Latest news with #CharlesII
BBC News
3 days ago
- General
- BBC News
Northampton marks fire anniversary on Oak Apple Day
A programme marking 350 years since a major fire has begun with commemorations held on Oak Apple launch on Thursday signals the start of five months of exhibitions, performances, and parades to remember the Great Fire of Northampton in start of events coincides with Oak Apple Day – a national day honouring the generosity of King Charles II who played a key role in rebuilding efforts of All Saints Church, one of the buildings damaged by the blaze. Jane Birch, Mayor of Northampton, said: "This is a very special occasion. [The regeneration after the fire] was an awakening of a new town and I hope it's like what we're doing here in the Market Square and Abington Street." The fire, believed to have started from sparks from an open fire at a home in St Mary's Street, quickly spread, and residents sought refuge in the Market efforts to control it, prominent buildings including All Hallows Church - now All Saints Church - were a community effort, the town raised £25,000 to fund reconstruction. Today, commemorations include a civic parade and thanksgiving service at All Saints' Church, which was rebuilt using more than 1,000 tonnes of timber gifted by the 17th Century monarch.A wreath of oak leaves was laid at the foot of Charles II's statue by the mayor following the Mullen, operations manager at Northampton Business Improvement District, added: "It's been a phenomenal day… and it gives us the opportunity to kickstart a series of events and activities from now until 20 September." Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
UPI
4 days ago
- Politics
- UPI
On This Day, May 29: Charles II restored to English throne
1 of 5 | On May 29, 1660, Charles II was restored to the English throne. Image courtesy of Britain's National Portrait Gallery On this date in history: In 1660, Charles II was restored to the English throne. It was also the monarch's 30th birthday. In 1790, Rhode Island became the last of the original 13 states to ratify the U.S. Constitution. In 1914, the Canadian Pacific Transatlantic liner Empress of Ireland sank in the early-morning hours following a collision with the liner Storstadt, a much smaller vessel, in Canada's Gulf of St. Lawrence. More than 1,000 people died in what is the largest maritime accident in Canadian peacetime history. In 1953, Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal became the first humans to reach the top of Mount Everest. In 1977, Janet Guthrie became the first woman to compete in the Indianapolis 500. She completed 27 laps before her car became disabled. On the same day in 2005, Danica Patrick became the first woman to lead during the same race. In 1985, British soccer fans attacked Italian fans preceding the European Cup final in Brussels. The resulting stadium stampede killed 38 people and injured 400. In 1990, renegade Communist Boris Yeltsin was elected president of Russia. File Photo by Martin Jeong/UPI In 1996, in Israel's first selection of a prime minister by direct vote, Benjamin Netanyahu defeated Shimon Peres. The margin of victory was less than 1 percent. In 1997, Zaire rebel leader Laurent Kabila was sworn in as president of what was again being called the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He was assassinated in 2001. In 2004, the National World War II memorial was dedicated on the National Mall in Washington. Thousands of veterans of the war, which ended nearly 59 years earlier, attended the ceremony. File Photo by Greg Whitesell/UPI In 2009, U.S. music producer Phil Spector was sentenced to 19 years to life in prison for the 2003 slaying of actress Lana Carlson. In 2010, two mosques of a religious minority in Pakistan were attacked by intruders firing weapons and throwing grenades. Officials put the death toll at 98. In 2018, a Harvard study determined at least 4,645 people in Puerto Rico died as a result of Hurricane Maria, a sharp contrast to the official government death toll of 64. In 2019, special counsel Robert Mueller released his first public statement, saying that while there's no evidence President Donald Trump colluded with Russian efforts to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, there were several "episodes" in which he obstructed justice. In 2024, South Africa's African National Congress failed to win a parliamentary majority in the general election for the first time since apartheid. President Cyril Ramaphosa was still able to form a coalition government. File Photo by Stringer/EPA-EFE
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
A very extensive list of London's 35 best pubs – by the locals who drink in them
