2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/ Lussumo Vanilla & Feed Publisher http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294863#Comment_294863 2011-05-17T10:21:32-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

Howdy, pardners! Last year I opened a thread about me taking a trip to London and asking for suggestions. A helpful thread, to be sure, punctuated by my not actually going to London. Sad ...

Last year I opened a thread about me taking a trip to London and asking for suggestions. A helpful thread, to be sure, punctuated by my not actually going to London. Sad face.

But this time I am, because I have the tickets--the wife and I are going May 30th through June 6th.

We're going to be staying with some family friends in the Chiswick area of Hounslow (and I have no idea what that means). For sure, we are going to make a day trip to Dorchester (my wife studies Thomas Hardy) and a day trip to Bath most likely. We also hope to hit up a few museums, Westminster, the Globe, and whatever we have time for. So, what I would be most appreciative for from my UK brethren here are some pointers on the following:

1) general advice on transportation in/around the city, and to Bath/Dorchester/Dorset - the family friends do not have a car

2) a pub that is 200+ years old and/or a pub that serves Guinness from a hand pump, preferably in Chiswick area or easily reached by public trans yada yada

3) a good restaurant that I can take these family friends to as thank you - we love fine dining, but hopefully one that won't be more than $100 american per person

4) any interesting shops, restaurants, cafes, haunts that won't necessarily show up in travel guides and touristy books

Obviously I can look some of this stuff up myself, but it's always great to get firsthand experience and comments from people I can trust. And any other thoughts on traveling, suggestions, or comments are welcome as well.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294871#Comment_294871 2011-05-17T11:19:30-07:00 2011-05-17T11:21:07-07:00 The Gentleman Mummy http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=6283

On Transportation - you can pick up a free map of the Tube Train subway system, as well as the bus systems, at most stations; but even if they're unavailable, maps of the system are all over the ...

I would definitely recommend checking out Covent Garden and the London Transport Museum, which are both on the maps but not as well-publicised as the other attractions.

Oh, and if you or the family are comic readers, definitely have a look at Gosh Comics, which is just down the street from the British Museum. It's the perfect place for comics, I've often found, because it lacks the needy-franchise style of Waterstones or Forbidden Planet. It's just generally a good place to find comic books for anyone who likes 'em.

While you're in Bath, look up the Bath Costume Museum.

And if you have a lot of time when you visit the Globe, the Tate Modern is next door. It's got varying degrees of quality in terms of art, but the non-exhibition stuff is solid and whatever's in the Turbine Hall this time around is probably inoffensive.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294880#Comment_294880 2011-05-17T13:30:45-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 badbear http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1879

Use the transport for london website journeyplanner to see how to get to where you want to go: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/ Although it won't ever really recommend buses, don't be afraid of them. The ...

Although it won't ever really recommend buses, don't be afraid of them. The information on bus stops is pretty comprehensive (and if you're ever lost then there is often a little map on them too) and you can actually see the city as you pass it by.
Consider buying an A-Z map book. Lots of central London tube stops are actually really close together and the underground can be a bloody nightmare if the weather is warm.

Drinking wise I recommend The George Inn (built in the 17th century) in southwark - it's one of the oldest pubs in London and is just opposite borough market which is a very expensive but delicious farmers market and right by the river. Food is pretty good too.
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-georgeinn

My other half says that if you can put up with the posh bankers then try Gordons Wine Bar in embankment, which is the oldest wine bar in London. Apparently it's a bit cave like inside but it is frikkin old.
http://www.gordonswinebar.com/

Although having said that there are heaps of nice pubs in chiswick, it's a very leafy and attractive part of London. I haven't been there in years though so I don't have any up to date info for you...

I second the recommendation for London's southbank (the stretch of the river with the Tate Modern and the Globe on it) because it's my favourite part of london. It's an easy walk up to trafalgar square from there too. Nice at night time.

I'm going to have a think and see what else I can come up with for you. I've got more in me I just know it...]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294881#Comment_294881 2011-05-17T13:36:37-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Oddcult http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=214

1 - The underground is easy around London. Bath is easy by train. Dorchester - slightly more difficult by train, but do-able. Go to http://www.thetrainline.com and work them both out. They're both ...

