Why the Castle of Mey is a jewel of Scotland

Discover the Castle of Mey, a historic Scottish gem with royal heritage, stunning gardens, and unique visitor experiences in the scenic Highlands.

<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Castle%20of%20Mey-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1067" alt="Why the Castle of Mey is a jewel of Scotland"> 
Visitors to Scotland have an abundance of places and attractions to choose from when putting together their travel itinerary. The Castle of Mey might not be among Scotland’s most famous attractions, but there is a strong argument that it is one of the best. 

This imposing structure is in Caithness, on Scotland’s north coast, just six miles west of John o’Groats. The latter town is famous in its own right for being the most distant part of the UK mainland from Cornwall’s Land’s End some 876 miles to the south. The castle’s location is just several hundred yards away from the sea and offers beautiful views over the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands. 
Architecturally impressive, the castle’s official website says its jutting towers and corbelled turrets “are typical of that period of the 16th century, particularly the chequered character of the corbelling of the smaller turrets”. Many visitors are attracted to the site to get a glimpse into Scotland’s history and its links to its most famous former resident – Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Born Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon in 1900, she became Queen Consort in 1936 when her husband, King George VI, ascended to the throne. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>The Sinclair family years</h2> 
The Castle of Mey was built between 1566 and 1572 by the 4th Earl of Caithness, George Sinclair, for his second-born son William Sinclair. Unfortunately, William was murdered in 1573 by his brother John, who their father had imprisoned at the family seat of Girnigoe Castle. When John too was killed, the castle passed into the hands of the third son, also called George. 
His descendent became an earl in 1789 and for the next 100 years, the castle was the seat of the Earls of Caithness. During the Second World War, the castle was used as an officers' rest home. Sadly, by this point, the site had fallen into disrepair and most of the buildings were inhabitable. Fortunately, its future was secured when it was purchased by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1952.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
<h2>A royal residence</h2> 
When The Queen Mother bought the Castle of Mey, known at that time as Barrogill Castle, she was mourning her husband George VI, who had died that year. She had fallen for its beauty and decided to save it from abandonment. 
One of Her Majesty’s first acts was to restore the original Castle of Mey name. Work also began torenovate the castle and the 30 acres of parklands and gardens, which were part of the property at the time. These works included supplying water and electricity to the castle for the first time and making it weathertight and habitable. 
The Queen Mother also opened the garden three days a year to support Scotland’s Garden Scheme and bought nearby Longoe Farm in 1958. 
From 1955 to her death in 2002, Her Majesty spent many happy times enjoying the tranquillity of the castle’s Scottish Highlands location. She spent three weeks at the castle every August and returned for around 10 days each October. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Securing its future</h2> 
In 1996, the Queen Mother gifted the site to The Castle of Mey Trust. The Trust was set up to ensure its future for the next generation and to ensure its existence was to benefit the community. Indeed, placing the community at the heart of The Castle of Mey now acts as one of the priorities for its long term future. 
In 2002, the castle opened to the public during the summer months to help generate revenue to ensure its upkeep. From May to September, the castle opens Wednesday to Sunday (although check in advance as the site can occasionally be closed for short periods during these months) and tickets are available to buy on the day. 
The castle opens at 11am, with last admission at 3pm. Visitors can explore rooms used by Her Majesty when she enjoyed her time here,&nbsp; including the Front Hall, Dining Room, Library, Equerry's Room, Butler's Pantry, Drawing Room, and Kitchen. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Garden and grounds</h2> 
There are also impressive gardens, an animal centre, a tearoom, and shop. The walled gardens are well maintained by Head Gardener Chris Parkinson, who has given the site a new layout and a revitalised look since taking charge. The official Castle of Mey website quotes him as saying his goal was to “make the garden interesting all year round”. Be sure to climb the tower in the garden for a superb view. Another bonus of the garden is it provides an abundance of fresh produce ready for use in the tearoom. 
Those looking to make the most of their visit will likely find the animal centre, in the East Woods, an educational and enjoyable experience. It’s home to well-cared-for sheep, ducks, geese, chickens, bantams, rabbits, and Alice, the donkey. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Community use and events</h2> 
The Castle plays host to a range of events. And in April 2023, visitors were welcomed to celebrate the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla. It’s even possible to stay on-site, with The Granary Lodge Bed &amp; Breakfast and The Captain’s House self-catering offering truly memorable Highland retreats in the stunning Caithness countryside. 
Between October and April, it’s possible to get married at the Visitor Centre in the grounds, with the option of a drinks reception in the castle and the opportunity for some incredible photographs. The site also hosts corporate events. 
&nbsp; 
We hope this guide has inspired you to add the Castle of Mey to your Scotland travel plans. It’s certainly one of the gems of northern Scotland, and with so many significant and important attractions to compete with, that is amongst the highest praise you can ask for.{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}

<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Castle%20of%20Mey-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1067" alt="Why the Castle of Mey is a jewel of Scotland"> 
Visitors to Scotland have an abundance of places and attractions to choose from when putting together their travel itinerary. The Castle of Mey might not be among Scotland’s most famous attractions, but there is a strong argument that it is one of the best.

The Best Bars in Covent Garden

Discover the best bars in Covent Garden, from iconic pubs to stylish cocktail lounges, perfect for pre-theatre drinks or a night out in London’s West End.

A short walk from Soho and Leicester Square, Covent Garden is the most popular tourist area in the West End of London. As the home of numerous fine-dining restaurants, top-class hotels, art galleries, the Royal Opera House, and many other renowned theatre venues, Covent Garden is world-famous for being one of the entertainment hotspots of England’s capital city with millions flocking to enjoy its many attractions, day after day and night after night. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20Best%20Bars%20in%20Covent%20Garden-jpg-1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1067" alt="The Best Bars in Covent Garden"> 
&nbsp; 
In such an epicentre of entertainment, there obviously has to be more than the odd house of refreshment available, whether it’s a swanky wine bar, cool cocktail joint, or just a good old-fashioned London boozer. And while the various bars of Covent Garden have come and gone over the years, it’s the traditional public houses that have endured in this tourist mecca, lasting the course and giving us a glimpse of a time before this corner of London became the amazingly busy attraction that it is. 
Situated between St Martins Lane and Drury Lane, <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/area-guides/london/covent-garden/" rel="noopener">Covent Garden</a> was so-called because of it originally being the location of a fruit and vegetable market. As very much a workers’ environment, it’s not surprising that many public houses were opened in Victorian times and many of those hostelries still exist today with many of their original features preserved, giving the pubs their wonderful character, enjoyed by visiting tourists and working London people alike. Of course, the choice of Covent Garden watering holes goes way beyond the good old boozer in 2024; here’s just a sample of the best options. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Mr Fogg’s Tavern</h2> 
This tastefully themed pub pays tribute to Jules Verne’s fictitious explorer Phileas Fogg with the downstairs area décor consisting appropriately of souvenirs from around the world. There’s a stylish, well-stocked gin parlour upstairs that serves up an exquisite selection of award-winning cocktails inspired by Fogg’s travels and adventures, using original and authentic ingredients from around the world. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/piano-bar-london/" rel="noopener">The 10 Best Piano Bars In London</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Eve Bar</h2> 
Another themed establishment, but this time, it’s Biblical. With a dark, rather sinister entrance, this is all about ‘temptation’, with cocktails taking the place of Eve herself. The cocktails, like the bar snacks, are experimental and truly delicious. The slightly unsettling atmosphere is offset by a friendly staff eager to please. A rather different but memorable cocktail experience. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-bars-in-london/" rel="noopener">Most Expensive Bar in London</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Side Hustle</h2> 
This atmospheric bar situated inside the NoMad Hotel is actually an old Police Station, with a drinks menu specialising in exotic cocktails, many of them tequila and mezcal based. The lights are low and the mood and the food are casual, California inspired and very tasty. But it’s the bar’s drinking vibe that makes Side Hustle something different in the cocktail hour. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-whisky-bars-london/" rel="noopener">The Best Whisky Bars in London</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>The Porterhouse</h2> 
Something of a Covent Garden institution, this huge three-floor space is said to be the largest pub in London. The Irish brewing company behind the pub supplies every stout, ale and lager that are all highly rated by beer enthusiasts. The building itself is fascinating with its unconventional décor and feel; if you’re only going to one pub in Covent Garden, try make it this one. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-outdoor-bars-london/" rel="noopener">Outdoor Cocktail Bar London</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Stereo</h2> 
This underground bar is that little bit different and that bit cooler because the real star of the bar is live music. Located on the southside of Covent Garden's Piazza, Stereo serves up cocktails named after classic rock tracks while you get in the groove with live jazz, funk and disco. You’ll want to stay all night with the dancefloor vibes and the emphasis on having fun. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-champagne-bar-london/" rel="noopener">Champagne Bar London</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Freud</h2> 
Deserving of its ‘iconic’ status, this basement bar has been serving cocktails since the mid- 1980s. It was refreshingly different then and still has that easy-going feel about it now. With that bohemian café vibe still going on, the classic cocktails are reasonably priced and the food is good and comforting. Freud could and should be a fixture on Shaftesbury Avenue for at least another 40 years. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-bars-in-mayfair/" rel="noopener">Best Bars in Mayfair</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Delaunay Bar</h2> 
A truly grand café-restaurant, The Delaunay could be any stylish European capital in any decade since 1930. The décor oozes style with green leather banquette seating, dark wood, brass rails, antique mirrors and a black and white marble floor. With a bar menu just as vintage, the cocktails are inspired by the Golden Age of Theatre and all the glamour that suggests. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-bars-in-manchester/" rel="noopener">Manchester Best Bars</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Lady of the Grapes</h2> 
Dedicated to female winemakers, this Covent Garden spot is a beautifully simple, welcoming wine bar and bistro with a rustic, cosy decor. With a focus on organic wine and simple French cuisine, Lady of the Grapes looks to give the customer a ‘delightful epicurean experience’ with a knowledgeable staff on hand to make recommendations from the impressive wine menu. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-bars-in-knightsbridge/" rel="noopener">Bars in Knightsbridge</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Garrick Arms</h2> 
Located next-door to the Garrick Theatre, the Garrick Arms is obviously popular with theatre goers. It manages to tick the box as an authentic London boozer but it is much more than that – it’s a lively place for a drink or two whether you’re looking to catch a show after or not. On the fringes of Leicester Square, the Garrick is the perfect pub in the perfect location. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-bars-in-battersea/" rel="noopener">Cocktail Bar Battersea</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels</h2> 
As the English sister of La Compagnie in Paris, this cosy wine bar is something of a hidden gem in Neal’s Yard in the heart of Covent Garden. With some sophistication and style, La Compagnie offers ‘an exploration of the world’s finest wines’. Set on two floors with the bonus of a terrace, you can enjoy one of those wines accompanied by delicious cheeses and tapas. Charming and perfect. 
Being at the centre of London’s busiest tourist destination, <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/the-best-bars-in-covent-garden/" rel="noopener">Covent Garden has enough bars and pubs</a> to satisfy every taste possible. Traditional pubs sit comfortably alongside the wine bars and cocktail bars, representing the diversity that London, and specifically Covent Garden, welcomes and offers in return. And with most patrons choosing to partake before or after attending other entertainment events nearby, the bars are an integral part of the enjoyment that continually brings visitors to London, time and again. 
&nbsp; {% module_block module "widget_035714d2-8bee-4d54-8576-715066a410b7" %}{% module_attribute "child_css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "definition_id" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "field_group" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}[{"Line_1":"Bars in Fitzrovia","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/bars-in-fitzrovia/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/bars-in-fitzrovia/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"Private Dining in Covent Garden","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/private-dining-covent-garden/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/private-dining-covent-garden/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"The Best Breakfasts in Covent Garden","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-breakfast-covent-garden/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-breakfast-covent-garden/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"The Best Restaurants in Covent Garden","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-restaurants-covent-garden/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-restaurants-covent-garden/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"The Best Pre-Theatre Dinner in Covent Garden","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/pre-theatre-dinner-covent-garden/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/pre-theatre-dinner-covent-garden/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}}]{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "field_types" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{"Heading":"text","field_group":"group","styles":"group"}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "label" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "module_id" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}112029994949{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "path" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"/nx_modules/Modules/AMAL - Internal Link Posts"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "schema_version" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}2{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "smart_objects" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}[]{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "smart_type" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"NOT_SMART"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "tag" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"module"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "type" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"module"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "wrap_field_tag" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"div"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% end_module_block %} 
&nbsp;{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}

