and colourful flowers, and there’s always a brilliant atmosphere.

I hope you enjoyed my rundown of some key East End attractions. Whatever you get up to this fresher’s week remember to have fun and stay safe (you can read our article on student safety here).

Rooftop Film Club at the Bussey Building

London is a city that is always thriving with new and varied experiences; there is just always so much to do and new things popping up all the time. The Bussey Rooftop Bar is an example of just that.

At its somewhat dizzying heights, the Rooftop Film Club has brought outdoor cinema to the Bussey in South London. While outdoor cinemas have been gaining popularity over the last year or so, this location is particularly unique and an experience you won’t have encountered before.

Getting there

Situated within walking distance from Peckham Rye Station, distance is not the problem here. It’s the building itself. Immersed within surrounding buildings, it is camouflaged well – especially if you happen to be arriving in the evening. The old structure is reminiscent of a warehouse, but don’t let this put you off.

From North Greenwich: take the Jubilee Line to Canada Water, then the Overground to Peckham Rye.

From Mile End: take the District/Hammersmith & City Line to Whitechapel, then the Overground to Peckham Rye.

Bussey Rooftop Bar

The term ‘Rooftop’ is no exaggeration, and you will have to climb quite a few flights of stairs before reaching the summit of the building. But once the cosy setting comes in to view, illuminated by an array of lights (not dissimilar from something you might see on a Christmas tree), it all becomes worth it. The seating is made up of deck chairs that you would usually find available to rent on the beach. These are comfortable and provide a relaxed position to watch the film. Outside noises such as the occasional train going past added a unique element to the evening.

Upon your arrival you will be handed headphones and a blanket. This is a thoughtful addition which adds to the welcoming feel of the place. As you would expect from any cinema there is a small stall from which you are able to purchase refreshments. And as usual, they are above the price that you would expect to pay on the high street (Burgers, fries, and a drink will cost you around £15.00-£20.00). Fortunately this is optional, and if you are looking to make this a budget night out then we would advise to eat beforehand.

The Film

The film we happened to see was the ‘Notebook’, a popular romantic drama which is perfect for any hopeless romantics out there. Although the film itself isn’t that important, as they show a range of cult classics to suit all tastes (Pulp Fiction is showing soon!).

The Experience

Ironically, the film is not what makes this experience worthwhile. Being outside in the open air, the truly exceptional and beautiful view across London, as well as the warm environment created by both the layout and the staff is what really makes the night one to remember. All in all, the evening was a nine out of ten.

A Day Of African Culture in London

Paula Pennant tells us of her day spent in London museums, exploring African cultural exhibits. 

African Worlds

In the heart of suburban Forest Hill, the Horniman Museum does on first impression seem rather unusual. Its majestic and well-kept exterior makes you want to find out more. It’s really lush. Really green. Really beautiful. It could almost be a botanical garden.

Opened in 1891, the museum in its first incarnation was the home of Frederick Horniman. Horniman had travelled the world and wanted to show the public the amazing smörgåsbord of art that existed. The fact that it still looks great today proves that the Horniman has been preserved in its full glory.

So what about inside? On this particular day, a Saturday, there was a farmers market. So that’s another reason to check it out. The Centenary Gallery has a very spacious feel. It is really interesting, and the layout is conscious and deliberate. Have you ever had a museum to yourself? Even though it was a Saturday, there were moments when I was alone in the Centenary Gallery. African Worlds is a small and unique collection that shows different elements of African life. It’s fair to say, that it’s more of a lifestyle curation than a formal collection. If you do like African culture then it can’t hurt to take a visit. Furthermore, the Horniman Museum has so much to offer and it is definitely one of the most interesting museums in London, and free! There are also some lovely gardens to take a stroll around, and an aquarium on the lower level!

Travel: From North Greenwich take the Jubilee line to Canada Water, then the Overground to Forest Hill. From Mile End take the Hammersmith and City/District line to Whitechapel, change for the Overground to Forest Hill.

