Let’s Face the Music

Posted on February 22, 2013 by homefromhome

When it comes to live music, the choice on offer in the UK’s capital is second to none. Whether you have a niche taste, or just want to find something on a whim, you can guarantee that London’s venues will provide. But with gigs and concerts on all over the city every single day of the week, it can be impossible to know where to begin. Here are some of Home From Home’s recommendations for the beginning of March.

The Royal Albert Hall remains one of Britain’s best-loved concert venues with a truly outstanding programme all year round. However, the building is also home to a couple of smaller, more intimate spaces that make for a great atmosphere to see a live performance. Almost every Friday at 12 noon, the Hall’s Café Consort hosts a free lunchtime music session called Ignite. The lineup for March includes a jazz trio, a folk band, a brass band and a gypsy jazz dance band; all of which are guaranteed to wow you with their beautiful sounds.

Just north of central London in Highbury and Islington is a unique venue called Union Chapel. Still functioning as a church, its gothic architecture of vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows equate to incredible acoustics in magical surroundings. They have a varied entertainment programme including jazz every Sunday in their upstairs bar. However, Saturday 2nd March sees the venue open its doors at 12 noon for Daylight Music. The Mystery Fax Machine Orchestra is an alternative orchestra based in London who play original compositions and songs with a full classical line-up. They have become renowned for their innovative and often funny performances, and can often be found backing some big names in popular music. Support comes from Pocket Penguin. This concert is also free, with donations encouraged, and a great opportunity to scope out a wonderful building.

Puccini’s La Boheme takes residency at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden on the 2nd, 5th, 9th and 12th March. The Grade I listed building provides an idyllic setting to this classic masterpiece and is worth visiting whether you are an opera fan or just fancy a night of indulgent entertainment.

If it’s a night of jazz you’re after then Ronnie Scotts in Soho is probably London’s best known jazz venue. With a reputation for relentless high calibre line-ups from all over the world, you can be sure to have a great night no matter who’s playing when you walk through the doors. However, gracing the stage on the 5th and 6th of March is the legendary Chick Corea with his latest reinvention of the genre. This will be a rare chance to catch a glimpse of the master in his element.

For an alternative to the classic 50s speakeasy history of Ronnie Scotts, Vortex Jazz Club in Dalston Culture House is definitely worth a visit. It’s progressive approach is not only reflected in the line ups but also its non-profit ethos and self-titled record label. The building itself is also rather enticing.

Brick Lane in East London is home to numerous clubs and venues that specialise in nights of dubstep, reggae, electronic and even the odd acoustic gig. 93 Feet East is particularly well known for its experimental electronic music, often provided by live DJ sets and bands.

Wherever you decide to go, Home From Home has stunning properties in some of the city’s best locations. We also welcome the chance to advise you on places to see and things to do during your visit. For more information, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

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Valentines Day with a Difference

Posted on February 11, 2013 by homefromhome

With Champagne bars and restaurants aplenty, London will never be short of all the classic Valentines traditions. But if you are spending the most romantic day of the year here, then it could be the perfect opportunity to break the norm and do something a little different.

Nothing stands the test of time in a relationship quite like a sense of humour. The award winning 99 Club in Leicester Square is hosting what promises to be a side-splittingly funny night out, complete with a Couples Champagne Package, or Valentines Meal Package. For this you will have your wits tickled, accompanied by bottle of champers and a meal, as well as entry to the nightclub afterwards.

For something a little more sultry, the Royal Albert Hall is presenting a delightful Valentines evening with a champagne jazz session. Enjoy being serenaded by the silky dulcitones of vocalist Nicola Emmanuelle, whilst drinking a bottle of Mercier Champagne, and tickling your tastebuds with a sharing platter and some chocolate truffles: A great evening in one of Britain’s most iconic venues.

