London's Narrowest Alley (And Its Hidden Dark Past)

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  • čas přidán 25. 11. 2021
  • Brydges Place, which runs along the western edge of Covent Garden, is widely regarded to be London’s narrowest alleyway.
    In this video, I’ll be exploring this strange little route…. and looking into the tragic stories it hides.
    Thank you so much for stopping by to watch this video.
    I was recently named a CZcams ‘Creator on the Rise’ which meant the robslondon channel was placed on the trending page for 24 hours!
    I simply could not have done this without all of you; the support and kind words I’ve received over the past year have been truly heartwarming, and they’ve really spurred me on to keep producing content. So thank you again, to all of you. This achievement is ours to share!
    If you haven’t yet subscribed, I’d appreciate it very much if you could please consider doing so as this will ensure you don’t miss out on any future content, as well as helping the channel to grow. And don’t forget to click the bell icon too to receive a notification whenever I publish a new video!
    If you missed my previous video, which looked at London’s quirkiest railways- including the London Coliseum’s little internal train- then you can watch it here:
    • London's 20 Quirkiest ...
    My Etsy Store (robsonlinedesigns):
    www.etsy.com/uk/shop/robsonli...
    My website:
    www.robslondon.com/
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Other links related to this video:
    St Martin-in-the-Fields Church:
    www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org/
    The London Coliseum Theatre:
    londoncoliseum.org/
    The Lemon Tree Pub, Covent Garden:
    www.lemontreecoventgarden.com
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Music used in this video:
    Scary Horror Music (Ross Bugden)
    • ♩♫ Scary Horror Music ...
    Hidden Agent (Kevin MacLeod)
    • Hidden Agenda
    Comfortable Mystery, Part 1 (Kevin MacLeod)
    • Comfortable Mystery Pa...
    Jazz Piano Bar (Doug Maxwell & Media Right Productions)
    • Video
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Illustrations by Robert Lordan.
    Thanks again for watching fiends. Stay well, and please be sure to stay tuned!
  • Krátké a kreslené filmy

Komentáře • 545

  • @paulohagan3309
    @paulohagan3309 Před 2 lety +40

    It always strikes me how ironic it was that my Great-grandparents, living on a small farm in the back of beyond in Ulster, 30-40 years after a terrible famine, actually lived much better lives than many of the residents of the capital of the Empire.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +7

      A good point, thank you for sharing Paul. Stay well sir

  • @vintagevic4593
    @vintagevic4593 Před 2 lety +62

    A friend of mine lived down there in the early 1990s. He had a flat on an upper floor, the front door came out in Brydges Place next to that green arch. Apparently it was normally rented out to visiting opera singers et cetera who were appearing at Eno opposite. Luckily he was a thin man so was always able to get down the alley. One day he said, oh they’ve opened a piano bar downstairs, which we thought would be rather civilized. It turned out to be an early Pitcher & Piano (horrible bar for shouty after-work types) LOL. After that he would often find his front doorstep used as a toilet, and I’m talking the whole slum-dwelling night-soil Monty 💩🤢. Plus ca change.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +9

      Brilliant comment, thank you Vic!

    • @Tinydotonscreen
      @Tinydotonscreen Před 2 lety +5

      @@Robslondon not a brilliant experience though

    • @robbie609
      @robbie609 Před 2 lety +4

      Very typical london life, I think i once fell asleep in some grabage bags in by the green doors! I had been at the club called Punk near to Poland street and obv got lost and tired!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      @@robbie609 :-D

    • @samsum3738
      @samsum3738 Před 2 lety

      @@robbie609 Not tired AND emotional , i hope .

  • @helenbryant404
    @helenbryant404 Před 2 lety +10

    It’s shocking to realise the sheer degradation in some areas of our capital, right near centres of pleasure such as theatres. So sad and horrifying.

  • @SeventhSwell
    @SeventhSwell Před 2 lety +71

    I'm always happy to see interesting, well-researched, educational channels do well on CZcams. I don't know about other countries but it sure helps fill a massive void here in the US. Keep up the good work and I hope you find even more success here.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +8

      I really appreciate that, thank you. Hope you had a nice Thanksgiving this year 🥂 Thanks again and stay well.

  • @trevordance5181
    @trevordance5181 Před 2 lety +29

    The "You're never alone with a Strand" tv cigarette commercial is very memorable and interesting in terms of advertising history, as it was very popular with the public and the actor who played the lonely man became a bit of a celebrity at the time. The 'Lonely Man' theme music used in the ad was also a minor chart hit. However it didn't sell many cigarettes, in fact it had the opposite effect on sales, as the general public associated smoking the brand with being some sort of sad, and lonely loser. As such the brand was withdrawn from sale shortly after.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +4

      Thanks Trevor; that's a really interesting insight, I wasn't aware of that. Thanks again and stay well.