Sugar & Slavery

The Sugar & Slavery exhibition at Museum of London Docklands is less about art and more about history. Unlike the ‘African Worlds’ collection, this permanent exhibition reflects a horrific act from civilisation. London, and the whole of Britain, was involved with the slave trade and Sugar & Slavery is a concise chronology of this dark era. There is so much to see and so much to learn.

The exhibition is beyond educational though.By the end of it, it is clear that is has to be one of the best visual historical depictions around. It is difficult to imagine but this colonial trade provided the necessary investments for hundreds of prominent banks, art galleries, companies and private estates. The cold hard facts are difficult to digest. Without the slave trade, Great Britain would not be the country it is today.

The exhibits are realistic to say the least, and here’s why. Fascinatingly, the site of the museum was where sugar was stored after it was grown, cut and ground by slaves. The exhibition is incredibly sad, but instead of inducing any bitterness, it does the complete opposite. Sugar & Slavery serves as proof of the higher aspects of humanity. It is estimated that up to 15 million people lost their lives and were enslaved. The exhibition forces us to never forget the strength, courage and endurance of those who survived the slave trade and caused its extinction.

Travel: From North Greenwich take the Jubilee line to Canary Wharf. From Mile End you can take either the 277 or D6 bus. Or the Central line to Stratford and change for the Jubilee line to Canary Wharf.

Verdict

The focal point of both exhibitions is Africa, however the two museums could not be any more different. One focuses on art, the other history; but both meaningful. The best thing about both is that entrance is free. Demonstrating, perfectly, that culture does not have to be expensive or exclusive.

Movies to Watch this Summer

Read on to see what current films our Scape Blogger Sandip recommends

With the start of August the summer break is nearing its end. Though considering the turbulent and overcast weather we’ve been experiencing recently it might feel like summer was over a while ago. If you’re struggling for things to do, part two of our summer blog series might offer some inspiration. Or you might want to get active, if so check out our top five sports to do this summer. However if neither are to your taste there are many tantalising new films being shown on your doorstop – at the Genesis Cinema in Whitechapel for Scape East students, and the Greenwich Odeon for Scape Greenwich students. Here’s a rundown of our favourites…

 

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

It’s commonly considered that sequels never match the original, but Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is an exception. Set ten winters after the original, Caesar and his ape community are now living peacefully in the forest. However the human population, or what remains after the outbreak of a deadly virus, live in constant fear of the apes and see them as the cause of their problems.  This is an epic film, using evolutionary film methods culminating in a must-see summer movie.

How to Train Your Dragon Two

For those who have a soft spot for a little animation, the sequel to How to Train Your Dragon is a great choice. Hiccup, Toothless and all our favourite Vikings and dragons from the first instalment are back. This film is set five years after the original, and sees the Vikings and dragons living as one community in peace. That is until Drago Bludvist begins capturing dragons to build his army. Cue an adventure filled with all the warmth, laughter, and emotion of the original.

Guardians of the Galaxy

This one should be top of the list for Marvel movie fans. Guardians of the Galaxy sees the universes most unlikely heroes, including a half-human, a tree and a talking racoon, set the unenvious task of saving the galaxy. This is similar to the Avengers, only it’s set in outer space, innovative, funny and visually brilliant.

Boyhood

Scape Greenwich students will have to venture to the Picturehouse to watch this one, but it’s worth it. Filmed over 12 years with the same cast, Boyhood is a ground-breaking film that will leave you in awe of what is possible with a camera. Director Richard Linklater breaks all the rules of Hollywood in a film that is beautifully directed, emotionally charged, and will leave you full of warmth. The story follows the life of Mason as he navigates through his school years all the way to college. A tender and touching story, it doesn’t have the feeling of a documentary; it’s just an extraordinary film.

Open Air Theatre and Regents Park: An Extraordinary Evening Out

Read Sandip’s glowing review of the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

Outdoor theatres are often forgotten in the midst of today’s technology obsessed society. Most of the big West End productions like The Lion King, 1984, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and the short-lived I Can’t Sing, put great emphasis on extravagant set design, which you might think can’t be done in an outdoor theatre. However, upon visiting the opening night of Hobson’s Choice at the Open Air Theatre in Regents Park, I would argue that you really haven’t experienced real theatre until you’ve been to the Open AirTheatre, which is rustic, old-fashioned, traditional theatre at its storytelling best.

