Bonnington Square is my favourite of London's many hidden gems.  At the Square's heart is a Pleasure Garden that has been beautifully landscaped by the local community.  Hidden among the palms at one end is a giant guardian in the form of an 1860s industrial waterwheel that watches over the trees, flowers and visitors.  The garden alone would be enough to justify a trip across London, but Bonnington Square has much more to offer.  The huge community spirit that went into the garden has overflowed into the surrounding streets, taking the gardens with it.  Every available inch has been used to plant yet more trees, shrubs and flowers.  The pavements feel as if they are bursting into life.  Look a little closer and you'll find that there are open passages winding through houses to yet more community gardens. 

Having explored the gardens I recommend visiting  the small resident-run cafe opposite the garden gates.  Come on the right night and you'll be treated to local musicians and singing staff.  London life and community spirit really doesn't get much better than this.

Robert

In the spirit of the fringe, we are big fans of free comedy.  So it's great to see that Lewis Schaffer is performing free (voluntary collection after the show) every Tuesday and Wednesday evening at The Source Below in Soho.  We'll be going this week, so check back in a few days for a review.

Update:  Lewis Schaffer is a dark and slightly disturbed individual.  But what better material for a comic?  His show is the troubled tale of one American's struggle with divorce, bankruptcy and English culture. None of which has been made easier by his self-professed mild racism.  As he himself admits, no one wants to go see a mildly racist comic:  nice people take offence and true racists think you're a sell out.  Which is perhaps why he still has yet to make his big break through, and until he does he will be 'Free Until Famous'.  So why not give him a go?  You have nothing to lose but your temper.  If you're like his audience tonight, you'll leave feeling happily amused and abused in equal measure. 

Robert

A big thank you to today's Hidden Wonders hunters and especially to Charley.  It was a real pleasure meeting you all and I'm glad you enjoyed it.  It was also nice to see a team get so close to a perfect solution.  I hope you'll be back for more events in the future.

Robert