Our Location
Newbold Comyn Arms is proud to be based in Royal Leamington Spa, one of the most affluent areas of the Midlands. The town made popular after the discovery of its Spa waters in 1784 by Dr Kerr boasts a wealth of history and influential characters from both past and present. Below is a small selection of information about our town:
Newbold Comyn and Willes Estate
Newbold Comyn Park consists of more than 300 acres of land, originally laid out in its current form in the 1970's after the Willes Family Newbold Comyn Farm was acquired by Leamington Corporation.
The northern half of the park land is ....More
Newbold Comyn Park consists of more than 300 acres of land, originally laid out in its current form in the 1970's after the Willes Family Newbold Comyn Farm was acquired by Leamington Corporation.
The northern half of the park land is now an 18-hole golf course. The south part of the land encompasses two play area‘s, a leisure centre and a wildlife reserve (inc wetland reserve).
The park land has had many uses during the years, from hosting Leamington's famous steeplechase to a central observation station during WW1 and WW2. During World War 2 the Luftwaffe dropped two bombs on the park returning from Coventry, creating two craters within the observation hill.
Although the original Willes family mansion was demolished during the 1970's the Newbold Farm House was converted during the late 70‘s into what is now the Newbold Comyn Arms. The original stables were briefly used as a equine training centre, but during the early eighties was converted into a Bar (now known as the Stables Bar).
The estate has excellent paths, tracks and woodland cycle paths which link the north of Leamington through to Redford Road.
Anthony Eden PM
Entering his life into the political world, Robert Anthony Eden also
popularly known as Captain Eden, was elected as a Member of Parliament
in the December 1923 General Election. The Conservative was to represent
Leamington Spa and ....More
Entering his life into the political world, Robert Anthony Eden also
popularly known as Captain Eden, was elected as a Member of Parliament
in the December 1923 General Election. The Conservative was to represent
Leamington Spa and the Warwick area.
The politician worked as
Foreign Secretary for three periods between 1935 and 1955; he also
helped out during World War II. Despite his connection with the war,
Anthony retained a worldwide reputation as a 'Man of Peace' and
successfully became Prime Minister from 1955 to 1957. However, his peaceful status was lost due to the way he controlled
the Suez Crisis in 1956, many critics believe that his preference caused
a huge delay in progress for the British foreign policy.
Although Anthony Eden was ranked amongst the least progressive British
Prime Ministers, he remains extremely important in Leamington's history.
Flavels
The name Flavel has nationally travelled and is renowned for quality electrical and gas products; but who was to know that the secure brand began its life as a manufacturer in our little town.
Flavel was introduced into the UK; as the ....More
The name Flavel has nationally travelled and is renowned for quality electrical and gas products; but who was to know that the secure brand began its life as a manufacturer in our little town.
Flavel was introduced into the UK; as the Norman originated family came over with William the Conqueror. In the mid of the Seventeenth Century, William Flavel set up business developing gunpowder: for the UK was often in conflict with many countries.
In 1777 property was gained in Leamington; once described as a 'small, but rapidly growing village'. Later in 1833 the business was newly sited, this is where the factory currently stands at the Eagle Foundry; they had acquired a location with better transport facilities.
At the time the Eagle Foundry covered over 40% of Leamington economy, and employed many of the town's residents, producing more than 50 ranges of kitchen applicable. It is thought Leamington owes much of its development to the Flavel Family.
Flavel's achieved its biggest success when the 'Patent Kitchener' participated in an exhibition at 'Crystal Palace' in the 1850's. The Patent Kitchener was the first of kitchen appliances to overcome Spit Fire. From then on, Flavel's were often achieving awards from global exhibitions.
Although the factory was known as a manufacturer to cooking appliances; they were also used to produce cannonballs, armoury and weapons to aid the country and people around the time of war.
But when the country was at peace with others; the foundry was back to assembling beautiful appliances and fireplaces for houses of English aristocracy. Flavel's was first to introduce the world to a fireplace with wood surround; known as a Debonair and sold one and a half million gas fires, a difficult success to repeat.