    • @2eleven48
      @2eleven48 Před 2 lety +4

      Hi, Trevor. Thank you for this really interesting information. Strand was indeed a popular brand - my father smoked it - but there were also others: woodbine, senior service, sobranie and so on, as you will no doubt know. The one that always struck me by its name was Passing Clouds, in an oval shape. Long gone now, but I do find that, amusingly, there is an e-liquid version available on the market.

    • @royksk
      @royksk Před 2 lety +2

      They were relaunched as Regal and became the top selling brand.

    • @georgielancaster1356
      @georgielancaster1356 Před 2 lety +1

      I knew about the advert, I rememberhearing it. It must have been radio. I know it became associated with sad losers, as Alan Davies brought it up on QI, but I had never seen the photo.

    • @georgielancaster1356
      @georgielancaster1356 Před 2 lety

      @@royksk Did not know that. So Strand became Regal? I have a vague idea Regal might have reached Australia. Otherwise I must have chanced meeting a newly arrived Brit still on the cigarette supplies they brought out.

  • @johnsharp8632
    @johnsharp8632 Před rokem +5

    I worked in Long Acre for a couple of years in the 1980s and discovered this alley. Its the sort of place where you look over your shoulder to see if you are being followed. I well remember the cigarette advert you discuss. It contained the words 'You are never alone with a strand'. Very informative video Rob once again and thanks for highlighting the living conditions and sheer misery of the bulk of the general public at that time. There was never a better time to be an aristocrat.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před rokem

      Nice comment John; much appreciated, thank you.

  • @peterwhy8032
    @peterwhy8032 Před 5 měsíci +3

    I'm in the middle of reading "Wonderful London" (author unknown, published 1878, available on the archive web site). In the chapter titled "Cockney cave-dwellers" (pdf page 379 / text page 354), I read this:- "[Dudley Street] always was given over to vendors of old clothes and boots and shoes, and to a great extent it is now. The living cellars are under the old-clothes shops, and in many cases the wooden trap-door in the common pavement - the one only means of ingress and exit, of light and air - is festooned and overhung by old boots and trousers, much, I imagine, to the inconvenience of the subterranean lodgers."
    I was fascinated to see the 1872 Dore engraving (around 5 minutes in your video) showing Dudley street, complete with shoes on the pavement and trapdoors into the cellars.
    (By the way, in case my post appears twice, I previously posted a note about this a couple of days ago, but it seems to have vanished.)
    Peter

  • @themadscotsman2159
    @themadscotsman2159 Před 2 lety +8

    I was in London last week and after watching a few of your videos including this one I went down Brydges place myself, it is indeed a blink and you'll miss it alleyway and very narrow at the St Martins lane end. I love wandering around London and going up and down all these walkways and alleyways just to see where they go, not fussed about the touristy sites, I've seen them but the lesser seen side of London, that is what I like. I went down Lower Roberts street as well after watching another of your videos.
    There really is a while lot to see if one just looks.
    Thanks for the great content and I look forward to exploring more of the places in your videos

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Brilliant comment; that means a lot to me; thank you! Cheers and stay well.

    • @themadscotsman2159
      @themadscotsman2159 Před 2 lety

      @@Robslondon Your welcome.

  • @ianbelsey2167
    @ianbelsey2167 Před 2 lety +12

    I know this alley well, not only as a cut through, but also from working in the Coliseum and out of the exit doors and straight into The Harp pub. Whether you're watching a show or appearing in it, the brass players from the orchestra always beat you to the bar!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Ha ha! Cheers Ian ;-)

    • @ianbelsey2167
      @ianbelsey2167 Před 2 lety +2

      @@Robslondon it also has another name in the trade which I'm too polite to disclose!

  • @clivefelgate9802
    @clivefelgate9802 Před 2 lety +6

    Another proof that you can never know enough about your capital city. Londons history is so dense, even at my advanced age can always learn👍👍 keep safe and well.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +2

      Ha ha! Many thanks Clive. Stay well.

  • @MakeAllThingsBeautiful
    @MakeAllThingsBeautiful Před 2 lety +8

    Rob your pitch and pace and sort of friendly smile in your voice works well as you deliver these incredibly researched historic trips down memory lane, and you make us want to visit even more.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +2

      Thank you so much Robert.... I can't express how much your kind words mean to me; very much appreciated. These are the sort of comments that push me to keep making videos. Thanks again mate and stay well.

