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
The Yeomen of the Guard
The Yeomen of the Guard was one of Gilbert & Sullivan’s darkest and emotionally engaging Savoy operas. The eleventh collaboration was more subdued and, much to Sullivan’s relief, it was human, straight-forward and had no evidence of Gilbert’s usual trademark satire. Set at The Tower of London in the 16th century, The Yeomen of the Guard premiered at The Savoy … Read More
Catuvellauni Tribe and the Dyke
Take a walk around the grounds of Grim’s Dyke and you’ll see what remains of an ancient Dyke running through our woodlands. The Dyke has a long and speculative history. It is said to have originally been built in the 1st Century by the Catuvellauni tribe to defend against the Romans – but that the very people it was built … Read More
For Whisky Lovers
For Whisky Lovers For both budding and experienced lovers of the wee dram, here is your perfect opportunity to experience an evening of socialising, good conversation and single Malts. With over 50 single Malts to choose from, you’ll get the chance to try many of our favourites. Specialised evenings at the Grim’s Dyke always consist of excellent conversation, great service … Read More
W.S. Gilbert’s love of motor cars
In the latter part of 1902, W.S. Gilbert introduced his first American steam motor car to Grimm’s Dyke and Harrow Weald. His love of the motor car was so strong, he converted the stables at Grim’s Dyke into garages to house the collection he subsequently amassed. But being a Justice of the Peace for Middlesex, with a rather dry sense … Read More