A short walk from Soho and Leicester Square, Covent Garden is the most popular tourist area in the West End of London. As the home of numerous fine-dining restaurants, top-class hotels, art galleries, the Royal Opera House, and many other renowned theatre venues, Covent Garden is world-famous for being one of the entertainment hotspots of England’s capital city with millions flocking to enjoy its many attractions, day after day and night after night.

Best Counties to Live in the UK

Explore the top UK counties to live in, offering stunning landscapes, excellent schools, job opportunities, and rich history. Find your perfect home.

Over many, hundreds of years the United Kingdom has been divided and re-divided into a series of counties. In England, it was during the Anglo-Saxon period that the country was split into “shires” for administrative purposes. These shires were administered by “shire reeves” (sheriffs) and these original divisions were solidified after 1066 by the Normans. The famous Domesday Book, held in the National Archives in Kew, London, charts these county boundaries. Much later on, in the later part of the 19th century, local councils began to formalise counties in the process of modernising governance across the country. Across the United Kingdom, counties have been subject to changing political and social needs, and their development over the years gestures towards the country’s complex and interesting history. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Best%20Counties%20to%20Live%20in%20the%20UK-jpg-1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1096" alt="Best Counties to Live in the UK"> 
One of the benefits of the county system is that, due to each county’s extensive records, it is now easier than ever to make an informed decision about where in the country you might like to live. For instance, where are the best schools? Where are the best locations for leisure activities? Where are the best jobs, public transit hubs, restaurants, pubs, and community centres? We will cover some of the above in our list below. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Surrey</h2> 
Located in the southeast of England, Surrey has a reputation for being affluent, conveniently located, and beautiful. The county has some of the best schools in the United Kingdom – largely private schools – and is the ideal place to raise children. It is within a stone’s throw of London and so provides the best of what the city has to offer alongside the peace and stability of the countryside. For those interested in nature, the Surrey Hills are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and there are many lovely walks to be had in the area. Guildford and Woking are picturesque and vibrant townships, and the county also has an incredibly low crime rate. The housing here is top tier, although it is among some of the most expensive in the country. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-coastal-towns-uk-to-live/" rel="noopener">The Best Coastal Towns to Live in The UK</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Hampshire</h2> 
Located in the south of England, Hampshire gives you access to both coastline and countryside. Home to the New Forest National Park and the South Downs, Hampshire is the ideal home for lovers of the outdoors. There are many gorgeous walks, particularly in the New Forest, where you can see deer and other wildlife. Cities like Southhampton break up the idyllic rolling countryside and provide all the amenities to make an afternoon at the beach feel like a seaside holiday. There are fantastic transit links to London and other parts of the country and the job market is thriving. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-chocolate-in-uk/" rel="noopener">Best Chocolates in the UK</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Oxfordshire</h2> 
Readers will of course know Oxfordshire, located in south central England, for the world-renowned University of Oxford, but there is so much more this lovely county has to offer. Oxfordshire has truly lovely countryside, including the Cotswolds, known for its beautiful rolling green hills, stone houses, and quaint villages. Oxford itself is a beautiful city with strong job offerings in education and the science and technology sectors. Oxfordshire is the ideal home for those looking to immerse themselves in a long, intellectual history and for those who love long, leisurely strolls through undulating hills and delightful villages and market towns. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-art-galleries-uk/" rel="noopener">The Best Art Galleries in The UK</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>North Yorkshire</h2> 
Located in the north of England, North Yorkshire features some of the most extraordinary landscapes in the country. Home to the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors National Parks, this county is ideal for those who love the outdoors or for those who fancy themselves budding novelists or poets (think Wuthering Heights). York, a historic city, offers a combination of ancient architecture and history with stylish, modern living. For fans of Harry Potter, York is the place to be with its winding streets and mediaeval shop fronts – The Shambles, a mediaeval shopping street, is said to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley – and its towering cathedral, and its impressive universities. Housing is relatively affordable still in this area and there are excellent rail links to Leeds and Manchester. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-wine-clubs-uk/" rel="noopener">The Best Wine Clubs in The UK</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Devon</h2> 
Located in the southwest of England, Devon truly has it all. With some of the most stunning coastline in the country, Devon is the place, if you picture yourself living in a ramshackle cottage by the sea. Devon has a mild climate (ideal for an outdoorsy lifestyle), rural charm, and very good schools, particularly in and around the city of Exeter. The University of Exeter provides many excellent employment opportunities, and Devon is well-connected by rail to other parts of the country. Property is at the pricier end of things but with such outstanding access to the coast and truly sublime landscapes, you are getting your money’s worth. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-wellness-retreats-uk/" rel="noopener">Best Health and Wellness Retreats in the UK</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Buckinghamshire</h2> 
Situated in the southeast of England, Buckinghamshire is home to the beautiful Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and some of England’s most picturesque landscapes. The county’s towns, like High Wycombe, Marlow, and Amersham, have many fantastic schools and it is a popular location for families. Towns in Buckinghamshire are very well connected to London via rail and the M40 motorway. The area has a low crime rate and a strong sense of community, with many village fêtes and cultural activities on the go. There are outstanding historic sites like Waddeson Manor to visit, and excellent shopping locations. The county also has a very strong economy and there are many job opportunities both in the county itself and in London. 
&nbsp; 
The list above takes you through some counties with the best of everything: nature, villages, housing, schools, and work opportunities. Each county offers unique advantages, meaning you can find a place that suits you and your exact needs. Whether you want to wake up every morning and take a dip in the clear waters of Devon, you enjoy spending your weeks roaming the moors, or you like to nip into town for a lovely cup of coffee and a stroll down a historic street on a Saturday morning, there is something in the list above just for you. 
&nbsp; {% module_block module "widget_b43adbd2-1cec-4393-8773-9c435b6190be" %}{% module_attribute "child_css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "definition_id" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "field_group" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}[{"Line_1":"Best Wine Tasting UK","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-vineyards-uk/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-vineyards-uk/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"Best Towns to Live in England","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-towns-to-live-in-uk/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-towns-to-live-in-uk/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"Luxury Jewellery Brands in the UK","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-uk-jewellery-brands/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-uk-jewellery-brands/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"Top 10 Best Small Towns to Live in the UK","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-small-towns-to-live-in-uk/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-small-towns-to-live-in-uk/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}}]{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "field_types" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{"Heading":"text","field_group":"group","styles":"group"}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "label" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "module_id" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}112029994949{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "path" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"/nx_modules/Modules/AMAL - Internal Link Posts"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "schema_version" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}2{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "smart_objects" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}[]{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "smart_type" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"NOT_SMART"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "tag" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"module"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "type" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"module"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "wrap_field_tag" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"div"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% end_module_block %} 
&nbsp; {{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}