  • @carolinebennett5615
    @carolinebennett5615 Před 2 lety +14

    I worked in Covent Garden until recently and know all of those streets and alleyways. Covent Garden is truly fascinating if you have time to linger beyond the tourist trap bits. I don’t work in London these days but work from home in Horsham. London is amazing, but there’s plenty of history in this little town too. We are lucky on this island; history is everywhere.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Many thanks for the lovely comment Caroline; couldn't agree more! Thanks again and stay well.

    • @mescko
      @mescko Před 2 lety +1

      I have a mate in Croydon (I live on the west coast of the USA) who found it highly amusing that around here 1850 is considered old.

  • @crazyrobots6565
    @crazyrobots6565 Před 2 lety +7

    I thought "how in the hell could there be an 11 minute video about a single alley?"
    But I was left wanting even more!
    Love your stuff. You've earned a new subscriber.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Ha ha! :-) Thank you so much Crazy Robots; great comment and lovely to have you along. Stay well.

  • @danielmestriner8526
    @danielmestriner8526 Před 2 lety +20

    Not far from it is Goodwin's Ct, I often cut through that on my way from covent garden to Trafalgar Square. It really feels like you're stepping 150 years back leaving the noise and the tourists behind. That's one of the things I like the most about Covent Garden area: these twisted streets that tell you stories. Ah! If walls could talk! Well, here they do.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +3

      Nice comment Daniel; thank you!

    • @anitawarburton6087
      @anitawarburton6087 Před 2 lety +4

      Goodwin's Court is a magical! That was the alley I was going to suggest. Next time we are in London we will have to go round the block using Goodwin's Court and Brydges Lane to connect St. Martin's and Bedfordsbury.

    • @allisonday893
      @allisonday893 Před 2 lety +1

      @@anitawarburton6087 I went to Goodwins on a walking tour last summer. Literally like walking back in time.

  • @nannyfairy
    @nannyfairy Před 2 lety +7

    I'm British, living in California. I've learned more about my own country from videos, than I ever would if I was still in UK.I now have a long Bucket List for places I want to visit should I go home again. Thank you 😊

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +2

      It’s a pleasure Jackie, thank you so much for your lovely comment. Stay well.

    • @nannyfairy
      @nannyfairy Před 2 lety

      @@Robslondon 💖

  • @mattking241
    @mattking241 Před 2 lety +3

    Fascinating, Rob. Thanks. I've worked in London for 30 years and I though I knew it pretty well. Until I came across your channel LOL

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      That means a lot to me, thanks so much Matt.

  • @franktuckwell196
    @franktuckwell196 Před 2 měsíci +2

    Down in Whitstable, there is a house built sideways across an alley called "Squeeze Gut Alley", it is so narrow at the thinest point, that there are often abandoned shopping trollies, because they are just too wide to pass through.

  • @aledjenkins4893
    @aledjenkins4893 Před 2 lety +3

    I stayed in a hotel opposite the coliseum on the 26/ 27th Of November. Spotted the alley on the Second day . Easy to miss from the street .

  • @Conan500
    @Conan500 Před 2 lety +8

    I’ve walked along St Martin’s Lane so many times and have never noticed the passageway next to the Colosseum. Great video! 👍

  • @marksquires4836
    @marksquires4836 Před 2 lety +27

    This a fantastic piece of history, presented for all people around the world to enjoy and marvel at the brilliant architecture and rich history of the greatest city in the World, London! Thank you from Australia, Rob.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +3

      It’s an absolute pleasure Mark. Thanks for the kind words mate; cheers and stay well.

    • @matjust5523
      @matjust5523 Před 2 lety +6

      I agree mark, your comments are spot on, I enjoyed reading your post

  • @sharonleong7120
    @sharonleong7120 Před 2 lety +4

    Thank you for sharing a great and interesting video. I love it. 👍👍👍❤️❤️❤️

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +2

      Thank you Sharon! Much appreciated; stay well.

  • @RichardWells1
    @RichardWells1 Před 2 lety +22

    A fascinating catalogue of historical research, bristling with macabre tales of death, and the appalling poverty of Victorian London. Only Rob's London could extract such an interesting compendium of stories from the past. Excellent research. We should be eternally grateful for the detailed journalism from newspapers of yesteryear, from which you gleaned the gruesome details, Rob! Another great video!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +5

      Thank you so much Richard. And yes you’re right; the old newspaper archives are a goldmine. Stay well sir.

    • @thewrecker3140
      @thewrecker3140 Před 2 lety +5

      An Amazing comment and fantastic appreciation of Robs video. All the best Robs dad.

