Alice's Adventures Underground - A Showcase in the Capabilities of the Imagination

'If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense. Nothing would be what it is, because everything would be what it isn't. And contrary wise, what is, it wouldn't be, and what it wouldn't be, it would. You see?'

I had my first immersive theatre experience about a year and a half ago when the Iris Theatre put on a production of Alice in Wonderland at St Paul's Church in Covent Garden. With the grounds transformed into magical rose gardens and opportunities to play croquet with the Queen of Hearts, my introduction to immersive theatre was one that has stayed with me ever since. 

Since then, immersive theatre has become a new creative trend, with a variety of theatre companies encouraging people to experience theatre in a new way; a way that actually immerses you in the production as the plot unfolds around you. The brilliant thing about this new form of theatre is the creative possibilities are endless. The fourth wall is well and truly knocked down. 

As some of you may already be aware, I'm obsessed with Alice in Wonderland, and even though I'd seen an immersive theatre production of the tale before, I was intrigued to see how this production differed in its interpretation and presentation. 

This particular production was called Alice's Adventures Underground and was put together by theatre group Les Enfants Terribles . Set in the underground vaults of Waterloo, this particular production had a macabre, Tim Burton vibe to it which I adored. 

In the lead up to the event, everything is kept very hush hush. It's hard to know what to expect, but the secrecy ensures that every minute of the experience is a wonderful surprise. 

Groups enter the vaults at timed intervals, and what looks like an old theatre hall with vintage shabby red theatre seats has been turned into a bar serving Wonderland themed cocktails for those waiting to enter. It is here that you hand over your bags to the cloakroom - another step to ensure the secrecy of the event is maintained. Pictures are only allowed to be taken in this room and the Wonderland Bar at the end (hence the small amount of pictures). 

Even if I was allowed to take pictures throughout the event, I wouldn't have, and if I did, I most certainly wouldn't share them online. Why? Because this an event that has to be seen personally to be believed. Even describing it wouldn't do it justice. The attention to detail in each of the sets and costumes as well as the new, refreshing way in which this classic tale has been presented  completely exceeded my expectations. 

It is a perfect example of the capabilities of the imagination. Once immersed in the performance, you completely forget your reality (in an underground vault with a bunch of actors on a Wednesday night in Waterloo) and your only concerns are who painted the roses red? Will it be off with your head? 

There is never a lull in wow moments. You can't possibly predict where the story will take you and who you'll meet along the way; will you play flamingo croquet with the Queen of Hearts, or hear the Mock Turtle sing? Every time you go through another door into another part of the story, you'll struggle not to be distracted and in awe of how real Wonderland feels. 

This is an event suitable for such a wide variety of people, whether you want to go as a family, a group of friends or a couple, so if you're a theatre lover or you're just looking for something new, refreshing, and mind-blowing, I implore you to get tickets before they sell out, as it's only open for a limited time only. I guarantee by the end of it you'll be an immersive theatre convert! 

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Blogger's Fashion Week with Bloggers Love

Cupcakes, macaroons, bathtubs full of jewellery and an awesome DJ: Bloggers Love know how to throw a blogger event. 

I've been to many blogger events before, but never one hosted by Bloggers Love. This particular event was Bloggers Fashion Week (that's right, we get our own fashion week!) and it was awesome. 

In an unassuming 4th floor studio on Commercial Road in East London was a bloggers paradise. 

With over 40 brands showcasing their latest collections, it was lovely to take time getting to know the faces behind the brands instead of just taking them at face value. 

The ladies at Joe Browns were darlings, and the collection was in keeping with the upcoming 70s and bohemian trends. Definitely got my eye on that cherry blossom coat.  

Gossimer Wings caught everybody's eye with their vintage bath tub full of statement jewellery. The gold and blue pieces really stood out to me. I'm very rarely attracted to gold jewellery, but there's something about those blue gems that had me awestruck. 

