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January 30, 2022 by: Sunny London

How to See Live TV Shows in London- Get Audience Tickets

Have you ever been an audience member for the recording of a television talk show? If you’re interested in how to see live tv shows in London, it’s actually not too hard to get audience tickets.

Keep reading if you want to learn how to get free tickets and what happens when you go to see a live tv show in London. At the end, I share what happens specifically at the Graham Norton Show in London. You’ll also find out about the huge mistake I made while being an audience member and how you can easily avoid it.

How to See Live Shows- General Advice

You’ll find that most television programmes that are recorded in front of a live audience are filmed in either Hollywood, New York or London. Ironically, even though I lived New York for 10 years, I actually never attended a show recording there. But I have been to many in Hollywood and several in London. The process is mostly the same.

If you’ve read the blog’s About page, you know that Mr Sunny and I met while working at NBC News- London Bureau. Ironically in the 10 years he worked as a sound and camera man for the News Bureau, he actually never witnessed a whole talk show being recorded live in front of a studio audience. He mostly covered wars and ad hoc recordings like press interviews or international events. So even with a long television news career- there were things he found interesting and new when we attended a recording of the Graham Norton Show recently.

how-to-see-live-tv-shows-in-london-get-audience-tickets-graham-norton-show

How to See Live Shows- The Process

The process to get audience tickets in both Hollywood and London hasn’t changed much in 15 years. That’s when I attended my first live television show recording.

Depending on the amount of space needed for a show, it might be shot in an area outside the city. If a really large sound stage is needed, you will not find the filming location easily accessible if you’re a tourist without a car and a half day on your itinerary to devote to the experience. So, the first step to researching opportunities is to look at a map and identify where you need to go.

For example, The Masked Singer UK is filmed at the old RAF airfield in Bovingdon in Hertfordshire. This is not near Central London and would be quite an expensive trip to take via a cab or hired car service. However, The One Show is filmed right in Central London at Broadcasting House, the BBC headquarters, near the Langham Hotel and Regent Street.

Audience tickets are free and organised by a separate company. For the Graham Norton Show, we got our tickets through SRO Audiences. If you want tickets for The Masked Singer UK, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, or other shows, another popular company that gets audience tickets in London is Lost in TV.

You apply online to get audience tickets for live television shows and then get notified via email if you were successful a few days before the show date. Watch your junk mail carefully, if you apply!

If you get that lucky email, be sure to read every word of it. The email will outline the procedures for attending. Also, you will find a declaration that the ticket attachment does NOT guarantee your seats. Audience show tickets are not like cinema, broadway or airline tickets.

Foremost, they overbook shows due to a percentage of no shows that occur. Since people tend to care less about losing free tickets- (or maybe even the celebrities that are on the show once they find out who they are), the audience ticket company will anticipate an unpredictable amount of unused seats.

Also- stars can be unpredictable. I learned this from a few years of working in VIP tours, special events and publicity at Universal Studios Florida. Celebrities in all areas (sports, television, film, music, etc) can can be quite feisty, inconsiderate and demanding. This means they might cancel their promotional appearances with extremely short notice.

Current events can also change show schedules. A global pandemic and the guidelines for life and travel also affected the availability of live studio audiences too.

So, the big idea here is just because you get a confirmation email doesn’t mean your bum is getting a seat. You should be ready for anything after that email.

In fact, on the day of the show, the studio executives, the host, celebrity guests or production crew could ask for a big number of tickets for their friends. This happened to me once in Hollywood. Even though we were some of the first to arrive at the studio that night, we didn’t know until the last minute whether or not they would have room for us. Apparently the host had made a large request for his friends to have tickets that day. If this happens- and you’re just a general audience member with an email confirmation- no seats for you!

Actual seat assignments can be determined by a first come, first served distribution. And sometimes it could depend on who you are and how you look. Face it, if you don’t look like the show’s target audience, they might not want you to fill one of the seats.

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How to See Live Shows in London- The Entry Process

Start working for your seat by arriving to the studio earlier than the time indicated on the email. And be ready to queue when you do. How early you arrive is a judgment you should make about popularity of the show and the guests scheduled for that recording. Keep reading for our arrival time the night of our Graham Norton Show experience.

Assuming you have a chance of getting in and haven’t been beaten by tons of people already, you will show your email to a production staff member. If approved, you’ll probably get a wrist band and then go through a brief security search.

Then, you will likely queue again. If the email indicates a time when they’ll likely let you in, don’t bank on it. I’ve never been to one that opened the doors on time. They’re generally late by around 15 minutes.

Keep in mind, you likely won’t be seated as an audience member according to the time you arrived. They will likely prioritise seating based on if you fit the show’s television target audience age and appearance. And, if you aren’t dressed similar to the look they target or you are wearing colours they suggest you don’t wear- then it’s the back row of the studio for you!

You will also want to be pleasant the whole time you are waiting and remember to smile often in the queue. They will be watching and don’t want show guests to look miserable if the camera pans past them during the recording.

How to See Live Shows- When You Get a Seat

Something that actually is a little different from the first shows I attended in the mid-noughties is the activity of taking pre-show pictures or video. Now you can take both before the live television show recording actually starts. It’s actually encouraged. My guess is that the free promotion the studio can get through audience members’ social media accounts has had a big effect on why you can do this now.

You do not have to sign a formal NDA. Now, when I attended the production of The Crown, I felt like I had to sign my life away in a non-disclosure agreement. However, I attended as a special guest of a producer and they don’t distribute ‘show’ tickets- ever.

You will sit in an auditorium or cinema style arrangement. The seats will incline so the higher level is on top. And don’t even think the show will start on time.

