Russell Square Revealed

[@MadMax76er]

What a crime against architecture that replacement Imperial Hotel was😢

[@Robslondon]

😆

[@broadsword6650]

The problem with brutalist architecture is that, unless it is really well maintained and cleaned, it looks awful. And sometimes, even if it is cleaned!

[@Robslondon]

@@broadsword6650 Very true... there are some examples of the style I do like, but as you say they have to be well maintained.

[@pigoff123]

I agree with you

[@johnholt890]

@@broadsword6650sorry all the maintenance in the world wouldn’t rescue that monstrosity and what a glory it replaced total crime.

[@Spangletiger]

Your videos are always well researched, crammed with detail and always entertaining but this one is, I think, exceptionally so! Is there any other square in London with so much history?

[@Robslondon]

Bless you Spangletiger, thank you so much for the kind words!

[@adhaincroi]

My mom worked at the Russell hotel in the 50s as a teenager. I took her back for Christmas in the 90s and she was devastated to find the Imperial gone. She said the two standing together were two of the most beautiful and majestic buildings she ever seen. She said the old turkish baths though beautiful were a den of "inequity" and would be regularly raided by the police. Much to the amusement of the staff who knew them to be a hangout for Londons gay community. Often the staff would have cleared them out as soon as reception reported the cops were coming. Since a large number of the staff themselves were also gay. The cops would be left empty handed.

[@Robslondon]

A truly wonderful comment and fascinating insight. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@benhassan11]

I stayed at the Kimpton Fitzroy hotel a few weeks ago and it was a cesspool. It was disgusting. Russell square was a true third world country in June 24 2023. Will never go back to London, Repulsive in everyway.

[@sollyolly9547]

Nice story, thank you!

[@chriswoodford4331]

The ‘60s were an era of planning vandalism.

[@Spectrescup]

I was walking through Russell Square at about 3am about 25 years ago, when despite the pitch dark and my terrible eyesight it became apparent that behind almost every tree were men, er, 'kissing'.

[@mattashman4040]

I was born in Russel square and we lived in the Peabody building in Herbrand Street, my dad planted all the cherry trees that now grow along the street, 55 years ago

[@Robslondon]

That's beautiful Matt. I'll be sure to look at your dad's trees next time I'm there. Stay well.

[@thereunionparty]

Some fascinating insights into Russell Square and its surroundings. I lived nearby in a student hall of residence in the late 70s and didn't know most of this information. I was wondering why I wasn't familiar with the taxi shelter and then you pointed out it didn't arrive until 1981. Such a shame about the original Imperial Hotel. I often used to marvel at the grandeur of the Hotel Russell, not realising that its near neighbour was once a similar structure. On the subject of famous connections, this one might be somewhat fleeting but I think it's worth mentioning. In the early 60s the Beatles stayed at the Hotel President in Guildford Street when they first came to London to audition for Parlophone. There is quite a famous poster of the Fab Four walking side by side along Guildford Street towards Russell Square, with John Lennon looking across the road at the Hotel Russell. I believe the sculptor of the Beatles statues at the Pier Head in Liverpool used this particular photograph as his point of reference when creating the statues.

[@Robslondon]

Fantastic comment, thank you so much. Yes, I think you are quite correct about the Liverpool Beatles sculpture connection with Guildford Street; excellent, excellent spot!! 😎

[@borassictime918]

What I’ve always found curious about Russell Square itself is how its level is quite a bit lower than the surround road and pavement. I assume the roads and pavements were built up over the years and that the Square is the original ground level when the area was developed in the 18th Century.

[@Robslondon]

Very good point.

[@darriendastar3941]

Exquisite, as ever. One bit of trivia that you might like is that the only person to escape serial killer Dennis Nilsen (after Nilsen had tried to kill him) was a student at the School of Slavonic and East European Studies, which used to be on the north side of the square. He was so disorientated and confused by what had happened that he went straight into college after the event and initially tried to explain away the red marks around his neck by saying he'd zipped up his sleeping bag too tight. He was a very brave man who went through a lot to testify against his would-be killer.

[@Robslondon]

Excellent comment, thank you. I would very much like to make a video on that subject, although it’s pretty grim… and true crime doesn’t seem to do too well on this channel 😉

[@darriendastar3941]

@@Robslondon I'd definitely watch that video! I suppose it make sense, though that true crime doesn't do as well as your other videos. One of the best things about your videos is the history and interesting stories and trivia. All of your videos have an 'insider' feel them, whereas true crime videos are everywhere. Personally, I think your take on some London crimes are uniquely excellent - the Tin Pan Alley fire was simply the best report I've ever seen or read. Perhaps people don't know enough about the crimes to know exactly how *good* they are? You might be a victim of your own excellence here.

[@paulbagley1020]

Another triumph in historical research. Well done, Rob!

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much Paul 😊

[@adrianrose7703]

I agree. It’s the first I’ve watched and I think it’s brilliant.

[@robbojax2025]

As always a well presented piece of London history.

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much Robbojax

[@paulwilson7234]

Couldn't agree more with you.