Over many, hundreds of years the United Kingdom has been divided and re-divided into a series of counties. In England, it was during the Anglo-Saxon period that the country was split into “shires” for administrative purposes. These shires were administered by “shire reeves” (sheriffs) and these original divisions were solidified after 1066 by the Normans. The famous Domesday Book, held in the National Archives in Kew, London, charts these county boundaries. Much later on, in the later part of the 19th century, local councils began to formalise counties in the process of modernising governance across the country. Across the United Kingdom, counties have been subject to changing political and social needs, and their development over the years gestures towards the country’s complex and interesting history.

The Best Breakfasts in Covent Garden

Discover the best breakfast and brunch spots in Covent Garden, offering everything from Full English to healthy options, all with unique atmospheres.

It has often been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day – that’s debatable but it is irrefutably the first meal of the day. So, it’s important that you get enough nourishment to make a good start, whether you like to order a Full English or nibble on a croissant. Of course, the choice of breakfast is wide-ranging these days and Covent Garden – perhaps the busiest tourist hotspot in the UK – caters for a vast diversity of customers looking to eat their first meal of the day. So, the breakfast menu can include anything from a continental breakfast to Eggs Benedict to muesli and yoghurt. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20Best%20Breakfasts%20in%20Covent%20Garden-jpg-2.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1060"> 
&nbsp; 
When visiting the UK, the temptation to tackle a ‘Full English Breakfast’ – eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, etc – means that even the humble ‘Greasy Spoon’ café is in demand, and so many tourists join the great London worker over a cup of ‘Rosie Lee’ whilst they wait for their fry-up. But more and more Covent Garden restaurants are serving breakfast, or at least brunch; brunch is a relatively recent addition to the UK restaurant menu, even though it was an accepted meal in the UK as early as the late 19th century. The meal that is taken too late to be breakfast but too early to be lunch has become something of an accepted option, especially in such a cosmopolitan place as Covent Garden. 
With that in mind, we would like to present a selection of some of the best places to get breakfast and brunch in the area. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>26 Grains</h2> 
Very much the healthy option, 26 Grains has been established in<a href="https://candaceabroad.com/neals-yard-covent-garden/" style="color: #000000;"> Neal‘s Yard</a> for some time now and is famous for its porridges and oat bowls – the filling, guilt-free breakfast options. A must for vegetarians and vegans, the menu is full of seasonality-based dishes. But it’s a lovely place to get a savoury Egg Brioche Bun or Pumpkin Salad. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Dishoom</h2> 
The Bombay-inspired café in Covent Garden, their breakfast menu is one of the most mouth-watering in the whole of London. Some recognisable dishes are given the Indian Cuisine treatment and the results are delicious. The Parsi Omelette or Bacon Naan Roll are popular choices, but the Keema Per Eedu power breakfast with a spicy chicken and fried egg combo is hard to resist. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Dalloway Terrace</h2> 
This one is definitely for the ‘Bruncher’; this very British eatery is named after the Virginia Woolf novel ‘Mrs. Dalloway’. Beautifully flowery, this could easily have jumped from the pages of a book. The positive reviews for its reasonably-priced bottomless brunch that includes coffee and tea, freshly squeezed juice, delectable breakfast starters, and mains could fill a book too. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Drury 188-189</h2> 
A wonderful place for breakfast and brunch, this highly-rated restaurant is very welcoming and popular for locals and tourists alike. The healthy menu explains this, with organic ingredients lovingly cooked. Organic eggs obviously figure prominently with smashed avocado and sourdough bread alongside, but this is not just a cliché hipster hang-out, it’s a top-notch café and coffee shop. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Tutton</h2> 
This lovely little bistro tucked away in the middle of Covent Garden is as popular for breakfast as it is for brunch, and the same can be said for general customers and those looking to eat before taking in a West End matinee. The glittery décor suggests the glamour of Hollywood but fortunately the menu hasn’t followed that theme, with a fine traditional English Breakfast and Eggs Royale to prove it. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Balthazar</h2> 
This slice of New York in a Parisian style-bistro is just a cock-stride from the Opera House in Covent Garden. Brunch at the Balthazar is perhaps more of a treat on a special occasion. They do a great Eggs Benedict, of course, but it’s dishes like Steak and Eggs or New York Pancakes with fresh fruit and maple syrup that gives it that rather special feeling. Especially with an early glass of fizz. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Bill’s</h2> 
Located in St Martin’s Courtyard, Bill’s is as near as we get to a ‘greasy spoon café’ on our selected list. But it’s definitely a massive cut above that. An extensive breakfast menu includes healthy options like fruit-topped porridge and a vegan Full English, the ‘Plant Plate’. But of course, for the more indulgent customer, there is a traditional Full English and pancake stacks. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Brasserie Max</h2> 
Housed in the Covent Garden Hotel, but open to all, the superb all-day restaurant Brasserie Max has elegance in its décor but also in its food. And of course, it delivers the best of a hotel breakfast – quality pastries, and lots of cooked breakfast options alongside fruit-topped porridge, fresh juices, coffees, and more. First-class breakfast. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>The Black Penny</h2> 
Ostensibly a coffee house, The Black Penny is one of Covent Garden’s most popular breakfast venues, a characterful café bistro set over two floors. Not exactly cheap, the breakfast menu is nevertheless a list of irresistible favourites offering a mixture of egg breakfasts, bubble and squeak, all-day breakfast baps and hashes, as well as lighter options like toasted granola and muesli. Creative, cosy and comforting. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>The Delaunay</h2> 
The stylish Delauney is a glamorous place to start the day, specialising in all-day Mittel European fare, and on offer for breakfast are superb Viennoiserie, cereals, fruit, eggs cooked in every way possible and British delicacies like kedgeree. The interior is as attractive as the food, making breakfast here a grand treat. Like many on the list, it’s best to phone ahead to book a table at this popular eatery; it’s an experience you don’t want to miss out on. 
&nbsp; 
Covent Garden is a bigger area of London’s popular West End than you probably imagine, and every taste and budget is catered for. Whether it’s breakfast or brunch, there’s more to the choice of where to eat than the food itself; whether it’s the service, atmosphere, the décor or cost, Covent Garden has every option covered.{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}

It has often been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day – that’s debatable but it is irrefutably the first meal of the day. So, it’s important that you get enough nourishment to make a good start, whether you like to order a Full English or nibble on a croissant. Of course, the choice of breakfast is wide-ranging these days and Covent Garden – perhaps the busiest tourist hotspot in the UK – caters for a vast diversity of customers looking to eat their first meal of the day. So, the breakfast menu can include anything from a continental breakfast to Eggs Benedict to muesli and yoghurt.

The Best Reasons to Live in Cambridge

Discover the charm of Cambridge, a city blending rich history, top education, modern amenities, and vibrant culture—perfect for living and working."

