Exploring Pickering Place: London's Smallest Square

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  • Опубликовано: 31 май 2024
  • Pickering Place is London’s smallest public square. Yet despite its size, it has a fascinating history which involves gambling dens, grenade attacks, a link with Texas and much more! Join me, as I squeeze in to explore its secrets….
    Thank you so much to all of you who support this channel with your kind words, shares and likes- I honestly couldn’t make these videos without you.
    I love exploring hidden corners like Pickering Place- if there are any similar courtyards or alleys in London which you think would make a good subject for a video, then please be sure to let me know in the comments- I always enjoy reading them all!
    If you haven’t yet subscribed to robslondon, I’d appreciate it very much if you could please consider doing so, as this will ensure you don’t miss out on any future content, along with helping the channel to grow. And if do sign up, please be sure to click the bell icon too as this will alert you whenever I publish a new video.
    This video is dedicated to the memory of Ken Pedlar, who passed away in December 2021.
    ----------------------------------------
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    Music used in this video:
    The Other Side of the Door (Kevin MacLeod)
    17th Century Dance (Cercles Nouvelles)
    Shamanistic (Kevin MacLeod)
    Arkansas Traveller (Nat Keefe & Hot Buttered Rum)
    Walking Along (Kevin MacLeod)
    Sleepy Hollow (E’s Jammy Jams)
    Card and dice videos by videvo.net
    ----------------------------------------
    Thanks again for watching, friends. Stay well and please be sure to stay tuned!
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Комментарии • 295

  • @loveisall5520
    @loveisall5520 28 дней назад +4

    I am a native Texan and this is a beautiful little location in London. I live with a bikes ride of our first national capital here in Texas after independence from Mexico . Thank you for this little piece of Texas history!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  28 дней назад

      Lovely comment, thank you! ⭐️

    • @loveisall5520
      @loveisall5520 27 дней назад

      @@Robslondon Your great videos continually remind me of how 'new' our cities are! Reminds me of that great song, "Maybe It's Because I'm A Londoner"!

  • @budd2nd
    @budd2nd 2 года назад +25

    As a lifelong Londoner, I love that you find new and interesting things to tell me about my city 👍👍👍

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +4

      Cheers ;-) I am obsessed with exploring this great city as you can probably tell! ;-) Thanks and stay well.

    • @budd2nd
      @budd2nd 2 года назад +4

      @@Robslondon
      👌🤞

  • @annetteconroy6921
    @annetteconroy6921 Месяц назад +2

    That's always fascinating square . Thank you for the history of it .

  • @mccstuff
    @mccstuff 2 года назад +39

    Fascinating stuff, who would have thought that such a small place would have so much history.

  • @roberttaylor6295
    @roberttaylor6295 Месяц назад +1

    Last of the day - and another great one. It was brilliant to find such a small square was stuffed with history, characters, scandal, drama, bigwigs and bombs! How you manage to find the time to discover all these places with fascinating facts, film, script, edit and present I reckon turns you into a Super Man! Thanks for such another interesting video and continuing to entertain us in a relaxing and pleasurable way.
    Rob

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Месяц назад

      Thanks as always Rob! This video is one of my personal favourites 😉 Have a good evening and stay well.

  • @whyyoulidl
    @whyyoulidl 2 года назад +11

    Not only do I really enjoy Robs video gems, his pleasant delivery and local history knowledge lends itself to making this channel one of my favourites. Yet another destination for the bucket list. Thanks!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      It's an absolute pleasure; thank you so much for the kind words! Stay well and hope you enjoy your visit! :-)

  • @user-mt6hr4qf9n
    @user-mt6hr4qf9n 2 года назад +13

    Someone once told me that Pickering Place was know colloquially as "Bickering Place" and I thought they were pulling my leg, but hearing about duelling, bombings other skirmishes I'm not surprised it acquired that nickname! Thanks for another wonderful video Rob

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Ah! Didn’t know that, but it makes perfect sense! Thanks for the kind words 😊

  • @mikego18753
    @mikego18753 2 года назад +5

    i wasn,t expecting a vid just yet.I,d best get on and watch it.
    Cheers.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Ha ha! Cheers Mike hope you liked it! 😉

  • @johnbacon1854
    @johnbacon1854 2 года назад +9

    What a joy. I went to cook my dinner, came back and there is a Rob video ready to watch. Excellent.
    Lovely little place with a rich history. Incredible what history has been created and ebbed away over time. Thats why I love these videos, you bring the places backto life somewhat and they are really interesting to watch and listen too.
    All the best.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Thank you so much John; you’re a star 😉 Really appreciate your kind words and support. Stay well.