In 1902, Flavel's was converted into a Limited Liability Company, then in 1974 the company was captivated by Glynwed Group; until 1998 when the brand was reassigned to Agafoodservice Group. The brand has now been restored and is a significant manufacturer of electrical and gas supplies, thanks to BFM Europe obtaining the rights.
Aleister Crowley
Aleister Crowley known as "The Great Beast" and "The Wickedest Man In The World"; was born at 30 Clarendon Square, Royal Leamington Spa on 12 October 1875. He was known best for being extremely controversial, a man before his time.
Cro ....More
Aleister Crowley known as "The Great Beast" and "The Wickedest Man In The World"; was born at 30 Clarendon Square, Royal Leamington Spa on 12 October 1875. He was known best for being extremely controversial, a man before his time.
Crowley was a poet, magician and occultist; he was involved in various secret societies such as the Golden Dawn and Ordo Templi Orientis. Crowley advanced educationally and challenged the ideologies of the time, wrongly accused of being a Satanist, many of his works still challenge educated minds of today;
"I do not want to father a flock, to be the fetish of fools and fanatics, or the founder of a faith whose followers are content to echo my opinions. I want each man to cut his own way through the jungle."
Alderman ST Wackrill - First Mayor of Leamington
The first Mayor of Leamington was Alderman ST Wackrill, he lived on Portland Street and was a draper on Bath Street. Alderman was chose the towns motto, 'Sola bona quae honesta' meaning; 'Those things alone are good which are honourable'.
....More
The first Mayor of Leamington was Alderman ST Wackrill, he lived on Portland Street and was a draper on Bath Street. Alderman was chose the towns motto, 'Sola bona quae honesta' meaning; 'Those things alone are good which are honourable'.
The arms itself, is a shield with a crest above and the famous motto below.
William De Normanville
William De Normanville was the towns engineer and is responsible for some of the finest creations, which still stand today.
Victoria Park, a place to socialise on a summers day was skilfully carved from an odd shape of land into the be ....More
William De Normanville was the towns engineer and is responsible for some of the finest creations, which still stand today.
Victoria Park, a place to socialise on a summers day was skilfully carved from an odd shape of land into the beautiful grounds it is today; by William. The park now plays a significant part in Leamington; it has housed the Royal Show, Women's World Bowls and the crowning of King George VI.
De Normanville also designed the large second pool within the pump rooms, which had two sprays showering the bathers beneath. The pool had an iron roof structure and opened in 1890; Its use was for only male swimmers up until 1950 when both genders used its facilities. In Winter, the pool housed dances and festivities; it was known as the 'Winter Hall'.
Sir John Betjeman - Death in Leamington
She died in the upstairs bedroom
By the light of the ev'ning star
That shone through the plate glass window
From over Leamington Spa
Beside her lonely crochet
Lay patiently and unstirred,
But the fingers that would have work' ....More
She died in the upstairs bedroom
By the light of the ev'ning star
That shone through the plate glass window
From over Leamington Spa
Beside her lonely crochet
Lay patiently and unstirred,
But the fingers that would have work'd it
Were dead as the spoken word.
And Nurse came in with the tea-things
Breast hign 'mid the stands and chairs-
But Nurse was alone with her own little soul,
And the things were alone with theirs.
She bolted the big round window,
She let the blinds unroll,
She set a match to the mantle,
She covered the fire with coal.
And "Tea!" she said in a tiny voice
"Wake up! It's nearly five"
Oh! Chintzy, chintzy cheeriness,
Half dead and half alive.
Do you know that the stucco is peeling?
Do you know that the heart will stop?
From those yellow Italianate arches
Do you hear the plaster drop?
Nurse looked at the silent bedstead,
As the gray, decaying face,
As the calm of a Leamington ev'ning
Drifted into the place.
She moved the table of bottles
Away from the bed to the wall;
And tiptoeing gently over the stairs
Turned down the gas in the hall.