Talk to anyone who has never been to Cambridge about the place and it’s more than likely the only thing they’ll mention is the University. This is understandable as, together with Oxford, Cambridge is probably the most famous seat of learning in the world. But there is so much more to it than that. Cambridge is a beautiful city, set in wonderful countryside but within easy reach – just over 50 miles – of London. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20Best%20Reasons%20to%20Live%20in%20Cambridge-jpg-1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1067" alt="The Best Reasons to Live in Cambridge"> 
&nbsp; 
With the River Cam running through it, Cambridge was a highly important trading centre during the Roman and Viking ages but the earliest town charters weren’t granted until the 12th Century. It was in 1209 that the University of Cambridge was first founded and these days, it’s the beautiful University buildings that dominate the architectural landscape of the city. This identity has been preserved throughout the many ages of development including the Industrial Revolution. 
This has been important for the tourist sector of Cambridge but in modern times, the city has a thriving economy for other reasons. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Brains Belt’ of the UK, Cambridge is home to some of the biggest Tech and Pharmaceutical companies in the world. With a mix of historical and modern, Cambridge has a depth of character and opportunity that makes it an intriguing and attractive option for relocation, and there are many other aspects of the city to support this too. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Amenities</h2> 
If shopping opportunities mean a lot to you, Cambridge is a veritable paradise. The City Centre Grand Arcade lives up to its name, with over 60 stores spread over three floors with several big-name retailers, as well as cafes and restaurants. Other areas such as the picturesque Trinity Street mix brand names with unique independent shops. The city boasts a wonderful range of restaurants to suit foodies with the most diverse of tastes, from the Michelin-starred Restaurant 22 to the spicy Galpol Bengal restaurant. The stellar standard of educational amenities in Cambridge almost goes without saying – the primary and secondary schools of the area are rated as highly as you’d expect. Primary schools such as Histon and Impington Brook are classed as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, while both State and Independent Secondary Schools in the Cambridge area are similarly rated, providing superb foundations for advanced education choices. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-cities-to-live-in-the-world/" rel="noopener">Best Cities to Live In the World</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Areas</h2> 
Cambridge has a diverse range of suburbs and neighbours to choose from, all with a charm of their own. Chesterton, for instance, is just a short walk out of the city centre and offers an amazing blend of urban convenience and rural tranquillity. It’s a perfect balance of both worlds, with a variety of local shops, cosy cafes, and lush parks, ensuring residents have everything they need close by. And this is the general theme of the most sought-after areas in Cambridge – Trumpington, to the South of the centre, is more family-friendly but still with that balance. When it comes to green space, Cambridge has more per acre than most cities in the UK. Areas such as Petersfield and Romsey Town are cheaper and considered ‘hipper’, geared towards young professionals and students. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-towns-in-yorkshire/" rel="noopener">Best Towns in Yorkshire</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Transport Links</h2> 
Given its location, Cambridge is clearly an attractive option for commuters who work in London. Regular trains to London’s King Cross take less than an hour and there are several direct trains each day to Brighton and the airports at Gatwick and Stansted. The bus network from the Drummer Street station is superbly efficient too. But the mode of transport that everyone associates with Cambridge is the bicycle. The city boasts more cyclists than any other in the UK. And because of the compact size of Cambridge, it is quite probably the most efficient vehicle to use to get from one part of the city to another – there’s an extensive network of cycle paths and the most bike-friendly infrastructure. This makes environmental sense for the city making Cambridge a much cleaner place to live in. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/south-west-london-areas/" rel="noopener">Best Areas to Live in South West London</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Sightseeing</h2> 
With history and education being such a massive part of Cambridge’s identity, it’s hardly surprising that the most popular attraction is probably the Fitzwilliam Museum. Located in the heart of the historic city centre, the museum is home to everything from Renaissance sculptures to Egyptian antiquities. The museum experience doesn’t stop there –<a href="https://www.spri.cam.ac.uk/"> Polar Scott Research Institute</a> and<a href="https://www.computinghistory.org.uk/"> The Centre for Computing History </a>are other popular attractions for the curious. Outdoor destinations of note and beauty are Jesus Green, Midsummer Common, and Parkers Piece, not to mention the University of Cambridge’s <a href="https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/">Botanic Gardens</a>, home to over 8,000 plant species from all over the world. And of course, you can’t say you’ve been to Cambridge without punting in a boat on The Cam River at least once. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/towns-in-north-west-england/" rel="noopener">Best Places to Live in North West England</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Culture</h2> 
The cultural spectrum of the city is broad and exciting.<a href="https://www.kettlesyard.co.uk/"> Kettle’s Yard</a> is home to the University of Cambridge’s modern and contemporary art collection and has seen a major redevelopment in recent years. It now includes works by some of the biggest names such as Ben and Winifred Nicholson, Alfred Wallis, Constantin Brancusi, Henry Moore, and Barbara Hepworth. For fans of the more aural arts, music has a particular significance for the city, which is the birthplace of the founders of Rock megaband Pink Floyd. The Cambridge Folk Festival is known the world over, attracting the biggest names in the genre every year. And the Corn Exchange has long been a stopping-off point for bands and comedians on Nationwide tours. A little more high-brow, The Cambridge Arts Theatre is a highly-respected arena for the dramatic arts, dance, and more. 
&nbsp; 
To many people, Cambridge appears to be a city stuck in an old-fashioned past. For those in the know, the city really has the best of both worlds as its main selling point. The fact that so many sizable companies are choosing to set up home there should tell you that the more learned view is that Cambridge is perfectly placed to be a city of the future, and definitely a great place to live. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp; {% module_block module "widget_cccf86e5-3254-47e7-b988-ba812e0fea43" %}{% module_attribute "child_css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "field_group" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}[{"Line_1":"Top 10 Cities in England","link_field":{"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/top-10-cities-in-england/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"open_in_new_tab":false,"no_follow":false}},{"Line_1":"Smallest City in UK","link_field":{"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/top-10-smallest-city-in-uk/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"open_in_new_tab":false,"no_follow":false}},{"Line_1":"Top Cities to Visit in UK","link_field":{"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-uk-cities-to-visit/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"open_in_new_tab":false,"no_follow":false}},{"Line_1":"Places to Visit in Jersey","link_field":{"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/places-to-visit-in-jersey/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"open_in_new_tab":false,"no_follow":false}}]{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "label" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "module_id" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}112029994949{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "schema_version" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}2{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "tag" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"module"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% end_module_block %}{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"FreightBig":["Regular"]}) }}

Talk to anyone who has never been to Cambridge about the place and it’s more than likely the only thing they’ll mention is the University. This is understandable as, together with Oxford, Cambridge is probably the most famous seat of learning in the world. But there is so much more to it than that. Cambridge is a beautiful city, set in wonderful countryside but within easy reach – just over 50 miles – of London.

The Best Hotel Suites in London

"Explore London's most luxurious hotel suites: From Claridge's Mayfair Suite to the Dorchester's Harlequin, discover elegance, comfort, and stunning city views."