[@angelaschwentker]

That's what I love about London - there are stories everywhere you turn. And even underground :-) Thanks a lot for this one, Rob, it has brought back some memories. I think I stayed in Bloomsbury last in 2006 oder 2007, definitely after the 2005 attacks, so it's been a while. But it seems like not too much has changed.

[@Robslondon]

It’s a pleasure; thanks for the lovely comment!

[@marshaprice8226]

I was fascinated to see pictures of Bedford House, the duke’s statue and the early development of Russell Square because I am familiar with them from Georgette Heyer’s Regency novel “A Civil Contract”. One of the main characters lives in Russell Square. Conversations in the book talk about Bedford House and its demolition, the duke’s agricultural interests and his statue with the plow, and the size of the square and the houses that have been recently built around it. There is also a mention that the artist Sir Thomas Lawrence lives nearby and that when the Czar of Russia comes to have his portrait painted, a Cossack stands guard at the front door. Thanks so much for a most informative video!

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment Marsha, thank you!

[@thewrecker3140]

A first class video, so many interesting facts surrounding Russell Square. I particularly liked the memorial to Ewan MacColl. Your reference to the beautiful song " Sweet Thames Flow Softly" happens to be one of my all time favourites and in my opinion the greatest love song ever written about my hometown London. Thanks Rob you nailed it again.

[@Robslondon]

Much appreciated, thank you 😉

[@markshrimpton3138]

Frank Lloyd Wright, said that “a doctor can bury his mistakes, but an architect can only advise his clients to plant vines". He died before the concrete monster that is the Imperial Hotel was built, otherwise he might have recommended planting dynamite! Surely one of the most hideous looking buildings in Britain.

[@Robslondon]

🤣

[@johannusverhoeff4911]

Time to pull down the Imperial Hotel and to rebuild the original. Germany has done that sort of recreation architecture...does Britain want to be behind the times?

[@Robslondon]

Interesting, I didn’t know about that in Germany.

[@rodericfindlay4147]

Another well-researched and very interesting video, beautifully put together with very artistic use of music and silence. When Russell Square was new, it was looked down upon by the inhabitants of Mayfair as a place where new money lived. Interesting that the lawyers settled there.

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment rodericfindlay; thank you so much for the kind words. Stay well sir.

[@broadsword6650]

Excellent video, Rob. I really enjoyed it and, as a fan of both Ewan and Kirsty McColl, it was especially touching to see their memorials. On the subject of cabbies' shelters, I guess you are familiar with fellow KZbinr Tom The Taxi Driver? He has mentioned the shelters in the past but never gone into their history as such. If you need it, he could perhaps help with your video.

[@Robslondon]

Many thanks :-) Yes I know Tom the Taxi Driver, he runs an excellent channel. I was a cabbie myself until a few years ago!

[@marinabessarabova4972]

It's my dream trip from Heathrow to Russell Sq and then to Tavistock hotel nearby. Though on one of my arrivals stayed at the Russell Hotel. Perfect location-- easy to walk to the British Museum, Theatre land is not far off... and ... bus 168 will take you to Camden and Hampstead Heath, the area melts my heart. Has always melted.

[@Robslondon]

Beautiful comment, thank you ☺️

[@AlexWindsor]

I used to play piano in the Imperial Hotel - very impressive and imposing inside and out whilst simultaneously having the cheapskate feel of an airport lounge. I always wondered what the story was behind this - I remember seeing the old statues in the courtyard on my cigarette breaks. When it was coming up I was praying, please let it have been bombed in WWII, but no - I am shocked but not surprised. Only in London would they commit such crimes against architecture and history. Thanks for another great video Rob!

[@Robslondon]

Brilliant comment Alex, I enjoyed reading that. Apparently it was demolished due to lack of bathrooms and unsound structure…. but I reckon they could’ve tried something to save it at least 😕 Oh well, stay well and thanks again.

[@kellydalstok8900]

During the sixties lots of towns and city demolished nice buildings and replaced them with hideous, soulless, modern ones. People wanted to do away with the stuffy old past and modernize towns, and they finally had money to do so after the scarcity just after the war. Art nouveau/Jugendstil was also a movement that wanted to rejuvenate things, but they had an eye for beauty.

[@TalesOfWar]

A lot of things built after the war had the "it should be able to take a bomb" mentality, which is why things were made with that incredibly strong and often ugly concrete and had very small or just narrow windows with little natural light. I guess it made sense. People felt safer. I think it's also only a relatively modern phenomena to want to preserve things, like the last 100 or so years modern. We just used to knock down and build on top of everything. Rome is famous for this, you can't dig a hole more than a metre without finding something of historical intrigue. There are various layers of all the eras they just put something new on top.

[@TalesOfWar]

@@kellydalstok8900 A lot of old stuff was also demolished because it was cheaper to knock it down and rebuild than to repair it, especially after bomb damage.

[@Project.Womble.London]

This was so good. I loved the story about Chicago Mae. Fantastic I’m researching Russell Square at the moment and this was packed with brilliant and unique info 😊

[@Robslondon]

😉

[@JTonson]

Well done, excellent as always. But Oscar Wilde never spent the night in Russell Square. When he was released from prison he was taken to the home of Rev Stuart Headlam, one of his bail guarantors, in Upper Bedford Place (the house was demolished by London University). From there he caught the boat train to Dieppe. One memorable character who lived in Russell Square but who isn't commemorated by a plaque in William Roxby Beverley, the greatest scene-painter of his generation, who designed the fabulous pantomimes at Drury Lane and was known as the architect of fairyland.