Death in Leamington was written by Sir John Betjeman, and English poet and broadcaster. Beginning as a journalist, he became the most popular British Poets Laureate.
Keeping up Appearances
British Sitcom, Keeping up Appearances was popular during its air time for 1990 to 1995. The show has had five series and an amazing four episodes, including four Christmas specials.
The BBC programme, now available on DVD has earned 1 ....More
British Sitcom, Keeping up Appearances was popular during its air time for 1990 to 1995. The show has had five series and an amazing four episodes, including four Christmas specials.
The BBC programme, now available on DVD has earned 12th place in the Britain's Best Sitcom poll.
Keeping up appearances follows the life of Hyacinth Bucket, who is a social climbing snob, whom attempts to impress neighbours, friends and those with a high social reputation. However, nothing ever goes to plan with her sisters appearing at inconvenient times although, those around her are always glad for a chance to avoid her.
Much of the sitcom was filmed in and around the Leamington area, with the town hall and police station also participating in the programme.
Randolph Turpin
Randolph Adolphus ('Randy') Turpin (7 June 1928-17 May 1966) known as
the Leamington Larruper, was an English boxer who was considered by some
to be Europe's best Middleweight boxer of the 1940s and 1950s.
Born
in Leamington Spa, ....More
Randolph Adolphus ('Randy') Turpin (7 June 1928-17 May 1966) known as
the Leamington Larruper, was an English boxer who was considered by some
to be Europe's best Middleweight boxer of the 1940s and 1950s.
Born
in Leamington Spa, to a black father who had emigrated from Guyana and a
white British mother, he started like his brother Dick to be trained in
the art of boxing at Leamington Boys' Club.[1]
Turpin turned
professional in London in 1946, a little after turning 18. Trained by
his elder brother Dick, who himself was a successful middleweight,
Randolph knocked out Gordon Griffiths in his first bout. Turpin put
together a string of 16 wins all over the United Kingdom in a row, until
drawing in 6 rounds versus Mark Hart in his last bout of 1947.
Three
wins later, he found himself facing Albert Finch who inflicted on
Turpin his first defeat, an 8-round decision loss. After one more win he
lost again, knocked out in 5 rounds by Jean Stock in London.
Turpin
was determined not to lose again after the Stock defeat, and put
together another string of wins, which reached 12 (including a 4 round
disqualification win against William Poli). Rematched with Finch, this
time with the British Middleweight title on the line, Turpin avenged his
first loss and won his first championship by knocking out Finch in five
rounds on October 17th 1950 at Harringay Arena.
Three more wins
followed, including a disqualification win in 8 rounds against important
challenger Tommy Yarosz. He then met European Middleweight champion Luc
Van Dam in London, whom he knocked out in the first round to seize the
European championship.
Four wins followed after that, including a
rematch with Stock, against whom he avenged his second defeat, knocking
him out in 5 rounds. Then world Middleweight champion Sugar Ray
Robinson travelled to London and on 10 July, 1951 risked his title
against Turpin, who won the world title by beating Robinson on a
15-round decision.
Turpin became an instant national hero. His
win over Robinson gave him such celebrity that even many people who were
not boxing fans knew who he was. When he signed for a rematch with
Robinson and chose Gwrych Castle near Abergele in North Wales to train,
the castle was constantly hounded by fans and tourists.
His
days as a world champion didn't last long, however, and when he made
his first trip outside his homeland for a fight, he lost his crown to
Robinson by a tenth round TKO with eight seconds left in the round at
the Polo Grounds in New York on September 12, 1951.
This turned
out to be the beginning of Turpin's problems, because he would begin to
miss the sweet life that being a world boxing champion gave him.
He
tried to regain his former status, and three fights later, beat Don
Cockell in 11 rounds by a knockout to conquer the British Commonwealth
Light Heavyweight title.