I also got to meet the talented ladies behind jewellery brand Iridescence, who handcraft gorgeous pieces, some of which are very Victorian in style. The Victoriana trend is huge at the moment, with white lace and billowing silhouettes coming in for SS15. I was completely dumbfounded when they gifted me a stunning and very ornate bracelet with a gem that mirrored my hair. 

There were two other brands that I was really glad to have met. Umberto Giannini were there with some of their most popular products. I got talking to one of the girls about how my thick hair refuses to backcomb. They gave me some amazing tips and advice for keeping my coloured hair healthy, and also gifted me their Backcomb in a Bottle. I'm really looking forward to finally being able to achieve those hairstyles that have flopped (literally) in the past. 

Magnitone were also there. I was excited to speak to them most of all . I'd heard so many good things about their products, and have struggled with my skin for ages, trying a variety of different products, to no avail. The science and technology behind Magnitone makes a lot of sense, and sounds very well thought out. I was over the moon when they gifted me one of their products. I've been using it for the last 4 days and am already seeing a difference . I won't say too much though because I'm going to do a review soon, so keep a look out. 

I would like to say a massive thank you to Bloggers Love for inviting me, and also an even bigger thank you to the brands for their time talking to me, and for their generosity. It was so lovely to meet you all. 

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Bloggers Fashion Week Tag by Bloggers Love

So last night I attended the Bloggers Love Fashion Week event in Shoreditch, which consisted of a gifting lounge, a tea party, an Alice in Wonderland makeover and a fashion show. In the lead up to the event, Bloggers Love asked bloggers to take part in their Bloggers Fashion Week Tag, which of course, is Alice in Wonderland themed. I squealed a bit when I saw this because I'm a bit of an Alice in Wonderland geek. 

Are you more of an Alice, a Mad Hatter or a Queen of Hearts? 

Definitely a Mad Hatter. No question about it. He loves tea and cake and judging by his attire, his personal style is on point. Also, he's entirely bonkers. But shall I tell you a secret? All the best people are. 

If you could only take one of your possessions down the rabbit hole, what would it be?

Well I doubt there's wifi down there so laptop and phone would be pointless. I think I would take my Ipod. It seems pretty crazy in Wonderland so maybe some music could help me to stay sane. Not that I wouldn't mind going Mad Hatter bonkers, but throwing teacups to some Marmozets sounds pretty fun. 

If you could choose one Youtuber to have a tea party with who would it be?

Zoe London. We could have a mad hair colour themed tea party and get the Hatter to fashion us some wacky head pieces. 

How would you verbally slay a real life Jabberwocky eg. anxiety, confidence issues etc?

With a huge, long rant. I rant on here quite a lot about issues that irk me and when I've got something to get off my chest. So I'd either slay him with my reasoning or rant him to death. I definitely feel that when dealing with those issues, getting it off your chest, no matter how aggressively, and to whoever will listen, can be so therapeutic. 

Which brands would you add to your teapot to create your perfect Bloggers Fashion Week brew?

Definitely having some Lush in there for a nice smelling brew. Obviously it's got to taste nice, and it would be an added bonus if it was healthy too, so having some Slendertoxtea in there makes a lot of sense. Maybe if I put some Umberto Giannini in there, my hair would become luscious and voluminous upon drinking it. Wouldn't that be nice? 

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An Important Two Weeks Ahead

So today is a bit of a big day for me. 

For the next two weeks, I will be doing some work experience at Northern & Shell, which is the publication house for the New, Star and OK! magazines. I'll be working in the fashion departments and learning lots about working in such an environment. 

This is a pretty big deal for me. Since volunteering as editor-in-chief for my 6th form magazine, I've known this is what I want to do, and despite my lack of a formal fashion / journalism education, I've spent a good 5 years getting stuck in and contributing to as many publications / websites / blogs  as possible. 

That, in fact, was the original purpose of this blog; to get into the habit of coming up with interesting and well written content whilst targeting a specific audience. To be honest, in just a matter of weeks this blog became so much more than that and it is now my virtual, online baby that takes up every bit of mind space that I have. 