2 - Take your pick. Guinness doesn't really come from hand pumps like real ale though, if that's what you mean. It's on tap pretty much everywhere though. If you want something that looks old, then The Olde Cheshire Cheese http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ye_Olde_Cheshire_Cheese on Fleet Street is what you're after.

3 - There are loads, depending on what you want. You may have to book though if you want anything famous.

4 - Make sure you visit camden market. I'd recommend the Atlantis Bookshop by the British Museum, which is also close to Gosh Comics if you like weirdness.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294883#Comment_294883 2011-05-17T13:45:12-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 VertigoJones http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4512

Guinness in the UK isn't notably any better than anywhereelse unfortunately. If you are after proper beer in chiswick, you probably might want to nip into the Fullers brewery and affixed pub.

If you are after proper beer in chiswick, you probably might want to nip into the Fullers brewery and affixed pub.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294902#Comment_294902 2011-05-17T17:13:04-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 icelandbob http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=5250

With Hounslow then you are likely to use the Piccadily line which does take you RIGHT into the centre of the west end (Piccadily, Leicester Square, etc). Make sure to get a days travelcard instead ...

Fro an old pub, you could try the Lamb and Flag or the Nell Gwynne Tavern. which is rather nice....]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294938#Comment_294938 2011-05-17T21:11:40-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

Dear all: All pub suggestions are welcome and much appreciated. I heard from one guy that you could get hand-pumped Guinness, but I could care less because I'm a beer nerd and I am really looking ...

All pub suggestions are welcome and much appreciated. I heard from one guy that you could get hand-pumped Guinness, but I could care less because I'm a beer nerd and I am really looking forward to getting a shitload of English beer no matter what--hand pumps are just preferable. To my mind, age and pedigree is a lot more important than looks, and I could care less about dive bars or sketchy areas as long as I'm not challenged to fights by skinheads all night.

Also really appreciating the tips on transportation and places to look. Keep 'em coming.

Here's a new question: What about Oxford and/or Cambridge? I've been told they're beautiful to see, but is it really worth it to head out there, even for a half day, to either one? I think I'd like to see at least one because I'm a history buff, but I'm curious about cost and what kind of tours/sightseeing is available.

Thanks all for the great stuff so far. I think I owe you all a beer (hand-pumped, of course).]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294949#Comment_294949 2011-05-18T00:26:52-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Flabyo http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1306

I'd argue that if you're there more than one day you may as well pick up a pay as you go oyster card and whack 30 quid on it. Still be cheaper than buying a travel card every day.

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294951#Comment_294951 2011-05-18T01:05:54-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 badbear http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1879

Not sure about Oxford/Cambridge. They are both very pretty but if you're looking for day trips closer to London you could consider Hampton Court Palace? If you like a good historical building then ...

Someone told me that Chiswick house is pretty nice too: http://www.chgt.org.uk/ .

I would say that national train travel can be very expensive unless you are feeling brave and want to book in advance.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294964#Comment_294964 2011-05-18T05:04:18-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Dan Kelly http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=3084

In terms of transport out of London: Bath is about 2.5 hours west of London on a Train from Paddington. Oxford is about 1.5 hours west from the same. Cambridge about 45 minutes if you get the ...

Bath is about 2.5 hours west of London on a Train from Paddington. Oxford is about 1.5 hours west from the same. Cambridge about 45 minutes if you get the fast train from Kings Cross. Dorchester is about 2.5 hours from Waterloo. You'll need the tube to get to the stations.

Make sure you go to the correct Dorchester. The one that you want is in Dorset, not Oxfordshire.

Train times can be got from here

I'd second the idea about an Oyster Card.

if you want to see Westminster and the Globe then you're better off on foot. Start at Westminster. Cross to the south of the river and turn left. You'll pass The London Eye, Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, The Globe, Tate Modern, St Pauls (if you cross the bridge outside the Tate Modern) and Borough Market. If you continue heading East from London Bridge you'll get to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. The walk will be 1.5 hours if you don't stop anywhere, and has enough going on to fill a day...]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294965#Comment_294965 2011-05-18T05:05:25-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Dan Kelly http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=3084

Oh and working in Camden I'd argue against the Market. It really isn't what it used to be unless you want to pick up some Emo / Nu Metal related tat.