  • @barbaraprest783
    @barbaraprest783 Před 2 lety +5

    Thank you very much 👏👏

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      You're very welcome Barbara; thank you :-)

  • @James_Innes
    @James_Innes Před 2 lety +6

    I hope you had time to pop into the Harp Pub that opens onto that alley. They serve the best Dark Star - Hop Head in the West End. My favourite pub in the area.
    Good to know some more of the local history.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      I didn't on this occasion but have in the past; you're right James it's a great pub. Cheers and stay well.

    • @enjaysee750
      @enjaysee750 Před 2 lety +1

      I love The Harp - it's almost as narrow as the alley itself! And I can vouch for the Hop Head - delicious!

  • @myrtlemount
    @myrtlemount Před 2 lety +3

    I've worked at the Coli for over 30yrs and spent many evenings in Brydges place drinking! Lots of interesting stuff to add to my knowledge of the area- so thank you.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      It's a pleasure; thank you so much for the great comment. Stay well.

  • @zeldaray5562
    @zeldaray5562 Před 2 lety +1

    “You’re never alone with a Strand”. I remember that advert well.

  • @cherylchapman6163
    @cherylchapman6163 Před 2 lety +1

    Wonderful yet again Rob. Worked for the ‘Queen’s Bank’ in the 80s and 90s, and the branches ar 440 strand were Adelaide, Buckingham, Chandon and Duncannon with staff branch St Giles. Wow, what history behind those names we took for granted.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Lovely comment Cheryl, thank you :-) Cheers and stay well.

  • @gordonhowell1264
    @gordonhowell1264 Před 2 lety +12

    When I worked in London I would occasionally use this alleyway if the surrounding streets were crowded. For the same reason I would use Bourchier Street in Soho to bypass Old Compton Street. Percy Passage in Fitzrovia is also worth knowing about - keen fans of the TV series “Minder” will know about it already!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +3

      Yes! Great bit of knowledge Gordon! 😉

    • @ericpode6095
      @ericpode6095 Před 2 lety +1

      I often used to cut through Percy Passage on the way to the Fitzroy Tavern on a Sunday but never knew about the link to Minder!

  • @samsum3738
    @samsum3738 Před 2 lety +3

    Very interesting , thank you . I drove a cab in London for nearly 39 years and i must have passed this alley thousands of times .

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +3

      Many thanks Sam... be lucky ;-)

  • @simonyip5978
    @simonyip5978 Před 2 lety +5

    It's interesting that on Booths poverty map, the whole of the surrounding area was coloured just one level below the highest social class, with just a single place was classed as 'vicious and semi criminal'.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +3

      Yes, it’s crazy isn’t it Simon.
      Happens quite a lot on the map too from what I’ve seen of it.

  • @johnnygiblets4395
    @johnnygiblets4395 Před 2 lety +3

    Not sure why you don't have more subscribers because you put out some quality content. Maybe it just takes a lot of time. Thanks for sharing and keep up the good work!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Really appreciate that Johnny; many thanks. Quite a few more people seem to be finding the channel now, so fingers crossed more will come! It's thanks to good people such as yourself that things are moving; I couldn't do it without your support. Take care mate and thanks again; stay well.

  • @waynedexter3446
    @waynedexter3446 Před 2 lety +17

    As always erudite, well researched and interesting. I will be sure to look out for it next time I'm passing.
    I was talking to an American friend living quite close to New York. He knew about your channel and was subscribed with a couple of his American friends. You are going international Rob!
    Thanks for your work.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +3

      Thank you so much Wayne; your comment has made my day! 😊 Please send my warmest regards to your American friends. Thanks again for your support and kind words; stay well.

  • @dlz0811
    @dlz0811 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Great video once again, Rob. I worked in front of Brydges Place at 114 St. Martins Lane for a number of years and would take this ally regularly as well as witness the things that went on when I sat by the window looking directly at it

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 4 měsíci

      Lovely comment, and thanks for the kind words!

  • @whyyoulidl
    @whyyoulidl Před 2 lety +3

    Another blinder Rob; who'd have even known there was an alley there? Now happily on my 'must visit' list.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Ha ha! Thank you so much 😊 Stay well and enjoy your visit!

  • @Jay-ql4gp
    @Jay-ql4gp Před hodinou +1

    That was very interesting, thank you so much! It reminds me of houses in New Olreans that are six inches apart from each other (or less) and yet each have siding on them somehow. I realy enjoyed this one!

  • @wayne5579
    @wayne5579 Před měsícem +2

    On a marathon Robslondon. These are Fascinating, just the best, lost for words. I feel patriotic and I've never been to England. 😢

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před měsícem +1

      Bless you Wayne! Thanks for watching; good to have you here.