Your first impression once you realise you actually have a seat is that everything is much smaller than what you pictured. The set isn’t nearly as large and as spacious as you imagined. Additionally, you will probably think the host and celebrity guests are small too. But, the cameras will strike you as ginormous and will likely include large jibs.

There will be a warm-up comedian who is quite good and will extend his performance based on what he sees is happening around him in terms of if the crew is ready.

how-to-see-live-tv-shows-in-london-get-audience-tickets-graham-norton-show

How to See Live Shows- Once the Show and Recording Start

Once the show begins recording and the host comes out on stage, you will be trapped in your seat until it’s over. In fact, it could run continuously for twice what the actual broadcast of the show running time.

Keep in mind that you are watching a production, not live theatre. There can be retakes at any given moment. Also, cameras could be stationary in front of you for a little bit or a long time. They could block your view substantially, depending on where you are sitting. However, there will be large monitors projecting close up shots of what’s happening. This is similar to a music concert.

It really helps to be a fan of the live show for which you get audience tickets. In the Graham Norton Show it could actually guarantee you a seat and even get you a quick feature in the actual broadcast.

The second the director decides the recording is over, the production crew will begin striking the set or preparing for the next recording. This is the only part of the process that I have ever seen happen at lightning speed like clock work EVERY time!

The show you see as a live audience member will likely air later that evening or the next evening.

How to See Live Shows- The Graham Norton Show in London Tickets

We attended this live television studio recording of the show on 27th January. It was right when major Covid restrictions eased in London. Keep in mind that this means in a normal year it wasn’t peak season for tourists. So, your experience in the summer with no pandemic could be very different.

We entered three dates as options in our online request for two tickets and also had to enter our age. You must be 18 to attend. They also could’ve been trying to determine if we fell in to their target audience age range.

3-4 days before the show I received an email indicating we had tickets. The next day I received an email inquiring if we wanted to submit ideas for the ‘Red Chair’ experience. We did not wish to do this. However, I am pretty sure that the people who had been picked for it got priority seats.

The ticket email also indicated we could get a discount at some of the restaurants in the television centre. We chose to do this, but learned later we probably did it at the wrong time.

How to See Live Shows- Travel Arrangements

The show is filmed at the BBC Television Centre in West London (White City). We drove from North London and parked at Westfield Shopping Centre. We didn’t know where to park but suggest if you do this that you park by John Lewis. The cost was around £8.50, which included roughly from 3.15pm-9.30pm. 

If you take the Underground, Wood Lane station is literally across from the centre. So try to get out there.

We talked quickly to security staff outside and they explained what generally happens for the ticket process. Based on their information, we decided to arrive about 15-20 minutes before our email suggested. You’ll probably want to have a quick chat with them also to see if they can offer any suggestions. However, they know anything is possible so won’t guarantee anything.

We had a quick and super expensive drink at The Broadcaster around 3.45pm while we waited for a restaurant to open.

There were several places in Television Centre to eat and drink that would give us a discount if we presented our show tickets. We chose Homeslice because we love their pizza and did a previous collaboration with them. We later learned that most people use their ticket discount AFTER the show ends. 

how-to-see-live-tv-shows-in-london-get-audience-tickets-graham-norton-show-pizza-homeslice

After we finished and paid for our pizza at 5pm, we walked over to the security area where a queue of about 75-100 people already had formed. I showed our QR ticket code via my mobile, we got two wristbands, had temperature checks and went swiftly through security. We then received another wrist band.

Next we waited in an uncovered area outside for about an hour without moving. This is the only time I have been ever happy in London that it gets dark early in the winter. I can’t imagine waiting in the summer on a hot sunny day. The sun could really be pounding on your head. Rain could make it miserable too.

Mr Sunny speculated that about 20 people who arrived at around 5.45pm or later were not admitted. 

People with violet or purple wristbands were called to go in to the studio first. I’m guessing these were people with Priority seats. Perhaps the people that had a ‘Red Chair’ story accepted?

Then they moved us in by rows. So if you were A you went in, then B, then C. From there it seemed D, etc were just the batches of people in front of us. So I guess at that point we were in order of our seats in the queue. My wrist band indicated F24 and that did turn out to be my seat number.

We had the chance to use the loo quickly and I filled up my empty plastic water bottle. We were in our seats around 6:20pm. We sat for about a half an hour watching the crew prepare. 

The warm up comedian was amazing and did a lot of audience interaction- most of which was voluntary from members who responded to his questions.

We learned seconds before the cameras went live that the one A list celebrity scheduled to be on the show was joining it via Zoom. You could feel the excitement of the audience drop several levels. However, the stars that were there were fantastic to see live.

how-to-see-live-tv-shows-in-london-get-audience-tickets-graham-norton-show

The recording process ended around 9pm, so we were held in the seats for around 2 1/2 hours. They did not stop or take breaks for audience members. They filmed the musician twice for reasons we don’t really know. Once celebrity guests left, Graham Norton continued to shoot several ‘trails’, as he referred to them. They were the various intros for all the places the show is syndicated.

Perhaps they could’ve explained to the studio audience a little better what was happening. I was able to follow along because I have worked in television. But, people who have never been behind the scenes in the industry could’ve found some activities confusing. They also shot a few cutaway shots separately at the end of things like the musician waving. Then they realised there was a continuity error with a book Graham Norton had used in the opening and where he had placed it after. So they moved it back to its original location and reshot a few cutaways to introduce segments.

It was interesting to see how they so quickly knew what to reshoot to make the final edit fast and seamless. Graham Norton received several directions through his ear piece and literally jumped right in to doing the retakes in an instant. 