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294969#Comment_294969 2011-05-18T05:40:15-07:00 2011-05-18T05:52:08-07:00 taphead http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=2284

Highlights from my recent trip there: Tate Modern. Would you like to see works by Barnett Newman, Jackson Pollock and Piet Mondrian for free? I would. In case you happen to stumble into Brick ...

Tate Modern. Would you like to see works by Barnett Newman, Jackson Pollock and Piet Mondrian for free? I would.

In case you happen to stumble into Brick Lane and become bombarded by the aroma from the approx. 147 Bengali restaurants on the street, a word of warning: Not all of them are actually good. I managed to pick a place that served a rather underwhelming sweet and sour tomato sauce as a masala. Another night I tried a more dingy looking spot on the same street, and it was marvelous.

Still on Brick Lane, however, Beigel's Bakery at the top of the street had the best bagels I've had outside New York. I had the lox, but the salt beef looked lovely, too.

On pubs, I really dug a place called Indo on Whitechapel Road, right opposite the East London Mosque. Nice beers, good music, and pizzas for when you get peckish. The Chandos was also wonderful, and right near Trafalgar Square. I think a pint of bitter and a nice bangers & mash set me back 8 pounds or something, so not exactly pricey, either.

(BITE was also recommended to me as a pub guide.)

And if you're into coffee, a place called 26 (or more properly Tapped & Packed) at 26 Rathbone Place has served me the finest coffee I've ever had. It was ridiculous, I think my first sip of cappuccino made TIME. STOP.

Because I am stupid, I made the mistake of not going down to Brixton before my last day in London. I'm interested in music, food and subcultures, why on earth would I want to go there? Oh right. On my next trip, that's where I'm headed on the first day.

(Note: Brixton and Whitechapel can be a bit dodgy. I never felt unsafe there, but YMMV.)

If Nigredo is reading this, he showed me a couple of lovely odd little places in Notting Hill, too, but I neglected to note the names and addresses. Boo.

ETA: Oh right, he mentions the Churchill Arms on the original thread. Nice pub, and the Thai restaurant in the back is lovely random thing. Gooood food.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294970#Comment_294970 2011-05-18T05:46:22-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 taphead http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=2284

On transportation in London: The tube is a very very good thing, as distances tend to be not even long, but rather unreal. The city felt to me like a group of translunar colonies, connected to each ...

It should be noted that the tube stops running fairly early, so if you decide to stay at a pub til late, you'll be looking at a bus ride (or an insanely expensive cab fare). It's probably a good idea to note which bus routes go near your accomodation, and prepare for a transfer at some point. Also, there's no free transfer time on the tickets (which I found a bit odd, but nevermind) so two trips will cost you two tickets.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294971#Comment_294971 2011-05-18T05:51:40-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Flabyo http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1306

In recent years I've started piecing together the various bits of London 'above ground' that I know to the point where I can now walk from Waterloo (where I get in from Guildford) to most of the ...

And you do start doing that, it's often funny how much longer the tube can take to get to places than walking.

But you won't ever get too lost if you stick to the underground for getting about.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294974#Comment_294974 2011-05-18T06:46:12-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 badbear http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1879

Taphead said Brick Lane and I would add to that Spitalfields Market if you happen to be in the area on the right day. It's better than Camden. I'm wierdly obsessed with this thread now. Sorry for ...

Spitalfields Market if you happen to be in the area on the right day. It's better than Camden.

I'm wierdly obsessed with this thread now. Sorry for the repeat visits...]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294975#Comment_294975 2011-05-18T06:48:53-07:00 2011-05-18T06:49:45-07:00 Will Ellwood http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=2556

The tube is a very very good thing, as distances tend to be not even long, but rather unreal. The city felt to me like a group of translunar colonies, connected to each other with a teleportation ...