I really don't know what to expect from the next two weeks, but whatever happens, I know I'll come away having learnt some valuable things and met some awesome people,. 

This post isn't for me to blab gormlessly about the whole thing, but to let you guys know that it may be a little bit quiet on here for a while. I have no idea how busy I'm going to be and what my hours are so content may be a little bit scarce for the next two weeks. 

I do have a post or two ready for the next few days, and I am hoping, if I have time, to update you guys on how the work experience process is going in the hopes of helping anyone out there who is looking to do the same kind of thing. If that's the case watch this space because even if I don't post about it in the next two weeks, I definitely will once it's all over. 

Wish me luck guys!

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F is for Festivals!

So it may be a bit soon to start thinking about festivals for this year, but I've seen some of the line-ups and heard some of the rumours, and it sounds like I'm going to be spoiled for choice this Summer. Here's my pick of this year's festivals with line-ups too good to miss.


Reading and Leeds
I've attended Reading & Leeds four times now (Reading x1 - Leeds x3)  and I think it's about time I tried something new.
Don't get me wrong, the R&L line-up for this year definitely grabbed my attention, but not because of the headliners. In fact, as far as headliners go R&L's is pretty poor. I can't remember the last time Mumford and Sons were on the radar, and Metallica seem to be recycled year after year in the festival circuit. It should be a surprise to see a band like that on a line-up, not a guarantee. As for the Libertines, well it's pretty typical of R&L to have what I like to call a 'nostalgia band' on the cards, from The Cure back in 2012 to last year's Pearl Jam appearance. It's always risky, as there's a lot of room for disappointment with bands dragged from the history books for our sentimental pleasure, and it's not that often we come away impressed.

What intrigued me about the line-up was how the festival's rock music roots are shrinking, as new artists of the genre are sharing the stage with talent in dance, hip hop and r&b. Who could say they'd ever have expected Metallica and Kendrick Lamar to share a stage? I don't think it's an overall bad thing, but the festival is definitely becoming a mixed bag compared to what it was. 

There are some bands though that I'm over the moon about being on the line-up .Marmozets, Royal Blood, Wolf Alice, Years &Years and Slaves have been obsessions of mine ever since I mentioned them in my Sound of 2015 post, so to see them all in once place would be incredible. A festival like R&L can do wonders for bands like these, so even if I don't get to go, it will be interesting to see how they excel after performing there.

Image from NME.com
Glastonbury
So only Foo Fighters and Lionel Richie have been confirmed so far. What a pair! It's around now that rumours start circulating, and the strongest one I've heard is Florence & the Machine, which would make sense considering her new album is to be released on the 1st June, giving everyone a good 23 days to listen hard before screaming it back. Betting has been suspended on Coldplay (you can bet on this stuff?) however Blur, Prince, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Kate Bush, Fleetwood Mac, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Depeche Mode, The Who, Rihanna, Elton John, David Bowie, Taylor Swift AND Madonna are just a few of the names being bet on to fill those headlining slots.

I'm already seeing Foo Fighters at Wembley in June, but it would still be incredible to see them in a festival environment. I would be really surprised if Florence & the Machine weren't there, and if you saw her performance back in 2010 (especially her cover of Fleetwood Mac's 'The Chain') you know she'll put on one heck of a show, and have a wardrobe to match.

Other than that, Red Hot Chilli Peppers have announced a 2015 album, whilst either Prince, Fleetwood Mac or Kate Bush would make this gal a happy festival bunny. Can you imagine over 70,000 people singing Wuthering Heights?