[@Robslondon]

Thanks… you’d better tell Camden Council as they state Oscar’s history on their information board 😉

[@keithwesley2471]

I have stayed one night at the Russell Hotel with my godmother back in the 1950s. Many years later also dined their courtesy of Forte! Worked nearby in the National hospital and with a colleague we visited the Imperial Hotel Turkish bath in the mid 1960s. That was a very impressive and decorative set up. Fond memories of the area in general.

[@Robslondon]

Brilliant comment Keith, thank you!

[@Michael-wr1yy]

Brilliant history lesson. Thanks, very well put together, I was a Londoner and I knew little of the history you have told.

[@Robslondon]

That means a lot to me Michael, thank you. Stay well.

[@RS-su3un]

Thanks Rob, I have spent many evenings wondering around the area as work used to put us up in what is now the Grange White Hall Hotel, on MontagueStreet. The whole area feels like it has been lifted off the pages of Mary Poppins and had that civilised feel to it. It was was staying there in the 1990’s that cultivated my passion for the British Museu. All those times I stated there never knew the real rich History of the area. Thank you for sharing

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment, thank you so much- and yes, know what you mean about Mary Poppins! Thanks again and stay well.

[@binarydinosaurs]

Tremendous, i've always liked the little cab cafes and the square in general. I'm probably the only one who thought the horse hospital should've been called a Horsepital though.

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment, thank you... love the idea of a Horsepital! 😀

[@francescaruby1150]

Why did they demolish the Imperial. Was it because it didn’t have private bathrooms?

[@Robslondon]

Yes, they said there was a lack of bathrooms and also that some of the structure was unsafe.... should've tried to save it though! ;-)

[@smburr1]

Ah the memories. Resided at the Academy Hotel Gower Street during the late 80s and would have my evening meal at the Russell Square Hotel….seems such a long time ago now but happy times😍

[@Robslondon]

😄

[@havingalook2]

That was excellent. I know the square well. I didn't know the story tough of the Turkish Bath. I have walked by that pavement marker 1,000,000 times and wondered where the Turkish Bath is. I now know, thank you. I have had afternoon tea in the posh Russell Hotel ( as I knew it called) and mates stated there, so I did get to see into the rooms. Very nice. Didn't know the Titanic connect though. So informative your presentations are. Well done.

[@Robslondon]

Really nice comment; thank you so much!

[@annereidy7981]

Thank you Rob, that was so interesting. I wonder if you have thought of doing, or have already made a video of Georgian Period, Frances Burney's London, including the location of the once famous Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens?

[@Robslondon]

The Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens; yes excellent idea! Will note it down 😉

[@michaelrooney1454]

Spent many an hour in Russell Square when I was living and working in London, 12 years ago

[@richard8626]

I stayed just down the street from Russell Sq. about two years ago. Had many a nice breakfest at the cafe inside the Sq. And wander about it a few times. This Video brought back fond memories of that trip. Hope to see it again in a couple of years.

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment Richard, thank you

[@douglasthompson296]

Hi Rob, i wont bore you too much with my memoirs of activities in Russell Sqare 🧐 surfice to say it holds many memories. The Italian cafe inside the Square is surely older than the 80's as i used to get my frothy coffee (ok a capp uccino these days) on my way back to Euston station. Thanks for the info on the modern Imperial Hotel, i genuinely thought it was a rebuild after war damage, i live and learn. Cheers DougT

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment as always Doug, thank you! I imagine the Italian cafe is indeed older; just been with the current family since ‘81. Stay well mate.

[@andycopping7220]

Loved this video, you have a great style on editing and narration, keep it up mate. I learn some amazing titbits

[@Robslondon]

That means so much to me Andy, thank you 😊 Really appreciate your kind words. Stay well.

[@adamcotton2121]

RS is the best area in London. In the summer, you fall asleep to the song of the leaves. Love from Canada.

[@Robslondon]

Very true

[@iansteel5569]

I used to park there when I wanted to go to the club called 'Blitz' happy days.

[@popefang]

One of my heroes - Ewan MacColl. Inspirational songwriter and activist, I was fortunate to spend two days with him and Peggy Seeger in 1978 when they toured Australia, I even got a banjo lesson from Peggy!

[@Robslondon]

Oh wow! What a memory to have 🙂

[@ChrisSmith-ls7mb]

Hello Robert An excellent vodeo. We have been to Russell Square a couple of times. We visited Russell Square as fans of Sherlock. This is where Watson meets Mike who then introduced Watson to Sherlock. We love Russell tube station. An actress Celia Imrie who is related to the Russell family. I remember seeing her first in To the Manor born. Thanks for the great video. Take Care Chris and Sandra of Canada

[@Robslondon]

Gosh! Brilliant facts you've shared there Chris and Sandra, I didn't know about those links! Many thanks; wish I'd included them in the video :-) Stay well.

