Culture

Eddie Saint-Jean is an arts and culture writer and editor of London-focused magazine WHLondon. He’s a London expert who writes articles and guides about the capital’s historic and cultural attractions and author of London Art in Review and The LONDON BOOK of Churches.

Also, the writer of Crown & Parliament which is not solely a constitutional history book or photo book but combines both. It covers the 45 seismic days from the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, to the departure of Liz Truss, it’s shortest-serving PM. And, of course, the appointment of Rishi Sunak, the UK’s first Indian-origin PM and its youngest since Lord Liverpool in 1812.

Eddie Saint-Jean’s LONDON BOOK series covers the capital’s arts, culture and heritage.

Some Of London’s Cultural Centres

Somerset House

Somerset House is a sprawling arts centre with a fascinating history. This neoclassical-Georgian building forms a grand-looking quadrangle with an equally grand courtyard and hosts a wide range of cultural events throughout the year. Centuries ago, its undoubted magnificence attracted equally illustrious owners such as Elizabeth I and visitors like Admiral Horatio Nelson.

Read my article to find out more about Somerset House’s architecture.

Within its grounds, you’ll find the Courtauld Gallery which has a permanent collection of Impressionist and Post Impressionist works. The Art Cafe just opposite the gallery is perfectly located for a coffee break or lunch.

For more about the Courtauld Gallery’s Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, read my article

Southbank

Southbank’s blocky Brutalist architecture is its stand-out feature and gives it the look of a dystopian kingdom quite separate from the rest of London. It’s an iconic cultural hub – a centre for art, film, theatre, poetry and the performing arts.

In Southbank you’ll find the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, BFI Southbank, the National Theatre, the Hayward Gallery and a buzzing second-hand book market under the bridge, just opposite BFI Southbank.

For more about Southbank’s Brutalist architecture, read my article – and also a photo article