Image from eventindustrynews.co.uk
Download
I am ecstatic about the Download lineup. It's a festival I've always said I need to do, and I know if I went this year I'd have seen some classics. I know that Slipknot and Muse are epic performers, and KISS and Motley Crue would be so much fun (LOVE GUUUUUUNNN!!)
I've been wanting to see A Day to Remember ever since I was 18, and I'm so happy they're on the main stage too.
As for Slash featuring Miles Kennedy and the Conspirators, I've heard amazing things about their performance and Guns n Roses covers. I saw Guns n Roses (minus Slash) at R&L, and they were god awful. People were leaving the main stage in droves, so it would be awesome to see Slash do the music some justice.
I've seen Enter Shikari 8 times now so I'm not hard pushed to see them, but it is nice to see them at Download, as they're always at R&L. Seeing them once more can't hurt though right?
For me though, the cherry on top is Marilyn Manson. I adore that guy and everything he touches is gold as far as I'm concerned so it would be glorious to see him live. I would probably loose my ability to function.

Image from thereviewal.wordpress.com
T in the Park 
Yay for Fatboy Slim. His tunes make up a lot of my Summer playlist so it would be the epitome of Summer to see him at a festival.  With Rudimental, Alt-J and Jamie T, this fest is oozing Summer. Considering it's taking place in July too, it's like Summerception. Summer songs creating Summer vibes in Summer. All that's missing is a pitcher of Pimms and some sun burn.

Image from kissfmuk.com
Isle of Wight Festival
FLEETWOOD FRICKING MAC! I'm sorry, but I'm quite happy to leave it there with this one. I mean, yeah it would be pretty awesome to see The Prodigy (whose new track is perfection btw) and Pharrell Williams and The Black Keys, but I could quite happily make do with Fleetwood Mac. I grew up with them as a kid and to this day I'm still not sick of their sound. Considering I'm named after Stevie Nicks too, it would only be right for me to see my name buddy (in a non-stalker way). 

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Mathew Bourne's Edward Scissorhands: The Ballet

'I am not complete.'

I adore anything that Tim Burton creates, however Edward Scissorhands has a special place in my heart, and I know I'm not alone when I say that. 

For those of you who haven't heard of Mathew Bourne, he is the choreographer and director behind some of the UK's most popular and successful ballet productions, from Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella to Lord of the Flies and The Picture of Dorian Gray. His most successful, Swan Lake, even features in Billy Elliot. 

I have been lucky to see both Sleeping Beauty and Swan Lake and was blown away by his adaptations. There's always an underlying darkness to all his productions which sucks me in, and he's a master of detail.

So when I heard he was doing a production of Edward Scissorhands, my inner child cried with glee. She cried even more when I was surprised with tickets for Christmas from my grandparents. 

I will be honest and say that I was skeptical. I didn't really have sentimental ties with Bourne's other productions so was open to new twists, however I was worried my inner child would throw a tantrum because it simply wasn't the same. I also could not picture in my head how on earth he was going to achieve certain parts of the story. Some scenes just didn't seem transferable to the stage. 

BUT (a huge but) I loved it. The trippy quirks typical of Tim Burton's style were present throughout and humour, just like the film , broke up the darkness. 

When it came to the stunning dancing-in-the-snow scene, I'm pretty sure there wasn't a dry eye in the house. The original score from the film was kept in, and Danny Elfman's 'Ice Dance' piece gets me every time. The dancing was timed so well with the music that it heightened any emotion you were feeling as you watched. 

At the end of the show, the dancer playing Edward received a standing ovation, (which made me cry even more). I'm a regular theater goer and standing ovations are rare to see nowadays, but this one was well and truly deserved. 

I don't want to give any more away, but if Edward Scissorhands was in any way a part of your childhood, for whatever reason, then you need to go and see this. Each of Mathew Bourne's ballets have stayed with me and are memories I'll hold on to. 

There are still dates available, and the tour finishes on the 14th March, so be quick if you want to go. I promise you it will be worth it!

(P.S Sorry for the grainy mobile pics. Didn't think I could get away with my mahoosive DSLR)

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Being Head Happy

 

So usually my Monday post is a fashion focused one, however this week is going to be a bit of an exception. 