Turpin went back down in weight, and
beat Georges Angelo to regain his British Middleweight title, and put on
another string of wins, leading to his challenge of Bobo Olson for the
World Middleweight title that Robinson had left vacant after retiring.
His second trip to New York turned into another 15 round defeat, this
time at the hands of Olson.
In 1954, he went to Rome where he lost his European Middleweight title by a knockout in the first round to Tiberio Mitri.
He
kept trying mightily as he could to regain his former condition as a
world champion and even retained his British Middleweight title a few
times in his next ten fights, but he lost two of them to obscure
opponents.
After that, he managed another winning streak against
some obscure boxers, but by 1958 it was clear his best days in boxing
were long over. He lost that year to Yolande Pompey, another future
world title challenger, by a knockout in 2 rounds in Birmingham, and
retired in 1959.
In 1962, he began another comeback, but the
comeback only lasted 2 fights, both of which he won, the last one being
held in Malta.
He retired with a record of 66 wins, 8 losses and 1 draw. Of his 66 wins, 48 came by knockout.
By
now he was so short of money that he resorted to professional
wrestling. His name meant that he drew moderate crowds for a short time
but in the end this venture was not a success because he was a fighter
not a showman. It was a sad sight to see a once great boxer and national
hero appearing in ever less prestigious venues.
According
to articles, reports and a biography, Turpin couldn't deal with the
obscurity resulting from the loss of his crown. In Llandudno in Wales,
he bought a public house on the Great Orme, which today retains several
genuine artefacts from his career. Between 1952 and 1961, he was the
registered licensee.
After being declared bankrupt, Turpin
committed suicide by shooting himself in 1966.
Lansdowne Circus
Architect and surveyor William Thomas has designed many of the fine developments in the town, including Lansdowne Circus; his most unusual creation. Thomas went on to Toronto designing many magnificent buildings.
The circular road was co ....More
Architect and surveyor William Thomas has designed many of the fine developments in the town, including Lansdowne Circus; his most unusual creation. Thomas went on to Toronto designing many magnificent buildings.
The circular road was constructed in the 1830's, it had eight pairs of semi detached houses. The houses were two story buildings, with a beautiful Regency style. The houses grouped around a central private garden.
One house on the road is completely detached, the Victorian Gothic home has a entirely different design from the rest, it is reported there is no other example of the building anywhere else in the UK; wholly unique.
The land was leased by Squire Willes for two thousand years; the houses and road still stands in its gorgeous original structure.
Dangerfield
The popular drama ran for 6 series during the late 90s, following a small town doctor and his lifestyle.
Paul Dangerfield mourns the tragic death of his wife and attempts to raise his teenage children alone; with twists and turns throu ....More
The popular drama ran for 6 series during the late 90s, following a small town doctor and his lifestyle.
Paul Dangerfield mourns the tragic death of his wife and attempts to raise his teenage children alone; with twists and turns throughout the show it kept the viewers of the 90s on the edge of their seats.
The show had many actors including; Nigel Le Vaillant and Nigel Harvers whom have both taken the leading role of Paul.
The BBC drama was set in this town; with Leamington being described as a beautiful and rural area it certainly appears to be a favourite of the BBC!
Town Halls in Leamington Spa
Leamington's first town hall has dated since 1831, it was built to match the fashionable town as the vast majority of buildings and development was south of the River Leam.
After much conflict regarding a new location for the town hall ....More
Leamington's first town hall has dated since 1831, it was built to match the fashionable town as the vast majority of buildings and development was south of the River Leam.
After much conflict regarding a new location for the town hall, it was finally decided to be built on the land adjacent to the Regent Hotel. The Royal Pump Rooms as a location was discussed however, it was dismissed due to the thought of loss of character. When the current town hall was opened on 17th September 1884, it marked the rise of the north side of the river; the now modern town.
The first town hall was taken over by Leamington's police until they moved to a larger premises, the building is now the Polish club to help the Polish community who have been here since the war. The first town hall is situated on the high street.
Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens one of the most established authors of his time, kept the public on their toes with cliff-hanger after cliff-hanger; leaving them waiting for the next instalment.
Some of his most famous work is: Oliver Twist, A Christm ....More
Charles Dickens one of the most established authors of his time, kept the public on their toes with cliff-hanger after cliff-hanger; leaving them waiting for the next instalment.
Some of his most famous work is: Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol, David Copperfield and Great Expectations. One of his less popular novels was Dombey and Son, Dickens was a regular visitor to Leamington and our town played a huge part in his novel.
With mentions of the town's famous spa, the novel tells a story about love and betrayal; with many characters and twists to keep the reader engaged.
After the death of his son, Paul Dombey goes to recuperate at Leamington Spa with his friend Joe Bagstock. The Royal Pump Room and Baths, where Dombey and Bagstock would have visited, opened in 1814 and were available to the well-to-do, the restorative waters were said to cure a variety of afflictions.
Lansdowne Crescent
The crescent was built alongside Lansdowne circus, designed by William Thomas; Suffolk born architect.
Lansdowne Crescent was built in 1835, and elegant creation with 25 regency styled homes. Each building consisted five storeys and at ....More
The crescent was built alongside Lansdowne circus, designed by William Thomas; Suffolk born architect.
Lansdowne Crescent was built in 1835, and elegant creation with 25 regency styled homes. Each building consisted five storeys and attracted many of the wealthy. In the beginning of the 1900's, No. 41- 43 was held by a high class hotel, 'La Plasance', however it shortly returned to private accommodation.
Opposite from the Crescent, is the William Thomas House. The building was designed many years after the Circus and Crescent, but continued with the Regency style.
BBC Series Mayo
The Detective drama/comedy series was made by the BBC, the series was based on the books written by Marjorie Eccles; Gil Mayo Mysteries Books.
Starring, Alistair McGowan, Jessica Oyelowo, Loo Brealey and Huw Rhys the series proved to b ....More
The Detective drama/comedy series was made by the BBC, the series was based on the books written by Marjorie Eccles; Gil Mayo Mysteries Books.
Starring, Alistair McGowan, Jessica Oyelowo, Loo Brealey and Huw Rhys the series proved to be unsuccessful in Britain, however it went on to broadcast in Australia.
The series was filmed in and around Leamington Spa on location, our town certainly seems to prove popular those of the BBC.
The Royal Pump Rooms
With the progression of the new town starting in 1908, it dawned upon
landowner, Mr Greatheed; the new houses would become isolated from
existing baths in the old town.
With that in mind, the New Pump
Rooms and Baths opened in, ....More
With the progression of the new town starting in 1908, it dawned upon
landowner, Mr Greatheed; the new houses would become isolated from
existing baths in the old town.
With that in mind, the New Pump
Rooms and Baths opened in, July 1814. With much demand, the building was
extended and work completed by 1816. With paired colonnade of Doric
pillars, the beautiful style continues to wow tourists today.
In
1868, the building came into the local authority, repairs and
renovations continued up until 1999. Then alongside it ran the public
library, art gallery and museum.
The first free library in the
town was opened in March, 1857; it had 1000 books and had so much
success another building built especially for the purpose of the
library, was opened in 1902. The library later moved next to the pump
rooms, teaming with the Art Gallery and Museum.
The Art Gallery
and museum contains: oil paintings, water-colours and drawings from the
20th Century, with earlier works by Richard Wilson and Peter de Wint.
With 18th Century drinking glasses, and ceramic examples of Tudor and
medieval times.
The museum also houses much of the town‘s
history, with old photographs and original examples of the baths; the
building also has tourist information with Leamington Spa souvenirs.
Codemasters
Nicknamed 'Codies' in magazines, one the oldest British game developers was co- founded by Richard and David Darling; in 1985. The pair have were selected Commanders of the Order of the British Empire in the Queens birthday honours 2008 as ....More
Nicknamed 'Codies' in magazines, one the oldest British game developers was co- founded by Richard and David Darling; in 1985. The pair have were selected Commanders of the Order of the British Empire in the Queens birthday honours 2008 as they have serviced the computer games industry.