LONDON is chock full of fantastic pubs but knowing which ones to really go to can be tricky. It is estimated that the capital city has more than 3,500 pubs , in fact. 11 We've rounded up our 35 favourite boozers in London according to locals Credit: Instagram But whether you're looking for an old man's boozer (carpet, old stools, no frills), a gastro pub (fancy food) or a cosy pitstop with a roaring fire, there is the perfect pub for everyone in the capital. Here is a selection of our favourite heaviest drinkers we know. The Eagle, Farringdon Claiming to be the first gastropub in the UK, it opened in 1991 when the owners were said to want to have a restaurant, but couldn't afford it. Make sure to get the famous steak sandwich, but expect your food to all come out at different times. Read more on pubs The Red Lion, Crown Passage The Red Lion is one of the oldest pubs in London with an intriguing history - it was said to be where Charles II visited with his mistress Nell Gwyn. Expect to see locals heading here for a pint after work. Guinea Grill, Mayfair Having first opened in 1423, this this is where you want to go for some great steak or pieces- great steak and pies. Despite a huge renovation last summer , it retains a lot of its original charm and feels like stepping back in time. Most read in News Travel The Portman, Marble Arch Near Oxford Street, the gastropub has all of the classic pub foods as well as huge It is light and airy too, thanks to its huge window-clad front. Why Guinness tastes better in Ireland Star & Garter, Soho This isn't where you go to get the best service, but the tiny pub is one of the most traditional you will find in the city. Make sure to head to the top floor to find the secret bar. The George, Mortimer Street The 18th century The George pub is where you will find people piling to the streets on a sunny day, being on the corner of Mortimer Street. It's Grade-II listed, having some of the original glasswork and panelling too. 11 The George pub retains many of the original features Credit: Alamy Burlington Arm, Saville Row The Victorian pub faces the Savile Row police station, dating back to the 1700s. While there are great beers and wines, make sure to try the scotch eggs - you won't regret it. Ye Grapes, Shepherds Market The traditional pub isn't just for a beer, as it also has a Thai restaurant inside. You won't spot many tourists in here either, despite its central location. The Chesterfield Arms, Hertford Street You won't miss this bright red pub, as it certainly stands out. Visit on a Tuesday to "meet the brewer" with a new one every week. 11 The Chesterfield Arms stands out in central London Credit: The Chesterfield Arms, Hertford Street The Newman Arms, Fitzrovia Once a brothel, The Newman Arms is now a cosy pub with a Victorian-like side alley. There is even a "pie room" on the first floor - make sure to try the Fisherman's one. The Lamb & Flag, Mayfair The Georgian Lamb & Flag is near Hyde Park but far enough away to be quieter than more central pubs. Expect classic British beers as well as food. The French House, Soho Famous guests at The French House include Dylan Thomas and Francis Bacon so you can sit where some of the greats did. Leave your phones in your bag though - they have a no tech rule. 11 The French House is one with no phones or TVs Credit: Alamy The Crown & Two Chairmen, Soho The landmark pub is one of the more spacious pubs in central London and was rebuilt in the 1920s. Expect live music on Sundays as well as an extensive drink list. The Ivy House, Nunhead, South East London London's first Community Owned Pub, The Ivy House was saved by locals in 2013 who saved it from demolition. Now, come for the drinks, but stay for the events from pub quizzes and beerfests to live music and book clubs. The Sun in Splendour, Notting Hill The bright yellow pub if fitting of it's name, with a huge menu of craft beers and cocktails along with food menu of both small plates and larger classics. Come in the summer and head straight to the outdoor patio in the back. 11 The Sun in Splendour can't be missed Credit: Instagram The Toucan, Carlisle Street, Soho Guinness fans need to head to The Toucan as it has some of the best pints of the drink outside of Dublin. Its tiny though, so you will likely find yourself standing on the street along with the other but still an institution. Cutty Sark Greenwich, South East London This is the spot you want to head to for a view, with a riverside terrace overlooking the river. Spritz fans can try everything from a Hugo Spritz to an unusual Rhubarb Rose Spritz. Efra Tavern, Brixton Efra Tavern is just five minutes from Brixton station so its easy to get to. It's a pub for adults, with kids and dogs banned but it has some amazing live music as well as a small beer garden. 11 Cutty Sark Greenwich has some of the best views over the river Credit: Instagram Bradley's Spanish Bar, Hanway Street The hidden pub isn't Spanish or owned by someone called Bradley, so don't be put off by the exterior. There might not be tapas, but there is a full bar menu and a free-to-use vintage jukebox too. The Blue Post, Berwick Street, Soho Tucked on the edge of Chinatown, Blue Post might not serve food but have all the beer, lager and wine on offer. Just don't confuse it with others - there are actually three Blue Posts in Soho alone. The George, Borough As the last galleried inn in London, The George was even mentioned in Charles Dickens' Little Dorrit. Now a Greene King pub, there is more than enough on the menu to keep you happy, as well as having multiple bars to choose from. 11 The George is the last galleried inn in London Credit: Alamy The Prospect of Whitby, Wapping Rumoured to be the UK's oldest riverside pub, The Prospect of Whitby has amazing views of The Thames. Come with an empty stomach and make sure to grab the fish and chips. The Dog & Bell, Deptford The Dog & Bell is definitely a hidden gem, and a great Irish pub to choose in the city. The first Tuesday of every month is where you can listen to some amazing jazz too. Royal Oak, Columbia Road After trawling Columbia Road's weekly flower market, The Royal Oak is where you will find everyone. It's worth it though for the classic pub grub - the burgers are especially great. 