With my good friend, Russ, occasional walking guide and history enthusiast I had the fortunate pleasure of being transported back in time, experiencing London in quite a unique way. When I may have simply passed by oblivious to its significance, Russ pointed out a snippet and anecdote that made the walk a much more enjoyable experience. Things got messy in France under  King Louis XIV  around 1685 forcing The Huguenots (Protestants) to leave the country. Around 50,000 of them settled in England, around half in London and many around the Spitalfields streets we walked through today. These homes were built in the 18th century. As silk weavers and clockmakers, the Huguenot's homes were a combination of workshop and living space. These are the largest group of Georgian built homes that still remain standing in London and are currently grade ii listed buildings, which means every effort must be made to preserve them. Mostly, these homes are renovated on the inside and fetch huge sale pr

An eclectic mix of medieval and art deco, this is an interesting spot to visit.  Henry VIII spent much of his childhood here but ended up favouring Hampton court. It suffered during the WWII bombing of London and in 1933 was purchased by Stephen and Virginia Courtauld and refurbished in art deco style. I found it kind of an odd mix but it was an interesting visit nonetheless. I hope you enjoy the pics. Stay well and have a great week. Nina 😀 THE AUTHOR My Curious Camera is professional portrait photographer, Nina Beilby. That's me. 😃 📷📷 Follow me as I travel through life with my camera by my side, I share snippets and snaps of my daily adventures. With my camera at my side, I've been able to record moments of jubilation and happiness. When I have had some of my darkest moments, my adventures with my camera have given me purpose and joy. I hope they give you some too. Nina

  Staying in a house lined street devoid of trees, I found myself longing for the sound of leaves crunching under my feet, the crispiness of the wintery air on my face, and a chance meeting with one of nature's friends. I found all of these at Richmond Park.  At first, the path wound through an ancient forest and without their leaves was reminiscent of a Disney film where you expect the wicked Queen to materialise and cast her spell of doom upon you at any moment. The forest ends and a grassy plain is revealed. Deer laze and roll about enjoying the mid morning warmth. Greeted by the squeaking Rose ringed Parakeets, I felt a little at home. At Isabella's Plantation, I found a bench amongst the heather and budding azaeleas to enjoy a snack when I sensed a pair of eyes on me. I glanced over my shoulder to find a curious faced Robin looking at me but being careful not to be easily discovered. Contrarily, the Magpie was not at all bothered about disguising himself, came and sat on t

As we made our way through the streets from Paddington station, a warm hug sensation gripped me in its flabby arms and said "welcome home". I was actually made right here in London so it is home in a sense. What a beautiful time of the morning to arrive. The light softly brightened through the cloud as throngs of people quietly shuffled their way to their jobs.  I'd normally negotiate the Tube but there had been a strike yesterday and the stations were closed until later that morning. With my phone charge running low, I wasn't able to book an Uber so I hailed a cab. What a lovely man. We chatted about cultivating Bonsai and his remarkable ability to get a Monstera deliciosa to bloom  as we wound our way through the lightly trafficked streets toward Pimlico. An actual warm hug awaited as Bridget opened her door to her vintage basement flat for me. Over a pot of very welcomed hot English Breakfast tea, although here it is simply "tea", we caught up on family,