How to See Live Shows- Tips for You and a Mistake NOT to Make

My biggest mistake was having a big meal and filling my water bottle prior to the show starting. I never imagined a 50 minute show would film for two hours. My experiences in Hollywood seeing live shows as an audience member were not like this. It was a really long time to sit after eating a lot and drinking a full water bottle, if you know what I mean.

I have one really big tip for you on this particular show, if you really want to guarantee yourself entry and a good seat- and probably some national screen time. You should have or create a REALLY good ‘Red Chair’ story!

Please add comments about how your experience of being in an audience compares to everything I have written. I’d love to answer any questions you have about the shows I have seen in London. I also have a blog post on seeing stars at Red Carpet Film Premieres in London that could be of interest to you.

For more behind the scenes views on London’s food, life, events and culture, you can subscribe to the Sunny News emails.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SUNNY NEWS

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December 19, 2021 by: Sunny London

Visiting London at Christmas

Considering visiting London at Christmas? Perhaps you’ve been enticed by all the beautiful photos you’ve seen on Instagram? Maybe you know someone who went to London at Christmas and told you about it? Or perhaps you’ve seen a British Christmas movie that got you curious?

I’ve lived in London for eight years and London at Christmas is by far when the town is the most beautiful. Mr Sunny and I make it our mission every year to visit as many Christmas markets, holiday activities and decorated locations as we can. 

This means I can give you all the information for visiting London at Christmas in a way that will save you time and money because it’s from behind the scenes of a local’s perspective. 

You can read the text below. Or- watch the YouTube video I published which shares shots of the points I explain. 

Visiting London at Christmas- Weather

First, just stop fantasizing about snow caps on Big Ben and Parliament. 

In eight years, I have seen snow on maybe 6 days in London. Two, maybe three, of those days were in December. Plus- the famous clock tower has been covered in scaffold for the past few years. So any ‘naked’ photos you’ve seen of it are unrealistic at the moment. 

A lot of what you see as iconic London in winter photos are very carefully edited images on Instagram. 

And they’re outdated. 

The average temperature is between 40-50 degrees. And yes, it can rain often in December.  

You also should know that the days are very short in comparison to America, especially in the southern US states. 

Daylight begins around 8am and ends by 4pm. 

Visiting London at Christmas- Book Early

The two attractions that will sell out fastest are Winter Wonderland and Christmas at Kew Gardens. So be sure in the end of July that you are watching for those ticket release dates. You actually didn’t need tickets for Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland until 2021. Because, Covid changed that. 

My weekly emails in which I share all the behind the scenes news of London’s food, life and culture will let you know when the booking dates for 2022 will be. And- in the emails you can learn Mr Sunny’s Pub of the Week suggestion. 

Visiting London at Christmas- Lights and Decorations

Like many cosmopolitan cities, the lights and decorations are magical. However, knowing which ones to see and how to group them together will help you plan your trip when visiting London at Christmas. 

I suggest you see these four areas together since they’re in close proximity to each other:

  • Covent Garden
  • Regent Street
  • Bond Street
  • Oxford Street

Then, if you have more time to explore, you should visit Leadenhall Market, Duke of York Square and Christmas by the River at London Bridge. 

However, if you are pressed for time and don’t mind spending money to save aggravation, you should book a London Christmas lights bus tour that takes you past the main attractions in one easy trip. 

You will sacrifice all the selfies in the individual areas, but if you’re not looking to practice your low light photography skills and glow up your Insta, then it could be a viable option for you. 

Visiting London at Christmas- Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

There’s also another idea for those who want to double up on festive activities. Just before Covid hit I had the chance to take a Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Town. There are a few considerations that I bring up in my article that you’ll want to take before booking, but I had a lot of fun on my adventure that night. 

christmas-afternoon-tea-on-a-bus-in-london-brigits-bakery

Visiting London at Christmas- Store And Restaurant Decorations  

Not only should you be ready for all the major Department stores to show their festive flair, but also there are other places that make a big effort to decorate for the holidays. 

Department Store windows not to miss:

  • Oxford Street- John Lewis and Selfridges
  • Regent Street- Hamley’s
  • Carnaby Street- Liberty of London
  • Knightsbridge- Harrods and Harvey Nichols

Specialty Locations:

  • Clos Maggiore, restaurant in Covent Garden
  • Annabel’s- private members’ club in Mayfair
  • The Ivy, locations throughout London
  • Tiffany’s- Bond Street

Visiting London at Christmas- Trees to See

Since London is a city that is quite big, there are beautiful Christmas trees spread out over many places. 

The best ones each year to visit in London are ranked below from best to least preferred:

  • Covent Garden
  • Somerset House
  • Christmas by the River, London Bridge Hay’s Galleria
  • King’s Cross St Pancras International Station
  • Trafalgar Square

If you’re from New York City, you will likely think that Trafalgar Square will be the iconic London Christmas Tree to see because of its ‘famous’ location. 

If that’s the case, you’ll probably want to watch the video I reference above to get the skinny on why you could be wasting your time with the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree. 

Visiting London at Christmas- Food to Eat

As a foodie, I must mention the culinary highlights of the season that you should consider. 

  • Festive afternoon teas at luxury hotels
  • Street food at Christmas markets
  • Christmas sandwiches at chain shops like Pret a Manger
  • Christmas burgers

In fact, I’ve already made a video just about the food you should eat at Christmas in London. 

Visiting London at Christmas- Getting Around Town

Transportation around London is where you will find a big difference in what people visiting London need and what is actually available. 

In summary, it can be limited. 

For example, on Christmas Day there are no busses, overground trains or underground stations operation trains. So, if you’re flying in to London on Christmas Day, book a car service in advance and know that the prices will exceed anything you’ve seen elsewhere on the internet. 

