The Bogside Massacre...

All countries have historical events that they wish had never happened, and Great Britain is no different.  Also known as "Bloody Sunday", the Bogside Massacre is one of the less savoury episodes in British history.  On January 30, 1972, 14 civil rights protesters in Derry, Northern Ireland, were killed by soldiers of the British Army.

Happy Birthday, Jessica...

It's time to focus on one outstanding individual today, which is very appropriate seeing that it is her birthday!  So, I'd like to wish a very happy birthday to the lovely Jessica Ennis-Hill CBE, who has already secured her place among the all-time sporting greats.

The City...

This is not about the City of London, nor any other English City.  It is about Brechin City (nickname, "The City"), my adopted Scottish footy team.  Not one of the most successful or glamorous clubs, and certainly not a name mentioned alongside Celtic or Rangers, I just started following their fortunes as a young boy.

23rd January...

...is the 23rd day of the year, according to the Gregorian calendar!  It also means that Christmas is just 336 days away, so you had better get out and start your shopping!  In all seriousness, the day is also known for some other events in British history, and here are just some of them,..

On Top of the World...

No, this not a post about the American singing duo, the Carpenters, and it is not about those who have conquered Mt. Everest.  Contrary to popular belief (and a none-too-distinguished record, to be honest), British teams have actually succeeded in lifting World Cup titles in various sports!

The Silvertown Explosion...

Silvertown is an area of West Ham in East London, on the north bank of the River Thames.  In 1893, a chemical factory was built on the North Woolwich Rd by Brunner-Mond and Co. Ltd.  By the summer of 1915, WWI was well under way, and the British were suffering a severe shell shortage.

Music of the mid-70's...

I don't know why, but trying to think what to post today, this suddenly came to me...  Seeing that this is the first month of the year, it seemed an appropriate time to post the song January by Pilot.  That just led to include a  couple of other vids from that time.

I'll Have a Pint With You, Sir...

You will have noticed that British food and beverages are a recurring theme in this blog, but one thing I haven't covered yet is beer.  We have many different types of beer, but one of the most wonderful things is the actual name of the beer.  Forget boring names like "Miller Light" and "Angry Orchard", and have a look at some of these!

Ealing Studios...

One of the big names in British film and television production, Ealing Studios is the oldest continually working film facility in the world.  Situated in West London, the site has been in operation since 1902.  While not limited to humorous movies (few were made at the studios before WWII), the studios is best known for a series of post-war comedy films, known as the Ealing Comedies.

St. Robert's Cave...

Near the River Nidd in North Yorkshire is a small cave.  When I say "small", it is too small for a grown man to lie straight, yet it has a stone bed.  It was the home of Robert of Knaresborough (1160-1218), otherwise known as St. Robert, although never officially canonised.

Westminster Abbey...

One of the most iconic structures in London, Westminster Abbey has long been one of the "must-sees" on any tourist's list.  While there was previously a church on the site, construction of the current building was started in 1245.  Westminster Abbey has been home to coronations, royal weddings, and state funerals.

Towns and Villages (Part Two)...

A few months back, I treated you to some of the more unusual place names that are found in the British Isles.  Here is the second installment...

Up For The Cup...

Team sports are huge in both Britain and the United States, but one of the main differences is that in Britain, league and knockout formats are usually kept separate.  There may be playoffs to decide promotion and relegation issues (automatic in football and other sports), but league championships are one thing, and knockout cups another.  The greatest of all British cups is the F.A. Cup.