Richmond Bridge – [Local History Notes: 7]
Long before Richmond Bridge was built, a ferry was operating at the site, that is from Ferry Hill (now Bridge Street) across to Twickenham Meadows. There were 2 boats: one…
The Shell Guides: a short history
Introduction In 1933 John Betjeman, who was then working for Architectural Review magazine, came up with the idea for a series of county guides. He conceived the guides as an…
Merlin’s Cave and The Hermitage – [Local History Notes: 6]
These were built in the gardens of Richmond Lodge by Queen Caroline (wife of George II) while she was resident there. The Queen took great interest in the gardens and…
The Observatory and Obelisks, Kew – [Local History Notes: 5]
The Observatory was built for George III, a keen amateur astronomer. The architect was Sir William Chambers (1726-1796) who also designed the Pagoda in Kew Gardens. Observatory, Kew (Old Deer…
St Anne’s Church, Kew Green – [Local History Notes: 4]
St Anne's Church, Kew Green The hamlet of Kew had a chapel in the 16th century, but this was the private chapel of Thomas Byrkis at Kew Farm and the…
Which? magazine – the consumers’ champion
Introduction Which? magazine is published by the Consumers' Association and first appeared in 1957. Its aim, then as now, is to provide impartial, independent reviews and testing of consumer products.…
Make a Noise in Libraries (MANIL2019)
Make a Noise in Libraries official banner. Richmond upon Thames Borough Libraries will once again be participating in Make a Noise in Libraries (MANIL), organised by the Royal National Institute of Blind…
York House, Twickenham – [Local History Notes: 3]
York House (river frontage) York House, Twickenham was built in the 17th century (but added to in subsequent centuries), this fine house stands at the eastern end of a drive…
Behind the scenes of Storytime
Library staff are passionate about books and we love sharing great stories with children. One of the ways we do this is by holding free Storytime sessions for small children…
Cityread 2019
One City. One Month. One Book. This month sees the return of Cityread, the city-wide celebration of reading and London. Each year one book is chosen as the focal point…