Additionally, I’ve been at many Central London stations in December where they temporarily closed at peak times due to overcrowding. Yes, I eventually got on a train. But, rather than being trapped underground with masses of people, I stood in a large, unorganised crowd outside the station and waited for it to reopen. 

Also in 2021 the TFL (Transportation for London) held several strike actions on key shopping and travel weekends. Luckily, I was able to plan around them because of the advance notice. However, if you’re on a trip visiting London at Christmas, you will want to keep these possibilities of closures and delays in mind. 

Visiting London at Christmas- Pubs 

While you might not be able to catch a ride easily on public transportation, you can always count on the Brits for a place to drink during the holidays. 

You’ll find many pubs and restaurants open on Christmas Day, but again the best ones will be booked early. To learn more about the special things London Pubs do at Christmas, watch the video below. 

Visiting London at Christmas- No Guarantees

Through Covid, we’ve learned that even the most beloved restaurants and activities could cease at any time. 

In 2021 we’ve seen the cancellation of the New Year’s Eve fireworks for the second year in a row. Also, the Night Tube, which is usually free on New Year’s Eve, will be charging ticket fees. 

Your best bet is to plan for the unexpected and be willing to adapt, reschedule or cancel. 

Visiting London at Christmas- The Queen

If you know- you know. And that means- you tune in at 3pm to watch the Queen’s Speech if you know how to truly be a subject of the Crown. 

Each year Her Majesty the Queen addresses the United Kingdom. Her speech usually features a theme of unity and inspiration. However, this year I anticipate it will be quite somber. 

She has lost her life companion and we’re no longer part of the European Union. Further, it’s the second year we’ve fought a virus and have restrictions on our holiday festivities. She also has a son who is entrenched in an American billionaire’s scandalous activities with female minors. 

And then there’s those two that have popped off to the US and used every avenue they could to prosper from her Royal heritage. 

Yeah, we’ll all tune in this year and be keen to hear her address. 

God Save the Queen. She needs it!

Visiting London at Christmas- Boxing Day

While British people can’t really articulate a clear idea of what this Bank Holiday really means, it’s important to know about what actually happens if you’re visiting London at Christmas. 

You can research the history behind the day after Christmas to find it’s true derivation. However, British people traditionally eat leftovers (Bubble and Squeak) and hit the Boxing Day sales at all the retail stores. 

Over the past few years the impact of these sales has been decreased by the adoption of Black Friday sales in England. 

I have no idea why, since Black Friday is a truly American shopping concept and I review that in the video below. 

Nonetheless, if you’re visiting London at Christmas you’ll want to be prepared for what happens during the Boxing Day sales. 

Department store queues can be long before they open but most Londoners aren’t too fussed about being the first ones in shops, unlike Americans. You will find crowds later in the day so it’s best to hit those deals early to avoid disappointment. 

I scored some amazing prices on shoes at Selfridges the year I set my alarm and started shopping a few hours after sunrise. 

Visiting London at Christmas- Final Thoughts

What are your biggest questions and concerns about visiting London at Christmas that you think I can answer? Please write them in the comments below. 

I have tons of articles on the topic on my blog as well as video. You don’t want to miss those for more ideas about how to plan your trip to visit London at Christmas. 

  • Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
  • London Bridge Christmas Markets
  • American and British Christmas Movies
  • US vs UK Christmas Differences

November 22, 2016 by: Sunny London

What British People Eat for Christmas

Before my first holiday trip to London, my family asked what British people eat for Christmas. I arrived in the beginning of January the first time I lived in London and didn’t stay an entire calendar year. So, I wasn’t actually sure how to answer everyone.

Would it be just like how it was depicted in ‘A Christmas Carol’? Do they really eat pheasant or goose now? Was that just the Victorian era or true English tradition?

british-people-eat-for-christmas-uk

I relied heavily on my English husband (London born) for ideas to share with you, as well as a little research. After living here four years, what British people eat for Christmas still has me curious. I enjoy some of their holiday foods and drinks. Others- not so much!

While no person’s Christmas dinner plate is ever the same, there are some general items that you see at a British holiday meal.

And of course, there’s an entire experience just in London Pubs at Christmas that you’ll want to know too…

If you’re British, be sure to add your additions and thoughts to what British people eat for Christmas in the comments below or on the YouTube videos. American friends, what other things about living in London as an American expat would you like to know?

If you’re visiting London for the holidays, the blog has tons of things to do for Christmas. There is also a very popular feature about Christmas Differences Between the UK and USA. Be sure to subscribe to the blog’s newsletter so you don’t miss any fun events in London or expat advice too!

What’s on your Christmas dinner plate this year? Do you eat a meal at home or book a table at a restaurant? Do you have the same selection annually or does it depend on how your family is traveling?

April 14, 2014 by: Sunny London

A London Blogger’s Weekend in Hawaii, Mexico and…

At the close of yet another sunny weekend,  I wanted to give you a little peek at a London blogger’s life.

My Friday night started with an Internations event at Kona Kai.

London Bloggers Kona Kai

515 Fulham Rd, London SW6 1HD

It took me 90 minutes to get to Fulham because I live in North London.

Although the whole place was reserved for this expat organisation, I struggled to meet people. The venue and drinks, however, were fantastic.

London Bloggers Kona Kai InternationsA bartender even gave me two free ones. It definitely influenced this London blogger’s opinion of the club. 😉

However, since I was making little progress in meeting people, I left after one hour.

Saturday more than made up for this flop. Mina from Kings Road Rocks invited me to join her at Catherine’s birthday bash at La Bodega Negra, a Mexican restaurant. Catherine writes Lux Life: A Lifestyle Blog and is very, very cool.