11 Royal Oak is popular with Columbia Road Flower Market visitors Credit: Instagram Windsor Castle, Notting Hill Windsor Castle is a real hidden gem, with a tucked away courtyard garden at the back. It has amazing pies and fish and chips, but book ahead on a Sunday as the crowds visit for the Nellie Dean on Dean Street, Soho Nellie Dean is the owned by Pieminster, so you would be mad not to grab one when visiting. The staff are amazing too - and definitely some of the friendliest in the city. Skehan's, Telegraph Hill, South East London Another Irish pub is Skehans, one of the few independent pubs remaining in London. With live music six days a week, a Thai restaurant inside and a hidden garden at the back, its definitely one to visit. 11 Skehans Freehouse has a Thai restaurant and live music throughout the week Credit: Instagram The Parakeet Pub, Kentish Town One of the newest pubs on the list The Parakeet Pub only opened in 2023 after converting a Victorian building. The stained glass bar is definitely one of the most beautiful in the city - with the crab croquettes a must. The Lord Clyde, Borough If you want an old man pub, this is the one, with vintage carpet and red leather bar stools. Its small so you might have to queue a while for your drink, but is worth it to be surrounded by proper locals. The Albert, Primrose Hill, West London Right opposite Regent's Park, The Albert has some of the most modern interiors for a pub. Head here when its good weather to the beer garden at the back, made cosy by the huge trees overhead. 11 The Albert has a great beer garden for the summer months Credit: Instagram The Cow, Notting Hill If you love Guinness and oysters, you need to head to The Cow. And keep your phone on you when heading to the bar or toilets with some very interesting wall decor... The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead Owned by two Spanish brothers, The Spaniards Inn dates back to 1585 and even welcomed both Dickens and Keats. Now its one to grab a hearty lunch at before walking it off at the nearby Hampstead Heath. The Royal Oak, Tabard Street, Borough The Victorian pub is a great spot to try all of the Harvey's of Lewes Beers. Don't expect it to be quiet though - it's near London Bridge and has won a number of awards in recent years. Coach and Horses, Soho The old school pub is like a time capsule, with it looking the same as it did back in the 1980s. Ask the staff how to find the secret tea room above... and stay for the unusual piano singalongs. 11 The landmark pub is one of the more spacious pubs in central London Credit: The Crown & Two Chairmen on Dean Street, Soho
The Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
A very extensive list of London's 35 best pubs – by the locals who drink in them
LONDON is chock full of fantastic pubs but knowing which ones to really go to can be tricky. It is estimated that the capital city has more than 3,500 pubs, in fact. 11 But whether you're looking for an old man's boozer (carpet, old stools, no frills), a gastro pub (fancy food) or a cosy pitstop with a roaring fire, there is the perfect pub for everyone in the capital. Here is a selection of our favourite London pubs, from some of the heaviest drinkers we know. The Eagle, Farringdon Claiming to be the first gastropub in the UK, it opened in 1991 when the owners were said to want to have a restaurant, but couldn't afford it. Make sure to get the famous steak sandwich, but expect your food to all come out at different times. The Red Lion, Crown Passage The Red Lion is one of the oldest pubs in London with an intriguing history - it was said to be where Charles II visited with his mistress Nell Gwyn. Expect to see locals heading here for a pint after work. Guinea Grill, Mayfair Having first opened in 1423, this this is where you want to go for some great steak or pieces- great steak and pies. Despite a huge renovation last summer, it retains a lot of its original charm and feels like stepping back in time. The Portman, Marble Arch Near Oxford Street, the gastropub has all of the classic pub foods as well as huge Sunday roasts. It is light and airy too, thanks to its huge window-clad front. Why Guinness tastes better in Ireland Star & Garter, Soho This isn't where you go to get the best service, but the tiny pub is one of the most traditional you will find in the city. Make sure to head to the top floor to find the secret bar. The George, Mortimer Street The 18th century The George pub is where you will find people piling to the streets on a sunny day, being on the corner of Mortimer Street. It's Grade-II listed, having some of the original glasswork and panelling too. 11 Burlington Arm, Saville Row The Victorian pub faces the Savile Row police station, dating back to the 1700s. While there are great beers and wines, make sure to try the scotch eggs - you won't regret it. Ye Grapes, Shepherds Market The traditional pub isn't just for a beer, as it also has a Thai restaurant inside. You won't spot many tourists in here either, despite its central location. The Chesterfield Arms, Hertford Street You won't miss this bright red pub, as it certainly stands out. Visit on a Tuesday to "meet the brewer" with a new one every week. The Newman Arms, Fitzrovia Once a brothel, The Newman Arms is now a cosy pub with a Victorian-like side alley. There is even