Recently, I haven't been sticking to the structure I'd set myself for certain posts. I'm not sure if this blog is big enough for anyone to notice, but I do worry. 

I mentioned in my recent Me-Time post that I struggle to relax mentally as a result of being a blogger, and not only did a few of you agree with me, but I've seen so many other bloggers say the same. 

London Fashion Week is in full swing, with many major bloggers attending. For bloggers aspiring to reach that established stage, it's a week which brings out both envy and motivation in regards to you and your blog's success. 

But just yesterday on Instagram, I saw one blogger say:

' I'm not feeling great so I'm deciding to put my (mental) health first and go home early and not go to the rest of LFW [...] After all, mental health is just as, if not more important than physical'. 

I fell in love with this blogger for being honest enough to not only speak out about this, but actively remove herself from a situation that was having a negative effect on her mental health. 

We all know that mental health doesn't get enough recognition these days, but my god is it important. 

Even if it's something like not committing to a certain planned post for the time being because you're just not in the right frame of mind, it's important that we take notice of what's going on in our own heads and take necessary steps to prevent increasing negativity. 

So yes, that is why today's post isn't its usual, and it makes me sad that bloggers who are more established who do the same feel the need to apologise to their readers or go forward with something that will make them unhappy. 

Blogging is actually one of the most stressful things I've taken up, and as much as I love it, I'm aware that I need to keep on top of where my head is at in regards to critiquing myself, pushing myself further and of course doubt. 

I'm not claiming to be an expert. Actually quite the opposite. I have no idea how to stem the doubt and the anxiety surrounding trying improve on something I and I alone have created and am responsible for.  

All I'm saying is that I think we should be aware of these thoughts when we have them. Whether it's seeing bloggers on Instagram having a ball at LFW and doubting your ability to get to that stage, or actually being in the midst of a fashion event or post and not feeling yourself mentally, we shouldn't feel guilty for taking steps towards removing ourselves from that negative mentality. 

So here's to making our head happiness a priority!

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Me-Time Tag

Thank you Emma Inks for tagging me in this. Love a good ol' tag. Think it's a great way to get to know the person behind the blog!Think we could all do with a helping hand on how to make that me-time a little bit more worthwhile!

What do you watch / read during me-time?

Ooh where do I start. I move from series to series really. I'm currently watching American Horror Story (but I'm one episode from the end) The Walking Dead and Better Call Saul. Oh and Broadchurch. I've watched Hannibal and Game of Thrones in the past. Stories with a dark, twisted characters grip me more, so Hannibal and AHS have been my favourites. 

I actually haven't read in a while which makes me sad. I've just been too busy for it. I was half-way through Anna Karenina (not so gripping) last time I read. I've been trying to work my way through all the books I own but have never read. I collect antique books so the pile is ever growing. 

What do you wear during me-time?

Either the comfiest thing I own, or something that makes me feel amazing. It really depends what mood I'm in. Sometimes I just wanna feel like my bed is enveloping me, with hoodies, pyjama bottoms and the thickest pair of socks I own. Other times, even if I'm not doing anything at all, I like to pamper myself, look good and dress up for me! 

What are your me-time beauty products?

Moisturiser. Without a doubt. For me, me-time is also about looking after yourself physically as well as mentally. It's a good opportunity to let your skin breathe and give it a break from make-up. a good face-mask or a thick face cream will do wonders. In my Winter Skincare post I mentioned Nourish's Argan Skin Renew. The tiny pot I received in the Argan Beauty Collection has actually lasted me a good 3 months, and I use it every day. It's hands down my favourite. So dense and thick, but subtle in scent so it doesn't irritate sensitive skin. 

Current favourite nail polish?

Right now it's Barry M's Silk Nail Effects in Forest. I wore it in my Valentins OOTD. It's a dark, slightly iridescent green with a nice matte finish. I struggle to find good green shades in nail polishes so this one is a definite keeper. I want the whole Silk collection!  