The tube is a very very good thing, as distances tend to be not even long, but rather unreal. The city felt to me like a group of translunar colonies, connected to each other with a teleportation system.
I don't even have a mental image of how London's streets are laid out. I just have a rough image of the tube map in my head so I can get from one moon village to the next.

Someone has already mentioned Gosh Comics being across the road from the British Museum. Make sure you visit the British Museum. It's full of all the treasures we plundered from around the world. Also when I was there last I had the best ham and cheese sandwich I've ever tasted.

There is also an exhibition about Science Fiction on at the British Library which is just down the road from St. Pancras train station. (Like the British Museum the station is worth wandering into just to see the architecture.)]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294983#Comment_294983 2011-05-18T08:22:49-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

@badbear: you're obsessed? I'll be lucky to get to the third day without grabbing locals and screaming about rashers and a proper pint. @Will: haha. I will certainly visit the British Museum. I ...

@Will: haha. I will certainly visit the British Museum. I minored in Viking and Norman history so this trip will truly be a battle of wills between me, who wants to see all the boring kings-and-knights history, and my wife, who wants to see Dickens's and Hardy's houses and probably fuck their bones or something.

@Dan, Flabyo et al: I am daring enough to hoof it, especially to Dan's suggestion about the Westminster-to-Tower of London trip, but I thank all for the repeated Oyster card recs. Also, thanks a lot for mentioning they tend to stop running early-ish.

@taphead: I am definitely into coffee and will check that place out.

I've heard that eating there can get expensive real fucking quick. While I will have a fair amount of spending money, I'll always be paying for two and I care a lot more about spending said money on beer and travel. I do want REAL fish and chips, but probably only once. I think I've pretty much decided against Oxford/Cambridge, in order to focus on Bath, Dorset, and London proper.

I guess another area yet-to-be-discussed is trinkets, souvenirs, and the like--which is admittedly going to be largely up to me and whatever strikes my fancy. I think it's going to be kind of hard to find some things that a) I can't get easily in the States, b) doesn't break the bank (why sure, I'll buy a handmade kilt in the family tartan! Why sure, I'll buy a handmade pewter mug!) and c) can be reasonably transported back with me (blackthorns?)

I love books. Love love ollllllllld books. A few British comics would be rad, so I'll check out Gosh. I don't know if London has many traditional street things, like street art in Paris. Other than that... any ideas? Pretty open-ended, I know.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294987#Comment_294987 2011-05-18T08:47:38-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Flabyo http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1306

Old books... Charing Cross road north of Leicester Square towards Oxford Street seems to be where all the books stores are (second hand, antiquarian, and brand new. My fave bookstore in London, ...

If you don't mind the trinkets being touristy tat, then you'll struggle to NOT walk past at least three stands selling the stuff on any given day.

Do pick up an up to date tube map when you arrive though, it's going through all kinds of crazy changes at the moment due to Crossrail being built and the joining of several old above ground lines to the network. The main central London comedy at the moment is that the northern line no longer stops at Tottenham Court Road, which is a pain as that's the best stop for a lot of the comic places...]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=294991#Comment_294991 2011-05-18T09:12:34-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 biglig http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=369

I find that lately I mostly get buses rather than the tube when visiting London. The buses are more complicated, and slower, and boy is it hard to find paper bus maps these days, but you get a ...

My favourite museum is the Victoria and Albert, which is sort of the "museum for stuff we couldn't figure out which museum it should go in".

My favourite art gallery is the National Gallery, in part because it has the best sofa in the world, in Room 34. Looking at it, you might think "well, it's certainly a nice sofa, quite comfortable, well made and so on, but the best in the world? Seems a bit ambitious...wait, sorry, is that Constable's The Haywain?"

For beer related matters, check out CAMRA, the campaign for Real Ale, in particular their Good Beer Guide. I note with mixed feelings that it's now available as an ebook, a smartphone/tablet app, and a POI file for SatNavs.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295179#Comment_295179 2011-05-19T20:07:27-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

New question. My wife wants me to ask about night clubs--she wants to prove or disprove her fantasy that all night clubs in London are like the crazy Russian clubs you see in the movies. We did hear ...

