Rhys Thomas

Rhys Thomas

Contributing writer

Articles (136)

The 11 best hotels in Glasgow that are pure dead brilliant

The 11 best hotels in Glasgow that are pure dead brilliant

Vibrant, historical, and home to real Scottish humour, Glasgow is a special city with an equally special set of spaces to stay. Along with the usual options of bright and shiny modern chains, you’ll also discover some truly unique places on the map – like the self-catering apartments in a former bank or a room to put your head down in a converted Victorian mansion. The best part is that they’re all conveniently placed near the city’s bars, restaurants art galleries and theatres. You’re sure to find something that suits your tastes and, while we’re at it, some are worth visiting even if just for a glass of bubbly or a wholesome, hearty meal. We love the champagne bar at Grand Central and Barry Duff’s bistro at One Devonshire Gardens Hotel du Vin, for instance. Ideal spots for enjoying the city 24 hours a day, and without being completely bank-breaking. Enjoy – you deserve it!  RECOMMENDED: 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿The best Airbnbs in Glasgow⛰The best Airbnbs in the Scottish Highlands Updated July 2024: Pssst, we have a newcomer called Native on the list we think you might like, especially you're after somewhere cosy, central and functional.  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. Fo

The 32 best Chicago attractions

The 32 best Chicago attractions

Chicago might be the Second City, but our attractions are first class. Need proof? Just take a look at the many Chicago museums, where you'll find everything from the best-preserved T.Rex skeleton ever discovered, to paintings from Van Gogh and Picasso. Or if nature's more your thing, take a walk through the mesmerizing parks and gardens, home to some of the best public art in Chicago (hello, The Bean). You can also spend a day swimming in Lake Michigan's surprisingly huge freshwater waves at one of the many Chicago beaches, see a jazz show at a bar once frequented by Al Capone, or have a Michelin-starred meal at one of the best Chicago restaurants... the list goes on. Whether it's your first time on Chicago or you want to see more of the city you live in, check out our curated list of the best attractions in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: ❤️ The best things to do in Chicago right now💸 The best cheap things to do in Chicago🏨 The best hotels in Chicago🏩 The best boutique hotels in Chicago This guide was written by Zach Long, an editor based in Chicago. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

The 19 best Airbnbs in Florida for a dreamy Sunshine State stay

The 19 best Airbnbs in Florida for a dreamy Sunshine State stay

Beach vibes and sunshine only. Florida is known for its incredible beaches and the outrageous number of sunny days per year. Ugh, jealous. But Florida is actually also one of the Union's most diverse states. From the Everglades’ world-beating nature to the Sunshine State’s unique cities, there’s a world to discover in the Panhandle and beyond. Let's not beat around the bush, there are a ton of reasons to visit Florida (not just for Disney World). And when you do visit, there's no doubt you’ll need a top-tier place to stay – which is where we come in. We’ve sifted through the state’s Airbnbs to find the finest around so there's something to suit everyone. Happy vacay, baby. RECOMMENDED:🇺🇸Discover the 12 best Airbnbs in Colorado🏡Find the coziest Airbnb cabins in the U.S.🏨See the best hotels in Colorado  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

The best Lake District Airbnbs for a dream stay in Wordsworth country

The best Lake District Airbnbs for a dream stay in Wordsworth country

Sure, we all love swanning around on a weekend getaway, drinking pints in cosy pubs and taking long, countryside walks for hours on end. Sure, we have the best time ever soaking up the sunshine, going to local museums and drinking iced coffee on a beach wall. But where’s the pizzazz, I hear you say? Where’s the pop? Well, we’ve got you covered. First, we got together everything you need for a trip to one of the UK’s most magnificent landscapes, the Lake District in Cumbria, where the hills and mountains roll away like water and the grass grows greener than anywhere else on earth. Sure, we did that. But we’ve also found the wackiest Airbnbs you can get there, from tiny pods and cabins to converted police stations. Yep, you heard that right. Find everything you need on Airbnb.  RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in the UKThe 15 most beautiful places in the UK Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 8 best dinner cruises in NYC for spectacular views of the Big Apple in 2024