What do you eat/ drink during me-time?

TEA! I love all flavours of tea. I find it relaxes me. I recently did the StripTeas 14 Day Detox and it's amazing how a little bag of herbs can invigorate you. However on the other side of the spectrum, I like to use an free me-time I get to bake because I love it and I don't get to do it very often any more, so a lot of cake / biscuit / bread / pie eating goes on during my me-time. 

Current favourite candle? 

I'm not actually a candle person. I probably will be when I move out, and my place will be full of them (and pointless cushions). I'm more of an incense stick / oils kinda person. I prefer that musky, natural smell. Oh and I like to collect the little holders and burners and pretty little oil bottles. It's hard to have a favorite incense smell because I think they all end up smelling sort of the same, but Nag Champa is a classic. You can never go wrong with that. 

Do you ever have outdoor me-time?

I try to. I think it is important to not shut yourself away. I hate cabin-fever so if I can get out, even if it's just to walk to the local shop, I do. I'm very lucky to have some gorgeous countryside surrounding me so I do like going for walks if the weather permits. Most of my outdoor ventures happen when I do my OOTD posts.It's a good excuse to go exploring and find somewhere a bit different for a good photo setting. 

Would you ever go see a movie alone?

It's something I've always wanted to do, especially if I want to see a film that no one else is interested in. It's not that I think there's anything wrong with seeing a movie alone, in fact I admire people that do it, but I actually enjoy sharing the experience with someone. I like the conversation after the movie has ended. Even when I watch a film at home by myself, I have to talk to someone about it. In a way I feel I'd only get half the experience if I went by myself. 

Favourite online store?

Oh lord I don't think I could possible pick one. I've just discovered Free People which is actually where a few of the costumes from American Horror Story: Coven were from. Since then I've been obsessed. It's like Misty's wardrobe!  I also love Drop Dead Clothing and Killstar but I've been finding some amazing sale gems on Asos, Boohoo and H&M recently. 

Anything to add? What else do you do during me-time?

I think it's really important for us all to take me-time. Our lives are so busy and/or stressful and it's easy to let the days blur into one another and not have anything to show for it. I find it so hard to sit and indulge in a movie or baking or just general relaxation without guilt weighing down on me that I should be doing something productive. I can never shut my mind off. Even when I am doing those things, my mind is constantly on overdrive, coming up with new blog posts or work or money or personal stuff. I'm slowly learning to shut off and enjoy the moment. I try do something that I'll be glad I've done, simply because for that time I was content or peaceful. 

I am going to tag: 

Susan from Dresses and Travels

Claire from ClaireLouise

Laura from Pixie Cuts and Polka Dots

Stephi from Stephi Lareine

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Valentines Brownies

 

I believe Valentines Day should be embraced by everyone, yes singletons I'm looking at you. Valentine's is the celebration of love, so why not extend that to your love of your family, friends ORRRRR food! 

Now I haven't baked in a while, so when I do get the chance I go a little bit crazy on the naughty scale and make the filthiest, most delicious concoctions to satisfy my cravings, and these devilish treats will bring warm belly love to absolutely anyone. 

Any avid baker will have their own personal brownie recipe that gets them their desired results. Every time I've made brownies, they've never turned out quite right and I've constantly been on the hunt for the perfect recipe. Well I found it. 

This recipe makes the gooiest, densest, richest brownies I've ever had, and it's so bloody simple! 

However, because of my baking lapse, I had to go one step further. Dense rich goo wasn't enough for me. 

If you read my What I Got For Christmas post you'll have seen that the boyfriend spoiled me with two jars of delectable spread. One is the spread form of those delicious caramel-flavoured Lotus biscuits. and the other is from Tesco's range of spreads in genius flavours. I've only tried the cookie spread and the Bourbon spread (which does actually taste like the biscuit). There's also a Custard Cream spread, a chocolate orange spread and a dark chocolate peanut butter spread. 