London Bloggers La Bodega Negra

9 Old Compton Street W1D 5JF

I didn’t take many pictures inside La Bodega Negra because it was packed.  And, well, I had way too much champagne to attempt a focused shot.

Catherine co-hosted the party with club promoter Diego Bivero-Volpe. Damn, can they throw a loco party!

In the early evening it ended, but Mina and I discovered the bar downstairs. Check it out if you go there!

On Sunday morning, I realised how stupid it was to drink champagne with tequila.

London Bloggers La Bodega Negra

It hurts me just to look at that picture now.

Somehow I managed to make it to the London Blogger Brunch that Catherine organised in Marylebone for 11am.

London Bloggers The Providores

109 Marylebone High St, London W1U 4RX

I thoroughly enjoyed my food and time with 13 other London bloggers. At these events the chatter and connections run deep. Cheers to Catherine for throwing an epic party and hosting a fabulous brunch in less than 24 hours!

The Providores gave each of us complimentary porridge. Many bloggers ordered the French toast stuffed with banana and pecans with grilled smoked streaky bacon and vanilla verjus syrup. I had the hot-smoked salmon, two poached eggs and spinach on caraway toast with yuzu hollandaise. Yummy!

London Bloggers The ProvidoresAfter brunch, I took a stroll down South Molton Street.

London Bloggers South Molton Street
Next I headed through the Theatre District.
London Bloggers Theatre District (1) London Bloggers Theatre District (2) London Bloggers Theatre District (3) London Bloggers Theatre District
And of course, I ended up in my favourite hood, Covent Garden.

In less than two weeks I have a big birthday. I plan to spend the whole day wandering this area again. Any suggestions on where I should have dinner? Any restaurants need a London blogger’s review?

London Bloggers The Ivy

London Bloggers The Ivy(Could I be any more cheeky or shameless?) 😉

I decided to take a slow walk down Monmouth Street to visit my super favourites: Kiehl’s, Caudalie, Hotel Chocolat, and Monmouth Coffee Company. Too bad the last one was closed because it was Sunday. 🙁

London Bloggers Monmouth Street

And, if you’ve read Sunny in London before, you know I can’t resist the original Neal’s Yard Remedies in Neal’s Yard.

London Bloggers Neals Yard

I caught a sneaky photo of these two because I have never seen a pizza this big in my life. Had I not just polished off brunch, I would’ve sat down and invited myself to help them…

London Bloggers Neals Yard

This pub was showing a popular sports game, but since I still had a Big Bodega hangover, I steered clear.

London Bloggers

Then, I finally made my way to the Piazza, which was filled with its usual suspects and something new…

London Bloggers Covent Garden

I couldn’t quite figure out what the big media circus was all about. Maybe you can tell me?

Despite Friday’s disappointment, my London blogger’s weekend was filled with sun and fun. Have you been to any of these places, Sunny friends? Where do you suggest I celebrate my birthday on April 26th? It’s a Saturday, so I want it to be outrageous!

April 9, 2014 by: Sunny London

Guess the London Monuments Game, 2nd EDITION!

It’s time to play Guess the London Monuments again! If you’re a regular Sunny reader and played the 1st edition, you know the rules. (Actually, there aren’t any, because rules aren’t FUN!)

The only thing you have to do is slowly scroll down your screen while you read the clues to guess these famous landmarks. I’m not offering prizes. It’s just for fun. Good luck. LET’s GO!

London Monuments #1-

This is the residence of a woman the British nicknamed “Brenda.” It’s filled with priceless works of art. However, it isn’t a museum or art gallery.

Here’s what’s outside the front door…

London Monuments Game

We’ll step out a little wider…

London Monuments Game

If we walk a few steps closer, we see this memorial built in 1913.

London Monuments Game

London Monuments Game

Here’s another angle of the Queen Victoria’s Memorial.

London Monuments Game

If you haven’t guessed it yet, I’m royally disappointed.

London Monuments Game

ANSWER: Buckingham Palace

It has 775 rooms. These include 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms.

 London Monuments #2-

The largest bronze sculpture in Europe crowns this monument.

London Monuments Game

It was built in 1825-7 as part of a campaign to improve the Royal Parks.  It’s located in Hyde Park. Currently, you can visit it and see the ‘Carscapes: How the Motorcar Reshaped England’ exhibition.

London Monuments Game

ANSWER: Wellington Arch
It was intended as a victory arch proclaiming Wellington’s defeat of Napoleon. Did you know that you can see spectacular views of sunny London on its balconies?

London Monuments #3-

On my About page, I write about living on Great Russell Street while attending the Florida State University’s Study Abroad Program. This treasure of history is down that street. Here’s the stunning inside…

London Monuments Game

It’s famous for many things, but mostly because it’s the home of this rockin’ piece of work…

London Monuments Game

That’s the Rosetta Stone. It provided the key to the modern understanding of Egyptian hieroglyphs.

Haven’t guessed the name of the historic location yet? Here’s an exterior shot that you can muse over…

London Monuments GameWell, sunny friends… if you don’t know this British classic by now, it’s…

London Monuments Game

ANSWER: The British Museum

London Monuments #4-

From 1910 to 1982, this ridiculously famous location wasn’t open to the public.

London Monuments Game

London Monuments Game

London Monuments Game

I guess in 1982 they decided to bridge the gap. Here’s a wider view if you haven’t guessed it already…

London Monuments Game

London Monuments Game

I can’t really connect much more for you, Sunny friends.

London Monuments Game

ANSWER: Tower Bridge

London Monuments #5-

Finally, this is the headquarters for the United Grand Lodge of England. That’s one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations.