[@damascus6478]

On my first two trips to London in 1992 & 1993 I stayed at a B&B in Russell Square so this takes me back. I have been to London about 25 times since but haven't revisited Russell Square. It was (in 1992) a beautiful and quiet corner of London and I really enjoyed staying there. BTW, good job on the grotesques, almost anybody would have called them gargoyles. Interesting timing, Russell Square station was closed due to lack of staff Friday.

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much! Lovely comment 😉

[@brianartillery]

Although filmed at Aldwych station, the setting for the classic horror movie, 'Death Line' (1972), was Russell Square Tube station.

[@Robslondon]

Cheers Brian, I’ve never been sure exactly what’s what with that location if I’m entirely honest! 😉

[@user-tn1oh3he8c]

Wow, how have I just found this channel, very informative and very interesting, not once throughout the 23mins was I thinking of clicking off, from a London lover, pls never stop

[@Robslondon]

Truly appreciate your kind words; thank you!

[@johnsharp8632]

Thanks for another well researched and presented video of my home town. I worked in an office on the corner of Russell Square and Woburn Place for 6 months from October 2005. One of the ladies in the office had been leaving a bank in Woburn Place as the bomb aboard the bus exploded. Though not herself injured, she was still traumatised when I met her a month or two later. I don't ever remember seeing the old Imperial Hotel, but what a beauty it was. I have had meetings in the current hotel and the interior is just as bad as the exterior. I had never thought of the origin of the term 'all Doll'd up' but your suggestion makes perfect sense. I was always curious about the 'Turkish Bath' sign on the pavement, so thanks for explaining that one too. Keep up your splendid work.

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much John. Let’s hope your colleague is keeping well nowadays after that dreadful experience. Stay well my friend.

[@benhassan11]

Are you proud to be from this repulsive town? Lets talk about all the suicide, human trafficking and child exploitation.

[@dawnchorus7167]

Fantastic video Rob. I've stayed at the Kimpton a few times and it really is a luxurious hotel. Bloomsbury is a wonderful place to visit. Also, I had no idea the Imperial used to look so much grander originally, what a pity.

[@Robslondon]

Beautiful comment, thank you so much. Nice thoughts, and I really appreciate your kind words dawnchorus. Stay well my friend.

[@john1703]

"Up, up, up past the Russell Hotel, Up, up, up, up to the Heaviside layer..." Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, T.S.Eliot. Russell Square Tube station is a Grade II listed building. It has three lifts, which are all fifty-passenger lifts built by Wadsworth. There are no escalators but the platforms can be reached using a spiral staircase with 176 steps.

[@huwlewis9059]

Sorry am so late to the party - in catch-up mode on KZbin. One of the funniest things I’ve seen happened at Russell Square tube station as I was travelling to work. An elderly American couple were boarding a tube to Heathrow with a pile of suitcases. The lady got on the train, the man handed the bags to her and the doors closed leaving her on the train with the bags and him on the platform. It was rush hour so busy and no-one was able to help (or bring London, everyone minded their own business!). I had to get off at Holborn so never knew the outcome!

[@Robslondon]

Ha ha! I’ve seen that happen on the tube too! And I saw a bloke get his head clunked by the doors once too- painful! 😉

[@stephanieyee9784]

I walked through Russell Square in 2019 on my way to collect my London Pass. I have photographs of a man installing the plaque for the first female dentist! There was a small gathering/protest of Remainers (EU) on the hotel side of the park. It was a lovely day and an interesting walk. Cheers.

[@Robslondon]

Wonderful comment Stephanie, thank you ☺️

[@mickontherock1]

Really interesting especially as it’s part of London I’m not that familiar with. Usual high quality well produced and researched. Well done and thanks Rob. (I’d buy you a coffee but I can’t see your little icon thing!) all the best, Mick

[@Robslondon]

Cheers Mick ;-)

[@jennythescouser]

I often have a bacon butty and a cup of tea at the cabman's shelter. All the old 'greasy spoons' in the area have either closed down or morphed into an avocado on toast and skinny latte bistro. Don't get me wrong, I like avocado on toast but you can't beat a good fry up on a cold winters day.

[@Robslondon]

Well said ;-)

[@MazSwanboroughSmith]

I’m enjoying your videos! I get so engrossed in all the history and how you film places I forget everything else! Thank you so much ❤

[@Robslondon]

Ah, thank you Maz! That means a lot to me; good to have you here 😉

[@JP_TaVeryMuch]

14:08 Whoever the Marchmont Association are, the apeing of the classic Blue Plaque of (at present) English Heritage lineage is a little bit interesting in this instance. To simply mark D'Oyly Carte as "Theatre impressario" and to not mention the Savoy is mean and wrong. Thank you Rob for stating the actual facts. I wonder if the siting on the front wall of a building housing an hotel has anything to do with this rewriting of history? Surely not.

[@Robslondon]

Thanks- good points.

[@gillie-monger3394]

I've stayed in the Imperial a couple o times in the 80's. My wife and I used to take weekend breaks in London occasionally. We loved sitting in the window seats of the various bars / cafés watching people hurry past to and from work whilst we just sat there enjoying being lazy for a day!