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295181#Comment_295181 2011-05-19T21:00:52-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

Also: We are considering for our trip to Dorchester renting a car and driving instead of taking the train, in large part because we feel we need to rent a car anyway to see all the country locales ...

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295182#Comment_295182 2011-05-19T21:03:19-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

But also, the car rental in Dorset itself is super cheap--16.50 pounds for a day. Advice please. Okay, will shut up for a while.

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295199#Comment_295199 2011-05-20T01:32:45-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 badbear http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1879

car rental - I don't drive so I can't give you any proper advice but you should definitely look further afield for car rental than Heathrow where they know that they've got a captive audience and ...

I don't know much about petrol prices either but I do know they're going to make you cry.

Also clubs... That is such a loaded question. What kind of music do you like? Because it's a big city and there are hang outs for whatever you're in to. I don't think there is any such thing as a "typical club" here. Also most clubs vary wildly from night to night.
Maybe Madame JoJos? (I used to go on a friday, i'm not keen on cabaret) or if you like dance music and want somewhere generic then there is fabric or if you want a teeny weeny rock club that has live music (of varying tastes and quality depending on what night you go) theres The Borderline.

I'm not even close to scratching the surface here, I can't even start really. You might be best off buying an issue of TimeOut when you get here and just seeing whats on and what sounds like fun. There might be some fesitvals on while you're here too...]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295204#Comment_295204 2011-05-20T02:13:55-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Flabyo http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1306

Driving in central London, really not worth it. You'll need to pay the congestion charge, it mounts up pretty quick. So you'd only want to use a hire car when you're heading out of London into the ...

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295206#Comment_295206 2011-05-20T03:41:58-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Purple Wyrm http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=6726

If you're at all interested in ancient history then Maiden Castle is well worth a visit. It's about a mile and a half outside of Dorchester, so not too far for an afternoon's walk if you don't end ...

Maiden Castle is well worth a visit.

It's about a mile and a half outside of Dorchester, so not too far for an afternoon's walk if you don't end up hiring a car.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295208#Comment_295208 2011-05-20T04:12:34-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Dan Kelly http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=3084

Petrol prices at the moment are insane. £1.38 per litre. Which works out as About $2.20 per Litre.

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295218#Comment_295218 2011-05-20T05:37:18-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 mybrainhurts http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1584

Oxford is very easy to get to on the train, or the bus from Marble Arch or Victoria. Some nice historical pubs in Oxford include: The Lamb and Flag or The Eagle and Child on St Giles. Or the Turf ...

Some good Oxford sites: the Museum of Oxford, the Ashmolean Museum (which has a nice restaurant on its roof), the Covered Market. Though it can be nice just to wander around the town.

The University Parks are a great spot for a picnic.

In London, my favourite pub in Central London is The Crown, just between New Oxford Street and Shaftesbury Avenue, though a nice old one is the Cittie of Yorke, on High Holborn. My favourite museum is the Museum of London.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295249#Comment_295249 2011-05-20T08:56:19-07:00 2011-05-20T08:57:13-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

@badbear: I suppose I was thinking about techno or dance music clubs--anything loud and sweaty and no cover (ha!) and the antithesis of a nice, quiet pub. I know it's open-ended, but like I said we ...

I know petrol prices are high, but we are probably going to go for the car rental/hire anyway. I guess I wasn't clear enough--we were only going to rent one for the day that we go to Dorchester, so no driving within London. The logic was to get one at Heathrow, where prices actually beat anything else in London, since it's already on the southwest side of London and we won't have to do too much traffic negotiation before we get on the road to Dorchester. We expect to drive in the neighborhood of 350 miles, and at 50 miles a gallon that makes for not that much gas-- 40 pounds for a car for the day and less than thirty litres of petrol (about 41 pounds) makes for 81, compared to two round-trip train tickets that would put us at about 120 pounds. I was wrong about the cheaper car hire in Dorset btw, that's only if renting for a week.