  • @Rachel-bo3qg
    @Rachel-bo3qg 2 года назад +6

    Very interesting, well done.

  • @CitiesForTheFuture2030
    @CitiesForTheFuture2030 Год назад +1

    How charming - both the square & this video. Thank you.

  • @jacquelineharrod6386
    @jacquelineharrod6386 2 года назад +4

    I always visit this place as l walk up to the London Library. I had no idea how much history it possesses. Thank you.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      It’s a pleasure Jacqueline; thank you ☺️

  • @Countess777
    @Countess777 8 месяцев назад +2

    How interesting to find this video a week after I visited this place for the first ever time! Definitely didn’t know so much about it, I was visiting places connected to Beau Brummell. I feel it’s worth a second look 🙂

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  8 месяцев назад +1

      Have fun on your second visit ;-)

  • @thewrecker3140
    @thewrecker3140 2 года назад +13

    I have previously watched other Videos about Pickering Place on RUclips and yours is by far the best in every aspect. I am already looking forward to your next History lesson and I hope more people find this gem of a channel.

  • @patrickshannon4854
    @patrickshannon4854 17 часов назад +1

    What a quaint, hidden location. What kind of lighting, would this tiny square possessed in the late 19th century?

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  17 часов назад

      Thanks Patrick! Would’ve been gas I assume

  • @PaulMcCaffreyfmac
    @PaulMcCaffreyfmac 2 года назад +5

    Wonderful stuff yet again. Thank you.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Much appreciated Paul, thank you. It’s a pleasure, so glad you enjoyed it!

  • @sarahjane8949
    @sarahjane8949 2 года назад +4

    So quaint 🤗 I lived in Claremont Square Islington all my life which is famous for the Harry Potter film. I live in Essex now

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thanks so much Sarah! Yes, I know Claremont Square; lovely architecture around there and very leafy too. Stay well.

  • @raphaelandrews3617
    @raphaelandrews3617 2 года назад +4

    I must d have passed this a dozen times and not known it was there, thank you for this history.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      It’s a pleasure Raphael; thanks for watching 😊

  • @suzannenichol6077
    @suzannenichol6077 2 года назад +1

    Another little gem Rob.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thank you so much Suzanne 😊

  • @tonycox5625
    @tonycox5625 2 года назад +4

    My first job when I left school was delivering telegram's in London, and I'm sure I've been to Pickering Place. This was in the early seventies and I was mainly based around Soho which was a right dive at that time, although one did meet some interesting characters! 😊

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Oh wow! Bet you've got some great memories Tony!

    • @tonycox5625
      @tonycox5625 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon Don't know about great Rob, it was a scruffy old place at that time, mainly porn shops and prostitutes 😂. Used to see a few old actors knocking about and people in the music business because there was a couple of small recording studios around there. I only stuck the job for about 18 months then went into the building trade.👍

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      @@tonycox5625 Yes, it's difficult to believe now isn't it how seedy it once was around there! I don't think a newcomer to London would believe it if you told them!

  • @Britoverseas
    @Britoverseas 2 года назад +15

    Fascinating stuff Rob. I have seen a few vlogs that included Pickering Place but none as extensively researched as yours. Really liked the transitions you did in this one too. I will be back in the UK from Canada in April and will be visiting Pickering Place when I am in London. Cheers again for the time and effort you put into these very interesting videos.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +2

      It's a pleasure L; thank you so much. It's kind support like yours that keeps them coming! ;-) Thanks again and stay well.

    • @Britoverseas
      @Britoverseas 2 года назад +2

      @@Robslondon cheers. Lance

  • @wclifton968gameplaystutorials
    @wclifton968gameplaystutorials 2 года назад +12

    If only there were more squares like this in London, too bad that 1930s-1990s and onwards urban planners decided that roads should be wide with fairly narrow pavements and low-density developments, also too bad that the original tramway network closed in 1952; so what I'm essentially saying is that more of London should be built like the area around pickering place and other pre-war central London developments...

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +2

      Yes, very much agreed.

    • @gunner678
      @gunner678 2 года назад +1

      There are more than you probably know. The only real way to discover these gems is often by chance. It's been some time since I frequented London (25 years perhaps a little longer), but I'm sure these places still exist. Generally however, I agree completely with your comment. Property is so expensive now, that many places have simply been swallowed up. It's a real shame.