[@Robslondon]

Beautiful comment :-)

[@gingercat555]

I know Russell Square well as I worked near by but never knew of the rich history that goes with it ... every day is a school day ... thanks for enlightening me ... great video.

[@Robslondon]

Thank you!

[@daphnegeorge7481]

I often go through Russell Square on my way to the British Museum. I love it. The trees, the space and the benches are a magnet for peole wanting to chill out or rest their feet for a bit. It has a lovely atmosphere.

[@Robslondon]

Nice comment, thank you.

[@sollyolly9547]

Lovely video. I stay around this area regularly, and have had the luck (once!) to stay at the Kimpton, but this threw up so much that I didn't know. Really informative, thanks!

[@Robslondon]

Ah! Thanks for the nice comment 😉

[@janebays8952]

I worked at the President Hotel next to the Imperial and across the road from the Hotel Russell. The President Hotel was a favourite hotel of many of the pop stars of the time. I was a waitress and served the Beatles and Brian Epstein, Freddie and the Dreamers and Garry and the Pacemakers. Cilla Black and her manager stayed there along with an American singer called Brenda Lee. The most outstanding person was Chuck Berry who was very difficult to please sending his steak back to the kitchen 5 times. Amazing to think my grandsons went to a concert of his within the last 10 years. Russell Square is one of my favourite places and I was lucky enough to stay in the Russell Hotel several times. It is very impressive.

[@Robslondon]

Fantastic comment Jane, thank you- I really enjoyed reading that. Chuck Berry was a great musician, but yes... I've heard he was a very difficult person! Thanks again and stay well.

[@sandygail58]

Great video👏 My Grandad use to live there ( a flat in Southampton Row), he had a tobacconist shop around the area in the 1960s ( don't know the name) think there was a barber in front of shop. I have lots of great memories as a child, visiting Grandad at his shop & flat & going out to an lovely Italian restaurant, nearby too. If anyone has any information, I would love to know🙏

[@Robslondon]

Beautiful comment Sandy, thank you.

[@TalesOfWar]

I stayed here with my mum a few years ago when visiting London, really nice part of town. I'm surprised you didn't mention the Brunswick, but I guess that's far too modern for the stories being told! Sadly we never really actually went through the square itself, we were just going to and from the Tube station mostly to swan off somewhere else haha. I'll be sure to have a better look around next time we're there, it's become a semi tradition at this point to go to Slim Chickens whenever we're in town haha.

[@Robslondon]

😄

[@williamevans9426]

A quick question, if I may. Did the green cabbies' shelter ever serve as the cut-price theatre ticket booth when the shelter was located on Leicester Square? I'm sure the booth was a similarly old cabin before the more recent, modern ticket office was built? (Perhaps you could cover this in your planned separate video, if my memory is accurate?) Thank you.

[@Robslondon]

This is a really good question; you've got me scratching my head now! I'm trying to think back and yes, I remember an old cabin as you say, but I can't say for sure if it was a cab shelter. As far as I know, none of them were ever repurposed- but don't quote me on that! I have a feeling the cabin in question was perhaps influenced by their design though? I'll have to find some old pictures of the square. Thanks again William ;-)

[@williamevans9426]

Thanks! Your research and production values are an example to others. I hope my small further 'thank you' gift proves helpful - I only wish I could give more as I enjoy your videos so very much!

[@Robslondon]

William, thank you so much: that is incredibly generous of you and, believe me, very helpful indeed! I honestly can't thank you enough; your kindness has made my day. Stay well my friend and thank you again; much appreciated.

[@williamevans9426]

@@Robslondon A pleasure!

[@thewrecker3140]

William what a wonderful human being you are.

[@Robslondon]

@@williamevans9426 Thank you again William ;-)

[@williamevans9426]

@@Robslondon Don't mention it - I hope it helps and encourages you in your excellent work.

[@IanJones942]

9:00 WTAF? That is seriously unforgivable.

[@Robslondon]

😬

[@butchknapman3939]

Thanks Rob for another super video, well researched over a range of topics a good start to Sunday evening

[@Robslondon]

Appreciate the kind words Butch, thank you!

[@michaelsummerell8618]

Absolutely fascinating. This is the first of your videos I've ever watched Rob, and off the strength of this video alone I've subscribed to your channel. I'm going to have to go and binge watch your other videos now! Keep up the good work!

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much Michael, that means a lot to me. It’s good to have you here 😉 Stay well and I hope you enjoy my other videos.

[@petercalthorpe7966]

Thanks for sharing Rob , interesting as usual .All the best form down under 👍🏼👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@Robslondon]

It’s a pleasure Peter! Hope you’re keeping well in Oz 😉 🇦🇺

[@grahamstubbs4962]

If you own Bloomsbury, you're pretty much made. Unless you're casting a jealous eye at the Dukes of Westminster.

[@Robslondon]

😉

[@christinebrady9701]

I always stay on Bedford Place when I visit London. I love walking through the squares and the proximity to Covent Garden and Seven Dials

[@Robslondon]

Nice comment, thank you.

[@JL-jr9gk]

An interesting video, I stayed at the Imperial Hotel when I first visited London in 1992. Do the Russell family still own the land around there?