The Royal Observatory in Greenwich for a unique and extremely romantic setting for this special night. The programme consists of a planetarium show exploring the romantic side of astronomy, as well as the chance to look at the moon through the impressive 18 tonne Victorian telescope. After which you can spend time on the Prime Meridian with its spectacular views, a glass of bubbly and some astronomers to answer your starry questions.

If you want to really push the boat out then The Love Float is just the thing. Setting off in Chelsea, you and your partner can jump into a double kayak and make your way down the Thames to the Houses of Parliament. The trip begins with a mug of luxury Charbonel et Walker hot chocolate followed by all the necessary equipment and instructions. You then set off on your journey, stopping off at the river vista for a photograph, all the while being serenaded by musicians aboard a bespoke kayak alongside you. Upon your return you will be given another warming drink and use of the changing rooms to spruce up for the evening.

Whether you are coming to London for a romantic break, as part of a group or with your whole family, Home From Home has properties available to suit your requirements. Whether it’s an exclusive penthouse in the City Centre with spectacular views, a modern apartment or a fully furnished house. All of our accommodations are situated in some of the best areas in London, offering easy access to all the sites and attractions. To find out more please get in touch with us and we will be happy to help you.

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Categories: Entertainment, London, Shopping, Sightseeing, Valentines | Leave a comment

Not So Grownup: Family Fun in London

Posted on February 2, 2013 by homefromhome

It may be one of the busiest cities in the world, but London has an incredibly child-friendly side that makes it an ideal destination for a family break. As well as special events happening all year round in many different venues, there are countless museums, shows and galleries that offer fun, memorable and often free days out in the UK’s capital. So if you are planning a trip with children in tow then Home From Home has a few suggestions to get you started.

Imagine Children’s Festival is soon to reside at the Southbank Centre from 11th – 24th February. Having been transformed by children, for children, this fantastic venue will become host to some of the top names in children’s arts and culture. With free events being run throughout the festival children and adults alike can take part in creative workshops, political and philosophical discussions and energetic performances.

The Science Museum on Exhibition Road in Kensington is renowned for its innovative approach to exhibitions and child-centered interactive learning. Visit the legendary Launchpad gallery, crammed full of weird and wonderful gismos and gadgets that await your inquisitive input; get lost in another world in the IMAX cinema; find out about the history of electronic music or the mysterious secrets of alchemy in the current special exhibitions. Whatever your age you will not be disappointed here.

If its entertainment you’re after then Shrek the Musical is in its final run at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, in London’s buzzing theatre district. This fun-filled musical adventure takes you right into the heart of the much-loved animated tale, complete with all the characters and their oversized personalities. If an evening performance is a little too late then matinees are on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Booking is recommended though as the production closes on the 24th February.

For something a little different, a visit to Hackney City Farm is highly recommended. This unique place offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with rural life right in the middle of London. Initially established as a means of involving the local community with greener living, it has fast become a popular attraction for visitors from far and wide. You can even buy your groceries there, locally grown and made.

Home From Home has some fantastic properties suitable for family stays in London. We have a range of apartments and houses with varying numbers of bedrooms; all of which are fully furnished to a high standard and offer comfortable and tasteful accommodation in ideal locations. If you would like to make enquiries then please get in touch and we will be happy to help you plan your stay.

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Categories: Children, Entertainment, London, Museums, Sightseeing | Leave a comment

A Right Royal Visit

Posted on January 24, 2013 by homefromhome

London is one of the most diverse cities in the world. Yet its royal heritage remains a top attraction for many visitors from around the globe – namely due to a prolific monarchy that still reigns. From palaces to museums and gardens, an array of stunning royal attractions on offer means you can make your stay in this great city an imperial one.

Buckingham Palace is of course one of the most well-known and loved sightseeing destinations in the UK. Its entrance is often flocked with tourists and the surrounding landscape of St James’ Park makes for a lovely walk through one of London’s many green spaces. However, you no longer have to admire this great building from afar. The State Rooms, Picture Gallery and gardens are now open to the public.