    • @wclifton968gameplaystutorials
      @wclifton968gameplaystutorials 2 года назад +1

      @@gunner678 There probably are more places like this unfortunately only inside the city centre as the outskirts have been slowly demolished into a car-centric urban jungle where it takes you like a 30min drive or a 1 hour bus journey to the nearest large shopping development (i.e. supermarket, hypermarket etc.)
      I must also say that London hasn't changed much in the past 20 years now besides changing demographics and a few new tall buildings having been built inside Central London and the Suburbs and some small-scale road design changes in a few places...

    • @toomanymarys7355
      @toomanymarys7355 2 года назад

      These places are delightful when rich people own them. But the same kinds of tiny squares in the bad parts of London were horrors.

  • @imlistening1137
    @imlistening1137 2 года назад +6

    As a Texan, I got an extra bit-o-info! If things don’t get better, Texas might become it’s own country again!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      😂

    • @kellistorie7917
      @kellistorie7917 Год назад +1

      Unless and until we get some reasonable people in our state government, I'd be scared to death of Texas becoming it's own country. Abbot, Patrick and the rethuglicans want to take Texas back to the 19th century.

    • @imlistening1137
      @imlistening1137 Год назад +1

      @@kellistorie7917 well, killing our unborn children isn’t modernization. I’m not against the day after pill, or very early termination, but once the little baby has a heart beat, brain, nervous system and limbs that get torn off while it is alive and can feel this torture- much less the horrific torture of late term abortion that actually cause the baby to have it’s skin burned off with severely strong salts, a process that can take days, then perhaps we need to slow down. And while i support any adult who wants to go through the process of changing their gender, there is no way that a small child can know that. Children are not capable of discerning reality from fantasy until at least 12 years old, and are still do not have fully developed decision-making capabilities. That’s why they can’t vote, get a tattoo, buy a house or get a credit card, among other things.

    • @kellistorie7917
      @kellistorie7917 Год назад +1

      @@imlistening1137 that is your point of view. However, your POV is your business, and should not be imposed on other people, with their own POV's. Mind your business, and have the grace to allow other's to mind theirs.

    • @imlistening1137
      @imlistening1137 Год назад

      @@kellistorie7917 ditto.

  • @kellistorie7917
    @kellistorie7917 Год назад +1

    Fascinating! And, as a Texan, I am pleasantly surprised to see that the Republic of Texas had a Legation in Pickering Place, as well as Paris. I knew that France had a Legation in Austin, Texas, as I have visited it a few times. Did England have one, also, I wonder? Looks like I have some Googling to do! Thanks for another fine piece of infotainment!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад +1

      Lovely comment Kelli, thank you 😊

  • @RichardWells1
    @RichardWells1 2 года назад +6

    Where do you dig up all this fascinating stuff, Rob?! This is an absolute gem! I was engaged from start to finish - as I am with all your documentaries - with the sordid but colourful history of this tiny backwater of London. You always tell the story so well and in such vivid detail...and with a great depth of research. (BTW: The name Smead is really unusual, and I wonder whether a Mr Smead, with whom I worked many decades ago in a newspaper print works, might have distant ancestral connections...) Thanks again for such an interesting journey into another of London's quirky locations - more please!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +2

      It's an absolute pleasure Richard, thank you so much! I love researching these videos; it's almost like archeology in a way as digging up a bit of info is a real buzz. Smead is indeed an unusual name, like something out of Dickens... wouldn't surprise me if there was a connection with the fellow you worked with! Thanks again Richard and stay well.

  • @SlurpyDave254
    @SlurpyDave254 2 года назад +2

    Very good, so many transformations throughout the years, liked the card games with Dodgy Gin n cheating mirrors on sticks, 😊👍

  • @Jpkjr52
    @Jpkjr52 Год назад +1

    Always interesting. Thanks again John in Chicago

  • @stepbackandthink
    @stepbackandthink 2 года назад +4

    Excellent video.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Thank you so much 😊

  • @SLane249
    @SLane249 2 года назад +2

    Yet another hidden gem, thanks for sharing.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thank you Stephen; really appreciate your kind words. Stay well.

  • @RedcoatsReturn
    @RedcoatsReturn 2 года назад +1

    Excellent! 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 I stay occasionally at the O&C Club around the corner and visit Berry Bros to pick up a bottle of port. I have sometimes visited that court and read the Texan Plaque, I knew a few things but you have much enriched my knowledge. My gratitude to you sir 😊

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      It is an absolute pleasure! Thanks for the lovely comment, really enjoyed reading it :-)

  • @mikereilly5005
    @mikereilly5005 2 года назад +6

    Once again Rob, a truly fascinating post, I cannot recall how many times I have past Berry bros and rudd, I always look at it as I pass by, I simply love the building as it creaks and groans laden down with so much history
    But until now had no idea that such a beautiful square was concealed behind, a truly enlightening post
    Thank you

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      It’s a pleasure Mike, thank you… a good excuse to get back to Berry Bros I’d say 😉 Cheers and stay well.