[@Robslondon]

Thank you- and yes, they indeed do (early on I show their estate office briefly; look out for the door and brass plaque!) Thanks again and stay well

[@bsastarfire250]

One of my first jobs was in and around the British Museum and I enjoyed this area very much. (mid '80s)

[@Robslondon]

Nice 😉

[@kerimbozkurt3301]

I have been there many times between 2010-2015, even saw a fox near the park at one night but never knew about these stories, especially about the Titanic, thank you 😊

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much :-) Appreciate your kind words.

[@bar10ml44]

Superb presentation. So much history. I have memories of the film The Boyfriend if I’m right. It used Bloomsbury as the place where the artist set choose to hang out

[@Robslondon]

Thank you! I didn’t know about that film, will have to look it up! Sounds interesting

[@danapetersen3067]

Just stayed at the Russell Hotel ( now Fitzroy). Splendid!

[@Robslondon]

😄

[@museonfilm8919]

AHA, that explains it - I live in Bedford, and there is a Russell Park!

[@Robslondon]

Ah! There you go! 😉

[@TheLoxxxton]

I love 20 minutes talking about 1 small corner of London. Goes to show how storied our fair iles are. I laugh that i have underpants older than other 'serious' History

[@Robslondon]

😄

[@nicolas_caged]

Stayed in the Imperial twice, I cannot believe it was once so grand! Such a shame. Have always wanted to stay at the Russell but sadly my budget won't stretch😂

[@Robslondon]

You never know, maybe one day! 😉

[@Rachel-bo3qg]

Packed full of information, excellent. Liked the glimpse of Rosie at 4.17 ❤️🐶

[@Robslondon]

😉

[@grahamstubbs4962]

The Imperial hotel is an absolute shocker. Who sanctioned that, then?

[@Robslondon]

Good question! 🤔

[@robtyman4281]

Probably an anonymous city planner who somehow got elevated to a position far beyond what he deserved. As usual he (yes it would have been) probably had the 'right' connections to get his position, if you know what I mean. Old boys network and all that. But an absolutely shocking decision, and a tragic loss for London, architecturally. As a decade, the 1979's was a particularly bad one for fine old buildings. Mind you the 70's weren't much better.

[@grahamstubbs4962]

@@Robslondon This doesn't answer the question in any way, but it's interesting: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imperial_Hotel,_London

[@grahamstubbs4962]

@@robtyman4281 I suppose it begs the question that if you were to demolish that eyesore, what would you put in its place? I'm no architect and I'm not paying for it either. There does seem to be a school of thought, something like: build 'em ugly, and knock 'em down early.

[@robtyman4281]

@@grahamstubbs4962 ...haha, well the current Imperial hotel has certainly not done that badly considering bits been there for getting in 60 years. I can't see it being knocked down and replaced by a new building anytime soon - even though it's god awful looking. But eventually I guess it will get replaced....in about 20 years time.....by something even uglier.....and about ten storeys higher!

[@PaulMcCaffreyfmac]

It's nearly 50 years since I was there every day but lots of memories here, not least the place where I had my first bank account. At 4.22 is a shot of 1 Woburn Place which in '77 was a Midland Bank, then later it turned HSBC and as I found out by letter all customers are now classed as HSBC customers of their Tottenham Court Road branch. I hadn't been there for years in person so remained blissfully ignorant and unaffected. A shame not to see any of the relatively new (when I worked for AIWA there) Brunswick Centre which I'm sure I have seen in many films. My other two big memories are how relatively easy it was to get to the Sir John Soane Museum - coincidentally I now live in Northfields, not far from Walpole Park where his 'country' house is - and a little art shop (I can't remember exactly where now) on the way to Holborn but East of Southampton Row, where they sold original cartoons. I wish I'd bought more bu I still have a couple of original Honeysett works which am very pleased to own. Sorry to go on. Thanks again for your hard work and most entertaining video.

[@Robslondon]

Brilliant comment Paul, thank you so much- really enjoyed reading that. As for the Brunswick Centre? Well, I didn't include that here as I think it's worth a video in its own right; will see what I can do ;-) Cheers and stay well.

[@thetragicyouth]

What a lovely slice of history - kudos to you, Rob. In the 1960s, the Judy Garland Fan Club held their meetings at the Hotel Russell, and in November 1964 Judy herself attended one such gathering at the hotel and gave an impromptu performance of two songs ('Make Someone Happy' and 'I Wish You Love'), accompanied on the piano by the Australian entertainer Peter Allen who was dating Judy's daughter Liza Minnelli at the time.

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much ☺️ I had no idea about that connection, very interesting!

[@TheJassal98]

TV quality production. Many thanks

[@Robslondon]

I really appreciate that, thank you.