The 8 best dinner cruises in NYC for spectacular views of the Big Apple in 2024

There can’t be many better ways to enjoy dinner with a view than to hop aboard a dinner cruise in NYC. And you know what? That’s why we’ve rounded up the best of the dinner cruise bunch in New York to make that experience even easier. The city sparkles the brightest in the summer (it’s still here, right?) so it’s time to take advantage of the many floating restaurants that sail up and down our two rivers. Rooftop bars and beaches are musts, but a dinner cruise is something special to do with your loved ones. Even the best restaurants in NYC can’t compare to the experience of eating out on the water, and most of these dinner cruises offer prix-fixe menus or buffet meals on enormous three-level ships, sailing taverns and ritzy yachts. Whichever you choose, the ambience just can’t be beaten. Bon voyage – and bon appetit, too! Want more like this? Dance across the water with one of the 12 best boat tours in NYC, and then head to one of New York's best boat bars for sips and snacks.  This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

The 12 best Airbnbs in Las Vegas

The 12 best Airbnbs in Las Vegas

Taking a trip to Sin City and looking for somewhere to stay? You'd think it would be easy with over 150,000 hotel rooms in the city, but alas, it's not. While you could check into one of the city’s many fabulous hotels, why not get the whole Vegas experience and rent out an Airbnb?  Whether you're visiting for a stag do, checking out the Vegas Strip, or wanting to see one of the many amazing drag shows the city has to offer, there's something to suit everyone. From skyline apartments to glam suites, check out our list of the best Airbnbs in Las Vegas. We’ve found rentals for all kinds of Sin City experiences. Viva Las Vegas! RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Las Vegas The best restuarants in Las Vegas Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 7 best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds for an English country escape

The 7 best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds for an English country escape

Looking for pretty, tranquil, peace and quiet? Well, this place delivers that and more. Bucolic villages, honey-coloured cottages, rolling limestone hills, medieval churches and, er, the possibility of bumping into David Cameron and his Chipping Norton chums… Okay, so the last one’s not for everyone but look, the Cotswolds really is pretty glorious, especially for a foolproof romantic getaway. Brimming with that kind of quintessential vision of England that sends visitors to our shores just a bit batty. And you know what? That means its Airbnbs are some of the best in the land, too. We’ve handpicked a bunch so you don't have to. Here are some of our favourite Airbnbs in the Cotswolds, from reimagined churches to cute little pods and glamping spots. Happy holidaying! Updated July 2024: We've added a stunner of a property for those who want to stay in a city while still having easy access to the countryside – introducing this Cheltenham townhouse that looks like a luxury hotel suite.  RECOMMENDED: 🇬🇧See our top picks for the best Airbnbs in the UK🏨Cosy up in the cheapest hotels in the Cotswolds 💂‍♂️or stay in these unique Airbnbs in London Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial co

The 11 best budget hotels in Los Angeles, for cheap and cheerful bliss

The 11 best budget hotels in Los Angeles, for cheap and cheerful bliss

L.A. might have a bit of a rep for being a very expensive place to stay, but the truth is that the city is actually packed with affordable hotels, too. Shocker, right? Not only are these accommodations a little cheaper, but plenty are also full-on luxurious and boujee. All you need to do is know where to look. Luckily, we're here to help you out. We've scoured Los Angeles to find the city’s finest affordable places to stay, from sleek beachside estabs to peaceful retreats in the hills. Read on for our pick of Los Angeles’ budget hotels. You're welcome.   Updated July 2024: In the spirit of keeping things cheap and cheerful while still offering you the best of the city, we've added Orange Drive Hostel for its home-from-home vibes and for being literally one of the friendliest places to stay in LA.  RECOMMENDED: 🏨 See the best hotels on the beach in Los Angeles👙Check out the best things to do in Los Angeles🍷Hit the best bars in Los Angeles Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 11 best flower delivery services in Manchester