    • @wayne5579
      @wayne5579 Před měsícem +2

      Thanks for having me along. Your pulling out all the stops, and I could could not ask for a better account RL. 👏

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před měsícem

      @@wayne5579 😀

  • @killgriffinnow
    @killgriffinnow Před 2 lety +7

    In the 17th century this area was known as "The Caribee Islands" - a reference to pirates of the Caribbean. (not at that time an actual film). Quite often alleyways were blocked off with walls of oiled paper to make squalid dwelling spaces.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +4

      Incredible comment and info; thanks for sharing.

  • @matthewvp8507
    @matthewvp8507 Před rokem +1

    I used to work at the connection at st Martin in the fields so seeing all this footage has brought back so many memories. I used to go up st Martin’s lane many times to get lunch, also we had our team Christmas lunch at the lemon tree (very good food!) and my leaving drinks at the harp!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před rokem

      Lovely comment Matthew, thanks for sharing ☺️

  • @sian2337
    @sian2337 Před 2 lety +10

    I’ve always been fascinated by the rookeries and other slums of London. If I had a time machine, I’d want to see those places. I used to work in Covent Garden, down Long Acre, and the job before that was down Drury lane, near the Fortune theatre. I loved being there, it had a great atmosphere, even if, in summer, the tourists made it hard to rush around for a sandwich at lunch 😆

  • @michaelkither2620
    @michaelkither2620 Před 2 lety +3

    Well researched and presented...thanks

  • @thieskellan9624
    @thieskellan9624 Před 2 lety +5

    More gruesome but fascinating stories, well researches and sensitively narrated, thanks very much

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Many thanks; really appreciate your kind words. Stay well.

  • @davidpage8223
    @davidpage8223 Před 2 lety +3

    Thanks for bringing back memories! I used to go to The Festival Club which was in Brydges Place back in the 1960's so I've always known that alleyway was there. The Festival was accessed via a door on the right just down from St Martins Lane. It was just a drinking club and up some stairs as I recall. Ah...good times!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Great comment David, thanks so much for sharing your memories. Stay well.

    • @ninianmacmillan-keith7435
      @ninianmacmillan-keith7435 Před 2 lety

      I was a member in 1966 to into the 80s

    • @davidpage8223
      @davidpage8223 Před 2 lety

      @@ninianmacmillan-keith7435 I'm jolly glad that I'm not the only one left! I didn't know that it ran into the 80's...that's interesting. Ted ran it in the short time I was around with his younger 'other half' as I recall.

  • @justplainjimmy1481
    @justplainjimmy1481 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Another great video, Rob! The London Coliseum. I heard that years back, my favorite British comedian, Dave Allen, along with Maggie Smith did a production Of Peter Pan there. Dave played Captain Hook.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 měsíci +1

      Thank you! Nice comment ;-)

  • @mikereilly5005
    @mikereilly5005 Před 2 lety +4

    Hi Rob
    Another very informative video, I cannot count the amount of times I have simply walked past

  • @GHOST-mi4jh
    @GHOST-mi4jh Před 2 lety +4

    Well done Rob, another great video, 😊👍.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thanks Ghost ;-) Much appreciated.

  • @ultraruna
    @ultraruna Před 2 lety +2

    New subscriber based on your fascinating and informative video style. Well done. I'm a Londoner and always marvel at the hidden history of our great city, brought to life by people like yourself. Cracking work.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      I really appreciate your kind words and support; thank you so much. Good to have you here! Cheers and stay well.

  • @markwilson4052
    @markwilson4052 Před 2 lety +3

    Absolutely fascinating and I love these angles to history. Two narrow thoroughfares I enjoy walking through, (when in London )are East of here. They are Botolph Lane and Laurence Pountney Hill. They are fascinating as they are named for church’s lost in the Great Fire.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Hi Mark, thank you. Yes, those are excellent choices... I may do a video on them one day! Cheers and stay well.

  • @PurpleTT99
    @PurpleTT99 Před 2 lety +8

    Well I'm staying at the Z Hotel directly opposite the Bedfordbury end of Brydges Place on Thursday and so I'll have a stroll down it. I wouldn't have known to look without your vid. And, young Rob, this is the point. You're getting traction on your channel because you're doing interesting, well researched and perfectly enunciated nuggets of local history that we need to know about. Congrats, and keep 'em coming.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +2

      That means a lot to me, thank you so much 😊 Hope you enjoy your wander down there… might want to hold your nose though- it didn’t smell too good when I was filming there! 😉😂 Thanks again for your kind words and support; stay well.