  • @lucianmorn7273
    @lucianmorn7273 10 месяцев назад +1

    I don't know if this is urban legend but Pickering Place used to be (and still is) the last public place in London where the street lights are lit by methane gas from the sewers running below, alongside Kensington Palace Gardens, though this is technically a private road..

  • @cherylchapman6163
    @cherylchapman6163 2 года назад +2

    Hi Rob. Another wonderfully evocative video. I used to walk by Berry Bros in my lunch hour when I worked in Mayfair and I had no idea I could have been seconds from such a place of such rich hidden history.
    Every school in the UK needs a history teacher like you to bring alive social history, you would inspire so many kids (and us oldies)!!!!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Oh, thank you so much Cheryl- what a lovely comment; made my day! Thanks so much for your kind words and support, I really appreciate it. Stay well.

    • @thewrecker3140
      @thewrecker3140 2 года назад +2

      Cheryl what a wonderfully inspiring comment.

  • @georgielancaster1356
    @georgielancaster1356 2 года назад +2

    I knew an English nurse who was sketched, with her twin brother, as babies, by Kathleen? Shackleton. I saw both sketches in her home. Kathleen was a family friend. I'm guessing in the 30's? (I am guessing it was Kathleen. I was just told the sketches were done by Ernest Shackleton's sister).
    The nurse had a doctor father who joined the army, in WW2, as an officer in the medical corps.
    Of course, the scandal of the little, gay brother Shackleton, and his links to the Irish Crown Jewels, is a great story.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      What an incredible connection to have Georgie, thank you so much for sharing.

    • @georgielancaster1356
      @georgielancaster1356 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon I looked at the sketches, many a time. Very pretty babies. Her twin brother has been dead, 20ish years? She was alive 10 years ago, but I lost contact. And I recall the Shackleton signature, but can't remember if there was a K or Kathleen... or indeed, another initial. But the sketches WERE professional quality.

  • @5335816
    @5335816 Год назад +1

    I've just stumbled across this brilliant channel. So fascinating, it makes me want to get up and jump on the tube!

  • @sarahlouise7163
    @sarahlouise7163 2 года назад +1

    another amazing video! thank you!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      It's a pleasure; thank you so much Sarah Louise.

  • @paulmcgee1867
    @paulmcgee1867 2 года назад +3

    Yep been there, thanks for the information

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      It's a pleasure; cheers Paul. Stay well.

  • @melvingraves1159
    @melvingraves1159 2 года назад +5

    Quite fascinating, it looks like a private court yard which why I have walked past it in the past.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Many thanks Melvin... do feel free to go and have a look! If I remember rightly, there used to be a gate there (I didn't notice it on this visit), but it is certainly open to the public. Thanks again and stay well.

  • @taradiane
    @taradiane 2 года назад +1

    4:45 look at how dapper that statue is lol

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Yep, good old Beau Brummell ;-)

  • @jabberwalky1965
    @jabberwalky1965 2 года назад +1

    The building to the right of the corridor as you enter the square is the old Republic of Texas Embassy to England. Sadly it does not appear to be open to the public anymore. As a Native Texan it was required pilgrimage I found a little disappointing not to be able to enter. The Texas Embassy in Paris is now a hotel located two blocks north of the Louvre.
    Sadly I had not seen this video prior to my visit to Pickering Place. Very happy I have seen it.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Yes.... I cover the Republic of Texas Embassy in the video. Glad you were able to see it :-)

  • @ChrisSmith-ls7mb
    @ChrisSmith-ls7mb 2 года назад +3

    Hello Rob
    Great video. We have been there. In 2018 we stumbled apon it when the store on the left was a Taylors called the Kingman from the movie. I have three pictures, one of the square with sun dial, one of the Texas plaque and one of the back of Kingsman store. I knew most of the histories except about the Hell's. The Hell's are what 500 yards from St James palace the official home of Royalty. I would not have ventured into a Hell. Now would Beau Brummel, my reaction is no he would have gone to one of the higher class gentlemen's clubs. Poor Beau dying in France penny less. Love the video. Take Care Chris and Sandra of Canada.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Lovely comment, thank you so much Chris. I didn't realise there was a connection with the Kingsman movie! Cheers and stay well.