Members have included:
– Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
– Rudyard Kipling
– Peter Sellers
– Ernest Borgnine
– Harry Houdini
– ‘Smokin Joe’ Frazier
– Sir Winston Churchill

Do you know the name? It’s located on 60 Great Queen Street in Covent Garden. Here it is…

London Monuments Game

You might recognise it from:
–  Agatha Christie’s Poirot, TV film
–  Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, film adaptation
–  Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London, film
– Sherlock Holmes, 2009 film

ANSWER: The Freemason’s Hall

So, this concludes the 2nd edition of our game, Sunny friends.

Let me know in the comments below how you ‘scored’. Feel free to share the link on a social network so others can test their London landmark skills too. I can certainly publish one more, if you’d like the sun and fun to continue!

London Monuments Game

March 25, 2014 by: Sunny London

Guess the London Monument Game – 1st Edition

Taking pictures of London’s beautiful buildings on a glorious Sunny in London day never gets old. So, I figured a fun way to put all these snapshots to use is through a Guess the London Monument Game. Let’s go, Sunny friends!

Guess the London Monument Game Big Ben

Yeah right. Ok, Captain Obvious. Do you really think it’ll be THAT easy?

Get ready…. and make sure you scroll slooooooowly so you give yourself a fair chance!

Monument #1-

This is located outside the monument…

Guess the London Monument Game The Tower of London

Here’s another clue…

Guess the London Monument Game The Tower of London

Here’s your last one, if you haven’t guessed it yet…

Guess the London Monument Game The Tower of London

If you said Tower of London, you’re CORRECT!

Guess the London Monument Game Tower of London (2)
Guess the London Monument Game The Tower of London

Monument #2-

This 87 story skyscraper was inaugurated in 2012, is part of the London Bridge Quarter development, and is currently the tallest building in the European Union…

Guess the London Monument Game The Shard

Did you guess the London Shard!? If so, you’re right again! It features an open-air observation deck. I haven’t visited it yet, but I’d love to go. Any Sunny friends want to join me?

Monument #3-

For our next little trivia bit, we’re checking out this edifice designed by Christopher Wren…

Guess the London Monument Game St Pauls Cathedral

I can zoom up and give you another view. Oh, and by the way this game is strictly for fun. There are no prizes at the end, except for your own London pride. 😉

Guess the London Monument Game St Pauls Cathedral

Need another view?

Guess the London Monument Game St Pauls Cathedral

Here’s my last clue for those of you who require a little prayer to get you through…

Guess the London Monument Game St Pauls Cathedral

Yes! St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Guess the London Monument Game St Pauls Cathedral

Monument #4-

Good luck…

Guess the London Monument Game Walkie Talkie

Ok. That wasn’t really fair. This building doesn’t have a name. However, it’s nicknamed “Walkie Talkie.” This 37 story skyscraper is credited for melting cars this past summer. Yep. You read that right. Located at 20 Fenchurch Street, the building received the name due to its unique shape. You can read more about how it melted some guy’s Jaguar here.

Monument #5-

And finally, every American expat and true Londoner should know this building…

Guess the London Monument Game Selfridges

WHAAAAAAAT? You’re kidding? You need another clue?

Guess the London Monument Game Selfridges

It’s SELFRIDGES! Founded by American, Harry Gordon Selfridge in 1909, this is by far my favourite department store. And it should be yours too. Because I said so.

By the way, if you can’t make it to London, you can always check out Selfridges.com 😉

Stay tuned soon for another installment of “Guess the London Monument Game”, Sunny friends. Be sure to let me know how you did in the comments below, and share this link if you had fun!

Guess the London Monument Game

March 12, 2014 by: Sunny London

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers- the Perfect Gift for a London Girl

If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for a London girl who seems to have everything, buy her a flower design course at the Covent Garden Academy of Flowers.

Whether it’s a gift for Mother’s Day, Easter, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, a birthday, a wedding or shower, there isn’t a girl on the planet who wouldn’t truly love this opportunity. And love YOU for it!

However, I recently had the chance to take the full day Covent Garden Experience course as a guest, and I have to say it was one of the most valuable and fun experiences in my life.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

At 7:45am on a Saturday morning, I arrived outside the Vauxhall Tube Station and waited with 10 lovely ladies for the course’s instructor, Gillian. I learned that several girls had received it as a present from their husband, a few were brides to be (one of whom came all the way from Grand Cayman!) and the rest were flower fans who wanted to move their knowledge to the next level.

Gillian arrived promptly, and we began our journey to the New Covent Garden Flower Market. It’s where 75% of London’s florists buy their flowers.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Gillian gave us a tour of this ginormous facility and let us wander through the aisles at various times so we could witness how much was available.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers (3)

There isn’t anything you can’t find here.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers Flower Collages (1)

Gillian made sure we made a special stop at Dennis Edwards Flowers Ltd.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

We actually met Dennis, who is a total ROCKSTAR and lady charmer. He gave us each a complimentary rose. (Thanks girls for letting me borrow two for the photo!)

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

We took the tube back to the Covent Garden Academy of Flowers, located in St Martin’s Courtyard in Covent Garden.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Once we were all seated, Gillian began teaching us how to groom our flowers.

Simply put, Gillian is a delicate flower NINJA! The grace and ease with which she demonstrated techniques was captivating. This beautiful English Rose is also the author of a book!

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers (22)

Once she showed us numerous strategies, we each grabbed a bucket full of a flower or fern and began our task.

I worked mostly with eucalyptus. By the time I was done, my hands were very sticky but smelled divine!

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Once we all finished, Gillian demonstrated more tips for our bouquets. Her hands worked magic and made the process look extremely simple.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Then, she turned us loose to choose whatever we wanted among their infinite selection of flowers.