    • @helenbryant404
      @helenbryant404 Před 2 lety +1

      @@Robslondon I’m pretty sure it couldn’t smell any worse than you described in your video! It must’ve been hideous living there.

  • @andrewfrost8866
    @andrewfrost8866 Před 2 lety +3

    Incredibly interesting, thank you so much!!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      It's a pleasure Andrew; many thanks.

  • @Hiking360
    @Hiking360 Před 2 lety +2

    Loving these videos. I work in covent garden and walk past Brydges Place every day. Ive always been interested in history, particularly that of london and your films really give london and its streets some great context.Keep it up!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks so much Paul; that means a lot to me. Cheers and stay well 😉

  • @AngeloBetrulas
    @AngeloBetrulas Před 2 lety +2

    Another great and informative video,Rob. Many thanks. I remember this place as my first pub as a manager, was 'The Angel And Crown in St Martins Lane. (Nov called Foggs or something). I used that alleyway many,many times as a shortcut. You brought back some fond memories from 30 years ago! Cracking stuff.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Great comment; thank you so much 😉

  • @RetroReminiscing
    @RetroReminiscing Před 2 lety +2

    Fantastic video, i really enjoyed it...i saw the thumbnail and title and had to click right away! Thanks for making this! Sonique 🤗

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks so much Sonique; your kind words really mean a lot to me :-) Thanks again and stay well!

    • @RetroReminiscing
      @RetroReminiscing Před 2 lety +1

      @@Robslondon Thank you! YOu too, and i actually have your charles dickens upload on my to play next list for this evening as it looks great! I love uploads like that..thank you very much again for taking the time and effort to show us all these interesting videos! Excellent channel! Sonique

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      @@RetroReminiscing Thanks so much :-) Hope you enjoy the Dickens video; have a wonderful Christmas and thank you again for your support; much appreciated.

  • @Michaelkaydee
    @Michaelkaydee Před 2 lety +2

    The intro tune takes me straight childhood 🙂

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thanks KayDee; it does for me too :-)

  • @jared1870
    @jared1870 Před 2 lety +2

    Congratulations on your accolade! I only recently came across you. I have enjoyed your videos. I had a laugh at myself when this one started because I noticed Christmas decorations and thought how fortuitous to stumble on it when in fact it isn't a month old. Even if you thought the subject of this video a bit grim, I found it refreshing after the narcissist I booted out of my life. I just loved this video.

  • @garybrockwell2031
    @garybrockwell2031 Před 2 lety +1

    Another great trip mate🗣️👍Thank you for a great journey of time and place..
    😱🤔💯😭☠️👁️☠️👁️🙏💥

  • @tonycox5625
    @tonycox5625 Před 2 lety +1

    Just found this channel and subbed and now catching up with all the old vids, great channel Rob! 😊👍

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Much appreciated Tony, thank you!

  • @giovannidonega9391
    @giovannidonega9391 Před 2 lety +3

    Well Sir, I think the algorithm has served you well. Love this video and love London. Ciao from Italy

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      grazie mille amico mio (apologies if my Italian is not good!!) 😉

  • @thewrecker3140
    @thewrecker3140 Před 2 lety +5

    Very interesting and well researched, well done Rob.

  • @timfranck9976
    @timfranck9976 Před rokem +1

    Just caught up with this. Thanks Rob. Must have passed this place dozens of times, without knowing the history.

  • @lorsheijd
    @lorsheijd Před 2 lety +2

    Thanks Rob, for another good video. Very interesting! Keep 'em coming!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks Bart! Will do my friend; stay well 😉

  • @SlurpyDave254
    @SlurpyDave254 Před 2 lety +4

    Outstanding video Rob. That alley way is so tight. I went in the Lemon Tree pub about 5 years ago. Good stuff

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks so much Dave; really appreciate your kind words and continued support. Stay well sir.

  • @theresabradley4716
    @theresabradley4716 Před 2 lety

    Thanks for another wonderful, interesting, and informative video, Rob!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thank you so much Theresa. Stay well.

  • @iainsan
    @iainsan Před 2 lety +4

    Another fascinating and well-researched documentary. Well done and thank you for making it!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      It's a pleasure; thank you so much for your kind words. Stay well.

  • @dabsan
    @dabsan Před 2 lety +3

    Thanks Rob for another fascinating video. Looking forward to watching more videos soon.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Much appreciated Darren; thank you.

  • @jennywallis65
    @jennywallis65 Před 2 lety

    Fascinating, glad to have found these, will look out for more.

