Scott's Grotto in Ware
The pleasant Hertfordshire town of Ware, just north of London along the river Lee, has a surprising secret. In an unassuming residential part of town nestles what is thought to be the largest grotto in England.
Six Things on
Jackdaw - our clever companion in the townscape
The jackdaw is Britain's smallest crow, with a distinctive silvery sheen to the back of its head. It is a bird of woodland, parkland, coasts and urban areas, with a reputation for being curious, adaptable and a good survivor.
The electricity pylon
Electricity pylons (or towers) have been part of the British landscape for almost 100 years, but are often taken for granted despite being an important part of the nation's energy system and an iconic design achievement. The number of pylons in the UK is over 90,000.
Amanda McKittrick Ros - The Worst Novelist in History?
Writer Amanda McKittrick Ros is often said to be the worst novelist in history. She thought she was a misunderstood literary genius but few agreed. However, her work arguably strays into the 'so bad it's good' territory and can still be read today.
Ivy - much maligned but vital for nature
Ivy is a common evergreen climbing plant, mistakenly thought to strangle trees. It is now better understood as a great benefit to wildlife - supporting at least 50 species of wildlife. There are two subspecies of ivy native to the UK.
23 and 24 Leinster Gardens, Bayswater - not much room inside!
23 and 24 Leinster Gardens in Bayswater, central London, may look very grand desirable houses to live in, but it's all a facade. Literally, they are clever fakes — built in the 19th century to hide the train tracks of the Metropolitan Railway that run beneath them.
Six things to delight and entertain you every day.