Here’s how I started:

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Gillian floated through the room as we all assembled our bouquets, and her exquisite patience and approachable demeanor made it easy to ask questions and less daunting to construct our masterpieces.

Here’s how I finished:

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Although I loved my bouquet, I think the other belles in the course far surpassed my humble attempt. Gillian instructed us to leave our bouquets in buckets filled half way with water so they could have a “drink” while we lunched.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

When we returned, she showed us how to trim the stems so we could perfectly package our flowers for an easy transport home.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

However, once they were sized appropriately, we learned a trick to keep them wrapped in water until they could be placed in a vase. (Surprisingly, cutting the cellophane was my most difficult task of the day!)

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

With our remaining time, Gillian taught us how to make a button hole (That’s a “boutonniere” for you Americans).

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Throughout the course, I learned many tips and tricks for choosing, assembling and caring for flowers, including the MOST IMPORTANT rule to follow when creating an arrangement.

I’m not going to share everything I learned because that would ruin the allure of the course, but here’s one tip- buy a pair of these snazzy Japanese scissors for cutting stems. They have them at the Academy, and once I saw a demonstration with them, I became a believer!

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

I thoroughly enjoyed my day and look forward to taking more courses. I’ve also told every man I know that this is the guaranteed way to a woman’s heart! Surround her with flowers for a day and teach her how to make them last for a lifetime!

The pride I felt when completing my arrangement was enormous.

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers Covent Garden Academy of Flowers (29)

We all left absolutely thrilled with what we learned and what we had to show for our day.

Mr. Sunny and his family could not believe that I made the bouquet!

Aside from offering classes, the Covent Garden Academy of Flowers also makes arrangements for sale for businesses, holidays, special occasions or just random acts of kindness! This is one of the designs they were working on for a London hotel…

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

The next Covent Garden Experience course is offered at the Covent Garden Academy of Flowers on June 28th. But, if you go to their website, they have tons of shorter evening courses that you can enjoy sooner. Some of them include: Mother’s Day, Tables for Home and Events, Christmas Arrangement and Contemporary Design.

I just can’t imagine why any person would struggle to think of the perfect gift idea for a lady in London, when the Covent Garden Academy of Flowers makes it soooooo easy!

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

March 10, 2014 by: Sunny London

St Martin’s Courtyard, a hidden treasure in Covent Garden

One of the reasons I love Covent Garden is because its streets are a maze of treasures. Just when I think I’ve seen every nook, I make a new discovery. Last week, I had the fortune of exploring St. Martin’s Courtyard.

St Martin's Courtyard

With three different entrances, you would think I would have stumbled upon this courtyard of opportunities much earlier. It’s just off Long Acre, not too far from Leicester Square. (I avoid the Covent Garden tube station at all costs. But I’ll save that for a later post, Sunny friends.)

If you turn at Banana Republic and head north, you are in for a surprise of shopping and dining that doesn’t feature the nightmare of tourists so common to the piazza. (I do realize how ironic that looks on an expat’s blog 😉 )

St Martin's Courtyard

In fact, I think St. Martin’s courtyard has only been developed over the past few years, so it’s still new to Londoners.

I learned about it through Twitter, when Dalla Terra followed me. (Read about how I discovered White Mulberries through Twitter)

The Dalla Terra website defines it as an “…urbane, contemporary take on the Italian enoteca.” Intrigued by the Dalla Terra Twitter account, I did a little research to figure out where it was located.

So, one Sunny in London afternoon, I decided to pop in for a quick look see.

Dalla Terra Wine St Martin's Courtyard

It really is as gorgeous as it appears. The wine supply seems infinite, and it has a friendly, sophisticated atmosphere.

Dalla Terra Wine St Martin's Courtyard

Dalla Terra Wine St Martin's Courtyard

Even though I was having an afternoon tea across the courtyard at Bill’s, I couldn’t resist a quick glass of red wine and a starter at Dalla Terra.

Dalla Terra Wine St Martin's Courtyard

From the Cicchetti Italian Style Tapas menu, I chose the Crispy Bruschetta, Wild Mushroons, Organic Cherry Tomato and Tapenade of Taggiasche Olives

Dalla Terra Wine St Martin's Courtyard

DELICIOUS!

After doing a bit of research, I learned that they offer 180 wines by the bottle and 30 by the glass. That’s a FLOOD of liquid sunshine!

Dalla Terra Wine St Martin's Courtyard

They also are an off-license and sell their wine for takeaway. And… if you go on a Monday, you can receive 15% off your drinking and dining.

Dalla Terra Wine St Martin's Courtyard

While I was a bit distracted by the sea of bottled grapes, I made sure to snap some pictures of some other dining experiences available in St Martins Courtyard for you.

St Martins SudaSuda is a Thai cafe restaurant which has a second floor that offers a great view of Long Acre.

St Martins Jamie Italian

That, of course, is Jamie Italian.

Finally, there’s also a hot yoga studio, Yotopia and Blow, a beauty concept which brings you hair, nails and make up in 45 minutes or less. Sounds cool, right?

However, this location really caught my attention…

Covent Garden Academy of Flowers

Apparently, you can take flower design courses here. Hmmm. I think I’ve just received inspiration for a future post, Sunny friends.

I’d suggest that the next time you are in Covent Garden you make a special trip to St. Martin’s Courtyard, unless you’ve already been there. In that case, please share your experience below so we can all have the scoop!

February 24, 2014 by: Sunny London

Primrose Hill: Serenity and Celebrities?

If you’re looking for an easy, relaxing activity on a Sunny in London day, Primrose Hill is a gorgeous place to be. And, you never know, you might just spot Jude Law or Jamie Oliver!

