London’s Must-try Sunday Roast Restaurants

Sunday roast has been an English tradition that traces its roots back to the reign of King Henry VII in the 15^th century. The famous Yeoman of the Guard, an elite bodyguard of the British Monarch are said to have influenced the tradition. Also known as “beefeaters”, the Guard was fond of eating roast beef. 

Because of this, the huge popularity of roast beef resulted in the tradition of the Sunday Roast. Families and friends still hold the tradition of serving roast beef with sides such as roast potatoes and Yorkshire pudding.

Some people also say that the tradition came from the old Catholic roots. As penance to the death of Jesus Christ, eating meat on Fridays was banned. It’s claimed that Sunday roast started there because after abstaining on Fridays, the people wanted to eat meat so bad.

To this day, the tradition still exists. There are many Sunday roast restaurants in London in which you can honor the tradition during your stay at any of the hotels near Wembley Stadium.

Roast

The name alone suggests that it’s a good restaurant. Near Borough Market, Roast is never short of fresh ingredients. Aside from the tasty meat dishes, they also have vegan offerings.

If you’re feeling up to it, you can see the market for yourself.

The Harwood Arms

The only pub in London which can brag of a Michelin star, The Harwood Arms offers good food while you’re watching games. 

It’s also located in Fulham which is in the vicinity of the Fulham Palace and the Bishops Park.

The Holy Bush

A village-like feel in the busy city of London that’s what The Holy Bush will give you. Their Sunday roasts are popular, and you can also try their great ale. 

To prepare your appetite for the feast, you can walk on Hampstead Heath on your way to the restaurant which is just 6-minutes away from the Best Western Palm Hotel Golders Green.

The Admiral Codrington

The “Cod” is famous for serving Scottish beef, slowly cooked to bring out the meat’s flavors. It’s a traditional pub that serves good food. 

To prepare your appetite, take a walk at the nearby King’s Road.

The Jugged Hare

The Jugged Hare grills beef, chicken, and mutton. They also offer steaks and fish. While you’re waiting for the Sunday roast, you can spend your time watching your own food being cooked on the rotisseries.

Their ingredients come from the nearby Billingsgate Market. If you have time to spare, try the market and see the goods.

The Dining Room at The Goring Hotel

Dress up and book a table at this restaurant, which has seen much English nobility dine there. It’s the perfect place if you want a Sunday roast, and want to feel like royalty.

The Swan at the Globe Theatre

Self-proclaimed “the Great British roast that needs no introduction”, this restaurant has roasted fresh meat and puddings in its menu. 

You can even visit Shakespeare’s home in the Globe theatre which is just walking distance from the restaurant.

Two reasons why London is popular among tourists, local and international alike: food and sights. It’s like a melting pot for all things delicious and beautiful. 

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Set Out Your Summer at Somerset House

The smell of stall food wafting in the air, the starry summer sky high above you and excellent films that pull you into a world of their own… that’s the Somerset House experience! Somerset House is the place to be for film fanatics, outdoorsy types, and in general, anyone who loves to kick back, relax, and enjoy a good movie with family or friends during your stay at any of the hotels near Wembley Arena.

Built with London’s rich cultural history in mind, Somerset is the center of art and creativity in the UK. With origins tracing back all the way to the 18^th century, the building is a beloved icon for artists in London, and it continues to draw the attention of more than three million visitors per year. Serving as an inspiration to aspirants in the field of art, Somerset hosts exhibits and public programs of all kinds, such as the Film4 Summer Screen.

The Film4 Summer Screen is a seasonal event that occurs every summer - from early May to late August. Featuring a giant outdoor screen, high-quality movies, and enough surround sound to bring any movie to life, the open-air cinema will keep you glued to your seat throughout the night!

For those interested in a memorable cinematic experience, head over to Strand, London WC2R 1LA by riding a train from Charing Cross station, Blackfriars station, or Waterloo station.