The 11 best flower delivery services in Manchester

Fresh flowers are such a versatile gift. From graduations to housewarmings to baby showers to a ‘congrats’ on their new job, they’re great for marking every occasion. So why not put a little extra effort in and swap the ones down at your local Co-op for a bespoke floral bouquet delivered straight to their door? That does sound appealing. And it is. Nothing says 'I love you' like surprising them with a gorgeous hand-delivered bunch even if the postman sees them in PJs. Order a bountiful bouquet that makes the most of the season's blooms and has the added bonus of coming from an online florist who will make your life as easy as a few clicks (and some credit card details). These are the best flower delivery services in Manchester. Bloom away! This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

The 10 best flower delivery services in Edinburgh, including free delivery

The 10 best flower delivery services in Edinburgh, including free delivery

There's always a reason to need to buy flowers, isn't there? Like birthdays, anniversaries, and housewarmings. Oops, you forgot again, didn't you? Don't worry, the perfect petals are only a few clicks away. And because we’re super helpful, we’ve compiled a neat selection of some of Edinburgh’s best online flower delivery services that can be with you with just the click of a finger and in time for any special occasion. On this list, you’ll find all types of flowers- from cheap and cheerful to boujee and bespoke – and many options for last-minute delivery. Which, as you can imagine, is the most popular choice. Hey, we’re not judging. We've been there before. So take a look, pick the perfect blooms and you’re all set. Well, it would be rude to say no, right? There are plenty of candles, chocolates, champagne, and other things too, of course. We'd accept it all.  How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 10 best Airbnbs in Texas, for the perfect stay in the Lone Star State

The 10 best Airbnbs in Texas, for the perfect stay in the Lone Star State

Despite its rep for barbeques, cowboys, and rodeos, Texas is one of the Union’s most diverse and fascinating states. The largest of the lower 48, the Lone Star State ranges from old west towns and desolate arid landscapes to buzzing cities and dazzling seaside resorts. If you’re headed to Texas and need a few pointers on where to stay, well, you’ve struck oil. We’ve worked our way through the state’s many, many Airbnbs to tell you which ones are the absolute best. Read on for our full list of Texas’ finest Airbnbs. RECOMMENDED:🌵 Check out the best things to do in Texas🛎 These are the best hotels in Austin🤠 Visit the best hotels in Dallas Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

The 15 best Airbnbs in Los Angeles, for the dreamiest LA vacation

The 15 best Airbnbs in Los Angeles, for the dreamiest LA vacation

Los Angeles is one of the most remarkable cities in the world. Hollywood films, gorgeous beaches and A-Listers: it’s a place of luxury, sunshine and some of the best restaurants in the country. It makes sense why the place is so popular. So, if you’re visiting for the first time, or you live just outside of the city and want a weekend break, consider renting a unique Airbnb in Los Angeles instead of your standard run-of-the-mill hotel. Choose from stylish homes in West Hollywood to architectural townhouses in Venice; you’ll find something no matter what vibe you’re looking for. These superb Airbnbs in Los Angeles might just convince you to become a full-time Angeleno – if you’re not one already, of course.   RECOMMENDED:🏨 See our full guide to the best hotels in Los Angeles🌴 Check out these top-of-the-range Palm Springs stays🏄‍♂️ Discover the best things to do while you're in LA🏖️ The best beachfront Airbnbs in L.A.🛀 The best hotels in Los Angeles with an in-room hot tub🏡 The best Airbnbs in Santa Monica  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Listings and reviews (4)

Spooky Spurs Stadium Tours

Spooky Spurs Stadium Tours

Few things in life are scarier than taking a penalty, but this spooky tour of Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium might be. From freaky face-painting to ghoulish games, there’ll be all sorts of Halloween-inspired activities for future Harry Kanes to get stuck into, culminating in a Halloween adventure around the stadium where they can search for all the hidden tricks and treats. There’ll even be a prize for the best spooky costumes (no Arsenal kits though, they’re far too scary!)  