The Tower of London is home to the infamous Crown Jewels and has recently updated its displays to give these national treasures a home fit for the 21st Century. Get up close to some of the most famous diamonds in the world and learn about their symbolic status. If it’s real history you’re after though, take a twilight tour of the Tower and have your ears filled with tales of old, told by iconic Yeoman Warders (see above photo) dressed in all their regalia.

Another fascinating and beautiful piece of architecture is the exquisite Kensington Palace. Tucked away in its own secluded part of the city, this historical building has recently undergone a vast renovation and is now open to visitors. Be dazzled by the astounding Luminous Lace instillation made from electroluminescent wire and nearly 12,000 Swarovski crystals. Or treat yourself to an exclusive afternoon tea in Queen Anne’s 18th Century Orangery in the heart of Kensington Gardens.

Wherever you decide to spend your time, Home From Home has a number of properties available to rent in many fine areas of London. Kensington is an ideal location for all the aforementioned attractions. We can offer a range of accommodation here, from exclusive one-bedroom apartments to glorious houses ideal for families and groups. To find out more please get in touch on +44 (0)20 7233 8111 and we will be happy to assist you with your visit to the UK’s capital.

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Categories: Entertainment, London, Royal Family, Sightseeing | Leave a comment

Our top 5 London properties to stay in this month…

Posted on January 15, 2013 by homefromhome

Were you lucky enough to receive tickets to London for Christmas? If not, why not make 2013 the year that you take the family to visit this amazing famous capital city! Throughout the year, there is always something happening in London, from theatre and film premieres, to trade shows and outdoor music festivals. If you are planning on a vacation to the UK and London, here are our top properties to stay in for the new year…

Hollywood Mews, Chelsea

Located just off the Fulham Road this gorgeous and spacious house is typical of the most enchanting Chelsea street. Galleries, designer clothes shops and chic restaurants can be found just moments away. Hollywood Road offers that relaxed elegance, close enough to the buzz of Sloane Square, but quiet enough with a private courtyard where you will find peace and tranquility.

Find out more.

Gloucester Place Mews, Mayfair

Experience life as a Londoner in this charming property right in the heart of Mayfair, a stones throw away from Marylebone Village and the endless shopping on Oxford Street. Brilliant, very central and perfectly connected with all areas of London. Busy shopping district with Oxford Street and Bond Street is minutes away. Bustling Marylebone High Street is also a short walk away and is a tourists dream, with the famous department store Selfridges is just around the corner from the flat.

Find out more.

Abingdon Mansions, Kensington

A ground floor apartment of a very attractive London building, located just moments from High Street, Kensington, a charming residential area. You are moments from Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace and the Royal Albert Hall. You will be spoilt for choice with restaurants, bars and shops along Kensington High Street. Don’t forget to visit the Whole Foods Market a two-minute walk away for a fantastic range of natural and organic products!

Find out more.

Embankment Gardens, Chelsea

Sample life in a country-house ambience in this one bedroom apartment in Chelsea, between the King’s Road and the Thames and close to the Chelsea Royal Hospital grounds, home of the annual Chelsea Flower Show. Chelsea is an historic part of London that has long attracted lovers of style and beauty, and there is no shortage of shopping possibilities, designer outlets and gourmet delights to find in the neighbourhood and along the King’s Road. Just off Sloane Square is Duke of York Square, with some big-name boutiques and the Saatchi Gallery of modern art.

Find out more.

Britannia Road

A bright and sunny two bedroom apartment on the upper ground floor and first floor with a small patio/balcony. This is a favoured and quiet residential area yet it is only a few minutes walk from the trendy King’s Road, with its wide choice of restaurants, cafés, pubs and antique dealers. A short tube ride takes you to the West End, Covent Garden and Soho, and for football followers Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge ground is 5 minutes away. Chelsea Harbour and the riverside offer a change of scene and some interesting walks.