  • @Darren79
    @Darren79 2 года назад +2

    I found this place randomly on a wander around London with my camera back around 2014. I took a photo of the alleyway. An interesting history👍🏼

  • @PurpleTT99
    @PurpleTT99 2 года назад +6

    Well done Rob, up to your usual high standard. I must have walked past the entrance a dozen times over the years, never noticed it! Good info clearly and knowledgably presented. More!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thank you so much; really appreciate your kind words 😊

  • @anthonychappell9409
    @anthonychappell9409 2 года назад +3

    I would definitely like to visit Pickering Place but I doubt I would have stayed for the gambling or dueling

  • @lynstoneham
    @lynstoneham 2 года назад +1

    These are very interesting to listen to never heard of this before

  • @liamoleary31
    @liamoleary31 Месяц назад +1

    Thank you

  • @gunner678
    @gunner678 2 года назад +1

    Cracking little video. Thank you. I remember stumbling into pickering place many moons ago. It's a fascinating little oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of London.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Many thanks Matthew; glad you enjoyed it! Stay well.

    • @gunner678
      @gunner678 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon you too. Keep up the good work!

  • @orlando1a1
    @orlando1a1 2 года назад +4

    Hi Rob, thank you for a genuinely fascinating video about a beautiful and hidden part of London. Had you thought of doing a video about the streets and the alleyways and that criss-cross Clerkenwell?

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +2

      Thank you! Clerkenwell is a fascinating area... Bleeding Heart Yard will be covered at some point for sure (most likely in a pubs episode) Will see what else I can do around there too! Cheers and stay well.

  • @joshmelville7464
    @joshmelville7464 Год назад +1

    Really enjoyable video. Crammed full of facts! I’ve read Grhame Greenes The Third Man so that was also an interesting snippet of information.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад

      Thanks so much Josh! Stay well.

  • @andyeveritt9003
    @andyeveritt9003 2 года назад +2

    yet again great fun and interesting video rob
    i must pop down there and have a look
    would not be surprised if pickering place was full of
    robslondon subscibers
    keep these lovely vids coming
    all the best rob

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Ha ha!! Cheers Andy... yes, I am worried that it's going to get a bit full up down now there as lots of people seem keen to go and have a look!! :-D Thanks again mate and stay well.

    • @thewrecker3140
      @thewrecker3140 2 года назад +1

      What a remarkable and encouraging comment, buy that man a pint.

  • @SixthQuarter
    @SixthQuarter 2 года назад +2

    Easily one of my favourite channels. Another fantastic video and I’m only half way through it! I am without doubt going to visit it the next time I’m in town.
    Thanks Rob. Smashed it as always. 👊🏼👍🏼

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      That means so much to me Richard; thank you. It’s incredibly kind words like yours that keep me going! Thanks again mate; really do appreciate it- stay well 😉

    • @SixthQuarter
      @SixthQuarter 2 года назад +2

      @@Robslondon very welcome Rob. I absolutely love what you’re doing. Keep it up. Can’t wait for more. 👍🏼

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      @@SixthQuarter Cheers Richard

  • @kennethbowry1521
    @kennethbowry1521 2 года назад +1

    Great work, thank you.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Much appreciated Kenneth; thank you.

  • @johnsharp8632
    @johnsharp8632 Год назад +1

    Wonderful Rob, just wonderful. I used to traipse around St James's on my way to work in the morning and one day I stumbled upon Pickering Place. What I didn't know about was centuries of shenanigans that occurred there. That so much went on in such a small area is extraordinary. Thank you once again for a masterful bit of storytelling. I have always loved the ancient paintwork on Berry Bros wine shop. Never been stripped, just layer after layer of crusty old paint. St James's is a really lovely area to explore.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад

      Cheers John! The King's Wardrobe is an excellent idea, I'll add it to the list! Thanks so much for your support.

  • @lauraswann5543
    @lauraswann5543 2 года назад +4

    Thank you. Fascinating. I subscribed recently, and very glad I did. Gave this video a like, of course. I lived in London, in Bayswater, and I don't think I had ever even heard of Pickering Place. Edit; Could you do a video on Whitehall sometime, please? Not a Ripper video, just about the streets and alleyways and the inhabitants. Thank you very much.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Hi Laura, thank you much. Yes that’s a good subject choice, I’ll see what I can do 😉 Thanks again and stay well.

  • @marisapavan8615
    @marisapavan8615 Год назад +1

    I would love to live there!

  • @hellie_el
    @hellie_el 2 года назад +3

    thank you rob for another charming video. :)

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Thank you much 😊

    • @hellie_el
      @hellie_el 2 года назад +2

      rob, i was just at your etsy store - i didn’t see a mug with the pigeon graphic screen that is at the end of your videos. i’d definitely like to buy one.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      @@hellie_el Thanks so much for this! I’ll try and put one together. I’m actually trying to put merchandise on the RUclips channel at the moment, so it may appear here. You may be interested to know that I have a name for the pigeon; I call him ‘Tooley’ 😉🐦 Thanks again; really appreciate your support.