Codemasters have helped the likes of the Overlord group, TOCA, Micro Machines series and FUEL. The Darling brothers were placed on top of the list for independent games developer by Develop magazine, an international magazine for video game developers.
Codies has developed games for, BBC Micro, Commodore 64, Amiga, Atari ST and ZX Spectrum. Beginning of a foundation of a family, the company quickly developed after its explosion in 1991; they now employ over 500 people in the UK and turn over millions.
"Games are one of the biggest pieces of the global entertainment industries today, but it's always been seen as geeks in their back bedrooms writing games," said, Gavin Cheshire the general manager of Codemaster's development.
Codemaster‘s has been a credit to the gaming industry and our town as the companies headquarters‘ is based in Leamington; with a substantial hold on the industry, the company hopes to later develop into online downloads.
Guide Dogs for the blind
Founded in 1931; Guide Dogs for the blind is a charity surviving on voluntary donations, receiving absolutely no government funding. The charity is supported by 10,000 volunteers and has helped over 21,000 partially sighted and blind people ....More
Founded in 1931; Guide Dogs for the blind is a charity surviving on voluntary donations, receiving absolutely no government funding. The charity is supported by 10,000 volunteers and has helped over 21,000 partially sighted and blind people.
Although the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association weren't founded until 1934, dogs were being trained for soldiers that were blinded from War, in Germany between 1916 and 1917.
An American police and army dog trainer, Dorothy Eustis wrote about the dog training in Germany and was later contacted by blind man, Morris Frank. Miss Eustis later arranged a guide dog to be trained and sent to Morris; Dorothy began The Seeing Eye organisation in Switzerland and American.
Mrs Rosamund Bond and Miss Muriel Crooke, two British women heard about The Seeing Eye foundation and contacted Dorothy Eustis whom, sent over a trainer. The first four British guide dogs were trained in 1931 and 3 years later The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association was created.
The charity began to grow and in 1940, the first training centre was founded; this was in Leamington. Later, training centres were established nationally to help in every part of the UK.
In the beginning, it was difficult to supply the need of guide dogs due to the financial strain; the 'puppy walking scheme' was established to help prevent this. The 'puppy walking scheme' began in 1956, which used volunteers to walk the youthful dogs and allow them experience with the average sights, sounds and smells of the world.
Soon after, a breeding programme was set up near to Warwick. Following the success of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Blue Peter followed one of the guide dogs; allowing the nation to see their triumph.
The Guide Dogs for the blind is now one of the largest breeders and trainers of guide dogs in the UK; the charity continues to help the blind gain confidence, independence and mobility.
Elephants in Leamington
Many have heard of the Elephant walk in Leamington, Heigler's Equestrian Circus housed their elephants in the Elephant House on Morrell Street; the building has a lot of history and it reads,
'In 1849 Heigler's Equestrian Circus occupi ....More
Many have heard of the Elephant walk in Leamington, Heigler's Equestrian Circus housed their elephants in the Elephant House on Morrell Street; the building has a lot of history and it reads,
'In 1849 Heigler's Equestrian Circus occupied a permanent building on the site of the present Loft Theatre. Buildings were also erected for the animals, an elephant house still exists in Morrell Street. The Elephants were walked through the town every day to the river for washing.'
The Elephants were walked to what is now known as the Elephant walk at the side of the Mill Bridge Weir; it is reported that those at the church would be aggravated by the sound of the elephants.
A Monument was created to celebrate the time of the elephants which was originally situated in the area that the Royal Priors Shopping Centre lies in; however at the Priors expanded the monument was moved, it can now be found in Jephson Gardens.
Chuckle Vision
"To me, To you, To me, To You, To me, To you", for those of you growing up in the early nineties this iconic catchphrase will be one you certainly remember; being non other than the two brothers of, ChuckleVision.
