GH_EllieS

Get creative with London’s must-see art exhibitions

February 26, 2016 by GH_EllieS

This week, we’ve been checking out the hottest art exhibitions happening in the capital this season for the creative minds out there that like to let their imagination loose. London is one of the top art destinations of the world and you simply cannot go wrong with any of the popular galleries or exhibitions scattered around the city that are guaranteed to intrigue you. Be inspired this spring with some of the latest art shows exclusively showcasing the incredible talent of an artist’s mind, or gaze upon the wonderful masterpieces sitting pretty in some of London’s famous galleries.

How to treat your valentine this February 14th in London

February 11, 2016 by GH_EllieS

Just when you thought the stress of showering loved ones with gifts, hugs and kisses for Christmas was over, it’s time to do it again. It’s the day that all couples must co-operate to keep each other sweet and the day that singles simply pretend doesn’t exist (understandably). So to get to the point, if the thought of Valentine’s Day makes you cringe a little inside, look away now. If you’re totally loved up and in need of some inspiration that will sweep your partner off their feet, read on. London is ready for you to board the love train this Feb 14th, so here’s how you can spoil your partner with a gift they deserve!

National Breakfast Week – Why is breakfast so important?

January 28, 2016 by GH_EllieS

Did you know that a quarter of us skip breakfast once or more in the week? Many Londoners are far too caught up in our own everyday routine to stop, sit down and tuck into a good hearty breakfast to prepare us for the busy day. Some of us may be guilty of preferring to squeeze in some more z’s in the morning rather than make the huge effort to get out of the warm cosy bed and to the cold kitchen. We understand it’s so easy to let breakfast slip out of our daily activities, but it really is your most essential meal of the day. Breakfast is the key to your waking up ritual and to energise your body ready for the day ahead. For this year’s National Breakfast Week it’s time to shake up your wake up and start enjoying the most important part of the day and get back into a healthy routine! We do understand that perhaps quite a few of us are still clinging onto the post-holiday diet, so we’ll try not to get too carried away in our recommendations for spicing up your brekkie this week.

London’s activities to cheer up your January

January 11, 2016 by GH_EllieS

Welcome to 2016! We hope you all had an absolutely delightful Christmas and New Year celebrating with those closest to you and that your resolutions are off to a good start. Right now we’re probably still feeling the holiday blues and dreading the long month of January, even though before we know it, the Christmas tree will be hauled through our doorways once more! In the meantime, it’s time to prepare for the year ahead and we’re keen to cheer up your January. You may be surprised to hear that it’s not all doom and gloom in the capital. It is a great time to visit and explore London no matter how harsh Christmas was on your wallet; the shopping sales are on, many of London’s attractions are free and even some exclusive events are taking place this month. So if you need a bit of excitement to ease yourself out of the festive mood, read on.

The Curious Origins of Our Favourite Christmas Traditions

December 21, 2015 by GH_EllieS

Unwrapping the Magic Behind the Festive Season

It’s that time of year again – twinkling lights in every window, the comforting scent of mince pies in the air, and the age-old debate: brussels sprouts or no brussels sprouts? At Georgian House, we adore the sparkle and silliness of the season. But have you ever paused mid-mulled wine and wondered where our most beloved Christmas traditions come from? From trees in our living rooms to tales of chimney-squeezing gift-givers, let’s take a festive stroll through the surprisingly quirky origins of Christmas customs.

Why Do We Exchange Christmas Gifts?

Every December, we write lists, brave queues, and occasionally forget batteries. But why do we go to all this trouble? The roots of modern gift-giving trace back to the Three Wise Men offering gold, frankincense and myrrh to baby Jesus – the first-ever Christmas presents. Over time, this act of generosity evolved into the tradition of exchanging gifts among loved ones. Of course, in today’s festive flurry, presents are just as much about surprise and delight. There’s nothing quite like watching a child’s face light up when they find out Father Christmas did receive their letter and even more impressively, delivered on the wish list.

Who Really Was Father Christmas?

The modern image of the jolly man in red has quite the backstory. His earliest incarnation is believed to be St. Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop from what is now Turkey. Known for his secret acts of generosity, one famous tale recounts how he dropped gold down a chimney to help a poor man’s daughters avoid destitution. Though his popularity faded in parts of Europe during the Reformation, St. Nicholas found new life in folklore. Eventually, he evolved into Santa Claus thanks to a blend of Dutch, British and American traditions. By the Victorian era, he was firmly established as the bearded bringer of joy we recognise today.

How Did the Christmas Tree End Up in Our Living Room?

Few things say “festive” like squeezing a fir tree through your front door, only to cover it with glitter, lights and family heirloom baubles. The tradition of decorating trees during winter dates back thousands of years, from Roman Saturnalia to Pagan solstice festivals. But it was Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, who popularised the Christmas tree in Britain during the 19th century – inspired by his German heritage. Tinsel originally involved delicate strands of real silver, and in 1895, the first electric tree lights were introduced in the US to replace the risky practice of using candles. Thankfully for us all, fairy lights are now safer and easier to untangle.

Why Is Boxing Day Called That?

Boxing Day in the UK is often spent in a gentle mince pie coma or braving the sales. But the tradition itself is far older. The name comes from the “Christmas box” – a collection box placed in churches during Advent, opened on 26 December to be distributed to the poor. In the 17th century, it also became the day when servants received gifts or money from their employers as thanks for their hard work. These days, it’s a bank holiday, an excuse for leftovers, family time, or even a bracing winter walk. And for those working – such as hospitality heroes – it’s sometimes a day with extra pay (in New Zealand, it’s a legal requirement!).

So, Why Do We Love These Traditions?

From decorating trees to singing carols on doorsteps (yes, some people do still do this), Christmas traditions might seem odd when you break them down. But they connect us to our history, our families, and to moments of shared joy. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones at home, enjoying a magical stay at a London hotel – might we suggest Georgian House – or discovering the city’s festive delights, we hope you find wonder in the little rituals that make this season so special.

From All of Us at Georgian House: Have a Magical Christmas

Whether it’s your first Christmas in London or your fiftieth, may your days be merry, your sprouts tolerable, and your presents exactly what you wished for. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Festive family shows for a jolly holiday

December 4, 2015 by GH_EllieS

The holidays are coming and we have no doubt that every youngster in town is eager to hear that final bell ring in the classroom, so that the festive fun can begin! London’s streets have lit up ready to celebrate Christmas, so now is the perfect time to make the most of all the exciting events going on. This week’s blog is dedicated to the parents who just don’t know how to keep the kids entertained until the big day comes, and among the abundance of activities across the capital, where better to start than the West End theatre!