We've been experiencing real cold weather here in London. The snow fell long enough to dust our front steps and iron railings with magic! Before arriving, we recommend the YR weather APP to our guests. Its algorithms are a secret in Norway apparantly.
Fulham Palace Winter Wonders
Our own Palace in Fulham, formerly the summer residence of the Bishops of London, comes to life during the Advent and Christmas season. Enjoy a concert, take a guided tour or simply enjoy a lovely coffee and indulgent home made cake after a frosty afternoon walk around Putney Bridge, the boat houses and the glorious arboretum of the Fulham Palace grounds. Enjoy a carol concert, take an historic walk with a guide, or enjoy the permanent exhibition. Various wreath-making classes available in December as well. More here
Bach in Advent in London
Sir Simon Rattle ignites the LSO as new conductor
London is full of great music. Enjoy an evening with the London Symphony Orchestra at The Barbican (City of London). Fresh from his many years in Berlin, Sir Simon Rattle is doing more than just conducting another symphony. He is igniting new forces in all directions for the finest symphonic music ever. Order tickets for an evening during your stay with us at our luxe London B&B!
Flags and all; Jasper Johns at the RA, London
Big, Bold, Audacious; this is the strong art of American Jasper Johns. Lots to observe and learn here about flags, targets, numbers and other icons used by Johns in his large canvases inspired by the American landscape of the 1960s to this day. See https://www.royalacademy.org.uk/exhibition/jasper-johns

Wonderful art and cafes to unwind: The Royal Academy of Arts on Piccadily is a must for seasoned globe trotters
Our local, fine hat shop, Herald and Heart, milliners to guests and beyond
A quick six minute walk towards Parsons Green lands you at Herald and Heart, milliners for all things hats. What a find. Guests are amazed and so are we; support our local entepreneur on 703 Fulham Road.

Sargent Watercolours at Dulwich Picture Gallery
It's a quick 3 stops for Victoria to the leafy suburb of Dulwich, where London's first public picture gallery opened long ago. Until next month you can take in a fabulous exhibit of watercolours by John Singer Sargent. "Delicious," in the words of the co-curator, Richard Ormond, who is the great nephew of Sargent and an art historian in his own right. Have lunch at Rocca before or afterwards. The village atmosphere of Dulwich will remind you of Chatham, Cape Cod.

Matisse in his Studio: 5 Aug - 12 Nov 2017 exhibit at the Royal Academy
Art for all; summer exhibition at the Royal Academy
Fashion's finest at the V&A Museum; Balenciaga, courture icon
From the V&A website, here is a good introduction to this couture icon.
"Known as 'The Master' of haute couture, Cristóbal Balenciaga was one of the most innovative and influential fashion designers of the last century. His exquisite craftsmanship and pioneering use of fabrics revolutionised the female silhouette, setting the tone for modern fashion.
"Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion is the first UK exhibition to explore the work and legacy of the Spanish couturier, showcasing over 100 garments and hats crafted by Balenciaga, his protégés and contemporary designers working in the same innovative way today. It examines Balenciaga's work from the 1950s and 1960s – arguably the most creative period of his career – when he dressed some of the most renowned women of the age and became revered by his contemporaries, including Christian Dior and Coco Chanel."
Also enjoy this blog by a guest who stayed in our lovely London B&B guest rooms in order to spend a few days in London for shopping and a visit to this exquiste exhibition.
Stay with us here off the Fulham Road in our elegant London B&B; it's a short ride up Fulham Road on the 14 or 414 red bus to the V&A museum.
21 Barclay Road London SW6 1EJ
London's award-winning elegant B&B
http://www.barclayhouselondon.com
+44 7767 420943 iPhone