Edgar Wright's London After Dark

Edgar Wright's London After Dark

Film fans are going to absolutely love this one. The director Edgar Wright is hosting a big old takeover at the BFI Southbank called ‘London After Dark’. Across October and November this year Wright’s takeover series will be a load of film screenings he's curated. But that's not all. They're not just a pick n mix of moving images. Oh no. This list of screenings is the exact list that has inspired his latest film ‘Last Night in Soho’. The idea being, you can sit there after dark in the lovely BFI Southbank and soak up all those films that have influenced Wright’s recent hit There are 17 screenings in total, with choices like ‘The Small World of Sammy Lee’, ‘Frenzy’, ‘Peeping Tom’, and more.

Brent Cross Winter Festival

Brent Cross Winter Festival

It's back! For just the second time ever, there's going to be a Brent Cross Winter Festival this year. Following on from the very well received 2019 winter festival, this year's instalment will be a great welcome back for the North-West Christmas festivities.  Despite being young, there's no shortage of attractions and activities to enjoy at the wonderland. From bars to bus rides, light displays to a giant observation wheel – the shopping center truly becomes a spot for all things Christmas cheer and quality time. Some of the main features you'll want to check out include the massive ice rink. We're talking one of the largest in London. Plus, and here's the good bit, it's indoors. So you can be sure the surface isn't getting washed out with that Dickensian winter rain. With the help of Santa’s little elves, you'll also find Santa Claus's Magical Grotto where children will be able to share their Christmas wishes with Santa. He's not flown over from the North Pole empty handed though, oh no. He's brought presents!  So come along, enjoy the festive season!   

Winterfest

Winterfest

Following the success of Winterfest in 2019, and a postponed event in 2020, Wembley Park’ will once again host Winterfest. On Thursday 25th November 2021, the festive (uh...) festival, will begin.  An official switch-on of London’s tallest LED tree at Wembley Park Boulevard will mark the start of the event, which contains a host of attractions and events (all visually focussed) which will run until January 4. The super-lit tree will also be the canvas for a series of brand-new digital artworks by Brent-based artist Yoni Alter. ‘City Lights’, will be made up of 100,000 kinetic lights which pulse to different rhythms and evoke the vibrancy and pace of a cityscape. That's a lot of light. Other attractions include ‘Reunion’, a unique light installation from Kumquat Lab, which will be unveiled in Market Square as a world exclusive. The idea of 'Reunion' is to celebrate us being able to interact after the pandemic. With this installation, light will become an interactive experience.  There will be other light installations and a photograph exhibition at Winterfest also. Plenty to see! 

News (57)

成長するウェールズの新世代ラップシーン

成長するウェールズの新世代ラップシーン

水曜日の夜、ウェールズの首都であるカーディフを訪れたなら、行くべき場所は一つしかない。 街の中心部にあるヴェニュー「Porter's」だ。ここではコメディアンのライブやパブクイズも開催されるが、最近はウェールズのローカルラップシーンに一番触れられる場所として人気。れんがの壁とコンクリート床に囲まれた空間では、ドリルからグライム、ガラージからヒップホップまで、同シーンから生まれるあらゆるサウンドを楽しむことができる。 道路を挟んですぐの場所には、ストームジー、ケンドリック・ラマー、ニッキー・ミナージュなどのスターたちがコンサートを行ってきた「カーディフ・インターナショナル・アリーナ」がある。かたや「Porter's」のキャパは100人ほど。しかし、ここを震源地の一つとするウェールズの「地元産」ラップは沸々と話題を集め、最近広く知られるようになってきている。 この1年間で、「ディフ」(カーディフの短縮形)出身の若手ラップアーティストが世界中で聴かれるようになり、ストリーミング再生回数の「100万超え」も出始めた。 その中で、22歳のラッパー、ジュース・メナスは2022年の夏、ウェールズ女子サッカーチームの「2023 FIFA女子ワールドカップ」予選キャンペーンにオリジナルトラックを提供。28歳のメイス・ザ・グレートは、男子サッカーチームの成功を祝う、エネルギッシュで国を愛する気持ちを込めたトラックをリリースした。 かつてはオルタナティブやエモ、メタルを中心に扱ってきたカーディフのヴェニューも、ラップシーンの中で大いに注目を集めるようになった。例えば 歴史的にインディー音楽と関わりが強かった「Clwb Ifor Bach」は、今ではラッパーやグライムファンが集まるライブを頻繁に開催している。このことでも分かるようにウェールズラップは流行しており、その規模はますます大きくなっているといえる。  Photograph: Porter’s 過去にも注目されたウェールズのラップシーン ウェールズがラップシーンが盛んな国として注目されたのは、これが初めてではない。DJであり、ブームタウン・フェスティバルの元音楽ディレクター、そしてウェールズ国立博物館のために同地のヒップホップについての展示キュレーションを担当したカプチン・バレットは次のように振り返る。 「1980年代初頭、ウェールズではグランドマスター・フラッシュ・アンド・ザ・フューリアス・ファイヴなどの曲をかけるディスコDJがいました。この地域から、4DeeやMC Ericのようなアーティストがラッパーとして登場するようになったのは、数年後です」 MC Ericは、カーディフでジャマイカ人の両親のもとに生まれ育つ。兄のサウンドシステムに合わせて言葉をリズムに乗せるようになり、その後はよりダイレクトにヒップホップに関わっている。彼は1980年代後半に、テクノトロニックのメンバーとして、当時大ヒットして時代を象徴する曲となった「Pump Up the Jam」に参加したこともある。 1990年代後半から2000年代前半にかけても、ウェールズには同様の波が押し寄せた。グライムパンクバンドのAstroid Boysはおそらくその頃の最大の存在だったといえる。2012年、彼らは「Fire in the Booth」にも出演を果たし、フリースタイルパフォーマンスを披露した。 しかし、何組かを除けば、ウェールズの才能はほとんどアンダーグラウンドにとどまっていた。次の世代のウェールズラップのスターにマイクを渡す前に、火が