If you aren’t familiar with the neighborhood, it’s a quick walk from the Chalk Farm tube station and is just opposite the London Zoo and Regent’s Park.

It’s a fairly quiet, upscale section of London, which is why it attracts many celebrity residents. The houses are absolutely charming.

Primrose Hill London houses

Once you leave the tube station, navigate across the canal to Regent’s Park Road, which is the “busiest” area.

Primrose Hill London Regent's Park Road

Regent’s Park Road

If you keep your eyes peeled, you might even spot Jude or Jamie at a pub, as they both have houses around the corner. The street is lined with independent stores and cafes, which may offer sweets outside.

Primrose Hill London Shepherd Foods

Shepherd Foods, sells many American products inside

It’s a quick walk south to the intersection of Regent’s Park Road and Primrose Hill Road.

Primrose Hill Road NW3

At that point, it’s well worth a few extra minutes (and a great calorie burner!) to venture up the hill. The views of London are breathtaking!

Primrose Hill London

I was certainly glad I left my heels at home the day I trekked to the peak. And I was very envious of all the runners heading up the hill at a much faster pace than me.

Once I made it to the top of what felt like Mount Olympus, the view of London town’s horizon created a serenity that is tough to find in the hustle and bustle of the Capital.

Primrose Hill London View

I grabbed as many pictures as possible with my Cyber Shot DSC-RX100 digital camera and regretted that Mr. Sunny wasn’t there with his super, duper zoom lens. (Make sure you bring one if you go!) I took note of the numerous couples who had packed a picnic lunch and were enjoying it on the grass, and I’ve put that on my “Activity to Do List” for the future.

Finally, I peeled myself away and headed down the hill.

Primrose Hill London View

It seemed like an excellent time for a little lunch and liquid sunshine.

Queens Pub Primrose Hill

Walking in to The Queens Pub Primrose Hill, located at 49 Regent’s Park Road (where it intersects with Primrose Hill Road) was the next logical step for my sunny, carefree afternoon.

It’s a fabulous place to relax, eat and drink.

Queens Pub Primrose Hill (5) And, I think Virgina Woolf was 100% right here…

Queens Pub Primrose Hill

To keep with my healthy vibe from the hike up and down Primrose Hill, I decided to stay green and ordered the quinoa, feta, broccoli, pomegranate salad with a large Rioja, of course. 😉

Queens Pub Primrose Hill

Queens Pub Primrose Hill

It was hard to peel myself away from such a tranquil location.

Queens Pub Primrose Hill

But I strolled through a few side streets and headed on my way.

While I kept my eyes peeled for Mr. Law and Mr. Oliver throughout the afternoon, I didn’t spot any A-listers, this time. However, perhaps I can take my celebrity stalking to another level by becoming a permanent resident? I think I could get a great deal on a property that I spotted on this side street in Primrose Hill…

Sunny Mews Primrose Hill London

Don’t you agree? 😉

DISCLAIMER: No celebrities were actually stalked in the research of this post,nor will they be for future posts.

So, Sunny friends, have you had the chance to climb Primrose Hill and enjoy this great area? What would you suggest for a lovely sunny day?

Primrose Hill Celebrities

February 13, 2014 by: Sunny London

Romance, Rum and BLACK ROSES for a HOT Valentine’s Day

It’s absolutely shocking how much sex appeal black roses will have this Valentine’s Day. That is… if you’re lucky enough to score a bouquet of them!

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink

For one day only, THINK INK will be selling dark red roses soaked in Kraken Black Spiced Rum at a pop-up store as part of the “Kraken versus Cupid” campaign designed by visionary Miss Cakehead. These black roses can be a wonderful addition to any Valentine’s atmosphere.

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink (13)

Sunny friends, this will be the world’s first florist to sell only black roses for Valentine’s Day.

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink

When I visited the store today to preview the event, I can only summarize it by saying- INTOXICATING. At first I was skeptical, but once able to view these exotic creations, I was mystified by their allure.

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink (13)

The flowers are placed in vases filled with rum to make them appear as dark as Kraken’s ink, because there are no naturally black flowers.

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink

Along with the roses, Calendula Lily Eclips and Queen of Night Tulips are also part of the arrangements.

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink

Between the harpist in the store and the sweet smell of roses and rum, I felt like I was captured by sirens as I previewed the bouquets.

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink

Who would have ever guessed such a macabre toned idea would be so sexy?

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink

If you’re interested in giving your Valentine a surprise that truly isn’t available anywhere else, you’ll need to hit the pop up store in Kingly Court off of Carnaby Street early tomorrow! The Krakens will start being released at 8:00am on a first come first served basis and are limited to one bouquet per customer. Of course, since they’re also giving you a miniature bottle of 5cl Kraken Rum, you’ll need to be 18 or over to participate.

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink (13)

Oh, and let’s take a minute to acknowledge that there’s no Kraken any jokes here with alcohol content- this luscious liquor registers a 94 PROOF!

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink

If you get there early, there will be a range of bouquet options. You’ll also be able to choose between two messages for your Valentine.

Black Roses Kraken Rum Think Ink (13)

I’d suggest you start planning your AM trip to Carnaby now, because this is going to be one HOT item when the sun rises in London tomorrow. Once they’re sold out, the event ends. You can stay tuned though by following along on Twitter:

@thekrakenrum_uk

@miss_cakehead

@carnabylondon

#thinkink

#carnaby

Oh, and another reason to set your February 14th alarm extra early- the bouquets are offered for a voluntary donation to Project Redsand.

Sunny friends, GET KRAKEN!!!

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