The fascinating story behind the medieval-looking monument outside Charing Cross Station… It is a replica of the original Charing Cross, one of twelve Eleanor Crosses that King Edward I erected after his wife Eleanor of Castile died in 1290. Most, including the one in London, was destroyed in the 17th century by the Parliamentarians. This one is a Victorian replica from 1865, designed by Edward Middleton Barry, who also designed the station. . . . . . . #london #londonhistory #livinglondonhistor

This little alleyway right by Charing Cross Station used to have the unusual name ‘Of Alley’… 🤔 Why? Well, the answer takes us back over 700 years. This stretch of the river into the late 17th century was lined with the mansions and palaces of the rich and wealthy. Next to where Charing Cross is today was the site of York House. It was sold in 1682 by its owner at the time George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, for it be knocked down and new roads laid out on the site. He sold it off though on on