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The Film4 Summer Screen begins on August 8 and lasts until August 21. Doors open at 7PM, while film viewing starts at approximately 9PM. A DJ will appear every night to keep your eyes and ears entertained, while you wait and enjoy your time with family and friends. Somerset House is also open all-yearlong, with the exception of December 25. 

Everyone and anyone is welcome to attend Film4 Summer Screen 2019! To book your tickets, just visit www.somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on/film4-summer-screen or book via telephone. Just call 0333 320 2836. The tickets for each screening costs £2.75. Book your tickets now! Ticket sales start on May 22 and will continue for the duration of the event.

Please note that cameras, video cameras, and other audio recording devices are prohibited. In order to avoid noise disruption, pets and children under the age of four are also not allowed to attend the film screening. However, bringing your own food and drinks is permitted.

You can reserve seats onsite; the event offers beanbags and director’s chairs for less than £30.00 while picnic-style reservations cost a little over £20.00. Different movies are featured every night; check their website for the official list!

And while you’re waiting for the day of the film screening, why not enjoy a party at Palm Hotel, and enjoy their wonderful service. Make your way to Palm Hotel which is one of the best North West London party venues at 64-76 Hendon Way, North West London NW2 2NL.

Notable Events You Shouldn’t Miss in London this May 2019

Traveling to London this May? Great timing because not only is it the summer season but also two long weekends are scheduled this month. What could that mean?

Here are some notable events you shouldn’t miss when you stay with us at the Best Western Hendon Way London this May 2019.

London Craft Week

Check out innovative British craftsmanship at this weeklong event. Discover both emerging and experienced craftsmen display their best works as London Craft Week returns to the capital this May 8-12.

London Wine Week. Experience wine tasting all week long in this annual celebration of all things grapes. Head on to Flat Iron Square for a week of wine parties this May 13-19.

Museums at Night. See London’s culture and heritage in a whole new light as museums and galleries keep their doors open late for this twice-yearly festival. Enjoy evening tours, quiz nights and other late night museum happenings this May 15-18.

Photo London. Get stunned with vividly-captured images as Somerset House presents Photo London. Join the gathering of world-class photographers, exhibitors, and curators as they celebrate the art of photography this May 16-19.

Museum of the Moon. Witness the grandeur of the moon up-close in Luke Jerram’s art installation at the Natural History Museum. Check out details of the moon’s surface as seen in NASA imagery via the six-meter model, complete with accompanying soundscape. Jerram’s moon lands at the Museum this May 17-September 8.

FA Cup Final. Join legions of football fans as they gather for the biggest football event in the UK: the FA Cup Final. Head on to Wembley Stadium near the budget hotels you are staying or enjoy the game in pubs all over London this May 18.

You can also read: Your Handy Guide to the London Craft Week

RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Enjoy the sight of colorful flower displays at the annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Catch the biggest horticultural event in West London this May 21-25.

Foodies Festival. Satisfy your street food and restaurant food menu cravings as the UK holds its biggest food festival. Foodies will surely enjoy the event as culinary experts and celebrity chefs grace the Foodies Festival in Syon Park this May 25-27.

London History Day. Find out what makes London such a unique city on London History Day. Learn about the capital’s history, culture and heritage through behind the scenes tours, rarely seen exhibits and one-off events this May 31.

There are tons of exciting activities that await you in London this May 2019. Whether you’re a nature-lover, art enthusiast, sports fan or foodie, there’s an event that fits your taste.

If you are thinking of visiting these wonderful events then check out our palm hotel which is also one of the best North West London party venues for some great offers.

The House of Wax: Visiting Madame Tussauds in London

Madame Tussauds is one of the most popular museums in the world, housing life-like wax figures of some of the world’s best-known royalties and celebrities. It has locations all over the world, with seven of those in Europe, seven in the United States, and nine in Asia. Perhaps the most famous Madame Tussauds is the one located in London, which was built in 1835. For guests staying with us at the Best Western Hendon Way London, this is one not to be missed.

Who lives there?

