Keep Britain Tidy

Not much is known about Royston Cooper (1931 - 1985) but I so love his mid-century graphic designs, which were everywhere in '60's Britain.

Happy St. Valentine's

Borough Market

As far back as the 9th century {and possibly far earlier}, the area around London Bridge attracted traders selling grain, fish, vegetables and livestock. In the 13th century this loose collection of vendors moved a few short blocks to what is now Borough High Street, where a market has existed ever since. Although the market was briefly closed by an act of Parliament in 1755, a group of local residents quickly raised £6,000, purchased land once the churchyard of St Margaret’s, and reopened the market soon after. This ancient churchyard is still at the heart of today's Borough Market, a vibrant and thriving marketplace in the shadow of Southwark Cathedral offering a strong selection of the finest British wine, coffee, flowers, produce, meats, and fish.

While much of the market looks as it always has, present day visitors have the added benefit of Roast, set in a conservatory high above the market's hustle & bustle. Yesterday both bar & dining room were aflutter with eager Brits quaffing rose champagne, Roast's private label brews, and organic ciders from Cornwall. And the food {fish from Dorset, cheese from Somerset, pork from Yorkshire, and beef from Wales}, divinely hand crafted from market-fresh ingredients, was superb.