The UK’s most exciting rap scene? It’s 131 miles from London – and only getting bigger

The UK’s most exciting rap scene? It’s 131 miles from London – and only getting bigger

If you ever catch yourself in Cardiff on a Wednesday night, there’s only one place you should go. At Porter’s, a 100-capacity venue in the city centre, you’ll discover a thriving rap scene that rivals pretty much anything else in the country. From drill to grime, garage to hip-hop, you’ll hear it all in this brick-walled, concrete-floored bar, which also hosts live comedy and pub quizzes. It’s just across the road from the Cardiff International Arena, which has previously hosted stars like Stormzy, Kendrick Lamar and Nicki Minaj. But right here, in the Welsh capital, a cauldron of homegrown rap is bubbling – and it’s starting to spill its raw guts all over the place. Over the past year, young rap artists from the ’diff have played across the world and streams are starting to surpass the million mark. Last summer, 22-year-old rapper Juice Menace released an exclusive track for the Welsh women’s football team’s 2023 World Cup qualifier campaign, while Mace the Great, 28, released an energetic, patriotic track celebrating the men’s team’s successes. Venues that were once reserved for alternative, emo and metal are taking plenty of notice too: Clwb Ifor Bach, historically associated with indie music, now often puts on gigs filled with MCs and grime fans. Needless to say: Welsh rap is a thing, and it’s only getting bigger.  Venues once reserved for emo and metal are now putting on gigs filled with MCs and grime fans This isn’t Wales’s first rodeo as a nation with a vibrant rap sce

A guide to London’s ten most affordable neighbourhoods

A guide to London’s ten most affordable neighbourhoods

Let’s be honest: there’s nowhere in London where it's properly cheap to rent a room, but it turns out there are neighbourhoods where you can still get a space for less than £600. Want to get to know what they are, where they are and what they’re like? Look no further. Here are the key details to know – from parks and pubs to big supermarkets and transport connections.  10. Palmers Green, N13 Average room rent £598.What’s it like? A suburban area beyond Tottenham. Broomfield Park is nice. River Lee isn’t far away. Best places to eat and drink Cypriot cuisine rules these quarters, the food at Nissi is a prime example. Big supermarkets nearby There’s a Waitrose in a weirdly fancy building, a Sainsbury’s and a big Morrisons. Transport connections Arnos Grove is just outside the postcode. Otherwise, buses run to central, and Palmers Green station has Great Northern and Thameslink trains. 9. Upper Edmonton, N18 Average room rent £595.What’s it like? A bustling, diverse area with a big Ikea and 
an even bigger park (Pymmes).Best places to eat and drink Lincoln’s Patisserie is a gem. Hilal Restaurant does great Turkish food. And try Enfield Brewery for pints. Big supermarkets nearby A huge Lidl, with a car park and all the rest. Transport connections There’s Edmonton Green Overground, a couple of buses and national rail from Meridian Water to Stratford every half an hour. 8. Wanstead and Leytonstone, E11 Average room rent £592.What’s it like? A slice of east London, further out than