[@j.j.1064]

Hold your horses!! All you naysayers!! Here's another take!! What an amazing sojourn. Whenever I visit London I always get the tube on the Piccadilly line and get off at Russell square. I've been many times but after seeing this I feel as if I truly "haven't been there" in spirit. What a wealth of information. My first visit was 15 years ago and strangely enough what impressed me the was contrast between the two hotels I took some amazing photos which I still have of the brutalist modern architecture which "garnished" the vista before me. In fact I felt a kind of juxtaposition of emotion at the same time. One of horror and disgust and one of intrigue and secret fascination and admiration. It's like putting a set of headphones into the painting of the mona lisa. Not ancient "meets" modern. But ancient collides with modern and the result is a nuclear "fission" of outrage and disbelief at the audacity and dare I say courage?, knowing the fallout?. A kind of metaphoric "nuclear explosion" that scars the area producing a mushroom cloud of question marks in the mind of every person that stands in front of it. The fact that I took so many photos of it and little else attests to the fact that just maybe? Just maybe??... that was the whole intention in the first place because I never forgot the name "Russel square".❤

[@Robslondon]

Great comment, thank you!

[@kelvrp]

Another very enjoyable and instructive video. On some nice afternoons and as a treat in the mid to late 1960s my Mum would meet me from primary school and we'd go to Russell Square and have tea and biscuits at the little open air café that was there at the time. I was fascinated by the fountains that were there: large discs of shiny probably granite with a single jet of water which splashed back on the disc and then the ripples of water ran to the edge and off into the pebbles that surrounded the discs. I have searched to no avail to find some pictures of them online. Does anybody else remember them and has anyone found any pictures of them?

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment kelvr! Hope someone here is able to help in finding pictures...

[@nicolek4076]

11:23 I find it unlikely that Leo Szillard paused at the traffic lights. He was famous for walking straight out into traffic and had to be restrained by his students and assistants.

[@Robslondon]

😄

[@taradiane]

super excited for this one! i used to live on sandwich st near marchmont & tavistock place. loved the area.

[@Robslondon]

Hope you enjoy the video!

[@karltalbot2597]

Thanks mate, another great video that reminded me of the time I stayed at the Russell hotel as a lad.👍👍

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment, thanks- would love to hear your memories of the hotel 😉

[@RichardHartl]

Excited for this, back in 2009 after landing at LHR took the tube to my hotel at Russell Square. First part of London I ever visited

[@Robslondon]

Ah! Thanks Richard, enjoy ;-)

[@RichardHartl]

@Robslondon Cheers! From Toronto, Canada. BTW it was the Imperial Hotel, I was expecting you to say it was destroyed during WWII but they tore it down!? Many historical buildings in Toronto also suffered the same fate unfortunately in those years

[@nigelphillips1385]

I always stay in the area when in London. Fascinating stuff thanks Rob

[@Robslondon]

You’re very welcome, thank you so much 😊

[@DrivermanO]

Isn't Tavistock Square also named after the Russells, the Marchioness of Tavistock being the heir to the Duke of Bedford, if my memory serves correctly?

[@Robslondon]

Ah; good point 😉

[@tracyfryer8153]

Such a lot of history rob with beautiful architecture still there. Really enjoyed watching that such a lot old and new thank you so much ❤️

[@Robslondon]

It’s a pleasure Tracy, thank you so much for the kind words 😊

[@srfurley]

The Bloomsbury area used to be the home of many camera shops in London. Most have now gone but I think Camera City in Little Russell Street is still there. I recently needed to walk from the Tube station to the main road, past the Turkish Baths sign, to catch the X68 bus to Croydon. On the corner there is a plaque to Ms. Pankhurst, but I didn’t have time to symptomatic trad it. I’m not often in the area but next time I am I’ll have to take a better look.

[@Robslondon]

Nice comment, thank you 😊

[@peterfinn4518]

I would love to see the video on cabby shacks, I used them a lot while working in London.

[@Robslondon]

Thanks Peter! I will be making one at some point ;-)

[@moogmike1]

Another great video Rob your effort and work to provide this is outstanding.

[@Robslondon]

Really appreciate that Mike, thank you sir

[@Rog5446]

Opposite the Horse Hospital is a very nice pub, The Friend at Hand.

[@Robslondon]

Yes, that is indeed a great pub!

[@cj4607]

I just returned from spending three weeks at the Royal National Hotel. Loved the Bloomsbury area.

[@thewrecker3140]

Largest hotel in London.

[@Robslondon]

Yep 😉

[@Robslondon]

Nice comment, thank you

[@roberttaylor6295]

Gosh! My head is spinning with the incredible amount of research and facts you have dug up about this beautiful square Awesome and entirely enjoyable, including some clever editing like the tile 'Way Out' sign to conclude the story of the bag snatcher! Clever stuff! This was a great video to get the grey cells working first thing in the morning. Thank you. I will pace myself today as I do not to run out of your excellent video company😇! Rob😇

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much as ever Rob! I really do appreciate your kind words- and thanks for noticing the small details! ;-)

[@LaHermitess]

Really enjoyed this video as I am quite familiar with Russell Square and the surrounding area. Watching brought back wonderful memories. A number of times during the late 1970s and early 1980s I stayed (whilst visiting London from Canada) at a B&B on Cartwright Gardens. I recall one of the tiniest restaurants I've ever frequented (with only 3 small tables and lovely food) located on a teensy but magical little lane/alley in the area called Woburn Walk. In those days, when I was considerably more mobile than now and could walk for miles, we usually cut through Russell Square and on past the British Museum and beyond. Your info on the destroyed buildings (particularly the original Imperial Hotel) was absolutely heartbreaking but very interesting, as were many other local facts. I am confused by one small thing however... your written summary references Bloomsbury as WC2 while I have long understood it to be WC1. Have I been mistaken all these years????

