london Archives - Katie Charlotte Blogs

Ladbrokes’ Wimbledon Summer Party

A few weeks ago I was kindly invited to Ladbrokes’ Wimbledon Summer Party in London with a bunch of other bloggers. With such cute invitations, how could a girl resist throwing on a white frock to celebrate the Tennis on a Friday night…

One Night in Luxury at The Petersham Hotel

Last Friday night I was lucky to stay in this beautiful hotel in Richmond, perhaps one of the grandest places I have had the pleasure of staying in.

From its impressive exterior to the magnificent interior, The Petersham is without question the perfect escape. Situated less than 10 miles from central London, its beautiful landscape views of the River Thames and surrounding greenery make you feel like you’re in the heart of the English countryside – far, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. There is something regal about the place, easy to imagine what it would have been like to live in during the mid 1800’s, when the hotel was born. With it’s high ceilings, grand staircase and historic art gracing the walls – honey, I was no longer in Kansas.

Arriving at past midnight, I dragged my dancing feet off to bed, not without admiring the art and impressive décor en route.

Before I could whip off my clothes and jump into my PJ’s, Nia had already put the TV on and we proceeded to drink tea and share plenty of giggles watching Smack the Pony. Then I fell asleep.

No bed will ever compare to the one at home, but I have to give this one at The Petersham a respectable 7 out of 10. Not the comfiest but by no means the worst that I’ve slept on, I was fast asleep seconds after hitting the pillow. Once we had managed to roll out of bed and change out of our finest jim-jams, it was time to head downstairs for breakfast (not down the fire escape, may I add).

The views from the dining room were stunning.

Each of us had a delicious Full English, which cost £14 per head, but with scenic views, lavish surroundings and impeccable service (oh and free pastries, may I add) – it was worth every penny. When in Rome….

Before we knew it, it was time to leave.

Whether you are planning a weekend away with a loved one, a girls weekend away or just a fancy schmancy stopover en route into the centre of London, I would highly recommend a stay at The Petersham hotel in Richmond.

And if these photos don’t do it for you, I can reveal you even get some cheeky biscuits in your room…

*I have to say a big thank you to Nia, Sue and Paul for inviting me along – I had a fab time!

Brother and Bones, Scala London

Last week I headed to London to see Brother and Bones.

If you haven’t heard of them, then this post is a real treat for your ears (and eyes).

The five-piece London based band (who have Cornish roots) are doing incredibly well, with a radio interview and performance for Dermot O’Leary’s Radio 2 show in the bag and are currently on a European tour – they even have 3 support dates with Bastille on their return. These guys are unstoppable.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/2s20kRj7V7g]

Last Wednesday my friends and I travelled over to the venue Scala, near Kings Cross, and enjoyed a 90 minute set of alt rock/acoustic goodness. I’ll let the music and images do most of the talking…

They opened up with ‘Raining Stone‘, a perfect choice to get the crowd warmed up.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/mHrW_4Ug4X8]

After singing Happy Birthday to lead vocalist Rich Thomas, they played one of my favourites, ‘For All We Know’, an easy one to sing along to (and have stuck in your head for days).

[youtube=http://youtu.be/vzlb-_-3jNU]

One of the highlights for me was a beautiful acoustic performance of ‘Gold and Silver’…and ladies, I’m sure you’ll agree that Rich’s voice is enough to make you go weak at the knees.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/5YRRalNNZLo]

One thing I discovered from the gig was how dedicated and passionate Brother and Bones fans are – it was as if they had come to see a band at the level of Kings of Leon, for example. They knew all the lyrics, and there was limited moshing (great for those like me who hate being pushed around and smacked around the crowd).

The band had the entire crowd singing along to the majority of songs, even having everyone chanting for an encore at the end. I had an amazing time, with (dare I say it) this gig being one of the best gigs I’ve been to (good company also essential – thanks Tilda & Esme!)

I’ve actually been re-living the gig in my mind quite a bit since, and I’m sure after watching their videos and listening to their awesome music you’ll be booking tickets to see them soon too.

For more information, check out their website and YouTube channel.

http://www.brotherandbones.com/

https://www.youtube.com/user/BrotherAndBones

Until the next gig…