Staying in a Hotel Suite has usually been seen as the epitome of extravagance. But more and more, the decision to take a suite rather than just a room is becoming as much a question of practicality as one of luxury. And it’s not just V.I.P.s or business executives who are making that choice either. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20Best%20Hotel%20Suites%20in%20London-jpg-1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1067" alt="The Best Hotel Suites in London"> 
&nbsp; 
How does a hotel suite differ from a hotel room? The answer is in the question. While occasionally, a Junior Suite is merely a bedroom with a seated area, a suite usually consists of multiple rooms, offering much more space and comfort. The main added space is usually a separate living room. Sometimes a Junior Suite will comprise a bedroom, a living room, a small kitchen area, and a bathroom – perfect for a family. The Executive Suite, as it sounds, is geared towards the business executive with a working area – desk and chair – plus living area suitable for meetings. Beyond this are, of course, the ‘Presidential Suite’ and the ‘Penthouse Suite’, both more akin to a luxury apartment with multiple rooms, enhanced service, and, very often, a spectacular view. Not to mention a spectacular cost. 
But the practicalities of a hotel suite actually suit so many people for so many reasons. It’s mostly about having that extra space and privacy. For business purposes, yes – hotel suites are usually pleasant surroundings in which to work and conduct business meetings. However, a suite is perfect for a family holiday too, whether it’s a weekend break in the city or a longer visit. Practicality and comfort are most important, say for instance, when parents are able to enjoy the living room space while their children sleep. A hotel suite can undoubtedly provide that feeling of ‘a home away from home’. 
The prices of suites obviously vary, from area to area, hotel to hotel. But, quite rightly, we are only concerned with the very best that London has to offer, so be our guest as we take you through them below. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-family-hotels-london/" rel="noopener">Best Family Hotels London</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Mayfair Suite, Claridges, Mayfair</h2> 
When you talk about famous London hotels, none are more famous than Claridge’s, and few are more glamorous; since the mid-19th Century, it’s been the host to royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood superstars alike. With an elegance that mixes Art Deco and Modern, the Mayfair Suite is the choice of hotel accommodation for the privileged few. The hotel’s ballroom remains its heart and centrepiece but the suites match that for style and luxury with a luscious décor of velvets, silks, and marbles. Pure indulgence. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-country-house-hotels-uk/" rel="noopener">Luxury Country Hotels UK</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Park Suite, The Berkley, Knightsbridge</h2> 
Overlooking Hyde Park, these spacious, beautifully furnished apartments feel more like home than a hotel, an easy place to relax in, knowing that every amenity you may need is just minutes away. Whether that’s the world-famous Berkley Bar, Spa and heated rooftop pool, or Cédric Grolet pâtisserie, all can be found within the hotel. Five-star family-friendly, this bright and cheerful hotel has a refreshingly contemporary feel to it, especially its Park Suite. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-christmas-hotels-uk/" rel="noopener">Luxury Christmas Hotel Breaks UK</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Grand Premier Suite, Rosewood London Hotel, High Holburn</h2> 
Another hotel suite that feels more akin to a private luxury apartment, the décor is very much cosy rather than over-grand, ensuring you feel relaxed and at home. Especially when you have butler service catering to every little whim. Slightly off the beaten track, this grand-looking hotel might not have the prestige views, but it’s still only a brisk walk away from the West End, Oxford Street, and Covent Garden. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-boutique-hotels-in-london/" rel="noopener">Boutique Hotels Near London</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Waterloo Bridge Suite, One Aldwych Hotel, Covent Garden</h2> 
Seen as one of the more romantic hotels in the choice of London’s fine establishments, the Waterloo Bridge suite in the One Aldwych has a décor chosen with luxurious relaxation in mind. Overlooking Waterloo Bridge, the sprawling living room is a particularly comfortable place to unwind with a drink and take in the amazing view. So, you’re not just paying for a stunning city apartment in a thrilling London location; you might just be in the right place for a beautiful Waterloo Sunset too. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/5-star-luxury-spa-hotels-uk/" rel="noopener">5-Star Hotels in England with Spa</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Hyde Park Suite, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel, Knightsbridge</h2> 
This choice is not just about its location – the suite looks over the treetops of Hyde Park and South Carriage Drive, where the Queen's horses often trot along – but it’s about the suite’s unique design and décor, the work of renowned designer Joyce Wang. Both elegant and glamorous, there are beautiful touches in the furnishings reflecting its surroundings outside as well as adding sophistication in the living space, including the suite’s own bar, leather-topped desk, library and fireplace. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/the-getaway-exploring-the-timeless-allure-of-claridges-hotel/" rel="noopener">The Claridge Hotel in Mayfair</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Harlequin Suite, The Dorchester, Park Lane</h2> 
Glamour is the first word that springs to mind with this hotel suite – it is in the world-famous Dorchester, after all. The Harlequin is the largest of the five-star hotel's roof suites, offering bespoke luxury and unparalleled service. Marble and onyx feature throughout the two bedroomed suite, giving it that Hollywood movie star vibe. And no hotel suite in London has a finer view, especially as The Harlequin has a secluded terrace looking out over Hyde Park and beyond. The service available ensures you’ll feel like a movie star too. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-romantic-hotels-london/" rel="noopener">Most Romantic Hotels in London UK</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Marylebone Suite, Marylebone Hotel, Marylebone</h2> 
The Marylebone's beautiful suites offer visitors the best, most spectacular views of the City of London over the rooftops of Marylebone and Mayfair, across to The Shard and way beyond. And the largest of the suites, The Marylebone, is spectacular in itself. Spacious and tastefully furnished in oak, brass and silks, this suite has its own amazing terrace which expands to 40 square metres, and has its own fireplace, outdoor TV, and retractable roof, ideal for all weather conditions. Pure luxury even outdoors. 
This is just a sample of the choice of prestige hotel suites. London is home to many more. But whether they’re spectacular, beautiful, historic, or modern, none of them come cheap. When staying in the wonderful metropolis that is London, the ideal is to stay in a hotel that is itself a landmark of the grand old city. And if you have the resources to do that, it is worth staying in the lap of luxury, even for one night only. 
&nbsp; {% module_block module "widget_3aad0837-1a5e-4d83-b9d6-01ac6820c1a6" %}{% module_attribute "child_css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "definition_id" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "field_group" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}[{"Line_1":"Hotels in South Kensington","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/hotels-in-south-kensington/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/hotels-in-south-kensington/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"London’s Most Expensive House","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-house-in-london/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-house-in-london/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"The Most Famous Hotel in London","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-famous-london-hotels/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-famous-london-hotels/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"Luxury Hotels in Cornwall by The Sea","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/luxury-hotels-cornwall/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/luxury-hotels-cornwall/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}},{"Line_1":"Family Friendly Hotels in London England","link_field":{"no_follow":false,"open_in_new_tab":false,"rel":"","sponsored":false,"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/family-friendly-hotels-london/","href_with_scheme":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/family-friendly-hotels-london/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"user_generated_content":false}}]{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "field_types" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}{"Heading":"text","field_group":"group","styles":"group"}{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "label" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "module_id" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}112029994949{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "path" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"/nx_modules/Modules/AMAL - Internal Link Posts"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "schema_version" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}2{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "smart_objects" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}[]{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "smart_type" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"NOT_SMART"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "tag" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"module"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "type" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"module"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "wrap_field_tag" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"div"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% end_module_block %} 
&nbsp;{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"FreightBig":["Regular"]}) }}

Staying in a Hotel Suite has usually been seen as the epitome of extravagance. But more and more, the decision to take a suite rather than just a room is becoming as much a question of practicality as one of luxury. And it’s not just V.I.P.s or business executives who are making that choice either.

Best Racehorse of All Time

Explore the greatest racehorses of all time, from Secretariat’s record-breaking feats to Red Rum’s Grand National victories and Desert Orchid’s iconic charm.

Supreme racehorses are precious diamonds. Breeding them, like finding rare minerals, is complex – but once unearthed, to push the analogy, the end result is stunning and lucrative. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Best%20Racehorse%20of%20All%20Time-jpg-1-1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1067" alt="Best Racehorse of All Time"> 
You don’t just stumble upon an elite thoroughbred; it’s a painstaking process of strategy, investment and development, and one which combines science, art and tradition to produce fast animals capable of winning races again and again, whether on the flat or over jumps. The origins of thoroughbreds – so-called ‘hot-blooded’ horses that are deeply revered for their personality, agility, and speed – can be traced back to 17th- and 18th-century England, when native mares were crossbred with imported stallions. Once established, they were gradually imported across the world and now number in their millions. Selection of bloodlines is key to finding a champion – breeders hunt for speed, stamina, temperament and all-round good health, while simultaneously tapping into pedigrees of mares and stallions that are genetically compatible and boast proven performance records. Racehorses are analysed with the same attention to detail as a human, if not more: genetic testing is even used on occasion to search for the ultimate sweet-spot combination of fast and slow-twitch muscle fibres. et it all right and you’ve got a potential great in your stable. Still, they have to prove it out on the racetrack – in all conditions, under different types of jockeys, and often with the deafening roar of the crowd as a soundtrack. That’s what separates the best from the rest, whatever the era: the ability to perform and win amid the stimulus of the horse racing circus. Here is our pick of the best. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>RED RUM</h2> 
Nearly 200 years old, the Grand National is one of the world’s most famous horse races. Steeped in folklore, this steeplechase at Aintree near Liverpool – run over more than 4 miles with horses jumping 30 fences over two laps – is deeply woven into British culture: in fact there was a time, long before the digital age, when it almost brought the country to a standstill. So when Red Rum romped to a remarkable and still-unmatched three Grand National wins (in 1973, 1974 and 1977), it was only natural that his standing as one of the greatest ever was cemented. The first victory was a classic; securing a truly astonishing comeback victory from 30 lengths behind. Born on 7 May 1965, Red Rum was celebrated for his exceptional jumping ability and entertaining style, having not fallen in 100 races. What’s more, he was originally only trained to race over relatively short distances – not four miles-plus – and he also suffered from a life-long bone disease condition in his foot. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>SECRETARIAT</h2> 
Comfortably one of the most celebrated horses in history, Secretariat was hailed for his sensational speed and dominance of the 1970s racing scene in North America. The pinnacle of his career came in 1973 when he achieved the ‘Triple Crown’ of thoroughbred racing, winning the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. The victories in these races still inspire awe – in the Derby, he set a record time which still stands today, and in the Belmont Stakes he won by an almost-unbelievable 31 lengths and, while doing so, set a world record time (of two minutes 24 seconds) for 1.5 miles, which also remains unbeaten. These displays are among the best in horse racing history, and he became a national hero. Make no mistake, Secretariat was a phenomenal beast: his stride length was measured at 25 feet, which is significantly longer than average, and what really stopped the clocks upon his death – sadness aside – was the discovery of the size of his heart. The autopsy revealed that it was approximately three times the size of an average horse's heart: simply extraordinary. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>DESERT ORCHID</h2> 
It’s not often an animal becomes a cultural icon, but Desert Orchid hit those heights while captivating racing fans and the British public during his pomp in the 1980s and early 1990s. Commentators were agog, one of them even comparing the level of fandom for “Dessie” with that of ‘Beatlemania’ in the mid 1960s. One horse versus four men: he was quite the charmer. Not unlike The Beatles, physical appearance played a part initially – Desert Orchid was simply beautiful, a distinctive grey thoroughbred gelding that was easy on the eye and stood out among the crowd. Talent was the defining factor though, and Dessie was remarkably versatile, excelling in both hurdles or steeplechases, prolifically notching up major wins in both (34 wins from 70 starts). The highlights came in the King George VI Chase, which he won four times, and his most famous victory of all came in the 1989 Cheltenham Gold Cup, where he wowed the critics, overcoming heavy ground conditions that were far from ideal. Style and flair came easily: fans loved Desert Orchid’s resilience and courageous style. Such was his popularity and affection, he was never ‘risked’ in the Grand National at Aintree. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>SEABISCUIT</h2> 
Context is everything, so they say. This is especially the case when it comes to the American phenomenon of Seabiscuit, who was the ultimate money-winning racehorse of 1930s and 1940s and sealed enduring fame as the subject of a Hollywood movie. This iconic status was far from likely in his early days – initially he was considered highly unsuitable for a racing career: constantly eating or sleeping, yet too small and just too odd, winning only a quarter of his first 40 races. But when he was handed over to trainer Tom Smith, everything changed. Smith had an unshakeable belief – and with jockey Red Pollard – set about transforming what was considered to be a ‘dud-colt’, with knobbly knees and an unsightly appearance, into one of the best of all time. From 1937 to 1940 Seabiscuit won almost every big race in the United States, but it is his underdog story that really captured hearts and minds during the Great Depression era: his triumph became a symbol of hope for people. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>BEST MATE&nbsp;</h2> 
Bursting onto the UK racing scene in 2000 as a five-year-old gelding, the brilliantly-named Best Mate was an instant hit, sweeping all before him as he thrillingly tore down the track without fear or hesitation. Between 2002 and 2004 Best Mate won the Cheltenham Gold Cup three times consecutively, drawing level with the much-loved Arkle and then usurping him. While winning 14 of his 22 races and finishing second in seven more, he never fell at a fence or hurdle and also amassed over £1m in prize money. Trained by Henrietta Knight, ridden mostly by Jim Culloty, owned by Jim Lewis, and a friend to all racing fans. But the lifespan of this famous racehorse was all too short, its potential unfulfilled: Best Mate suffered a suspected heart attack and died in front of devastated crowds while racing at Exeter in 2005. 
&nbsp; 
Make no mistake: racehorses, just like the jockeys that ride them, are elite athletes. The racing world trades on the performances of its horses on the track and to say that breeding thoroughbreds is big business is something of an understatement. But underpinning the science of it all, and the money, is emotion. A fine horse commands both respect and love.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}