[@Robslondon]

Such a lovely comment, many thanks! Bloomsbury straddles both postcodes; Russell Square is WC2 as it’s closer to Covent Garden which also uses the code. Thanks again and stay well.

[@chriswoodford4331]

My mother’s uncle Fred lived in Herbrand Street during WW2; he was blind from birth, and consequently, according to my mother, an excellent guide during the blackouts and smogs.

[@Robslondon]

What a great comment Chris, thank you. Your Great Uncle sounds like he was an incredible bloke 😉

[@bjoernaltmann]

I used to work close by in what used to be the Daimler Car Hire building (nice Art Deco facade) on Herbrand Street. I came across the old Imperial Hotel when researching the area. What a shame. Probably about time to knock down this 1960s monstrosity. For most of my time at Russell Square, the remain8ng hotel was called Hotel Russell. They shouldn’t have replaced that with the name of a fairly unknown chain. On the plus, they did refurbish it quite well. - One of the first scenes from the new Sherlock Holmes series was set in Russell Square.

[@Robslondon]

Excellent comment, thank you. The old Daimler building is superb.

[@richardsingh5827]

Interesting video. I did the YMCA dance many times 😂

[@Robslondon]

😂

[@itsjohndell]

You never cease to amaze me with your dedication to History and your research (I've never published because I haven't the discipline). Not lost on me that you timed this to be on the Anniversary of the Trinity test in 1945, first detonation of a nuclear device. And Leo Szilard was the real Father of the bomb. Oppie made it work. (BTW, get a ticket to see Oppenheimer in either 70mm or Imax, it's phenomenal. I had a bit to do with it and have seen the final cut. Odeon Leicester Square?) And if I may, if you are into collabs, you might chat up Tom The Taxi Driver when you do the green cafes, he's got the knowledge and better an EV cab! Cheers always and keep 'em coming!

[@Robslondon]

Lovely comment John, thank you! Yes indeed, I wanted to get something out there to coincide with the Oppenheimer film 😉 As for Tom; yes he’s a splendid Bloke and I’d be delighted to work with him if the opportunity arose- and of course if he’d be happy to put up with me! 😉

[@itsjohndell]

@@Robslondon You could tell him what it was like driving during The Blitz...sorry, damn yank smartass🤣🤣🤣

[@carolegeorge1604]

In 1982 I lived in Bedford place. 12-14 to be precis. They were 2 of the old big houses that had been converted into Nurse's accommodation. I worked at Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital which was just around the corner. I remember that we all used to walk to work in our Uniforms which a bit old fashioned. We wore white starched hats and aprons and the American tourists used to always stop us and wanted to take pictures of us with them.I used to love living there. There's nothing like the sounds of the city and the underground trains. Thanks Rob it brought back some lovely memories. ❤

[@Robslondon]

Beautiful comment Carole, thank you- I enjoyed reading that. Hope you have a nice weekend :-)

[@Deleba333]

This video brings back many memories as I worked at number 41 Russell Square in an Architects office back in the mid to late 60s. The office was Charles Lovett Gill & Partners who was guilty for the rebuilding of the Imperial Hotel, I still can't get to grips with how fugly the rebuild is. At that time I knew nothing about the beautiful original Imperial Hotel or why it was demolished. Jumping ahead 5 years, I had swapped the Rapidograph for drumsticks to become a professional musician and had just signed a contract with CBS. They booked my group into a Recording studio for a couple of weeks and into the Hotel Russell, this was my first experience in a "posh gaff", and needless to say, we made the most of it. I left London and the UK in 1982, so I really can't get enough of these videos. I've probably learned more about London since I left, than when I was living there.

[@Robslondon]

Fantastic comment Deleba333, really enjoyed reading it that! Thanks so much for sharing your memories. Stay well.

[@lesleysmith51]

Another fascinating video. I can't believe the information you find. I can't believe Bedford house was knocked down it looked such a beautiful house. Same with the Hotel Imperial. It looks such a tacky place now. Some people just don't recognize or appreciate beautiful architecture. Did they give a reason why the pulled down the hotel in the 60s ? The Hotel Russell is absolutely gorgeous. I love the zodiac floor and the restaurant is something else. It's how an older hotel should look like. I didn't realize that being hung,drawn and quartered was still done in the 1800s. I thought it had finished a lot earlier than that. I don't think I would like to go to public baths but I am sure they were much nicer than you can think of. I learn so much from your posts and am looking forward to the next one.

[@Robslondon]

Such a great comment Lesley, really appreciate your insight and kind words. They said the Imperial had to go due having a lack of bathrooms and some unsafe structural work.... but I reckon they could've fixed it ;-) Thanks again and stay well.

[@lindiwright1373]

Excellent insightful work @Robslondon..class 👍🏻💪🏻😎

[@Robslondon]

Thank you so much! 😉