London Group 4
This London Group is led by Anne Jones. Meetings are indoors or out in London, on the first Wednesday
February Meeting
London Group 4 did a Piccadilly walk in February. Unfortunately I could not go but I have done it previously, last in 2013. It was originally researched by Ernie Bowden for a longer walk who is with us in spirit on each walk.
Lunch was in Shepherds Market & then a visit to Burlington Arcade. This is a covered pedestrian, carpeted shopping arcade, opened in 1819. It was originally 72 small shops but now around 40 larger ones. The facade was added in early 1900's. It is an upmarket retail location, patrolled by Burlington Beedles dressed in their traditional uniform of top hat & frock coats. Expensive jewellery, watches, jumpers, shoes etc are sold but no prices on anything.
After this, a visit to the Royal Academy of Arts. An Independent, privately funded institution led by eminent artists & architects to promote the enjoyment of art. Founded in 1768 by George 3rd.
Next into Fortnum & Mason. An upmarket department store, founded in 1707 by William Fortnum & Hugh Mason, selling luxury goods. Always worth a visit to see the goods on display & food tasting in the basement if you visit at the right time. There is a beautiful staircase between floors, this time there was a Chapel of Love erected presumably for Valentines Day. Fortnum & Mason sell their own honey with hives situated on the roof with the bees having access to the London Parks.
Look up above Patisserie Valerie & a big sculpture can be seen on the corner with Justice, robed, with attendants. The building was originally an Insurance Company, The Norwich Union, the sign situated below the figures.
Click on a picture below to see it full-size with more details.