The family sitcom air ....More
"To me, To you, To me, To You, To me, To you", for those of you growing up in the early nineties this iconic catchphrase will be one you certainly remember; being non other than the two brothers of, ChuckleVision.
The family sitcom aired it's first episode in 1987 on BBC one. Mainly written by John Sayle, the show has kept thousands of families with smiles over the time it has been aired.
The show based in Leamington Spa has used places such as: Upper Holly Walk, and the Royal Pump Room Gardens. The brothers and famous, 'Chuckmobile' has entertained the children of Leamington and appeared in local schools such as St Paul‘s C of E Primary.
Jephson Gardens
What is now the Jephson Gardens was once named the Newbold Pleasure Gardens; laid out by Edward Willes it was the place for the wealthy to be seen. There was free entry into the gardens between 7 and 10 am; for the rest of the day there was ....More
What is now the Jephson Gardens was once named the Newbold Pleasure Gardens; laid out by Edward Willes it was the place for the wealthy to be seen. There was free entry into the gardens between 7 and 10 am; for the rest of the day there was a fee, members of Smiths Bath were able to gain free access.
In 1846 the tranquil grounds were renamed The Jephson Gardens by a local committee, in commemoration of Dr Henry Jephson. Jephson had helped to promote the towns healing spa waters and supported the less fortuned. In 1849 a marble statue of Dr Jephson was created; it was held in a grand Corinthian styled structure and sculpted by Peter Hollins, the piece is said to have cost roughly £1000.
In 1869 a tribute to another icon of Leamington Spa; was the Hitchman Memorial Fountain, designed by John Cundall and built by Thomas Price: the fountain was situated where the old Newbold Lodge was held. Hitchman worked closely with the town's hospital, Warneford and started the Labourers Fund in 1843. Hitchman made sure that the unemployed were paid to assist with the keeping of the gardens. He was also keen to get a clean water supply to the local residents.
In the early 1900's, the Mill Weir & Suspension Bridge was opened; the design based upon the Albert Bridge in London. Soon after the clock tower with Westminster Chimes was erected; it is inscribed, 'Presented by Mrs. William Davis, to the memory of her late husband, William Davis JP, 15 years Councillor and 28 years Alderman, three times Mayor and 27 years Chairman of the Highways Committee of this Borough,1925'
One of the main beauties is the ornamental lake in the gardens, in 1925 twin fountains were placed following the design of Hampton Court; the first was a gift from Alderman Holt.
In earlier years of Jephson Gardens; the flower shows brought participants from all over the country, there were firework displays and beautiful fairy light and balloon assemblments; the gardens housed many concerts and once had its own tennis court.
Jephson Gardens remains one of the biggest tourist attractions in Leamington, with the traditional cafes; floral exhibits a boating lake and the River Leam flowing through the gardens. It still holds its traditional monuments and peaceful atmosphere; the gardens are a beauty to experience all year round.
Womens Bowls
A Club House has been on site at Victoria Park for over one hundred
years; the current building was rebuilt in 1995 to impress those
attending the Women's World Bowls which was hosted in Leamington in
1996.
The club house is now ....More
A Club House has been on site at Victoria Park for over one hundred
years; the current building was rebuilt in 1995 to impress those
attending the Women's World Bowls which was hosted in Leamington in
1996.
The club house is now fitted with a, dining hall, male and
female changing rooms, a bar and a kitchen area. Over the years the
grounds have received vast improvement, with four more greens being
added for EWBA National Championships and the Women's World Bowls.
Leamington
Spa remains the home of Bowls England Ladies National Championships;
the headquarters for the national game is on site. Many other
association's host their matches at the Leamington location including:
Bowls England Under 25 International, Civil Service have there national
finals and Bowls England Junior Ladies Trials.
