Christening events can be as simple or complex as you’d like them to be. For many, the church service and picking the right godparents, are the only essentials they need to sort out. For others, they’d rather totally celebrate the occasion, holding a reception and having professional photographs etc. taken. Regardless of the type of Christening, you’re looking to hold, … Read More
Flowers and plants that attract bees
If you want to attract bees into your garden, you don’t have to turn the whole garden into a mass of pollen-producing flowers (although that would look amazing!). You can easily help the bees in your area, by ensuring you have pollen and nectar rich plants for the different seasons. If you have plenty of room, you could also section … Read More
British Bees
There are approximately 250 species of bee in the UK and they can be broken down into two groups – the social bee and the solitary bee. Here’s an overview of each. Social bees There are only 24 species of social bee in the UK. The most talked about are the honey and bumble bee, but the most common is … Read More
Why the Victorians loved the game of croquet
It is thought that croquet was introduced in England in the early 1850’s, although its origins are still unclear. It was considered a most suitable pastime for the Victorian women and young girls, with its popularity quickly spreading overseas too. Why? Because it could be played alone or with others, it wasn’t too taxing for females, didn’t need strength and … Read More
Top tips on choosing your wedding venue
Your wedding venue is going to be one of the biggest decisions you’re going to make. Not only will it take up a huge chunk of your overall wedding budget, it also needs to portray your character, fit in with your wedding theme, cater for the number of guests you’re looking to invite and be available! Most wedding venues get … Read More
The Victorian sunken garden
Sir William Gilbert added the sunken rose garden at Grim’s Dyke in the late 19th Century. Sunken rose gardens became very popular in the Victorian area, growing in popularity throughout the Edwardian period of the early 1900s. It could be that Sir William added in this delightful secluded area, as he knew how much Lady Gilbert loved gardening – and … Read More
Ten things you MUST see in London
Grim’s Dyke hotel is conveniently situated in Harrow Weald, just outside the main hustle and bustle of London. However, it’s also near three train stations and, with the M1 just under 3 miles away, you can easily visit London in as little as 13 minutes by train or under an hour, if travelling by car. If you’re looking to spend … Read More
Murder Mystery at The Grim’s Dyke
Grim’s Dyke has often been used as a film and TV location, providing the perfect backdrop for everything from comedy and romance, through to murder and intrigue. Its dramatic architecture and typically English interior provide the perfect environment for the ever-popular murder mystery. The Grim’s Dyke as a film location In the late 60’s, Grim’s Dyke was used as … Read More
MGM musicals
Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) dominated the box office in the 1930’s. They were one of the largest, most glamorous and revered film studios in Hollywood and credited for inventing the Hollywood stable of stars’ system; developing budding stars and making them appealing to audiences. Their motto was Ars Gratia Artis – meaning art for art’s sake and their goal was … Read More
Cream teas at Grim’s Dyke – a quintessentially English treat
Traditionally an afternoon speciality of Devon and Cornwall, cream teas are now enjoyed throughout the entire country. We at Grim’s Dyke believe that nothing quite beats a nice hot cup of tea, served with a generous warm scone, smothered in strawberry jam and clotted cream… and that’s why we serve them as a delightful afternoon treat, in the Drawing Room, … Read More