Harrow Whisky Festival: 15th January – 16th January 2016 Set in the stunning location of Grim’s Dyke hotel, Harrow Whisky Festival features product from over 40 distilleries – making it a must-do event for every whisky lover! Grim’s Dyke hotel contributes so much more than a stunning setting for this festival though, it also has a well-stocked whisky bar, one … Read More
Gilbert & Sullivan’s Trial by Jury
In 1868 W.S. Gilbert wrote a one-pace illustrated comic piece for ‘Fun’ Magazine. Entitled Trial by Jury, it drew on his experiences as a barrister and satirised the legal system, spoofing a trial over a ‘breach of promise’ arrangement of marriage. When Gilbert was approached by Carl Rosa, composer and opera manager, in the autumn of 1873 to create a … Read More
How to ‘taste’ whisky
Whisky, it can be a complex drink to master, especially as there are so many amazing choices on offer! However, navigating your way through the complex and subtle tastes is something that CAN be done – if you just know where to start! There are no right and wrong answers, when it comes to describing whisky. Whether you’re explaining the … Read More
The Curse of the Crimson Altar
Since 1961 (when we first appeared in an episode of the TV series, The Avengers), The Grim’s Dyke has often been used as a TV and Film location. It’s not surprising with our beautiful Victorian appearance, typically English interior, and stunning location and grounds (oh, and did you know we apparently have a resident ghost?). In 1968 it was used … Read More
Gilbert & Sullivan’s Iolanthe
Gilbert & Sullivan planned on producing their seventh Savoy Opera, Iolanthe, simultaneously in London and New York, at the end of November 1882. The title of this latest Savoy opera was kept a closely guarded secret, with the character Iolanthe being called Perola, in an effort to keep even the cast in the dark. The biggest problem was Henry Irving … Read More
Halloween at Grim’s Dyke
Halloween has been celebrated in Britain for centuries and, although some of the traditions have been borrowed from America (pumpkin carving and trick or treating), the foundation stone of Halloween is firmly planted in Britain. But what are the origins of Halloween – and how much of it is still distinctly British? Celtic festival of Samhain Halloween is firmly rooted … Read More
Christmas season of events at Grim’s Dyke
The Grim’s Dyke Hotel just launched their Christmas Season of Events. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to have your office party or something different to do with the family this Christmas, we have a wide variety of choices for you. Our Christmas Entertainment this year includes disco evenings, magic shows and luxurious meals – for further details you can click here. … Read More
Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Mikado
The Mikado (or The Town of Titipu) was Gilbert & Sullivan’s ninth collaboration. Set in Japan, the story is based around the chief executioner, who has a tender heart that is in direct opposition to that needed for his official duties. The Mikado has an impressive operatic history – but this Savoy Opera nearly didn’t happen at all. Earning its … Read More
The Avengers TV series: lights, camera and… Grim’s Dyke?
Photo Source: MovieMail.com The Avengers was a hugely successful ‘spy-fi’ British TV series that ran for 6 series (161 episodes) from 1962 to 1969. Featuring Patrick Macnee as the impeccably dressed British secret agent ‘John Steed’, he was seldom seen without his bowler hat, umbrella or feisty, assertive female assistant. All change at The Avengers Series 6 of The Avengers … Read More
Sabrage: the true mark of ceremonial splendour!
Sabrage, the act of slicing off the cork from a bottle of champagne, is the mark of ceremonial splendour – and what better place to celebrate both the art and ceremony, than in the beautiful 17th century Grim’s Dyke hotel? History of Sabrage Sabrage is said to have started with Napoleon’s infamous cavalry, the Hussards, celebrating their spectacular victories across … Read More