a "pie room" on the first floor - make sure to try the Fisherman's one. The Lamb & Flag, Mayfair The Georgian Lamb & Flag is near Hyde Park but far enough away to be quieter than more central pubs. Expect classic British beers as well as food. The French House, Soho Famous guests at The French House include Dylan Thomas and Francis Bacon so you can sit where some of the greats did. Leave your phones in your bag though - they have a no tech rule. The Crown & Two Chairmen, Soho The landmark pub is one of the more spacious pubs in central London and was rebuilt in the 1920s. Expect live music on Sundays as well as an extensive drink list. The Ivy House, Nunhead, South East London London's first Community Owned Pub, The Ivy House was saved by locals in 2013 who saved it from demolition. Now, come for the drinks, but stay for the events from pub quizzes and beerfests to live music and book clubs. The Sun in Splendour, Notting Hill The bright yellow pub if fitting of it's name, with a huge menu of craft beers and cocktails along with food menu of both small plates and larger classics. Come in the summer and head straight to the outdoor patio in the back. The Toucan, Carlisle Street, Soho Guinness fans need to head to The Toucan as it has some of the best pints of the drink outside of Dublin. Its tiny though, so you will likely find yourself standing on the street along with the other but still an institution. Cutty Sark Greenwich, South East London This is the spot you want to head to for a view, with a riverside terrace overlooking the river. Spritz fans can try everything from a Hugo Spritz to an unusual Rhubarb Rose Spritz. Efra Tavern, Brixton Efra Tavern is just five minutes from Brixton station so its easy to get to. It's a pub for adults, with kids and dogs banned but it has some amazing live music as well as a small beer garden. Bradley's Spanish Bar, Hanway Street The hidden pub isn't Spanish or owned by someone called Bradley, so don't be put off by the exterior. There might not be tapas, but there is a full bar menu and a free-to-use vintage jukebox too. The Blue Post, Berwick Street, Soho Tucked on the edge of Chinatown, Blue Post might not serve food but have all the beer, lager and wine on offer. Just don't confuse it with others - there are actually three Blue Posts in Soho alone. The George, Borough As the last galleried inn in London, The George was even mentioned in Charles Dickens' Little Dorrit. Now a Greene King pub, there is more than enough on the menu to keep you happy, as well as having multiple bars to choose from. 11 The Prospect of Whitby, Wapping Rumoured to be the UK's oldest riverside pub, The Prospect of Whitby has amazing views of The Thames. Come with an empty stomach and make sure to grab the fish and chips. The Dog & Bell, Deptford The Dog & Bell is definitely a hidden gem, and a great Irish pub to choose in the city. The first Tuesday of every month is where you can listen to some amazing jazz too. Royal Oak, Columbia Road After trawling Columbia Road's weekly flower market, The Royal Oak is where you will find everyone. It's worth it though for the classic pub grub - the burgers are especially great. Windsor Castle, Notting Hill Windsor Castle is a real hidden gem, with a tucked away courtyard garden at the back. It has amazing pies and fish and chips, but book ahead on a Sunday as the crowds visit for the roast dinners too. Nellie Dean on Dean Street, Soho Nellie Dean is the owned by Pieminster, so you would be mad not to grab one when visiting. The staff are amazing too - and definitely some of the friendliest in the city. Skehan's, Telegraph Hill, South East London Another Irish pub is Skehans, one of the few independent pubs remaining in London. With live music six days a week, a Thai restaurant inside and a hidden garden at the back, its definitely one to visit. The Parakeet Pub, Kentish Town One of the newest pubs on the list The Parakeet Pub only opened in 2023 after converting a Victorian building. The stained glass bar is definitely one of the most beautiful in the city - with the crab croquettes a must. The Lord Clyde, Borough If you want an old man pub, this is the one, with vintage carpet and red leather bar stools. Its small so you might have to queue a while for your drink, but is worth it to be surrounded by proper locals. The Albert, Primrose Hill, West London Right opposite Regent's Park, The Albert has some of the most modern interiors for a pub. Head here when its good weather to the beer garden at the back, made cosy by the huge trees overhead. The Cow, Notting Hill If you love Guinness and oysters, you need to head to The Cow. And keep your phone on you when heading to the bar or toilets with some very interesting wall decor... The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead Owned by two Spanish brothers, The Spaniards Inn dates back to 1585 and even welcomed both Dickens and Keats. Now its one to grab a hearty lunch at before walking it off at the nearby Hampstead Heath. The Royal Oak, Tabard Street, Borough The Victorian pub is a great spot to try all of the Harvey's of Lewes Beers. Don't expect it to be quiet though - it's near London Bridge and has won a number of awards in recent years. Coach and Horses, Soho The old school pub is like a time capsule, with it looking the same as it did back in the 1980s. Ask the staff how to find the secret tea room above... and stay for the unusual piano singalongs.