The English royalties are the most notable residents of Madame Tussauds. Tourists never miss the opportunity to have their photos taken with the life-size figures of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Harry, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Wax replicas of some of the who’s who in the music industry are also displayed. Musical greats like Adele, Freddie Mercury, Kanye West, Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, One Direction and Rihanna are present. Top athletes like Mohammad Ali, Mo Farrah, Jessica Ennis-Hill, Rafael Nadal, Tom Daley, and Usain Bolt are also there.

You can also have your picture taken next to the most loved Hollywood celebrities in their most iconic roles. This includes Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen of The Hunger Games, Whoopi Goldberg in her role in Sister Act, and Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Some of the Avengers have also assembled there with wax figures of the Hulk, Spiderman, Iron Man, Wolverine, and Invisible Woman. The figures for E.T. and the Terminator are also hard to miss.

You can also read: London’s springtime exhibitions

For Star Wars fanatics, a special section is dedicated to recreating several memorable settings in the movie franchise. This includes Cantina, the duel of fates, Jabba the Hutt’s throne room, the Millennium Falcon, Mustafar, Tatooine, and Yoda’s Dagobah.

Geniuses from different fields are also present in the culture section with three-dimensional figures of Albert Einstein, Charles Dickens, Stephen Hawking, and William Shakespeare.

How often is it updated?

Madame Tussauds’ line-up is regularly updated. In the mock-up of the Oval Office in the White House, the figure of Barrack Obama has now been replaced with that of Donald Trump. Temporary sections like that of Warcarft and Angry Birds have also been put up to mark the release of both movies in 2016.

How can I find it?

Madame Tussauds in London is on Marylebone Road in Marylebone. You can reach it either by taking the Tube or riding in a bus.  

How do I get there from Best Western Palm Hotel?

There are several ways to get there from Palm Hotel which is one of the best hotels near Wembley Stadium. The fastest when commuting is by taking the Line 113 bus to Finchley Road station, then taking the subway to Baker Street station. Another way is by walking from the hotel to Cricklewood station, then taking the subway straight to Baker Street station. You can also take the Line bus 113 straight to Baker Street Station. If you’re not on a budget and wants to get there as quickly as possible, black cabs and minicabs are also available.

When is it open?  

Madame Tussauds operating hours vary to accommodate school holidays and projected demands throughout the year. On months when the schools are in, the museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM on weekdays, then 9 AM to 5 PM on weekends. On half-term, summer holidays and Easter, operating hours is between 8:30 AM to 6 PM. December 25 is the only day it doesn’t open.

Where can I buy tickets?

The best way to buy tickets is through Madame Tussauds’ website as buying tickets at the booth might cost more than double. You can also take advantage of great deals where you can buy packaged tickets for a visit to the museum and other great attractions nearby such as the London Dungeon, London Eye, SEALIFE Aquarium, and Shrek’s Adventure. Ticket validity for these deals is 90 days from your Madame Tussauds visit. Prices may change on peak seasons.

What else is in the neighborhood?

Just along Baker Street, you’ll find the Regent’s Park, which is a 395-acre lot, with an open-air theater, and also home to the London Zoo. The Sherlock Holmes Museum is also on the same street.

You’ll also find the Wallace Collection further into Marylebone. It houses one of Europe’s most priceless collections of artworks, furniture, arms and armor, and porcelains. Further south, brings you to Oxford Street, which is the busiest shopping street in Europe.

  

The Definitive Guide to Boxing Day Sales in London

London goes on a bank holiday on the 26^th of December. This is also the day when most people go on shopping sprees given the number of sales available. Locals refer to it as Boxing Day.

Want to partake in this seasonal opportunity to find some of the best deals London has to offer? Well, book a stay at any of the budget accommodation in North London and arm yourself with these tips to make sure you’re ready for what’s ahead.

Shopping Tips

Public Transport – How to Get to the Shops

• Can you take the tube on Boxing Day?

On Boxing Day, tube services use their Sunday service schedule. This means that the tube start operations later than usual (around 7.30am onwards) and runs on a lower frequency schedule.

Some of the service lines might also be closed so it is prudent to check the TFL (Transport for London) before you go.