Adele invited Grenfell survivors and firefighters to her London concert

Adele invited Grenfell survivors and firefighters to her London concert

Adele is without doubt, one of the best celebrity Londoners to have ever existed. Born in Tottenham, raised in Brixton and West Norwood (after a brief spell down in Brighton) she's up there with chicken shops, the Southbank skaters and railway arches with fun things in them when it comes to our city’s finest achievements.  Community has clearly been on Adele's mind too. Last night, to mark the release of her new album ‘30’, the singer hosted an episode of ITV's ‘An Audience With’. It was by all accounts, an A-List event. Dame Emma Thompson, Stormzy, Emma Watson and plenty more were in the audience. Mainly ambivalent about my Britishness until I watch something like Adele in London Palladium with Emma Thompson tryna get everyone up on their feet and Stormzy being all shy asking a question and then I'm like oi oi saveloy — Bolu Babalola (@BeeBabs) November 21, 2021 More importantly, Adele also invited plenty of Londoners who lived through the 2017 Grenfell Tower tragedy, including firefighters who were at the scene, and NHS staff. They were all treated to performances by Adele from her new album alongside some of her most popular tracks from the previous three records. She even gave them a special shout out ("Grenfell oi oi") during the show.  The emotional surprises were also gifted to Adele herself, who was prompted by Emma Thompson to speak about one of her inspirations from childhood, an old teacher called Miss McDonald. Was Miss McDonald in the audience? Yo

Nine Elms will turn into a giant advent calendar on December 1

Nine Elms will turn into a giant advent calendar on December 1

Yup, it’s that time of the year once more! Sure, there are already mince pies in the supermarkets and mulled wine at the pub, but for many people the festive season truly begins when December arrives and we can start on our advent calendars. And for south-west Londoners that tradition has become larger than life. For the third year, Nine Elms is transforming into a massive neighbourhood advent calendar.    The area will be hosting a huge, sprawling art trail, organised by Nine Elms Art Ministry. Twenty-four venues will each host an art installation – so there will be literally 24 doors to open. This year the theme is Peace on Earth. The artists involved have responded to that with all manner of creative and innovative installations, including a giant vintage collage, a floating barge and a living forest (you’ll find that in New Covent Garden Market). Artists include Saskia Jiggens, Adalberto Lonardi and Michael Wallner – all of who were part of the event last year – and many others based in the borough and beyond.  You can visit the trail on foot, using a special map to navigate your way around all of the installations – and you can check out the two new tube stations in the area while you’re at it. The trail is also available online, should you not fancy the cold: Nine Elms Arts Ministry’s social media channels will highlight one venue, and its artist and installation, each day. The event will start on December 1 (duh) and the work will be up until January 5, but the online

The Union Chapel needs your help to raise funds

The Union Chapel needs your help to raise funds

Islington’s Union Chapel is a true cornerstone of its community. The late nineteenth-century Gothic-revival building has a place in the lives of many: worshippers go there for services (it is still a working church), audiences enjoy live entertainment there and homeless people use its drop-in centre. Times are tough, though. The chapel has, like so many other venues, lost a huge amount of its live-events income as a result of the pandemic and lockdown restrictions. With Covid cases still high across London, there’s still an uncertainty in the air when it comes to planning for its future. This isn’t stopping the Union Chapel from persisting with the expansion of its charity programmes, though. London’s most vulnerable need our help more than ever. Please join @frankturner @hornesection @TheMaeMartin @stephenkb in supporting our crowdfunder. Please watch. Watch donate. Please share.https://t.co/D9M1CKF71b — Union Chapel London (@UnionChapelUK) November 20, 2021 The issue is that 80 percent of the chapel’s charity income was earned through its events, so now it will need help from the generous public (that’s you!) to achieve its goal of accumulating £120,000 over the next 30 days. The campaign has already raised more than £5,000, with support from the likes of Frank Turner and Deborah Frances-White. The funds will go towards supporting the Union Chapel’s community work for the rest of 2021 and rebuilding the Grade II-listed Sunday school hall, turning it in