    • @hellie_el
      @hellie_el 2 года назад +2

      @@Robslondon i’ll be keeping an eye out for tooley! (can you share how he got his name?)

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      @@hellie_el Sure! He's named after Tooley Street near London Bridge. I originally created him for a children's story I had in mind, but I doubt that will ever get written now! Thanks so much for asking; it's lovely to see people notice him :-)

  • @richardkell4888
    @richardkell4888 Год назад +1

    I really enjoyed your film, exc to hear of some of the detail of the place. I wonder who or what owns the particular properties these days, if only we cld see some footage of interiors. Well done, much appreciated.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад

      Thanks Richard.... yes I'd like to see inside too! ;-)

  • @barrywa39
    @barrywa39 2 года назад +4

    That was brilliant Rob. St James's is my favourite part of London, and holds so much history. Congratulations on doing such a magnificent job, digging out all the history of that wonderful square. Al Bowlly, the singer died not far from there, in his flat that overlooked Jermyn Street, and of course, on Jermyn Street, was the famous London Hammam, which gave Penhaligon's it's famous scent called Hammam Bouquet, dated from 1872, and still available today. It would be great if you could make more videos about St James's, and feature the old established shops in the area.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +2

      Thanks Barry; great thoughts. I didn't know Al Bowlly died on Jermyn Street. I'd love to do more about the shops in that area; hoping that when I'm a bit more established, they'll allow me inside to film! Cheers and stay well.

    • @barrywa39
      @barrywa39 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon Al lived in a 2nd floor flat in Dukes Court, 32 Duke Street, that overlooked Jermyn Street. If the building was still there today, it would looked across to Dunhills. Al had been reading in bed, even though there was an air raid on. A landmine landed outside his building in Jermyn Street, and it killed him outright. He was found on the floor of his flat.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      @@barrywa39 Thanks so much for this; that’s a fascinating bit of history. Heartbreaking too… Stay well.

  • @scottlewisparsons9551
    @scottlewisparsons9551 2 года назад +2

    Thank you for another well researched and interesting video. All the best from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Cheers Scott; always a pleasure to have Aussies here ;-) Thanks so much for the kind words; stay well.

    • @scottlewisparsons9551
      @scottlewisparsons9551 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon no worries. Have a good day.

  • @layalabi1667
    @layalabi1667 Год назад +1

    Loved it!!

  • @iwasglad122
    @iwasglad122 2 года назад +2

    First time I've come across your channel. Thoroughly enjoyed this episode and will now investigate the rest - binge watching!! London is my favourite place in the world and I'm praying that it will return to its former 'wonderfulness' when the C-19 nightmare is over, and I can once again visit in complete freedom. Subscribed!!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thank you so much David; really appreciate your kind words; it's wonderful to have you here!
      Things do seem to be returning to normal in London now. I remember being there just a few days before the first lockdown was announced in 2020... it was the eeriest experience I'd ever known; nobody was about and you could hear birdsong as if it were in the countryside. On my past few visits it was like being back in the old days, so things are hopefully on the mend.
      Thanks again David; stay well my friend.

    • @iwasglad122
      @iwasglad122 2 года назад +2

      @@Robslondon Many thanks for your reply! You'll also find an Etsy order. Brilliant!!

    • @thewrecker3140
      @thewrecker3140 2 года назад

      Are you the Dave Evans from Watford?

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      @@iwasglad122 Really appreciate that David, thank you! Hope you like the item! Thanks again and stay well.

    • @iwasglad122
      @iwasglad122 2 года назад +1

      @@thewrecker3140 No, sorry!

  • @golden.lights.twinkle2329
    @golden.lights.twinkle2329 Год назад +1

    What a beautiful and hidden-away little square! I wonder how much it would cost if one wanted to buy or rent a little pied-à-terre there.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад

      I dread to think how much it would cost!!

  • @itsjohndell
    @itsjohndell 2 года назад +3

    Wonderful, just wonderful Rob. Fascinating content and superb edit. Cheers!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Much appreciated John, thank you!

  • @asheland_numismatics
    @asheland_numismatics 2 года назад +1

    Very interesting video! 👍

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Much appreciated asheland, thank you! Stay well.