• Can you take the buses?

Buses run from 6am onwards. They are available 24 hours a day but run on a Sunday service.

• Can you take a cab?

Cabs are available on Boxing Day. They are likely to charge you extra on Boxing Day, however. Ask about the extra charges before you travel.

• Is it advisable to drive in Central London at this time?

Congestion charges do not apply on Boxing Day so you can drive at this time. Bear in mind that traffic is likely to be heavy because of the festive season.

You can also read: Top 5 Child-friendly Tourist Attractions in London

Where to Go for the Best Sales

• Designer shopping

Boxing Day markdowns should give an opportunity to get your designer faves, without needing to burn a hole right through your wallet. For nationally loved brands such as Burberry, Regent Street is the place to go. You will find a full range of premium shops offering designer items from Karl Lagerfeld to Kate Spade at big discounts.

If you want distinctive, one-of-a-kind items that are difficult to find elsewhere, check out the quirky stores along Carnaby Street.

• High-street shopping

You will not go wrong by heading to Oxford Street. This is where you will find New Look, H&M, Zara and other high-street fashion. You can also visit the world-renowned Selfridges department store for designer brands.

• All-Under-One-Roof Shopping

Check out Harrods in Knightsbridge for some of the biggest discounts you will find on Boxing Day. Harrods has designer clothes, accessories, beauty products, food, wine, and even electrical items at unbelievably low prices – all under one roof.

Westfield White City is another popular shopping destination on Boxing Day. You will find more than chic designer labels and classic high street brands here. The shopping centre goes all out to give you their visitors an unforgettable Boxing Day shopping experience by mixing fantastic discounts with dazzling Christmas lights/décor, and choirs serenading everyone with beloved holiday tunes.

Other Tips

Other tips you should consider include the following:

• Get there early.

Prepare a priority list – and head immediately for the shops that are on top of your list first. Shopping can get quite frantic. Some queues may start as early as 5am!

• Bring carrier bags.

You are likely to buy more than what you expect. Take a number of carrier bags with you. Shops charge 5p for each bag that you ask for.

No matter if you are looking for fun, adventure, relaxation or a nature encounter during this time of the year in London, you can find a variety of hotels and North West London party venues suitable for you. Use these tips as your guide and you are guaranteed to have a great Boxing Day shopping experience in London.

Hogwarts In The Snow- Magical Christmas at Hogwarts

Harry Potter Studio is holding a Christmas event. The studio set is dressed in festive decorations, such as handmade Christmas cards, faux snow, prop dining feast, and well-lit fireplaces, in celebration of the much awaited season of the year. Everyone is encouraged to come over.

Upon entry, guests are offered drinks at the reception hall, before main tour begins. Feel free to take a trip to the Lobby Café and the Studio Shop before the start of the tour.

Dive into the world of Wizardry with the life-size sets of their famous locations; the Platform 9 ¾ that houses the secret Hogwarts' Express, the once busy street of Diagon Alley, the enormous Hogwarts' Dine Hall, and the Forbidden Forest filled with 19 pieces of 12ft trees shrouded with mysteries.

Explore more with the movie props; from the collection of potions for the school's apothecary department to the plate collection of Professor Umbridge's Pink Office. Guests are allowed to wear some of the costumes. Learn more about the magic behind the scenes with their Special and Visual Effects team and set.

You can choose between the Breakfast Canape or Breakfast Buffet package while enjoying the scenery of the Hogwarts Castle Model. You can also enjoy dining at the Great Hall of the set of Platform 9 ¾. You can have a taste of the famous Butterbeer, too.

You can also read: The Magical World of Toys Comes Alive in London

The event starts on the 17th of November, 2018 to the 27th of January, 2019 at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London located at Leavesden, Hertfordshire. Shuttle bus is available every 30mins (on average) starting at 9 am at Watford Junction. Single tickets cost £2 while return tickets cost £2.50. Note that shuttle bus tickets are only available in cash; not card.