Eggslut has dropped its first Christmas Sandwich

Eggslut has dropped its first Christmas Sandwich

Christmas menus are great, aren't they? What says ‘oh my goodness I get some time off work soon’ better than a limited-edition lunch number from the lunch spot ten-yards away from your office? Nothing. Exactly. If you’re a little done with the usual supermarket/superchain fare though, Eggslut might offer something a little different this year. They've just announced their new seasonal items.  Let’s get deep into what they're cooking for a second. The Eggslut Christmas Sandwich is a brand-new creation. The heart of it is a turkey and sage patty with a 'Christmas spiced' butter, and the toppings are cranberry sauce, rocket, plus a quality fried egg (Clarence Court Burford Brown, for the egg heads among you) on top. All of which is slotted between two slices of a brioche bun from Bread Ahead. Nice. It comes in at £9.95. They’re also bringing back their non-alcoholic Eggnog drink (which is a fiver).  You can pick up the festive goods at their stores across London (there’s one in Portobello, Fitzrovia and Shoreditch) from December 2 (that's day two of the Advent Calendar!) and on Deliveroo. Customers who order via Deliveroo or click and collect on the eggslut app can redeem a free Salted Chocolate Chip Cookie with any sandwich and drink (when ordered together) also, for a bit of an extra treat. If you're thinking ahead to morning munching on the big day itself, the Fitzrovia branch will be open from 8am - 5pm on actual Christmas Day. Pretty ideal if you're the type to accidentally

The West End’s Christmas lights switch-on was the largest in the world

The West End’s Christmas lights switch-on was the largest in the world

Oxford Street usually unveils its Christmas lights first, but this year 20 streets across the West End, including Regent Street, Bond Street and areas in Mayfair and Piccadilly, all lit up in sync last week for what was the biggest switch-on in the world. Between them, they’re using more than a million LEDs. The Oxford Street display is brand new for this year, consisting mainly of nice calming stars, which make a lovely impact in the night sky. Pretty magical looking, really. As per, Bond Street’s installation is pretty stunning too, making use of opulent peacock motifs.  Instagrammers have been loving the lights too, with dozens of snaps already being uploaded to the grids. Here’s a little look at the photos people have taken. The lights should be on until early January. Best off seeing them at night-time, naturally.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by London UK 🇬🇧 (@its_so_london)   View this post on Instagram A post shared by م (@mmn.inldn) View this post on Instagram A post shared by 珍妮 (@jennie_zznnnn) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wellington Araújo (@wellington_anaju) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Magdalena Skorupa (@magdalena_skorupa_) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Delia (@youmenthesea)

That little ticket Kiosk near Leicester Square is up for sale

That little ticket Kiosk near Leicester Square is up for sale

Ever walked past that tiny kiosk near the Garrick Theatre? The little round one tucked under a lamp-post, that used to be a bit of haven for cheap, last-minute tickets to theatre and music shows across the city? Well if you have, and enjoyed it, you might be pleased to know it's up for grabs. How much? Oh just 3.3 million great British pounds, plus VAT. That's right, for more than three million pounds the kiosk could be yours. Tourist Island, it's known as. From the surface you might be scratching your head as to the price tag, as it's a mere 250 square foot on ground level, which is roughly the same size as a small (maybe very small) studio apartment. However, there's also a basement which is a much more spacious 1448 square feet (nearly six times the size), according to Metro. On the for sale sign it’s described as a freehold with 1700Sq ft of space, so the numbers add up. This also means you're paying around £1943 per square foot.  It's actually been on the market for eight months or so. Prompted by the freehold ending, TKTS presumably decided to pass the building onto another business, having taken their ticket sales online. They first used the space for ticket selling in 2011, and stopped operations in Spring 2021. The spot has recently been brought to attention as a result of good bants on the Facebook Group Londonist Urban Oddities, where people have speculated what the new function of ‘Iconic Island’ should be, and whether it'll end up on Grand Designs. While the top-

