Sheep drive
The Guild of Woolmen was a medieval trade guild for wool traders.
The Worshipful company of Woolman is a historic London livery company that still exists today as a charitable institution.
Every year, the Company organizes the annual sheep drive over London Bridge, which is great for kids of all ages!
Wye
The village of Wye is a beautiful place to visit and is worth a visit.
The village of Wye is a small village in the county of Kent, England. The village lies in the AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and has an old English name “Wēoh” which means “a bend” or “a curve”. It has many natural scenery and it is also home to many historic buildings such as the Church of St Gregory and Saint Martin which was built in Norman times.
Fordwich
Fordwich is a small town in Kent. It is the smallest town in Britain and it has a population of just over 1,000 people. It is situated on the River Stour and it has been around since before the Norman conquest. The town is made up of two parts: Fordwich Village and Fordwich Town.
The village of Fordwich was founded by King Æthelberht II (also known as Ethelbert) in 604 AD. He gave this village to his wife Queen Bertha for her lifetime as a gift for converting him to Christianity. In 1066, William the Conqueror took control of England from King Harold II at Hastings and he rewarded his followers with land parcels in Kent, including Fordwich.
Two Temple Place: A Hidden Gem of History and Art
Michele and I had the pleasure of visiting Two Temple Place during the Open House weekend. This enchanting building, rich in history and artistry, is not always open to the public, but when it is, it’s an experience worth planning for.
A Frieze Full of Stories
One of the most captivating features of Two Temple Place is its intricately carved frieze. It’s a visual celebration of Shakespearean drama, with characters from Henry VIII, Othello, Anthony and Cleopatra, and even Macbeth (or “the Scottish Play,” if you’re feeling superstitious).
The frieze doesn’t stop with Shakespeare—it also features an eclectic cast of historical icons, including:
- Niccolò Machiavelli, the father of political theory
- Martin Luther, the Protestant Reformer
- Queen Marie Antoinette, the ill-fated French monarch
- Sir Walter Raleigh, the famous English explorer
- Otto von Bismarck, the Iron Chancellor
- Raphael, the celebrated Italian Renaissance painter
This blend of literary and historical figures adds a fascinating layer to the building’s already rich narrative.
The Great Hall: Where Myth Meets Art
Inside the Great Hall, you’ll find another jaw-dropping feature: the entrance door with nine silver-gilt panels by Sir George James Frampton. These panels depict heroines from Arthurian legend as interpreted by Thomas Malory and later reimagined by Alfred Lord Tennyson.
Here’s the lineup of legendary women:
- The Lady of the Isle of Avelyon
- Elaine, the “Lily Maid of Astolat”
- The Lady of the Lake
- Morgan le Fay
- Guinevere, whose tragic love story inspired Tennyson’s famous lines:
“A man had given all other bliss / And all his worldly worth for this / To waste his whole heart in one kiss / Upon her perfect lips.” - La Beale Isoude
- Lyonors
- Enid
- Alis la Beale Pilgrim
Each panel is not just a tribute to Arthurian myth but a stunning example of artistic craftsmanship.
Plan Your Visit
Currently, Two Temple Place isn’t open to the public on a regular basis. However, they do host special events and open days, so keep an eye on their website for updates on the next opportunity to visit. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You Should Go
Two Temple Place is more than a beautiful building—it’s a window into history, literature, and art. Whether you’re a Shakespeare fan, a history enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a good story, this place has something for you.
If you enjoyed reading this, share it with someone who loves hidden historical gems. And if you’ve already been to Two Temple Place, drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Coopers' Hall
Coopers’ Hall is a historic building in London, England. It was built in 1756 and has been the headquarters of the Worshipful Company of Coopers since then. The company is a livery company that has existed for over 600 years.
The hall is located at 13 Devonshire Square and it’s worth visiting as it’s one of the most beautiful buildings in London. The hall was designed by George Dance the Elder and has been used for meetings, weddings, christenings, and other events since its construction.
St Mary-le-Bow: The Heart of London’s History and Legend
St Mary-le-Bow Church, a hidden gem in the heart of Cheapside, has been a cornerstone of London’s history for nearly a millennium. Michele and I recently had the pleasure of exploring this iconic site, and it’s packed with fascinating stories that make it so much more than just a church.
A Church with Ancient Roots
St Mary-le-Bow was first built in 1080 by Lanfranc, Archbishop of Canterbury under William the Conqueror. Since then, it’s stood as a witness to London’s tumultuous history, including fires, tornadoes, and even wartime destruction.
The name le-Bow comes from the Norman French word for arches, referencing the striking design of the church’s crypt. This crypt, originally an undercroft, dates back to medieval times and is one of the few remnants of the early church that survives today.
The Bow Bells and the Cockney Legacy
Perhaps the most famous feature of St Mary-le-Bow is its Bow Bells, which hold a special place in London’s folklore. According to tradition, those born within earshot of the bells are considered true Cockneys. The term “Cockney” itself derives from cockernay, an old term for a “townsman” or “milksop.”
The Bow Bells have even inspired legends. In the late 14th century, it’s said that Richard “Dick” Whittington heard the bells calling him back to London, prompting his rise to become Lord Mayor. The bells also feature in the nursery rhyme Oranges and Lemons:
“I do not know, says the Great Bell of Bow.”
Wren’s Masterpiece
After the Great Fire of London in 1666, St Mary-le-Bow was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren. The towering spire, crowned with a copper dragon, is one of Wren’s most ambitious designs, second only to St Paul’s Cathedral. At 68 metres tall, it remains an iconic feature of the City’s skyline.
The interior of the church, rebuilt in 1964 after wartime bombing, showcases stunning stained glass windows by John Hayward. These depict Christ in Majesty, St Paul, and the Virgin Mary, alongside Wren’s other surviving churches.
Fascinating Features
- The Crypt: A fragment of medieval London, now a chapel and event space.
- The Bells: Named individually and inscribed with verses from Psalms.
- Stained Glass: Beautifully designed windows that blend biblical stories with London’s history.
- Admiral Arthur Phillip Memorial: A tribute to the first Governor of New South Wales, who was baptised here.
- Organ: A magnificent instrument, completed in 2010, alongside a smaller chamber organ.
Legends and Lore
St Mary-le-Bow has always been at the heart of London life, from hosting jousts and coronation processions along Cheapside to acting as a curfew bell from 1363. The church’s history is steeped in tradition, including the Court of Arches, which served as a major legal hub for the southern province of the Church of England.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of Sir Christopher Wren’s architecture, or just intrigued by the Cockney connection, St Mary-le-Bow is a must-see. It’s not just a church—it’s a symbol of resilience, community, and London’s enduring spirit.
Final Thoughts
We hope you’ve enjoyed this journey into the history and stories of St Mary-le-Bow. If this blog piqued your interest, share it with others who love exploring London’s hidden gems. And if you’ve visited the church, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Until next time!