    • @asheland_numismatics
      @asheland_numismatics 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon thank you! ☺️

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      @@asheland_numismatics A pleasure 😉

  • @alfreddunn03
    @alfreddunn03 2 года назад +2

    Well, I am going to London on Friday for my 50th and I might just pay this square a visit, very interesting, thank you.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Happy birthday in advance Alfred! Hope you enjoy your day in London.

    • @alfreddunn03
      @alfreddunn03 2 года назад +1

      Robslondon Thanks Rob.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      @@alfreddunn03 Pleasure ;-)

  • @Cancan2020
    @Cancan2020 Год назад +1

    Thank you for your Time and effort to help us open our eyes and really see some of the most historical places in London

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад

      It's an absolute pleasure; thank you so much for watching.

  • @hlederer3938
    @hlederer3938 2 года назад +1

    I visited after watching this when found myself having dinner nearby. Fabulous video and I loved seeing it in real life.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Lovely comment, thank you :-)

  • @Lynwen10
    @Lynwen10 2 года назад +1

    Really interesting, thank you so much.

  • @alrichmond4341
    @alrichmond4341 2 года назад +2

    Well beyond fascinating. Thank you !

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Really appreciate that Al, thank you. Stay well.

  • @basfinnis
    @basfinnis 2 года назад +3

    I think I’ve be been here before. Nice little spot. Didn’t know too much about it’s history though.
    Thanks for the interesting information 😉

  • @Arghans
    @Arghans 2 года назад +2

    Been here a few times and never noticed the plague for the Texas Embassy. Had no idea given how short lived the republic was. 👍

    • @toomanymarys7355
      @toomanymarys7355 2 года назад

      I think Texas exported most of its cotton to the UK.

  • @borusa32
    @borusa32 2 года назад +1

    another super video-I don't think I would want to have played cards in the hells.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thanks so much Hari… and I think you would have been very wise not to gamble there! 🎲 Stay well.

  • @davidclare4983
    @davidclare4983 Год назад +1

    Thanks!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад

      Thank you so much David, much appreciated! Stay well.

  • @neuralwarp
    @neuralwarp 11 месяцев назад +1

    Very interesting.

  • @calvingrondahl1011
    @calvingrondahl1011 2 года назад +1

    Fun history of hidden hideaways of London. Thankyou.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thank you Calvin; it's a pleasure. Stay well.

  • @stephaniewatts1956
    @stephaniewatts1956 Год назад

    ANother great video. I did know about Pickering Place and visited it the last time I was in London. It's such a cool and atmospheric space! I love hearing about the secret and out of the way places. I'd love to see a video on cloth fair and the area. There are some beautifully preserved buildings and neat little alleyways around there.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад

      Thank you so much Stephanie- and Cloth Fair is a good idea, I’ll add it to my list! Thanks again and stay well 😊

  • @louisep5178
    @louisep5178 2 года назад +2

    Very interesting many thanks Rob 👌🙏

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Thanks so much Louise :-) It's a pleasure; cheers and stay well.

  • @timfranck9976
    @timfranck9976 2 года назад +1

    I think I ventured in this court one lunch time years ago when I worked in Westminster. Thanks for reminding me of this unspoilt spot and of the interesting area of St James's.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thanks Tim; it's a pleasure. Stay well.

  • @sharonleong7120
    @sharonleong7120 2 года назад +1

    Thank you for sharing another great and interesting video once again. I like it very much.👍👍👍❤️❤️

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      It's a pleasure; thank you so much for watching Sharon!

  • @137Rita
    @137Rita 2 года назад +2

    So interesting, thank you Rob! I will be sure to visit Pickering Place next time I'm in London, I'm a big fan of Graham Greene.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Thank you so much Rita! If you’re a fan then a visit is a must! 😉 Stay well.

  • @craigmillar7411
    @craigmillar7411 2 года назад +2

    Another great video Rob, thank you so much for making these. Your videos are very interesting, and your narration is so warm and friendly as well. Great job & looking forward to your next one

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      That means so much to me Craig; thank you :-) Stay well my friend.

  • @michaelwhite8031
    @michaelwhite8031 2 года назад +4

    Is that next to the Chequers pub, Freemason's alley lol ?

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +2

      A good guess, but it’s not right Michael 😉

    • @michaelwhite8031
      @michaelwhite8031 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon Lol. I will have to go and take a look.

  • @TheUluxian
    @TheUluxian 2 года назад +1

    Thank you , Rob. Once again some fascinating stuff

  • @butchknapman3939
    @butchknapman3939 2 года назад +2

    Thank you Rob yet another interesting video, it would have been good to see this 6 months ago, for the last time I walked down Pall Mall and pointed out the reform club to my friend but was not aware of Pickering Square. Look forward to the next video

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Much appreciated as ever Butch; you’re a star. Thanks and stay well.

