Journalist, editor, analyst and trainer on computing, government, climate and data
Charlecote Park and Compton Verney were both built as grand private houses, occupied by their founding families until the 20th century. They are now both open to the public, but offer contrasting visions of Britain.
Originally published on Beacon.
Continue reading “Two Warwickshire mansions: the time capsule and the gallery”
The UK’s ubiquitous pizza chain tells you several things about Britain, including its liking for classy interiors, discount vouchers and consistent, comforting food. It can be worth bringing earplugs though.
First published on Beacon. Continue reading “PizzaExpress: Italian food with middle-class British characteristics”
The owners of Britain’s best motorway service station, Tebay in Cumbria, have waited four decades to open a second one, on the M5 in Gloucestershire. With a grass roof and excellent cakes, it’s a place that Bilbo Baggins might appreciate.
First published on Beacon. Continue reading “Cake, tea and pork pie at Hobbit motorway services”
Building something new in Britain always meets resistance. That even applies to organisations which put their cities on the map, such as the University of Oxford, its new library buildings and student accommodation.
First published on Beacon. Continue reading “Baniots: build absolutely nothing in Oxford… try Swindon”
One thing you have to love about local newspapers is the way they make things local. Niv Adiri was one of Gravity‘s Oscar winners for his work on the film’s sound. He’s originally from Israel, he works at Pinewood in Buckinghamshire, but as far as the Oxford Times is concerned he’s a Wheatley in Oxfordshire man now. Continue reading “Gravity’s sound man from Israel… make that Wheatley in Oxfordshire”