  • @Jade_holloway
    @Jade_holloway Před 2 lety +1

    Your videos are great, very informative and your unassuming style of narration is very engaging.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thank you so much Jade, that means a lot to me. Thanks again and stay well.

  • @enjaysee750
    @enjaysee750 Před 2 lety +3

    As I work around the corner I've spent many a lunchtime and evening drinking in that alleyway as a patron of either The Marquis or The Harp so I just had to watch this video! Really informative, so much I didn't actually know about it.
    Also I just had to sub - a new viewer looking forward to more vids!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you so much :-) Great to have you here... got a Christmas pubs special due in the near future! Thanks again and stay well.

  • @xians3216
    @xians3216 Před 2 lety +2

    Love the Thames themed intro, great video!

  • @billybobhouse9559
    @billybobhouse9559 Před 2 lety +2

    I'm really enjoying these videos. Keep up the great work.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thank you Billy; much appreciated

  • @ampersand.
    @ampersand. Před 2 lety +2

    Oh, I wondered if you`d do this one :) Very interesting, thank you, and your research is excellent - great to see such a good quality vid.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks so much for the kind words :-) Stay well.

  • @bobkirby2603
    @bobkirby2603 Před 2 lety +2

    Thank you for the vlog, very interesting. You do go in to the history of the places you go to. I enjoyed it.👍👍🥂

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      I really appreciate that Bob, thank you. Stay well.

  • @michaelwhite8031
    @michaelwhite8031 Před 2 lety +5

    Very interesting, l must have walked past it 1000 times. The lemon tree pub is supposed to be one of the most haunted pubs in London, if you believe in that kind off thing.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +4

      Thanks Michael... I didn't know about the Lemon Tree haunting!

    • @michaelwhite8031
      @michaelwhite8031 Před 2 lety +2

      @@Robslondon it is in a book of hunted London pubs, it had a lot of poltergeist activitie at one time apart from being a hang out for ladies of the night.
      I know where the lane you talked about is now, as l sometimes stayed with a girlfriend in the distant past who worked in the Welsh Harp pub.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      @@michaelwhite8031 Interesting; thanks Michael.

  • @osirusgtr
    @osirusgtr Před 2 lety +1

    Wow! that was amazing I find London's history absolutely fascinating, reminded me of the book People of the Abyss is a book by Jack London, Keep up the great work.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Many thanks osirusgtr :-) Stay well.

  • @butchknapman3939
    @butchknapman3939 Před 2 lety +2

    Yet again another very interesting and well documented video. I remember well the Strand advert. Have walked about this area myself but without all knowledge it brings it to life . If anyone’s interested the Thai Pot as seen is an excellent Thai restaurant but beware the access to the toilets is a bit like the passage way but goes down stairs

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks Butch. I was wondering about the Thai Pot; not been in there. Sounds good. Stay well.

  • @timsully8958
    @timsully8958 Před 2 lety +2

    Fantastic stuff mate! We are in that vicinity quite often, usually for a pint in the Chandos, Harp or one of the other pubs, or a visit to the National Gallery, or a bite to eat (and a quick shop with the missus! 🙄), so it’s amazing that we’ve never spotted it, especially as we know the old fire station (what with it being next to the Harp 😜).
    Rally love your little gems of history about real people (albeit they’re often gruesome 🤣) and I am glad more people are starting to appreciate your channel!
    Cheers mate, have a great weekend 👍🍻🍀😎

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thanks so much for the kind words Tim; really appreciate it mate ☺️ Those pubs you mention are great 🍺 Stay well sir and thanks again.

  • @alanchriston6806
    @alanchriston6806 Před 2 lety +2

    Rob , Another Fab video ,
    Hope to be in your town next week ,barring yet another lock.
    Cheers
    😊

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Cheers Alan, hope you make it- if so, enjoy 😉 Thanks for the kind words and stay well.

  • @adamdavis4346
    @adamdavis4346 Před 2 lety +1

    Just came across this channel and I had to subscribe. Great, we’ll produced content. I love the beginning music!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thank you so much Adam; it's great to have you here! Stay well.

  • @bonniedrasco8166
    @bonniedrasco8166 Před 2 lety +2

    Brilliant post thank you

  • @squeaksvids5886
    @squeaksvids5886 Před 2 lety +3

    Wonderful history. Been there a few times over the years and had no idea of it’s past. Thanks for making these films.

    • @thewrecker3140
      @thewrecker3140 Před 2 lety +2

      Thanks for your lovely comment, have subscribed to your channel. All the best Robs dad.