Find out more.

Categories: Home from Home, London, Sightseeing | Leave a comment

Shop to Your Heart’s Delight in London This New Year

Posted on January 7, 2013 by homefromhome

London is a hotspot shopping destination, whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, fabulous homewares, internationally renowned beauty brands, the latest technology or classic British produce. When it comes to New Year shopping and hitting the sales, the choice and range of shops to suit all tastes and budgets makes it the ideal location.

Given the size and choice, shopping in London does take a bit of organisation. The big stores are all located between Oxford Circus and Marble Arch, where you will find Selfridges, House of Fraser and John Lewis; in the other direction between Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road are all the big fashion brands, including the flagship Topshop store, Zara, Urban Outfitters, Miss Selfridge, American Apparel and Primark. For a slightly quieter experience, Marylebone High Street is set back from Oxford Street and has high end stores such as the Conran Shop, Matches, Agnes B and Mulberry, or to spend a month’s wages in one go, take to New Bond Street for the likes of Louis Vuitton, Burberry and Van Cleef & Arpels. Go on, make your friends back home jealous with something stylish from a London boutique!

If your shopping tastes are more vintage than high street then the city’s markets are a perfect hunting ground. Old Spitalfields Market near Liverpool Street has a huge range of vintage stalls, and is right on the border of all the boutiques of the East End, such as APC and Start. The famous Portobello Market in Ladbroke Grove is a goldmine of fashion, jewellery and antiques, whilst Camden Market offers everything the discerning indie kid could want. Vintage shops are dotted all over the city, from Lily Allen’s venture Lucy in Disguise in Soho, to Rellik and One of a Kind in west London.

There are Home from Home properties that provide easy access to all these wonderful shopping spots. For proximity to Portobello Road the Arundel Gardens apartment is ideal, or to be within walking distance of Camden, opt for the two bed on Belsize Park Gardens. Just a ten minute walk from Bond Street is the two bedroom Blandford Street apartment, and for a fabulous Covent Garden location, just minutes from Oxford Street the Newton Street one bed is just right. If you’re looking to be close to east London then the three bed Anchor Yard property is super chic and well connected, or stay near the vintage bargains of Kensington Church Street with the three bed on Brunswick Gardens.

No matter which retail spot appeals, Home from Home has perfect accommodation all over the city to suit.

Categories: Home from Home, London, Shopping | Leave a comment

Don’t Miss Out on Treating the Family to a Festive Panto

Posted on January 4, 2013 by homefromhome

The Christmas panto is a tradition in many cultures the world over and an essential part of the festive season for many families. From Cinderella to Jack and the Beanstalk, Mother Goose and Aladdin, the slapstick comedy, upbeat music and happy ending of the panto is a feel good way to enjoy the festive season.

Pantomimes go back several centuries and are a traditional mix of fairytale, humour and a series of farcical situations in which there is usually a heroine, a hero, a pantomime dame and a magical force of good, such as a fairy godmother. Pantomimes have several unique traditions that can seem a little odd to the uninitiated: the principal boy is often played by a woman dressed as a man, for example, whereas the pantomime dame is usually a man in drag. There is always audience participation of some sort, as well as a comical animal played by one or two humans, such as a horse or cow. Invariably the hilarious sequence of events often leads to a good old fashioned happy ending. Here are a few of the best festive pantos on offer this year:

Dick Whittington and His Cat – Hackney Empire until 6th Jan 2013 – Dick Whittington is a panto based on an English folk tale in which an orphan who hears that the streets of London are paved with gold travels there to make his fortune. After a somewhat chequered journey he ends up successful and rich with the woman he loves. The Hackney Empire is a legendary East End London theatre that has been a music hall since 1901 and pantomimes here are an atmospheric experience. There are numerous Home from Home properties in the East End, including the two bedroom Great Tower Street apartment and the two bed St Pauls property.

