Planning a wedding takes time, money and creativity. For many brides to be, their wedding day is a cumulation of many months of hard work and planning – ending in a day that’s visually spectacular and emotionally tiring! Many brides know what type of dress they want to wear, how many bridesmaids they want and what colour schemes and themes … Read More
Tips for choosing your baby’s Godparents
Having your baby christened is a special and significant event for everyone involved. You’re welcoming your baby into the community of your local church, putting them on a lifetime journey into your chosen faith. For parents who aren’t or any set religion, a naming ceremony may be performed instead. Not only do these events celebrate your child’s journey through life, … Read More
The fairytale toadstool: Amanita muscaria
Toadstools and mushrooms are a common sight in the UK. Whether you’re talking about the Victorian era or today, there are two instantly recognisable descriptions; one is that of the closed cup mushroom – and the other is the Amanita muscaria toadstool. You could be forgiven though, for not recognising it from its official name but, if I told you it was red with … Read More
November poppies: Their poignant history and interesting facts
November is a month marked and remembered by poppies. In Britain, iconic red poppies are distributed by volunteers for the Royal British Legion every year. They are worn as a mark of respect for the fallen service men and women killed in conflict, during the two World Wars, as well as those who have fallen since. Wreathes made of … Read More
Annie Hall Cudlip
Better known by her pen name Mrs Pender Cudlip, Annie Hall Cudlip was considered one of the most prolific romantic fiction writers of the Victorian era. She was also an early sweetheart of Sir William Schwenck Gilbert. Annie Hall Thomas was born on 25th October 1838. The only daughter of George Thomas, a gentleman officer from County Cork and lieutenant … Read More
The mighty English oak tree
When it comes to instantly recognisable trees, the English oak has to be top of the tree. It’s one of the most common tree species in the UK and possibly one of the best-loved too. So, what makes the oak such a special tree? Here’s our compilation of the top ten facts about this wonderful tree. #1: It doesn’t produce … Read More
Squirrels at Grim’s Dyke
If you happened to be invited by Sir W.S. Gilbert, to a party at Grim’s Dyke during the Victorian era, you’d stand a good chance of seeing a squirrel or two, running around the grounds. Red squirrels were a common sight, in the 1800’s. Today, you will still see squirrels running around the grounds – but they’ll be of the grey variety. … Read More
Bushey Heath Cottage Hospital
Both Sir W.S. Gilbert and his wife Lucy, were actively involved in local affairs and Bushey Heath Cottage Hospital was one of the benefactors. Sir William was Honorary Secretary there and would hold charity performances to raise funds for it. Lady Gilbert, would arrange Christmas entertainment and parties, usually involving conjurors, magic, tea and sandwiches. The Bushey Heath Cottage … Read More
10 things to look for, when booking a romantic wedding venue
When it comes to weddings, some women grow up with firm ideas about how their perfect day will look. For many, their wedding day needs to be the most romantic day of their lives, based on the fairy-tale stories of princes and princesses they grew up with. It’s no wonder then, that booking a romantic wedding venue for this fairy-tale day is top of … Read More
The hobbies and interests of W.S. Gilbert
W.S. Gilbert enjoyed indulging in his hobbies and interests, whilst at Grim’s Dyke. He not only found them creative and inspiring, they bought him closer to his family and allowed him to spend time in the grounds at Grim’s Dyke – something he loved dearly. Grim’s Dyke – one of Gilberts greatest hobbies Grim’s Dyke wasn’t only his home, it … Read More