Bluebells in Bloom

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The UK is home to nearly half of the world's bluebells. They are an ancient woodland indicator — and often thriving in British woodlands over 400 years old.

Historically, sap from their bulbs was used as glue for bookbinding and when crushed, provided the starch to stiffen Elizabethan collars and sleeves.

For a few weeks each spring, Chalet Wood in Epping Forest — less than 40 minutes from Waterloo Station — transforms into a sea of bluebells.  However, native bluebells are under threat due to habitat loss and climate change.

English bluebells are easily to spot: deep violet color, strongly scented, with flowers that droop to one side of the stem.  In contrast, the non-native Spanish bluebells are upright, scentless; and threaten native species through cross-breeding and competition.

Though primarily pollinated by bees, some 'steal' nectar by biting a hole in the base of the flower, avoiding pollination.

Bluebells are fragile and can take up to seven years to bloom from a seed.  Even a single footstep can crush their leaves, preventing preventing photosynthesis and killing the plant.

Fortunately, there are plenty of great photo spots along the winding marked pathways.

Bonus : The walk from Wanstead Station is picturesque too with front gardens of camellias, cherry blossoms, hyacinth, poppies, and wisteria.

Note : No bluebells were harmed in taking these photos :)

Visit Japan . . .

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. . . without leaving London

Nestled in Holland Park, the Kyoto Garden is a an oasis away from the city’s bustle.  It was opened in 1991 by His Majesty King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) and the Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan, as a gift from Kyoto celebrating the friendship between Japan and the United Kingdom.

Designed by respected Japanese landscape architect Shoji Nakahara — known for his deep understanding of traditional Japanese garden aesthetics and principles and the Kyoto Garden Association.  Every stone, plant, and water feature is carefully placed to create harmony, balance, and a sense of nature in miniature.

Though relatively small, the space feels expansive — with every view resembling a living painting — a hallmark of Japanese garden design.

Today, the Kyoto Garden remains one of the finest examples of authentic Japanese gardens outside Japan — an elegant blend of tradition, artistry, and nature.

Tip : Plan your visit now until mid-April to see the cherry blossoms 
— Japan’s national flower — in bloom.

Whether you visit for spring cherry blossoms, autumn color, or simply a quiet moment, the Kyoto Garden provides a welcome retreat and invitation to slow down.

Mother’s Day : Treats for Every Sense

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Under £50

Mother’s Day Sunday, March 15th is the perfect time to treat Mum and the mother figures in your life to something memorable. Here are options to delight every sense:

SEE
Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition — For a visual treat, book tickets to the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition. The 19th annual exhibit April 17—May 4 will feature a selection of images from over 430,000 entries from 200+ countries submitted.
Standard tickets £18
BONUS : Use promo code MOTHERS26 for 2 for £30
www.www.worldphoto.org ✆ +44 2073 060055
 SMELL
The Perfume Studio — For a truly unique gift, purchase a voucher for a bespoke fragrance experience at The Perfume Studio. After an introduction to perfume blends created by their Master Perfumer, you’ll sample, test and combine them to design your own signature scent to take home. The fragrance formulas are officially registered to make it possible to order in the future — a thoughtful and personal keepsake.
Starting from £49
www.theperfumestudio.com

TASTE
EL&N Floral Afternoon Tea — Treat Mum to afternoon tea at EL&N's Lowndes location.  The floral afternoon tea ncludes savoury bites, delicate cakes, and scones complete with unlimited EL&N tea or barista-made house coffee.
Afternoon Tea for 2 for £44.99
Tip : Request one of the Insta-worthy booths downstairs
www.elnlondon.co.uk✆ +44 2073 060055
TOUCH
LEGO Store — For something playful, visit a LEGO store this weekend where kids can build a pink LEGO rose to take home as a handmade Mother’s Day gift. Workshops run Saturday 14 March (10am–12pm) and Sunday 15 March (12–2pm).
£13
Note : First come, first served basis, while stocks last.
 Screenshot by Author
TodayTix — Gift an unforgettable afternoon or evening with tickets to hit musicals like Les Misérables, Mamma Mia!, Six, and Wicked . Use the TodayTix app to locate and book discounted tickets.
As low as £17
www.todaytix.com

However you celebrate, the best gift is simply spending time together!

V&A Storehouse : A Museum Like No Other

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A treasure-filled warehouse

Opened in May 2025 in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, East London, V&A Storehouse gives public free access to the V&A’s vast working collection. 
  