London’s David Bowie pop-up shop has opened

London’s David Bowie pop-up shop has opened

If you're looking for new things to do in London, here's an idea that'll help you ch-ch-change up your itinerary. A David Bowie pop-up shop has opened in near Soho.  Running from October 25 through to late January 2022, the ‘retail experience’ will have a load of drops, including signed memorabilia and other rare and unique merchandise. It's intended to be a place to celebrate the life of David Bowie, exploring his super-prolific and influential career across music, fashion and art.   At the store, fans are able to watch and listen to Bowie content for the first time, using immersive audio. There’s also hour upon hour of unseen behind-the-scenes footage and clips to enjoy. If that wasn’t enough, there’s an extensive gallery of photography and installations offering new insight into Bowie's career, so you’ll be wanting to visit time and time again.  Should you want to swing by, the shop is at 14 Heddon Street, not too far from Piccadilly Circus. Bit of trivia for you: This is a couple of doors away from where Bowie (well, Ziggy Stardust if we're being specific) posed for that moody late-night shot that became the album cover of ‘The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars’. If you're on the other side of the ocean, no worries, a sister shop is opening on 150 Wooster Street in downtown Manhattan. This spot is also significant, being near the house Bowie lived in while creating the final album he released during his lifetime, ‘Blackstar’.  The store is

Sadiq Khan launches £25,000 grants to change street names in London

Sadiq Khan launches £25,000 grants to change street names in London

Back in June 2020, in the wake of the George Floyd protests, Mayor Sadiq Khan announced The Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm. The initiative was founded to review and improve diversity and representation in public spaces across the capital, including statues and landmarks.  A little over a year on, a study (the first diligent one of its kind) has found that London has more statues of animals than it does of named women. The study also found that around 1 per cent of sculptures are dedicated to named people of colour, with just 0.2 per cent being named women of colour, as the Guardian has noted.  These (less than good) findings have prompted the mayor’s office to announce a £1m fund to help kick-start actual change across the city where representation in public spaces is concerned for "Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, women, LGBTQ+ communities and disabled people" a statement says. The initiative also extends to reviewing current landmarks, statues and street names across London, in a bid to decolonise the city we all live in together. As part of these efforts, grants of up to £25,000 are being made available for community-led groups that wish to remove and replace street names, building names, and memorials in their area that reference figures responsible for slavery and other events of oppression and colonialism.  The first round of Untold Stories grant applications opened on October 21 and will close on January 12, 2022. The applications are open t

Camley Street Natural Park has reopened

Camley Street Natural Park has reopened

Did you know that quite literally right next to Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross, there’s a unique urban nature reserve? Well, there is! It’s called Camley Street Natural Park. It isn’t massive (clocking in at around a hectare) but it boasts a huge variety of habitats and wildlife that you can spend the day discovering and getting lost in.  Get ready, the canalside park includes: woodland, grassland and wetland habitats, such as meadow, ponds, marshy areas and reed beds. These diverse environments attract insects, amphibians, birds, mammals and hundreds of plant species. Quite the line-up!  The reserve has been a park since 1985, but its history dates back to the eighteenth century, when it was an industrial area. Until the 1960s the spot was used as a coal drop for the railways but it became derelict. Then it was colonised by nature, so the London Wildlife Trust campaigned to save the site from redevelopment, and succeeded. In December 2017 the park closed for reconstruction and reopened in September 2021. The makeover includes a new Visitor and Learning Centre featuring a café. Other improvements include better accessibility and interpretation, and there has also been ‘habitat enhancement’ work taking place.  Camley Street is also creating a butterfly and invertebrate bank, which is being worked on in collaboration with the park’s volunteers. So you might notice some differences there from one month to the next. Nice to have a new spot to walk to in central, isn't it?  Visit