Supreme racehorses are precious diamonds. Breeding them, like finding rare minerals, is complex – but once unearthed, to push the analogy, the end result is stunning and lucrative.

Best Jockey of All Time

Discover the greatest jockeys in history, from Frankie Dettori to Laffit Pincay Jr., and their remarkable contributions to horse racing's rich legacy.

Riding horses is as old as time: man’s main mode of transport for aeons. Racing horses too: humans have always whipped up competitive entertainment, it’s in our DNA. Now a major part of sporting culture, organised horse racing is one of the oldest sports in history, but it continues to evolve. The art of riding a horse is something to behold. The concept of a ‘jockey’ first arose in 17th century England, when horse racing was popularised by King Charles II. Nowadays it’s a fiercely competitive global arena, with legions of ambitious riders at the coalface of a multi-billion dollar industry. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/best-jockey-of-all-time-jpg-1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="897" alt="Best Jockey of All Time"> 
&nbsp; 
But what does it take? Firstly, jockeys must be relatively small. Lightweight and strong is the key, keeping a low body weight in order to avoid ‘burdening’ the horse – but with enough raw power to control it effectively. Next up are coordination and balance&nbsp; – both have to be stellar to stay on the horse and guide its movement around the course. Communication and rapport with their horse, along with technique and tactical awareness, are vital too. But perhaps the most critical element is something you can’t teach: bravery. To ride a horse at astonishing pace, and to go faster than your competitors, with hooves thundering all around you and millions of dollars at stake, takes immense courage. It can be highly dangerous, so the calculated risks – the split-second decisions – that jockeys make in order to steer a horse to victory are breathtakingly brave. Overall, the make-up of elite jockeys is both simple and complex. Perhaps not given enough credit – they are world-class athletes. Here is our selection of the best jockeys of all time.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
<h2>FRANKIE DETTORI</h2> 
World-famous Dettori commands attention wherever he goes. Eccentric and talented in equal measure, his always-extrovert demeanour masks a remarkable inner steel that has seen him rack up immense success in the modern era. With longevity to match, he is rightly lauded as one of the greatest ever. Now an adopted Brit, in many ways, Italian Dettori was born in Milan and introduced to horse riding early on by his father Gianfranco, an esteemed jockey on the national circuit who persuaded his son that his talent for football was not as great as his skill in the saddle. By 14, Frankie quit school to pursue a jockey career in the UK under trainer Luca Cumani at Newmarket. And the rest, as they say, is history: over a 35-year career, Dettori has been a champion UK jockey three times, won the famous Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe six times, racked more than 3,000 wins (more than 250 of the Grade 1 variety), and amassed more than&nbsp; $200 million in career earnings. His biggest single achievement of many came relatively early in his history-making career, on 28th September 1996, when he rode all seven winners on a single day at the British Festival of Racing at Royal Ascot. His outrageous display that day is cemented in horse racing legend, and unrivalled to this day. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>WILLIAM SHOEMAKER</h2> 
Texas, 1931. So tiny was Shoemaker, that he nearly died dramatically at birth. ‘Bill’ wasn’t expected to survive the night, but tucked in a shoebox on top of a stove to keep him warm, he did. And what a life he led, his small stature proving a mighty asset as he went on to become a giant of thoroughbred horse racing – an icon of the sport, leading the US prize money standings an incredible 10 times. Perhaps owing to that tough start in life, Shoemaker was always a fighter – four feet eleven inches of battling durability and guile, with a burning passion for victory and making his name endure. Having kicked off his professional career at only 18, Shoemaker was named USA Champion Jockey [by wins] within a year – an instant impact – and went on to collect this prestigious title on four more occasions. Overall, he won almost 9,000 career races – many of them in top competition – including 11 Triple Crown race wins. His first Kentucky Derby was in 1955 and he took the Breeders’ Cup Classic in 1987 – pure class throughout the decades. He died in 2003, but his name is still up in lights – the Shoemaker Breeders’ Cup Stakes are held annually at Hollywood Park Racecourse, and a statue of him stands at Santa Anita Park. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>LESTER PIGGOTT</h2> 
Almost defying the laws of physics, superstar English jockey Lester Piggott started riding horses when he was 10 and did not retire from the track until he was almost 60 years old.&nbsp; 
Born in 1935, he came from a farming family which included a long lineage of jockeys and horsemen – a legacy he went on to fulfil in spectacular style. After becoming the youngest jockey to ride over 100 winners in one season, his almost 50-year career saw him win the Epsom Derby nine times – which remains a record to this day. His thirst for victory was incessant – 11 Gold Cups at Ascot, five Irish Derby wins, eight St. Leger Stakes – but this radiant brilliance across the UK racing scene wasn’t without its challenges. Piggott was five foot eight inches – unusually tall for a jockey – and had to suffer for his sport, going to great lengths to maintain suitable shape and weight. Such was his skill and quality, Piggott did it – romping to 30 British Classic titles, among his 4,493 career victories (to be exact), and riding his last winner in 1994 aged 59 – long after most mere mortals had put down the riding crop.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
<h2>PAT EDDERY</h2> 
No list of great jockeys can be complete without an Irishman. Horses are deeply embedded in their culture. Pat Eddery, from County Kildare, rose to the highest heights thanks to a talent in the saddle that owed plenty to the pedigree of Irish racing. Starting his apprenticeship in 1967, aged 15, Eddery wasn’t an instant star like many other all-time jockeys – he built his record and developed his craft, but once established, he started winning regularly and was greatly admired for his ability to control and relax his mounts. As a sought-after rider for trainers and owners all over the world, he went on to claim more than 4,600 winners over a 30-year career and was named Champion Jockey eleven times – sharing the all-time record with Lester Piggott. He was also – seemingly nerveless – collecting wins in most major events on the UK racing calendar. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>LAFFIT PINCAY JR</h2> 
Pincay was plucked from the relative obscurity of the Panamanian racing circuit and hit the big time in North America. Over an astonishing 40-year career, he earned more than a quarter-billion dollars in prize money – the most annual winnings seven times along the way – and his 9,530 career victories including seven wins in the Breeders’ Cup and three career-defining victories to take the ‘Triple Crown’ aboard the famous Affirmed in 1978. Pincay owed a lot to the eye of Jockey Club member and horse breeder Fred W. Hooper, who spotted his talent as a 20-year-old and brought him to the US to ride as a sponsored jockey for his stable – but equally, Pincay repaid Hooper gamble handsomely, romping to almost every major race on the US calendar, including one victory in the famed Kentucky Derby. 
With the huge and ever-growing popularity of horse racing, not to mention its massive economic impact, the humble jockey sometimes gets overlooked. There are millions of spectators and billions of dollars swirling around the horse racing world, and none of it would be possible without a select band of impossibly gifted athletes. Brave horsemen, we salute you.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Riding horses is as old as time: man’s main mode of transport for aeons. Racing horses too: humans have always whipped up competitive entertainment, it’s in our DNA. Now a major part of sporting culture, organised horse racing is one of the oldest sports in history, but it continues to evolve. The art of riding a horse is something to behold. The concept of a ‘jockey’ first arose in 17th century England, when horse racing was popularised by King Charles II. Nowadays it’s a fiercely competitive global arena, with legions of ambitious riders at the coalface of a multi-billion dollar industry.