I want to collect them all, however for now I thought the Lotus and Cookie spreads would work perfectly dolloped in the center of my brownies. 

Boy did they. You can never have enough goo when it comes to brownies, and the burst of caramel or creamy cookie flavours work so well. This batch made about 15, and in my house they didn't last longer than two days. 

So if you and your other half are having a night in with a movie and pizza, or you're at home with the family or having a girly night with plenty of wine, spread the love with these bad boys! 

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Blood & Tears Murder Tour - London

So word is spreading among family and friends that I have a morbid curiosity; to the point that my Aunty bought me tickets to a serial killer walking tour around London. I was actually thrilled. I love this kind of thing, and there's so much about the history of London that isn't widely known, so I was more than up for a bit of a macabre stroll in the dark around London on a Friday night. 

After a quick but oh so filling bite to eat at The Diner, Soho, we rushed over to Barbican to meet our tour guide. The name of the tour was actually The Blood & Tears Walk London and was bought from Buyagift.com . 

There were only four of us on the tour, me, the boyfriend and another couple, which I was worried would make things a bit awkward but actually worked in our favour as we got one-on-one time with the guide and weren't having to poke our heads above a massive crowd to hear what was being said. Obviously the tour isn't very popular at this time of year because of the unpredictable weather, but with the tour starting at 7, I find doing the tour in the dark had an influence on the thrill factor of the tour. 

Now I'm not going to divulge too many details of the tour because I don't want to spoil it, but this is more than just your average reading-from-a-guide-book-with-loads-of-facts tour. It's more interactive and actually engages you in discussion about certain serial killers and gets you to consider the psychology behind their acts. 

The tour guide himself Declan McHugh specialises in these evil beings and what makes them tick - he even wrote a book called Bloody London, so not only are you in good, knowledgeable hands, but your guide is someone who is passionate about this subject, and you'll pick up on that straight away. 

From Jack the Ripper and Dennis Nilsen to grave robbers and London pubs frequented by serial killers to pounce on their victims, this tour gives you a real insight into the mental workings of some of London's most calculated serial killers. Declan encourages you to piece together the stories yourself and psychologically profile these people so as to get a real understanding of their motives. You may even solve the unsolvable: Who is Jack the Ripper? 

I thoroughly enjoyed this tour and think it makes a great evening out. Some of the information is quite grim, but if you're of a morbid disposition like me, you wont bat an eyelid. As well as learning about the evil of London, you also learn about its history and walk through areas of London you probably never knew existed. 

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Drink Me, Eat Me - Hammersmith

I love exploring new parts of London and seeing the creativity and unique ideas the independent businesses are bringing to the local community. Shoreditch is a brilliant example of this, and recently, many other London boroughs are following suite. 

Just recently, me and the boyfriend stayed in a hotel in Hammersmith for a weekend in London, and decided to explore what the area had to offer, having only ever visited for the Apollo. 

We were looking for somewhere to have breakfast, and just opposite our hotel was this adorable little place. As an Alice in Wonderland obsessive, it would be absolutely sacrilegious for me to walk past a place called Drink Me, Eat Me and not go in. 

Cute is the word that comes to mind when trying to describe the Treat Boutique, but it just doesn't cut it. Cath Kidston style florals and candy pastels beautifully embellish the interior, whilst the atmosphere is buzzing and cosy. 

The homemade sausage rolls and quiches were tempting and went down a treat, but had to be followed up with a slice or two of the mouth-watering selection of cakes on offer. It's never too early for cake when they look like that. 

As well as tasty temptations, the boutique is full of local artwork, crafts and glamorous fashion accessories for littluns. 

Even though this is a perfect place for kids, with a froyo machine and a variety of candy toppings and private parties, I didn't feel out of place here. Don't get me wrong, I'm definitely in touch with my inner child, but there's something for everyone here, no matter how old you are. 

This is a place that deserves being patronised not only by the local community, but London visitors too. I'm definitely going back and getting my greedy paws on that froyo machine! 

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