If traveling by train, you can pick between London Euston (20mins travel time) and Birmingham New Street (1hr travel time) going to Watford Junction. Only Oyster Cards are acceptable at London Euston and Watford Junction.

For those who are staying in the Best Western Palm Hotel and opt to travel in their own vehicles, parking is free of charge. When using SatNav, the postcode is WD25 7LR. Do take note that the code might be unavailable on some systems. Upon arrival, seek the brown label with the name of the location written on it, as a guide to the destination. Pets are not allowed inside the attraction for safety measures.

Bus transfers are accessible, thanks to the studio's partnership with Golden Tours. Check on the official site for more information.

Pre-booking for the studio tour is a must, and ticket purchasing is available on the event's official website. For individuals, tickets for adults are valued at £43, and the complete studio tour package costs £52.95. Tickets are valued at £35 (and £44.95 for the complete package) for children aged 5-15 years old and they are required to be accompanied by an adult. Kids aged 0-4 years old are free of charge. For groups of 10-24 persons, tickets are lowered at £41 for adults and £33 for children.

Information about other inclusions and for bigger groups is available on their site. There is also a downloadable brochure. Tickets will be handed out to guests once they arrive at the site.

To ensure that you will be able to make the most out of your visit, you should consider renting a hotel near Wembley Arena.

EFG London Jazz Festival 2018

One of the most awaited festivals in the city of London is the EFG London Jazz Festival. This year, it runs from November 16, Friday to November 25, Sunday. There are many events happening during this festival. Visitors and jazz fans can choose from the expanding line-up of shows and performances to celebrate jazz music. Check in at any  North London hotels with parking during the festival and head out to various venues to celebrate jazz music.

About the Jazz Festival

This is the 26^th year that the city is celebrating the Jazz Festival. It is a 10-day festival with events happening in 60 different venues across the city. There are 2,500 artists performing in different venues. There are over 250 shows in the best arts centers and concert halls in London. This includes the Royal Albert Hall, the Southbank Centre, the 606 Club, the Artsdepot, Cadogan Hall, Ronnie Scott’s, Wigmore Hall, Rich Mix Centre, Kings Place, Barbican Centre, and The Forge. 

One of the many highlights of the festival is the performance by Madeleine Peyroux happening at the Royal Festival Hall. On the last night of the festival, Bill Laurance collaborates with the WDR Big Band. Laurance is the brilliant pianist behind the Grammy Award-winning Snarky Puppy. The WDR Big Band is led by Bob Mintzer.

Young bands will perform as well for the festival, along with many international legends. Outstanding collaborations such as the one with Laurance and WDR Big Band will be shown in various shows. Emerging British jazz stars will also be performing.

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Ticket prices

Everyone is invited to join the city in this annual celebration of one of the best music festivals in the world. Ticket prices vary among the shows, events and performances. Generally, tickets range from £10 to £40. The opening gala is at £49.50.

Tickets are available online such as from See Tickets and Ticketmaster UK. Some events may also have tickets right at the gate on the event itself.

Who will be performing?

The list of performances is expanding. So, you must book a stay at an affordable hotel near Wembley Stadium in advance. There will be an inspiring tribute to the life and works of jazz legend Hugh Masekela. Performers at the tribute include Masekela’s full band, a stellar vocalist cast and a top class brass section. 

Sarah-Jane Morris will give her own version of John Martyn’s opus.

A welcome for another legend will be given to Archie Shepp for his return to the festival. Shepp was a key force in jazz evolution in the modern era. His event is called Art Sings and Spirituals. It will showcase extraordinary talents with the likes of Carleen Anderson and Amina Claudine Myers. 

The event Windrush: A Celebration is headed by Anthony Joseph. He will be rounding up an impressive line-up of artists to celebrate Caribbean spirit. Performers for this event include rhythm poet Brother Resistance, legendary artist Calypso Rose and Jason Yarde. 

Returning to the festival is Kandace Springs. She had a successful sold-out show in EFG London Jazz Festival two years ago. Fans will once again hear her voice, dubbed by Prince as “a voice that could melt snow”. 

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