Five Fascinating Andy Warhol Facts

Explore Andy Warhol’s profound impact on art and culture. From Pop Art to his iconic works and personal challenges, discover his transformative legacy.

Billions of words have been debated and endless essays written to try and comprehend the profound influence and cultural impact of Andy Warhol. If it had to be distilled down into one single phrase, game-changer would be a good place to start. Easily among the most influential artists of the 20th century, his legacy and influence continue to be cited by artists in all media today.&nbsp; Warhol significantly affected popular culture, instinctively shifting and then brilliantly evolving the visual lens through which society (its behaviour and emotions) expressed itself. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Five%20Fascinating%20Andy%20Warhol%20Facts-jpg-1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1068" alt="interesting facts about andy warhol"> 
His extraordinary life started out in routinely humble beginnings: he was born Andrew Warhola in 1928, in Pennsylvania, the youngest son in a working-class immigrant family from Slovakia. Warhol is best known for his defining role in the Pop Art movement, where his best work blurred the boundaries between "high" art and "low" culture – a trope that endures to this day. Early on, he was a commercial illustrator for magazines like Vogue and Harper's Bazaar in New York, the city he became synonymous with. But when he moved into ‘fine art’ in the early 1960s, he challenged deeply entrenched ‘traditional’ art boundaries by incorporating imagery from popular culture, which proved a radical, and wildly successful, move. Pushing so-called Pop Art, he made iconic and visceral images instantly recognisable. His Campbell's Soup Cans, Marilyn Monroe portraits, and Brillo Boxes were celebrated (by many, if not all) as works of genius, with Warhol utilising mass production techniques to emphasise the reproducibility and accessibility of art – thus eliminating the idea that art was for the few.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
While fervently challenging the notion of what could be considered art – and who could be an artist – Warhol’s studio, The Factory, became a cultural hub in itself, drawing in a glut of artists, musicians, celebrities, and socialites from all over the world. Warhol grew: he experimented voraciously, making films and music. Recurrent themes were the booming consumer culture of post-war America, the commodification of fame, which he critiqued with portraits of Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Elizabeth Taylor: done with a knowing sideways glance. Warhol became a celebrity himself; his lifestyle and persona became part of his art.&nbsp; 
Here are some lesser known facts about a man whose cultural impact is beyond measure.&nbsp; 
 
<h2>POOR HEALTH&nbsp;</h2> 
At the age of eight, while in third grade, Warhol took ill, suffering from Sydenham's chorea (a neurological disorder that causes involuntary movements). This knockback kept him out of school and bedridden at home for long periods, which proved to be influential on the future artist. During these periods of rest and recovery, when he was confined to one place without the ability to fully explore the outside world as a normal child would, he remained curious and keen to learn: he drew, he listened to the radio, and he collected pictures of movie stars, which he later credited for developing his early interest in making art and shaped his personality (along with the death of his father in a tragic accident when Warhol was 13 years old). 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/10-interesting-facts-about-claude-monet/" rel="noopener">10 Interesting Facts About Claude Monet</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>MODEST ROOTS&nbsp;</h2> 
Throughout his life, Warhol's <a href="http://www.sothebys.com/en/news-video/blogs/all-blogs/21-days-of-andy-warhol/2013/10/andy-warhol-and-his-family.html">humble family background</a> influenced his work: in fact, his mother's favoured lunchtime offering triggered the idea for his famous <a href="https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/the-story-of-andy-warhols-campbells-soup-cans">Campbell's Soup series</a> – the works of which are now almost priceless in value. The artist once said: “I used to drink it [tomato soup], I used to have the same lunch every day, for 20 years.” Warhol’s mother was always important to him: she lived with her son for 18 years in New York before moving back to Pittsburgh, and her distinctive handwriting featured in his illustrations. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/facts-about-keith-haring/" rel="noopener">Interesting Facts About Keith Haring</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>COMMITTED CATHOLIC&nbsp;</h2> 
The Warhola family were devout Roman Catholics from Eastern Europe and going to church in Pennsylvania was crucial to their lives: Warhol (he later dropped the “a” to make it sound more American) <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wogBlFKs7N4">attended mass regularly for most of his life, sometimes even on a daily basis.</a>&nbsp; 
He even travelled to Vatican City to meet Pope John Paul II, the Head of the Catholic Church, in 1980. Warhol was there on both a personal and professional mission: he was hoping to embellish a series of silk-screen celebrity portraits with the Polish Pope of the day, only to discover that his access was part of a weekly general audience (albeit VIP), rather than a private audience. The silk-screen portrait of John Paul II never materialised, but Warhol got a great photograph – and the photograph of their meeting is highly stimulating. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/facts-about-banksy/" rel="noopener">Facts About Banksy</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>EARLY CHALLENGES &nbsp;</h2> 
Back in 1956 – before the Pop Art explosion – the Museum of Modern Art in New York rejected Warhol’s offer to donate one of his distinctive shoe drawings after the museum had included it, or one very similar, in an exhibition. Little did they know the phenomenal future value of Warhol’s work. Just over three decades later,&nbsp; <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8orJEWKhao">210 Coca-Cola Bottles</a> was the first Warhol work to pass the £1-million mark at Sotheby's (going for $1.4 million in 1988) while in 2009, <a href="http://www.sothebys.com/en/news-video/blogs/all-blogs/21-days-of-andy-warhol/2013/11/andy-warhol-200-one-dollar-bills.html">200 One Dollar Bills</a> became the top-selling Warhol work ever auctioned at Sotheby's, fetching $43.8 million (more than three times the high estimate of $12m). All this for an artist whose first public display of Pop paintings was in the window of an NYC department store. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/facts-about-vincent-van-gogh/" rel="noopener">Interesting Facts About Vincent Van Gogh</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>NARROW ESCAPE&nbsp;</h2> 
With his vivid imagination and thoughtful nature, allied to his growing fame, Warhol had premonitions about a violent, early death – and this nearly materialised when ‘radical feminist’ Valerie Solanas shot him at point-blank range at The Factory in 1968. He was briefly pronounced dead, but doctors revived him and he survived. The impact was predictably significant: he went on to <a href="https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/21-facts-about-andy-warhol">make works in which he figured as a living symbol of death,</a> including many depictions of skulls, and due to the injuries he suffered, he had to wear a special corset for the rest of his life. He later opined, in typically philosophical fashion: “Before I was shot, I always thought that I was more half-there than all-there – I always suspected that I was watching TV instead of living life. Right when I was being shot and ever since, I knew that I was watching television. The channels switch, but it’s all television.” 
 
The legacy of Andy Warhol remains a vital living organism. By brilliantly blurring the lines between fine art and commercial art, he was radical: unfurling important social and political commentary throughout the second half of the 20th century, and teaching the art world how to brilliantly critique society while making lots of money and having fun along the way. What a gift it was. For viewers, his best work explored the relationship between art, culture, and society; it contributed to broader conversations about identity and acceptance, especially for marginalised groups; and it asked us to consider the superficiality and materialism of Western society. It still does now, as the value of his iconic work testifies.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp; {% module_block module "widget_511a4574-6a64-424f-9739-59498db8b7fc" %}{% module_attribute "child_css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "css" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "field_group" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}[{"Line_1":"Salvador Dalí Interesting Facts","link_field":{"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/facts-about-salvador-dali/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"open_in_new_tab":false,"no_follow":false}},{"Line_1":"Top 10 Philanthropist in the World","link_field":{"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/top-10-philanthropist-in-the-world/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"open_in_new_tab":false,"no_follow":false}},{"Line_1":"Celebrities Living in London","link_field":{"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/celebrities-that-live-in-london/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"open_in_new_tab":false,"no_follow":false}},{"Line_1":"St Pancras Station History","link_field":{"url":{"content_id":null,"href":"https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/st-pancras-station/","type":"EXTERNAL"},"open_in_new_tab":false,"no_follow":false}}]{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "label" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}null{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "module_id" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}112029994949{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "schema_version" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}2{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% module_attribute "tag" is_json="true" %}{% raw %}"module"{% endraw %}{% end_module_attribute %}{% end_module_block %}{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"FreightBig":["Regular"]}) }}

Billions of words have been debated and endless essays written to try and comprehend the profound influence and cultural impact of Andy Warhol. If it had to be distilled down into one single phrase, game-changer would be a good place to start. Easily among the most influential artists of the 20th century, his legacy and influence continue to be cited by artists in all media today.&nbsp; Warhol significantly affected popular culture, instinctively shifting and then brilliantly evolving the visual lens through which society (its behaviour and emotions) expressed itself.