  • @lddixon2394
    @lddixon2394 Před 2 lety +2

    Fascinating. Thanks, Rob.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks 😊

    • @lddixon2394
      @lddixon2394 Před 2 lety +1

      @@Robslondon Really enjoyed your video. Beautifully filmed and well researched.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      @@lddixon2394 That's so kind; thanks again.

  • @barrywa39
    @barrywa39 Před 2 lety

    That was one brilliant video. You obviously put hours of work into producing it Rob with all the historical information that you managed to find. A suggestion for maybe a future video....how about something covering the history of the Albany just off Piccadilly? It always seems to be such a fascinating place, with so much history, including Lord Byron.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks so much Barry.... and that's a good idea, I'll add it to my list ;-) Cheers and stay well.

  • @patchso
    @patchso Před 2 lety +2

    Fascinating video. Thanks for posting.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      You're very welcome and thank you!

  • @Tom_Bee_
    @Tom_Bee_ Před 2 lety +1

    Hope these words overwhelm you with motivation to create more of this excellent work. And if not, just take them as an honest attempt to boost your success within the algorithm! Seriously though, I love your narrations. The accent, the almost asmr tones, the script, the editing. Everything. Perfect. Thanks for making these, I really do appreciate it.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      That means so much to me Tom; many thanks indeed! Very much appreciated; and it is lovely words like yours that do indeed keep me going. Thank you again and stay well :-)

  • @terryreknaw6152
    @terryreknaw6152 Před 2 lety +2

    Been down that alley many a time. Had a wee in it last year and there is a good pub at the end

  • @Pufferkusser
    @Pufferkusser Před 2 lety +2

    Thanks for a really enjoyable video Rob. I'm subscribed.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thank you so much Pufferkusser; great to have you here ;-) Cheers and stay well.

  • @timdaugherty5921
    @timdaugherty5921 Před 2 lety

    Love these little hidden gems. Great footage!!

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thanks so much Tim; really appreciate that :-) Stay well.

  • @pilarperez9553
    @pilarperez9553 Před 2 lety +2

    Great channel. Thanks Rob!

  • @lillianheron601
    @lillianheron601 Před 2 lety +1

    Amazing information, keep up the great work.👍

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thank you so much Iillian, stay well.

  • @bobj3251
    @bobj3251 Před 2 lety +1

    Really good thanks for finding all these quirky interesting places

  • @gearguy981
    @gearguy981 Před 2 lety +1

    Recently visited noel coward theatre, fascinating to hear the history of the surrounding area

  • @mikego18753
    @mikego18753 Před 2 lety +2

    A very entertaining vid Rob.
    Thanks.

  • @jimthorne304
    @jimthorne304 Před 2 lety +2

    Well, there's a thing! I went down that alley on Saturday Nov 27th...

  • @Nettsinthewoods
    @Nettsinthewoods Před 2 lety +2

    There are a number of these narrow alleys in London. There are two notables coming off New Bond Street and another very narrow one off Dover Street, but there is a rabbit warren of them in Spitalfields. None are marked on maps even though they have names. They are just too narrow. Fun video. Thank you.

  • @andyeveritt9003
    @andyeveritt9003 Před 2 lety +1

    another great video rob , strange how interesting a narrow alley can be
    and next time im out and about near there i can have a look
    all the best rob

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Cheers Andy; thanks for your kind words and support. Stay well mate.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Thank Andy

  • @kd259
    @kd259 Před 2 lety +1

    My Goodness, the Lemon Tree Pub :) I actually have been there the last time I was in London, back in the late 70's !

  • @RR-kp5ps
    @RR-kp5ps Před 2 lety +2

    Good to see your channel doing so well, Rob! Don't forget about me when you become internet famous, okay? 😁

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +2

      Ha ha! Thank you, and don't worry I won't ;-) Stay well.

  • @allisonday893
    @allisonday893 Před 2 lety

    Great channel! So interesting. Absolutely love London and all its quirks and secrets. New subscriber here! Thank you

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks so much for your kind words Allison; really appreciate it. Great to have you here :-)

  • @TheSuperintendant
    @TheSuperintendant Před 2 lety +3

    Great videos mate! peace and love from Scotland.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety +2

      Appreciate that mate, thank you so much- I’ve got a lot of love for Scotland, so great to have you here 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Cheers and stay well.

  • @dylvasey
    @dylvasey Před 2 lety +1

    Excellent as usual Rob.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      Many kind thanks Dylan. Stay well.

  • @margaretdrew2844
    @margaretdrew2844 Před 2 lety +2

    Thank you so much for the interesting commentary.

    • @Robslondon
      @Robslondon  Před 2 lety

      It’s a pleasure; thank you for watching Margaret, I really appreciate it. Stay well.