In 1856, the (then) 170-acre Grime’s Dyke site was bought by renowned artist, Frederick Goodall. The original Grime’s Dyke earthwork ran across the site, so the fosse was dammed at one end, to make an ornamental stretch of water in the grounds. He’d purchased the Harrow Weald land from the Marquis of Abercorn, but was unable to start building a … Read More
Harrow Whisky Festival
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
What’s happening in Grim’s Dyke Gardens in autumn
Autumn is quite a busy time for all gardeners and here at Grim’s Dyke, it’s no different. Autumn is the time to clear away, tidy and of course, to plant those spring bulbs. We’re also taking the opportunity to tidy out the borders – digging up annual plants and planting up winter flowerers such as Violas and Wallflowers, as well … 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
Spring Wedding Trends
Spring 2016 wedding trends Who doesn’t love a wedding? – and we at the Grim’s Dyke are no exception! If you’re in the middle of planning a wedding over the next year, or about to get started with your planning, there’s some great spring 2016 trends to take note of. The lovely Kate Middleton (Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge), set the trend for … Read More
MacMillan Coffee Morning at Grim’s Dyke
Each year, the cancer support charity MacMillan Cancer Support host the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning and, this year, we at Grim’s Dyke are proud to be supporting this great cause. MacMillan Cancer Support is one of Britain’s largest charities. They know how devastating a cancer diagnosis is to both patients and their families – and 1 in 3 people will … Read More