Short Lets

Long Lets

Rent

New Homes

International

St Johns Wood

Notting Hill

Mayfair

Marylebone

Kensington

Holland Park

Covent Garden

Chelsea

Belgravia

Show All

Prime

 Cornwall

Cotswolds

Gloucestershire

Oxfordshire

Surrey

Warwickshire

Worcestershire

Countryside

Battersea

Clapham

Fulham

Putney

Richmond

St. Margarets

Teddington

Wandsworth

Wimbledon

South West

Oban

Stirlingshire

Scotland

Locations

Waterside Properties

Country Living

Private Community

Golf

City Living

Gated Community

View All

Lifestyles

Sell With Us

Let With Us

Neighbourhood Guide

Luxury Outlook

The Journal 

Media Mentions

Video Gallery

Stories

The Team

About Us

Contact Us

Wimbledon is a highly sought-after area in southwest London, primarily celebrated as the global stage for the world’s most prestigious tennis championship. Beyond its inescapable tennis renown, the neighbourhood is admired for its lush verdure, reputed schools, and prime real estate offerings.



Discover Bayswater: a vibrant London area with rich history, diverse dining, top schools, green spaces, and exciting new developments. Explore its unique charm and luxury living.

Bayswater

Notting Hill is a community characterised by boutiques, antiques and pastel-toned façades. The neighbourhood has a storied history, which is reflected by the timeless elegance of its leafy streets and stucco-fronted properties.



Discover Surrey's charm: vibrant communities, historic landmarks, excellent schools, top dining spots, and stunning properties just an hour from London.

Primrose Hill is an upmarket area in North London that has a wonderful blend of impressive architecture, boutique shops, fantastic cafes and restaurants, and a village-like atmosphere. Arguably the area’s most notable feature is the park which is found at its heart.



Primrose Hill

Fitzrovia is one of prime central London’s most impressive districts with a rich history, and glorious architecture, conveniently located close to the West End and the beating cultural heart of the city. The streets are peppered with restaurants, cafes, businesses and bars, and some of London’s finest Georgian architecture.



Fitzrovia

Explore Regent's Park: a blend of royal history, luxury homes, top dining, and iconic landmarks like London Zoo and Primrose Hill. London's prestigious green space

Regent's Park

St James’s, named after its eponymous royal palace, is a fascinating area in the heart of London. Known as ‘clubland’ to Londoners, due to its abundance of members clubs, the area is characterised by prestigious landmarks, world-class restaurants, and stunning architecture.



St James's

Ascot, best known for its famous racecourse, sits in a particularly green stretch of Berkshire where woodland, heathland, and royal parkland shape the landscape.

Ascot

Explore Oxford: a city blending medieval charm with modern living. Home to the University of Oxford, rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse property options.

Oxford

The Cotswolds: Experience quintessential rural England with honey-hued houses, rolling hills, charming villages, fine dining, cultural landmarks, and luxury country living.

Lying in the leafy expanse of North London, commonly referred to as Hampstead Village, Hampstead stretches northward to Hampstead Garden Suburbs, sharing borders with St. John’s Wood to the south and neighbouring Highgate to the east.


Hampstead

Situated by the River Thames and enveloped by green open spaces, Putney is one of southwest London’s most sought-after neighbourhoods.



Marylebone is one of London’s prettiest and oldest areas – its evolution spans from royal deer parks and country estates to grand redbrick buildings. Today, its beautiful architecture is coupled with its trendy high street known for its heritage brands, quirky shops, and electric atmosphere.

Set along River Wey in the Surrey countryside, Weybridge is among the Home Counties' most prestigious addresses.



Weybridge

Soho, London: A vibrant district rich in history and charm, known for its dining, nightlife, and thriving real estate market. Discover luxury living in the heart of the city.

Soho

South Kensington: Coveted London neighborhood offering luxury homes, top schools, world-class shopping, dining, and cultural landmarks like the V&A and Natural History Museum.

South Kensington

For those looking to step back from the pace of London without losing touch with it entirely, Esher remains one of Surrey’s most enduring choices.



Esher

Kingston

Holland Park represents an exquisite blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and modern convenience, renowned for its tranquillity, with ample opportunities to relax, shop, and dine without venturing too far from home.



Chiswick

Nestled along the banks of the River Thames in South West London, you will find the idyllic Barnes. The area is much loved by families and offers a wonderful blend of convenience thanks to its proximity to central London, as well as a village-like feel.



Barnes

Residing on the Southern banks of the River Thames, Wandsworth has long been an area of London favoured by families, young professionals, and couples, thanks to its lively streets anchored by hip brunch spots, cafes, eclectic indie boutiques, and large Victorian houses as well as being mere moments from the Thames.



Tucked away between the refined sophistication of Hampstead and the dynamic Camden, Belsize Park is a lovely corner of North London. Known for its architectural patchwork of styles, Belsize Park has a collection of some of London’s finest buildings.



Belsize Park

Kensington is one part of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, a highly sought-after area in Prime Central London for super prime residences. The district offers a vibrant atmosphere defined by beautiful architecture, world-class shopping, famous museums, stunning galleries and two Royal Parks.

Not just one of the Capital’s smiliest areas – Richmond was named London's happiest borough and the second nationally – but arguably one of its prettiest, Richmond’s riverbank position is paired with a village-like charm that casts a spell on anyone who visits.



Explore Covent Garden: London's cultural epicentre with historic landmarks, luxury living, world-class dining, and vibrant arts scene, making it a sought-after residential area.

Explore Berkshire: Royal castles, Michelin-starred dining, thrilling horse racing, and serene gardens. Discover history, flavor, and adventure in this quintessential home county.

Berkshire

Pimlico, a charming neighbourhood in the heart of the City of Westminster, is one of London’s best-kept secrets. Known for its pretty garden squares, elegant architecture, and a strong sense of community, Pimlico's is a small but perfectly formed area that was designed by the master builder Thomas Cubitt.





Pimlico

Cobham sits on the banks of the River Mole in Surrey, around 20 miles south-west of London.



Cobham

Walton-on-Thames sits along a broad stretch of the River Thames in Elmbridge, positioned between Weybridge, Esher and Hampton Court.



Walton-on-Thames

Ealing sits to the west of central London and has long been one of those places people move to and stay.

Ealing

To own a luxury property in Belgravia is to find yourself amongst the most elite members
of society, surrounded by neighbours who recognise the immense value of this prestigious
residential area.

Wentworth's reputation as one of Europe's most prestigious residential estates is well over a hundred years in the making.

Wentworth

Fulham is a pocket of southwest London where the Thames glides past Victorian townhouses and tree-lined avenues, and where a morning coffee by the river tastes better.



Hammersmith

Westminster, one of the most iconic areas of London, is known for being the epicentre of the UK’s political power since the first official Parliament of England convened here in 1295.



Westminster

With their period detailing and generous sizes, the luxury homes of St John’s Wood are a huge draw for discerning families from all over the world who want to live in the height of luxury surrounded by excellent schools, quaint cafes and attractions like Abby Road, Lord’s Cricket Ground and Regent’s Park.

St John's Wood

Defined by its artistic legacy, excellent shopping and diverse range of luxury properties,
Chelsea is the ideal destination for those looking for a deluxe lifestyle in Prime Central London.

Part of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Coombe sits between Wimbledon, Kingston, Richmond Park and New Malden.

Coombe

With its historic attractions and sophisticated tree-lined streets, Knightsbridge continues to be one of the most sought-after areas of Prime Central London for luxury real estate, from its listed buildings to its modern serviced residences.

Knightsbridge

Hyde Park sits at the centre of one of London’s most established and desirable residential areas, where grand stucco terraces, garden squares and mews houses surround one of the capital’s best-known green spaces.


Hyde Park

Oxshott is a charming village nestled in the heart of Elmbridge, sitting quietly between the bustling towns of Esher and Leatherhead.



Oxshott

Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or a dynamic urban lifestyle, Buckinghamshire will exceed your expectations. Here’s our guide to exploring all that this enchanting county has to offer.

Buckinghamshire

An elite melting pot of fine dining restaurants, dazzling theatres, designer boutiques, five-
star hotels and private member clubs, Mayfair is a haven for wealthy individuals who like to
prioritise the finer things in life.

Hidden in the heart of central London, Connaught Village is just a stone’s throw from the bustling streets of Oxford Street and the serene expanses of Hyde Park. This elegant neighbourhood captures the essence of what makes London’s village-like pockets so special.



Connaught Village

Guides | Discover expert insights on luxury properties, design, lifestyle, market trends, and the latest company updates from Sotheby's. (130)