I know theatre isn’t everyone’s cup of tea; some may consider it a middle-class hobby, others just aren’t interested in what it has to offer. But outdoor theatre is an affordable evening out on any student budget. Based in Regents Park, the Open Air Theatre is one of the largest auditoriums in London with 1,250 seats and a remarkably intimate atmosphere.

Nearest to the Bakerloo station, set within Regents Park, head to the centre of the park past a numerous lush green spaces and impressive water features, including the impressive Boating Lake, until you reach the Jubilee Gates. Once you’re through the gates you find yourself in the mesmerising Queen Mary’s Garden at the centre of Regents Park.

On my visit I saw the thought-provoking 1960s drama Hobson’s Choice which runs until 12 July, to be followed by The Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess from 17 July – 23 August; and To Kill a Mockingbird from 28 August until 13 September. Although the Open Air Theatre is renowned for its marvellous atmosphere, mouth-watering barbecue, and delightful summer café, at its heart it presents remarkable stories, acted to the highest standards. For instance, in Hobson’s Choice, Mark Benton was a comedic marvel on stage, just as Jodie McNee was an extraordinarily determined talent.

The added bonus of the Open Air Theatre is that it’s based in one of London’s most exquisite parks. Regents Park, one of the Royal Parks of London, was originally used by Henry VIII as a hunting ground, and is now a stylish, beautiful landscape, perfect for evenings out with friends. Even if you don’t fancy theatre, be sure to visit Regents Park.

I thoroughly enjoyed my evening out at the Open Air Theatre’s production of Hobson’s Choice.

Click here for more information on the Open Air Theatre, or to find out more about the beauty of Regents Park, check out their website.

How to Spend the Summer in London

Our blogger Sandip tells us what is happening in London in June

Now that you have made it through the trials and tribulations of the exam season, you can begin to concentrate on how you are going to spend your summer at Scape. If the weather forecast is right, this June is going to be a scorcher. There is lots for you to do in London this June, and here are a few of my favourites.

Experience the culture of Rio in London

A celebration of all things Brazilian comes to Trafalgar Square on June 12; Brazil Day is a festival filled with dance lessons, live music, Brazilian street food, and DJs. The celebrations will bring the colours, fun and energy of the Rio Carnival to the capital. On the day of the World Cup’s opening match, you’ll be able to experience the sights, smells, and tastes of Rio in the heart of the capital.

A summer of sport on the big screen

Broadgate Summer of Sport will air some big sporting events on a huge screen for free in Exchange Square. If you don’t want to wait in the arduous queues at Wimbledon, if you weren’t flush enough to buy your ticket to Rio, and you just want to sit back and enjoy a summer of sport with your friends, then these events are for you. You’ll be able to watch the World Cup, Wimbledon, the Indian Cricket Tour of England and the Tour de France. You don’t need to be in the stadium to experience the emotion and atmosphere. Just be prepared, it’s going to get emotional.

Trooping the colour – the Queen’s birthday parade

Although the Queen’s birthday is in April, this military celebration (dating back to the 18th century) is carried out on Horse Guards Parade by fully operational troops every year in June. If you want to catch a glimpse of British military might and tradition, then visit Whitehall on June 14 to experience what is always a great occasion.

The best thing about this parade is that it’s free; you can watch from Horse Guards Parade all the way down The Mall to Buckingham Palace. A spectacular flypast from the Red Arrows is also in store. If you do plan on going, arrive as early as possible; this is always a popular event.

Festival of Colours at the Queen Elizabeth Park

In 2014 the Queen Elizabeth Park hosts the annual Holi-inspired festival of colours. This is a feel good festival that is happening just 10 minutes from Scape East! There will be live DJs, bands, food and most importantly, plenty of coloured powder to douse your friends and others with. This is an amazing, colourful and beautiful festival, and tickets have been selling fast.

These are a few ideas of my ideas for things to do in June, will you go to any of these? Or is there something you would have liked to see on the list? If so, leave us a comment below.