Reviews by neil68

Shakespeare's Globe (Theatre / Tourist Attraction)
10 March 2004

This is very different to going to the theatre. Essentially you're transported back into Elizabethan England. Mark Rylance breathes life and colour into lines even Big Will wouldn't expect and the shows are a rich tapestry of theatrical splendour with all things Tudor and instead of just a curtain call most shows end with an Elizabethan 'wig out'. Of course there are a healthy number of tourists who tend to go as 'groundlings' - those that stand in the main pit of the theatre open to the elements. It's far more enjoyable to grab a seat, a cushion and a good supply of wine. All the 'front of house' ushers are volunteers so the atmosphere is a happy one and with a cafe and restaurant to the side overlooking the Thames you really can't lose. Sneeze and you'll pass Pepy's house and find yourself in Tate Modern.

Milroy's (Spirits Shop)
08 March 2004

I've always popped in here over the years and while the staff may change from that authentic Scottish experience to jobbing London actors they do know their stuff and are very helpful. There's a great selection of malts and a few special vattings and if you're in need of an education there are tasting nights, the hangovers from which I can barely imagine.

Villandry (Delicatessen)
08 March 2004

At first it seemed odd to have the shop backing onto the restaurant as it tended to make me look at everything and then instead of bothering to go home and make something I'd tend to 'eat in'. The selection of foods transport you to the continent far more effectively than Eurostar, although at times it feels like you've paid the fare. Great to eat there, shop there and their hampers make great gifts.