Is my logic sound? And what is a traffic congestion fee?

edit: Purple Wyrm, Maiden Castle looks gorgeous and we'll definitely be checking it out. Thanks for the recommendation.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295257#Comment_295257 2011-05-20T10:14:46-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Flabyo http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1306

The congestion charge is something you have to pay each day that you drive into the center of London. It's an attempt to stop people going in there in cars at all. But as you're not going to be doing ...

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295289#Comment_295289 2011-05-20T14:15:53-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 badbear http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1879

@lampcommander Definitely Fabric for you. Ticks all the boxes. June 3rd looks like it might be a good day to go - £16 on the door. I'll ask around though and if i find out about anything cheaper ...

Definitely Fabric for you. Ticks all the boxes. June 3rd looks like it might be a good day to go - £16 on the door.
I'll ask around though and if i find out about anything cheaper I'll let you know. Most of my old haunts aren't in existance any more so it's a bit difficult to advise but a friend of mine went to Fabric just last week so it can't be too bad.

Dorset is lovely, you're not going to want to leave. I'm a bit jealous actually...]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295432#Comment_295432 2011-05-22T06:27:08-07:00 2011-05-22T06:29:21-07:00 arklight http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=5355

Ok...you want do lots of stuff! First if you are in Chiswick you are a stones throw away from Richmond and Kew Gardens. Goto richmond for a lazy riverside walk, there are cafes and stuff ...

First if you are in Chiswick you are a stones throw away from
Richmond and Kew Gardens.

Goto richmond for a lazy riverside walk, there are cafes and
stuff next to the river...great in the summer.Just walk out of richmond
station and ask where the river is...

Richmond.




Kew Gardens is like a huge botanical park with huge glass houses each simulating an
environment on earth (desert, jungle etc). They have ancient plants of every type.
Alot that are extinct and just don't exist in the outside world.
The giant Lilly Pads are awesome too. You'll never see the whole of it in one vist.
These are more around the corner from you than a trip into London.

Kew Gardens.



If you do go into London do check out the galleries, they are no joke.And all free!
The National Portrait Gallery,
and the national gallery are good.


As for clubbing... the reason why everyone is reluctant to give you totally definative
answers is that London has too many clubs, is too diverse in styles. Pick up Time out magazine
and choose one that you like and go for it.Fabric is legendery especially if you really like house music.
Aviod "TigerTiger" like the plague it's a euro-tourist trap club of epic porportions.


Last but not least, you should go and see Whitechapel on a Sunday.
Only on A sunday though because that's when the madness begins. It's awesome!
It all starts around 7 am and starts to unwind and unravel at around 2.30pm.
Closest station is Liverpool Street or Aldgate East.Head towards Brick Lane.

Oh yes, and dorset really is lovely!




Heri Mkocha

http://www.youtube.com/thearklight]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295440#Comment_295440 2011-05-22T09:33:37-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Denari http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=7907

I live in London but am originally from Dorset. I'd be remiss for not mentioning Corfe Castle, or what's left of it. I also really like The Brickhouse in Brick Lane (in London) for dinner and ...

I also really like The Brickhouse in Brick Lane (in London) for dinner and burlesque nights. Also, Freud's cocktail bar, opposite Forbidden Planet on Shaftesbury Avenue is a kooky, grungy basement that does fan-fucking-tastic drinks. The Roxy is good too, for a more indie approach to clubbing.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295573#Comment_295573 2011-05-23T22:08:18-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

We're nearing the trip and have planned out most of our stops. Looking good and I have you all to thank for it in large part. One last question for the masses: Does anyone want to mention specific ...

One last question for the masses: Does anyone want to mention specific places of interest in Chiswick/Hounslow? I will for sure check out the Fuller brewery and might do the Chiswick house as well, but anything else you can think of is always of interest.

Will probably go to Egg, Heaven, or Fabric for a club btw. Gay clubs can be fun too.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295582#Comment_295582 2011-05-24T04:09:07-07:00 2011-05-24T04:18:30-07:00 roadscum http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=7712

Right, i'm probably being daft here and it's a bit late in the day, still, it does no harm, so; Visiting Americans have on more than one occasion mentioned to me that they found driving here a ...