  • @grahamross6397
    @grahamross6397 2 года назад +1

    Another top one, Robslondon.
    Those walks down the passage to Pickering Place (repeatedly) remind me of the alley off Fleet St to the Olde Cheshire Cheese. All paneled and things.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thanks so much Graham :-) Stay well.

  • @andrewfrost8866
    @andrewfrost8866 2 года назад +1

    Absolutely fascinating! what a fantastic and accessible history!!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Much appreciated Andrew! Thank you.

  • @douglasthompson296
    @douglasthompson296 2 года назад +1

    Hi Rob, well you did it again for me as a new subbed and going through your past postings. Now I could live in a courtyard like that, bang in the middle of everything but tucked away from the noise of the road etc. Big 👍👍👍👌 Cheers DougT in Mancs.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Ha ha, cheers Doug 😉 Appreciate your support

  • @susiewickham9990
    @susiewickham9990 2 года назад +1

    Love your work. Keep it up.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      That means a lot to me Susie, thank you.

  • @80smusiclover8
    @80smusiclover8 2 года назад +1

    Hi hon another wicked n informative vid. Love them.hurry up 2 do more.be safe.keep up good work x

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thanks so much! ;-) Cheers and stay well.

    • @80smusiclover8
      @80smusiclover8 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon no prob hon. Stay safe

  • @thinker9115
    @thinker9115 2 года назад +1

    Brilliant stuff! Clearly well researched. I was Interested to learn that G..Greene lived here, this Place certainly has history! Thanks.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Many kind thanks Thinker? :-) Stay well.

  • @TerryMurrayTalks
    @TerryMurrayTalks 2 года назад +1

    Nice one well researched and edited.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Cheers Terry, much appreciated 😉

  • @idatipping2428
    @idatipping2428 9 месяцев назад

    Thank you 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

  • @Mia-oj7ro
    @Mia-oj7ro 2 года назад +1

    Thanks Rob. I’ve walked passed that alleyway numerous times and never knew there was such a hidden gem there. Will definitely take a look when I’m next in St James.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Thanks Marie; hope you enjoy having a peek around there ;-) Stay well.

  • @richardsingh5827
    @richardsingh5827 2 года назад +1

    Interesting video. I wish I had gone there when I lived in London

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Thanks Richard... you'll have to come back for a look ;-) Stay well.

  • @asheland_numismatics
    @asheland_numismatics 2 года назад +2

    Any chance you’d do a video about the London Assay Office? (Goldsmiths Hall)

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Hi asheland- that's a great idea (I think any film on the livery halls would be). Only problem would be filming inside- maybe when I'm a little more established I'll be granted permission ;-) Will keep it in mimd.

    • @asheland_numismatics
      @asheland_numismatics 2 года назад

      @@Robslondon indeed that’s true about the inside, but even from outside would be a very cool video. 👍

  • @orcharddweller1109
    @orcharddweller1109 Год назад +1

    Where do they keep their wheelie bins, these things ruin our streetscapes. Lovely film, thanks.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Год назад

      Thanks- and that’s a good question!

  • @elishawhite7487
    @elishawhite7487 2 года назад +3

    Are the buildings within the square used? Do people live there or is it just offices? I’d love to know who uses the buildings within the square. Can’t find any information on this.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +1

      Hi Elisha, yes they are used. One side appears to be owned by Berry Brothers, and there are some little offices dotted around too. Another side is currently occupied by part of the Saint Jaques restaurant

    • @elishawhite7487
      @elishawhite7487 2 года назад +1

      @@Robslondon thanks so much very helpful

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      @@elishawhite7487 No problem Elisha, stay well.

  • @bobdobalina2931
    @bobdobalina2931 2 года назад +1

    Are any of these magnificent houses still privately owned residences? I think it would be wonderful to live there although parking might be an issue.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад

      Not entirely sure Bob. I think they’re mostly offices now

  • @onlycompetitions5083
    @onlycompetitions5083 2 года назад +3

    Are all of London’s Squares actually a square (or at least rectangular) in shape?

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  2 года назад +2

      That’s a good question; and no they’re not! The term square is quite loose when describing the shape of London spaces.

    • @hylje
      @hylje 2 года назад

      They used to be rectangular but the settlement and movement of the ground has made them crooked over the centuries

  • @neuralwarp
    @neuralwarp 11 месяцев назад +1

    How about a history of the old brewery in Romford?

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  11 месяцев назад

      I'll make a note...