Aladdin: A Wish Come True – until 5th Jan 2013 – Aladdin is the classic pantomime story of the genie and the lamp making the wishes of a young man come true. This panto features Window Twankey, one of the best known pantomime dames, who in this year’s O2 version is played by Paul O Grady/Lily Savage. The panto takes place at the legendary O2 in Greenwich, also known as the Millennium Dome. The Home from Home two bed London Bridge property is just a short riverboat ride or walk from the Dome and has fabulous city skyline views.

Cinderella – Lyric Hammersmith – until 5th Jan 2013 – the Cinderella pantomime is the ultimate rags to riches story, complete with a handsome prince and a lost glass slipper. Baron Hardup, Buttons and the fairy godmother are all key Cinderella characters, as are the two ugly sisters – always played by two men in drag. The original Lyric Hammersmith dates back to the 1800s and is a classic London entertainment venue. The Home from Home five bed property at Tabor Road, Hammersmith is ideal for heading home to after a night of ‘he’s behind you!’ with Cinderella and the rest of the cast.

The spectacle of the Christmas pantomime is an essential family experience and can be especially magical for little ones. If the pantomimes you want to see aren’t mentioned here then take a look at the Home From Home website to view the full list of properties close to all of London’s best entertainment spots.

Categories: Christmas, Entertainment, Home from Home, London | Leave a comment

Hollywood’s Best Dressed Come to Town

Posted on December 31, 2012 by homefromhome

London’s Victoria and Albert Museum is renowned world over for its stunning exhibitions of art and design, the latest one being no exception. Spanning a total of three galleries, Hollywood Costume pays tribute to a profession that has silently styled some of the most iconic characters in the history of cinema. With over 100 pieces on display, this extraordinary showcase takes visitors on a cultural journey that demonstrates just how influential the costume is when it comes to shaping and defining a character’s identity.

The exhibition has taken an in-depth educational approach, with detailed multimedia demonstrations and explanations accompanied by the costumes themselves. By following the story through three separate rooms you will learn all about the process of costume design – from script to screen – as well as discovering the designer’s role within a creative team, and how each costume is painstakingly constructed.

One of the things that make this exhibition so special is that many of the costumes on display are privately owned, and have not been seen since their appearances on the big screen. You can get right up close to some of the most recognisable outfits in film, the oldest piece dating back a century. There’s Charlie Chaplin, Lord Darth Vader, Indiana Jones, Professor Dumbledore, Spiderman and several famously dressed monarchs to name a few.

If all this isn’t enough then you can attend one of the many special events that will be taking place in association: from live music to book clubs and lectures, or even an exclusive ‘red carpet’ evening. There is even a specially designed Hollywood Costume range on sale in the V&A shop.

The museum itself is located in Kensington, an area that is home to some of London’s best loved museums and notable architectural styles. Home From Home has several superb properties nearby, from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom luxury houses. As well as being close to the river, it is also an ideal location for getting to some of the city’s finest green spaces and only a short tube ride away from places like Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus.

 

Categories: Home from Home, London, Museums | Leave a comment

Delight the Family With a Traditional Christmas Light Display

Posted on December 13, 2012 by homefromhome

London’s Christmas lights are famous the world over. People flock from around the globe to witness the dazzling collection of displays that illuminate the city’s streets each year. This year, there are as always, some truly stunning set ups – from the traditional to the more unusual, and each one is worth seeing.

The lights on Oxford Street are probably the most well known of all, with a star studded turning-on ceremony, complete with entertainment and a crowd of thousands. The street is one of the most famous shopping destinations on the planet and boasts over 300 shops on one strip. Prestigious names like Harrods and Selfridges are renowned for their own extravagant displays that make Christmas shopping all the more enjoyable.

Often referred to as the ‘mile of style’, the lights on Regent Street certainly match its refined character. Vast star-shaped nets of crystal coloured LEDs cascade between beautiful Georgian buildings that are home to some of the biggest names in high fashion.