The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Aromatic afternoon tea for 40th anniversary
TEAS from London Tea Exchange go beyond the usual blends. Instead, these offer something new to the palate. Tracing its origins back to 1679 during the reign of King Charles II, the London tea emporium now carries more than 2,500 rare and premium varieties. Sourced from 43 countries, its impressive collection has found its way into royal pantries and luxury hotel menus. The brand's excellence mirrors the essence of the legacy of Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur. The Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur afternoon tea paired with London Tea Exchange varieties. — Photos: MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star As the hotel celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, it has partnered with London Tea Exchange to select 40 teas that represent each year of the hotel's heritage. Executive chef Scott Brands has also curated an Afternoon Tea set paired with eight London Tea Exchange offerings. Drawing inspiration from Shangri-La's culinary roots and Malaysia's rich tea culture, Brands' menu weaves together delicate flavours and aromatic infusions. 'Infusing handpicked teas into the menu allowed us to add depth and subtle flavour. 'It's a celebration of craftsmanship, tradition and creativity, all in honour of the hotel's 40th anniversary,' he said. The three-tier afternoon tea set showcases savoury and sweet treats, some of which incorporate tea flavours. Brands with the tiered set serving sweet and savoury delights that honour the hotel's culinary roots and Malaysia's rich tea culture. On the savoury side, rectangular rillettes of fresh and smoked salmon were subtly lifted with the use of gently-roasted Lapsang Souchong tea offering a tinge of earthiness. A winning combination is the Eclair of Truffle Egg Salad topped with Trout Caviar and infused with Pistachio and Truffle Tea. The flavourful caviar and creamy egg salad are appetising. As for the Caramelised Onion Mini Quiche with Charcoal Goat's Cheese, the slightly tart, earthy flavours might be an acquired taste for some but I loved it. Other savoury delights included the Lobster Chive with Avocado and Cauliflower Cream, and Porcini and Oyster Mushroom in Baked Vol-Au-Vent. For a sweet indulgence, the Lavender Pear with Spiced Honeycomb is infused with fresh hints of lavender tea. The pear-shaped dessert with a floral aroma and soothing sweetness pairs well with the selection of teas. Meanwhile, the bittersweet chocolate slice is rich in flavour. Made using peach and apricot teas, the chocolate treat offered lovely citrusy notes contrasting beautifully with the deep cocoa finish. The duet of Salted Caramel Cheesecake Macaron plus Lemon Verbena and Chia Panna Cotta is a sweet-and-sour finale. As afternoon tea is not complete without scones, the classic Sultana and Vanilla Scones are served warm with clotted cream, raspberry jam and whipped butter in a nod to a timeless tradition. Tea selections on the afternoon tea set are Premium Rose Buds, Premium Bora Bora, Peach and Apricot, Premium Emperor's Palace Tea, Premium Sencha Sakura, Premium Milk Oolong, Pistachio and Truffle, and Premium Sea of Blossoms. Besides this, guests can delight in 40 types of exceptional teas. Among the highlights was the Premium Milk Oolong which I found quite memorable. The tea leaves are steamed with milk water to release a signature creamy and fruity complexity. Simply speaking, it tasted like milk tea without the milk or calories. Another unforgettable herbal tea is the Premium Cool Mint. The infusion of peppermint, lemongrass and sweet apples gave the drink a layered complexity that I found rather interesting. Fragrant peppermint and refreshing lemongrass dance on the taste buds at first sip before lingering sweetness of apple and liquorice root step in. The Afternoon Tea set is priced at RM220 nett for two persons with free flow of coffee and tea. It is available, at the Lobby Lounge, from 3pm to 6pm daily until June 30. Guests can also take away the Premium 40th Anniversary Afternoon Tea Takeaway Set at RM188 per set. In conjunction with the 40th anniversary celebration, guests can enjoy RM40 off for every RM200 cash voucher purchased at Shangri-La Boutique until June 30. LOBBY LOUNGE, Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. (Tel: 03-2786 2378) Business hours: 7am to midnight. This is the writer's personal observation and is not an endorsement by StarMetro.
