A visit to the Geffrye Museum

Yesterday we made a long anticipated visit to the Geffrye Museum of the Home in London. This fascinating museum showcases how homes and gardens have changed to reflect changes in behaviour, society and tastes over the last 400 years. It is set in an 18th Century almshouse which is quite stunning considering it is surrounded by the urban sprawl of London, although of course it was built on open fields originally! If you are interested in interior design or gardening it is a must-see attraction when you are next in London. The restaurant and shop are also delightful.

A view of the front of the building which is set in quiet, relaxing gardens and grounds. Entry to everything is free.

A series of room sets show you how interior design has changed over the years. This room is from about 1800. Farrow and Ball have a range of heritage papers including some that look very similar to this one.

A typical Victorian parlour set for afternoon tea.

My personal favourite, this is an art-deco living room from the 1930s.

And on to the 1950s - I remember my grandparents having some of this furniture!

Outside are a range of gardens also reflecting different time periods.

Gardening has always been a British fascination!

This is a very Victorian arrangement of bedding plants.

Walking back to the railway station later that evening the moonlight behind Big Ben was quite atmospheric.

And I have never seen this new addition to the South Bank - a rather terrifying merry-go-round style ride that towers above the buildings! I bet the views are amazing if you are brave enough to open your eyes!