Just off Regent Street is another legendary road. For over fifty years, Carnaby Street has been hailed as the home of the swinging sixties and all that came with it. With giant inflatable decorations paying tribute to the likes of The Rolling Stones, as well its free-love hippy heritage, this year’s festive displays are a fantastically eccentric reflection of its rock and roll reputation, and definitely worth a visit. If you are looking for somewhere to stay in the area, Home From Home has an incredible 17th Century maisonette in Soho as well as some ideally located luxury apartments in City, EC1.

Covent Garden is the heart and soul of the West End and oozing with festivity. With a giant topiary reindeer taking up residence in the piazza and live reindeers to pet at the weekends, this thriving cultural corner of the capital offers an alternative yet truly authentic Christmas experience. You can browse the several historic markets for unique Christmas gifts and refuel with food and drink from countless stalls, cafes and restaurants. Every Saturday the air will be filled with the dolcitones of the Gay Men’s Choir whilst a rather special Lego advent calendar marks the countdown.

Just over the bridge on Southbank, you can find the traditional German Christmas Market often set to the sounds of carol singers and live music. There is also a chance to put on some skates and take to the ice beneath one of London’s biggest attractions – the London Eye. Street artists perform and fairy lights adorn the branches of trees, making for a magical riverside walk.

However you choose to spend your time, Home From Home has properties in the very best locations, all of which are only a short distance from the most popular and historic attractions the city has to offer. For more information on what is available, please contact us and we will be happy to help plan your stay.

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Get Your Skates on: A Guide to London’s Outdoor Ice Rinks

Posted on December 6, 2012 by homefromhome

There is nothing quite as magical as ice-skating under the stars in winter months. This year London has several outdoor rinks, each one offering a different experience in a great location and many close by to our properties.

As the centerpiece to its magnificent Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park plays host to the biggest outdoor rink in the UK. Built around the Victorian bandstand and laced with fairy lights and music, you couldn’t ask for a more idyllic setting to don a pair of skates.

Browse the German Christmas Fayre, take a ride on the big wheel or wander around the incredible Magical Ice Kingdom. Wherever you end up, you can be sure to find a hot chocolate or mulled wine nearby. Be warned however, the skating is incredibly popular so it’s definitely worth booking in advance. Whether you are looking for an apartment or family house, we have several superb properties close to Hyde Park and ideally located for getting around the city; all of which are in desirable areas such as Knightsbridge and Notting Hill.

Probably one of Britain’s best-loved attractions, the Natural History Museum is a salute to beautiful architecture and filled with breathtaking exhibitions on the history of our planet. Every winter, this great institution is also home to an outdoor rink and with 900 square metres of ice around a majestic Christmas tree, skating here is a truly festive experience. There is a fantastic café bar with plenty of food and drink options, and a viewing platform to watch the skaters. Check out the events too – there are often evenings of live music and entertainment, providing the perfect finale to a day of fun for all the family.

For something particularly unique, there is the rink at Somerset House. Set in the building’s courtyard with stunning 18th Century architecture as a backdrop, it is one of London’s most popular outdoor rinks. A hub of activity, it has everything from skating lessons to club nights. Even the music is provided by world class DJs, including vintage theme nights of 40s swing, 50s rock ‘n’ roll, and 60s soul. Whilst you are there you can see some of the House’s renowned exhibitions: from fine art to photography, film, couture fashion and live music.

Somerset House is only a short walk from Covent Garden, London’s world famous theatre district, and the artistic hub of South Bank – home to the Royal Festival Hall. We have some fantastically located apartments in both areas, including one on Newton Street that boasts great views of the city.

For more information about our London properties, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be more than happy to answer any questions and advise you on the best location for your stay.

Categories: Christmas, Home from Home, Ice Skating, London | Tags: , , , | Leave a comment