Hammersmith to Chiswick

Taking advantage of the fortuitous coincidence of my day off and unseasonably lovely weather I decided to go for a walk in West London (since I was going to the theatre in the evening anyway in Richmond).

First one has to escape Hammersmith tube, and its accompanying shopping centre and massive traffic island, and head to the river. Only worthwhile thing to see on the way is St Peters church

They you hit the very attractive Hammersmith Bridge.

If you don't cross over, this side of the Thames has a whole run of  run of truly lovely buildings. This is just such a picturesque area for a stroll on a sunny day.

 It's made all the more attractive because of the pubs. I managed to get past the Blue Anchor...

... but couldn't resist the Rutland Arms so settled onto a table outside for a pint and a sandwich.

Views across the Thames are fine, with the added interest value of assorted houseboats.

 

Furnivall Gardens are a nice enough spot to settle down on a bench in the sunshine. They are actually a product of bomb damage - that's why there is a "hole" here for the gardens.

Another nice looking little pub in the area is the Dove. I like my pubs being 17th century.

 Kelmscott House (above) was the home of William Morris. There is a small infrequently open museum here too - below.

This is Laytmer Prep school rather prettier position that most schools.

Linden House dates from 1733, originally a rich merchants house but now HQ to a rowing club.

The Old Ship would have been another lovely pub to have stopped at, but if I stopped at every nice pub I would never have completed the walk, or even been able to walk at all.

Feel like another drink? The Black Lion...

Hammersmith Terrace was built in the mid-18th century and is a row of tall elegant Georgian houses. A few blue plaques here.

Houses become even more salubrious as one enters Chiswick.

Heading back inland from the Thames you can see the remains of Lamb's brewery.

St Nichols Chiswick is one of those historic churches that litter London.  Top "sight" is Hogarth's tomb in the churchyard.

Old Burlington is one of the oldest buildings in the area - dating back to the 15th century.

This is Hogarth's House. Open to the public proclaims the sign. Yes, but not on a Monday unfortunately. And it had taken me a while to find it too. Grr.

Never mind, the real spot to detain one round here is  Chiswick House and Gardens. Designed by the third Earl of Burlington (when the aristocracy were good at things) following going on the Grand Tour and seeing the villas of Palladio. Both  Gardens and House are really quite exquisite.

By the time I had finished and got back to the Thames, the sun was setting. So one last photo and then off to Richmond for the theatre....