Visiting Americans have on more than one occasion mentioned to me that they found driving here a little daunting. Now i don't know, you may be made of sterner stuff, but if you fancy having an experienced and professional (which does not equate to good) driver to chauffeur you down to Dorset for nothing but the chance to have a look around there himself, do give me a shout. I go out to Dorcester quite a bit so if you want opinions on routes, traffic and the like i might be of some help there too. I'm not a tourist guide though, just a grumpy old lorry driver with a bit of time on his hands, so don't expect a guided tour!

Oh, and this might be of some use, at least to give you an idea of how people ought to conduct themselves on the Queen's Highway.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295592#Comment_295592 2011-05-24T07:24:58-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

@roadscum: I'm more game than you might be, actually. I'll be going to Dorset with my wife and a friend; the primary reason for going to Dorset is, quite literally, to look at places that were in ...

I'm more game than you might be, actually. I'll be going to Dorset with my wife and a friend; the primary reason for going to Dorset is, quite literally, to look at places that were in Thomas Hardy novels. All day. So, sure, we'll see plenty of Dorset--there is actually a map of all the pubs that he included in his novels, for example--but it will also be things like a random farm where a scene from Far from the Madding Crowd took place, or the field where Tess was raped, etc. So I think you can expect a guided tour from us, rather. Stonehenge will be on the way back. We would be going on June 2nd, Hardy's birthday. I cannot defend the nerdery of our actions to the public.

I don't know if my peeps will be cool with it, but does that even sound like something you would want to commit to? I am fine with taking the challenge of driving the roads myself, but someone local would certainly make it easier, and a fellow Whitechapeller would make it a hell of a lot of fun.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295604#Comment_295604 2011-05-24T10:14:05-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Kradlum http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=3664

I'd stick to the Chiswick end of the borough. I think people have mentioned most of the stuff in Chiswick - Kew Gardens is good if you have a day to spare, and Fuller's Brewery. There's also ...

Hogarth's House which may or may not be re-opened by the time you visit and Kew Bridge Steam Museum. There might still be the enviro-camp just by the bridge, if talking to crusty enviro-squatters is your thing.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295626#Comment_295626 2011-05-24T14:04:55-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 roadscum http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=7712

@ lampcommander I know bugger all about Hardy but i'm more than up for a day out with or without driving, Dorset has some lovely scenery and there are a few places you might be passing that i'd like ...

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295641#Comment_295641 2011-05-24T15:49:23-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Oddcult http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=214

Forget Stonehenge and go to Avebury instead. It's about 20 miles further north and easy to get back to London from and you've got your old pub in the middle of a stone circle.

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295712#Comment_295712 2011-05-25T01:01:34-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 roadscum http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=7712

It all depends on time, there's a lot to see at Avebury; the stones, the Pudding Basin of the Gods at Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow, then you could go back to London via the Uffington ...

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295713#Comment_295713 2011-05-25T01:09:30-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 badbear http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=1879

I went to a pretty good morroccan restaurant on King St last week, which is going to be just up the road from you. A bit expensive but excellent baba ganoush and better lamb tagines (in which you ...

good morroccan restaurant on King St last week, which is going to be just up the road from you. A bit expensive but excellent baba ganoush and better lamb tagines (in which you pretty much get enough food for two).

The Duke of Sussex in Chiswick used to do a very good all day english breakfast but I have no idea whether they still do, this was a couple of years ago now. I thought you should know though. You know, for when you're starting to feel human again after Fabric.]]> http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295847#Comment_295847 2011-05-26T14:00:52-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 Brian Schirmer http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=7243

@lampcommander Thanks for starting this thread. Looks like we'll be just passing each other; I arrive in London on June 5 for a nine day visit - my first in near 20 years. Bunch of valuable info ...

http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=9873&Focus=295874#Comment_295874 2011-05-26T21:45:11-07:00 2013-06-19T16:47:40-07:00 lampcommander http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/account.php?u=4529

I also give a resounding thanks to everyone who helped me out on this thread. I will start a flickr photostream as soon as I get back so anyone who cares can see what we did on our trip!