Home to more than 250,000 objects, 350,000 library books, and 1,000 archives, it houses the national collection of art, design, fashion, and performance.  Displays are organized around three themes: 
  1. Collecting Stories —V&A’s role as a national collector
  2. Sourcebook for Design — how the collection inspires designers and communities
  3. Working Museum — how the museum operates behind the scenes 
Highlights include:        
  • David Bowie Centre — Dedicated to Bowie’s archive, including costumes, lyrics, photographs, and stage
  • Torrijos Ceiling — A 15th-century Spanish ceiling displayed overhead
  • Frankfurt Kitchen — Modern domestic design by Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky
  • Kaufmann Office — A mid-century interior by Frank Lloyd Wright
  • Conservation Overlook — Watch specialists examine and preserve objects
  • Study Centre — Students, researchers and visitors 'Order an Object’ to view and handle — first in the world of its kind
The V&A Storehouse turns museum storage into an engaging public experience. 
www.vam.ac.uk ✆ +44 2079 422000

Fortnum's new striking staircase

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Few department stores are as iconic as Fortnum & Mason and its newly unveiled three-story staircase is a striking addition to the historic Piccadilly flagship. Officially opened in November 2025 by His Majesty King Charles III, it marks the store’s most ambitious architectural project since 1707.



Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s vision of a double helix — one of only a few worldwide.  The unique DNA-style structure allows two-way traffic without paths crossing and provides a dramatic focal point.
Comprising 132 steps and more than 2,600 hand-forged details, including 660 camellia flowers shaped and assembled by master blacksmiths.  It is truly remarkable engineering feat and modern addition to historic 300-year old institution.

Bonus : At the top of the staircase, there is a small display of architectural renderings and photographs, including ones from the unveiling.
 www.fortnumandmason.com ✆ +44 2077 348040

Jellycat Craze

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A London-based icon

Jellycat was founded in London in 1999 by brothers Thomas and William Gatacre. The name was inspired by one of their sons, who loved jellies and cats. By blending classic plush animals with quirky, imaginative designs, Jellycat quickly stood out. Add ultra-soft, machine-washable fabrics, and it’s easy to see why people were drawn to them.

What began as a children’s toy soon became a favorite for all ages, with many designs turning into collectible keepsakes. Fans frequently share their growing Jellycat collections on social media, helping the brand reach a global audience. Today, Jellycat toys can be found in iconic stores such as Hamleys, Harrods, and Selfridges.
For Jellycat lovers, Selfridges is a must-visit. The dedicated Jellycat section is more of an experience than a shop, featuring playful displays of classic favorites and limited-edition finds.  Its centerpiece is the viral Jellycat Fish & Chips van, launched in 2024, where visitors can order and collect characters wrapped in nostalgic packaging.

London has always been at the heart of Jellycat’s story. From pop-up events to collaborations with institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum, the brand remains part of the city’s creative scene.

Nearly 25 years on, Jellycat continues to charm the world — one irresistibly stuffed toy at a time!
 www.selfridges.com ✆ +44 02030 920557
400 Oxford Street, London W1A 1AB

New Year Theatre Sale

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Book tickets starting at £10/seat for over 45 shows until January 31st

There is still time to book discounted tickets for £10, £20. £30, £40, £50 or £60 for top award-winning London shows:

  • Back to the Future (£30, £40, £50, £60) — Olivier Award and Broadway World Award winner for Best New Musical
  • The Devil Wears Prada (£50) — starring Vanessa Williams, WhatsOnStage Award winner for Best New Musical and Best Performer
  • Hamilton (£50, £60) — seven Olivier Awards and rarely included in sales
  • Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (£20, £50) — nine Olivier Awards, the most in the history of the awards
  • Kinky Boots (£20, £40, £50) — winner of three Olivier Awards returns to West End
  • Matilda The Musical (£30, £40, £60) — seven Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical
  • Oh, Mary! (£50, £60) — two-time Tony Award winner transfer from Broadway to the West End
  • The Play That Goes Wrong (£40, £50, £60) — Olivier Award winner for Best New Comedy
  • Titanique (£20, £30, £40, £50, £60) — winner of two Olivier Awards, including Best New Entertainment or Comedy Play

And if none of these catch your eye, there 35+ other shows to pick from!
www.OfficialLondonTheatre.com