Early on Saturday, I visited Two Temple Place – a mansion that my friend correctly described as a ‘hidden gem in London’.  It is a beautiful mansion that is open to the public a few weeks each year.  I was very impressed by the grandeur or this place, and how I had never known it was right there by Temple station.  I saw a beautiful Cotton to Gold exhibition with collections of old hand decorated books and transcripts, as well as impressive mosaics and insect collections.  It’s definitely worth a visit if you get the opportunity.

http://www.twotempleplace.org/ 

Lunch was at the Social Eating House, sister restaurant to my favourite Pollen Street Social.  Great restaurant and great food.  The prix fixe menu was very reasonable (£21 for two courses, £25 for three courses) and I’m practically planning my next visit.  The pea soup was very good (although I had starter envy with my friends having the mussels), I enjoyed the pork belly and the chocolate ganache was delicious.  (I still prefer Pollen Street Social though)

http://www.socialeatinghouse.com/

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g186338-d4080917-Reviews-Social_Eating_House-London_England.html

In the evening, I went to the Royal Vauxhall Tavern.  I’ve heard a lot of weird and wonderful things about this place.  The doors didn’t open until 9pm and it was packed by 11pm.  There’s a friendly vibe here, everyone was willing to have a good time.  There were a couple of acts for the ‘Duckie’ evening – a comedian and… I don’t know what to call him… an entertainer?  A lovely chap called Cockney Ken who is in his 80’s and serenaded us with tunes like ‘I’m forever blowing bubbles’.  It wasn’t really my cup of tea.  But it meant the music and dancing was that little bit sweeter when the act was over!  The music was very eclectic and I had a great time dancing til’ it closed at 2am.

http://rvt.org.uk/