Louis Napoleon and his stay in Royal Leamington Spa
The birth of Napoleon III also known as Louis Napoleon, he was son to Louis Bonaparte and Hortense de Beauharnais. Louis Bonaparte was brother to Napoleon I and Hortense was daughter to Napoleon I and Empress Josephine de Beauharnais, his w ....More
The birth of Napoleon III also known as Louis Napoleon, he was son to Louis Bonaparte and Hortense de Beauharnais. Louis Bonaparte was brother to Napoleon I and Hortense was daughter to Napoleon I and Empress Josephine de Beauharnais, his wife.
During the Era Of Napoleon I, Louis Napoleons parents; Louis Bonaparte and Hortense were King and Queen of the Holland; However Napoleon I's military was defeated by Bourbon Monarchy and the Bonaparte's were sent away for safety; leading Napoleon III to be brought up in Switzerland.
Later he and his older brother Napoleon Louis lived in Italy; becoming involved in liberal politics and a revolutionary group known as the, Carbonari. This group was to fight the domination Austria had on Northern Italy. Sadly, in March 1831; Napoleon Louis was killed in Napoleon III arms as they tried to escape the Austrian troops.
During this time France was still under the ruling of Bourbon and dominion; but a Bonapartist movement aimed to ensure a Bonaparte was back to the thrown. Due to an earlier law created by Napoleon I; the thrown was first to his Son; Duke of Reichstadt, known as Napoleon II or, 'King of Rome.' It was later passed to Napoleon III; left to lead the Bonapartist movement.
Therefore he returned to France; to lead the Bonapartist's but failed to the hands of Louis Philippe. Napoleon then returned to Switzerland; Louis Philippe followed demanding him; but the Swiss refused as he was needed for the Army. To avoid war, Napoleon III left and stayed at No 6. Clarendon Square, in our town Leamington Spa; his stay was between 1838 and 1839. The building is now known as Napoleon House.
Louis Napoleon later went to the US for four years before secretly revisiting France. Napoleon III was attempting another rebel but was caught and sentenced to life imprisonment. He then swapped clothes with a guard of the Fortress and escaped returning to England.
Regent Hotel
Built in 1819, the Regent Hotel was designed by Mr CS Smith; whom is responsible for much of the beautiful architecture in the town which still stands today. The land was purchased from the notorious, Mr Greatheed, one of the three largest ....More
Built in 1819, the Regent Hotel was designed by Mr CS Smith; whom is responsible for much of the beautiful architecture in the town which still stands today. The land was purchased from the notorious, Mr Greatheed, one of the three largest landowners in the town.
Originally named, William's Hotel; it was one of the largest hotels in Europe and is still the largest in the town. The town was visited by the Prince Regent, whom was staying at the Warwick Castle; he granted permission for the hotel to have the coat of arms on the front of the new hotel.
The town was swarming with noblemen, the wealthy and those with much social and political influence. They had come to see the towns illustrious Spa Waters and the treatment of The Pump Rooms. The hotel was in much demand by those with power.
However, after the boom in business the hotel suffered financially and closed in 1998; it was later opened 2005 and is now part of the Travelodge group.
Queen Victoria
Royal Leamington Spa was formally known as Leamington Priors, in 1814 the Royal Pump Rooms and Baths were opened; these were renowned for curing people. The Spa attracted many of the rich and famous including some of the royal family.
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Royal Leamington Spa was formally known as Leamington Priors, in 1814 the Royal Pump Rooms and Baths were opened; these were renowned for curing people. The Spa attracted many of the rich and famous including some of the royal family.
Queen Victoria visited the town as just a girl when it was known as the Priors, permission to rename the town, 'Royal Leamington Spa' was granted in 1838. In her stay she opened the town's first lifeboat centre, which named their boat Victoria. Victoria enjoyed the beautiful natural spas and the magnificent architecture.
To thank the Queen for her visit and allowing us to rename our town, 'Royal Leamington Spa' a statue was built of her. This still stands outside the Town Hall; the statue was almost destroyed during World War II by a German Bomb, it has moved roughly two inches and is still to be returned to its original position
Sir Bernard Henry Spilsbury
An English Pathologist, working on some of the most famous murder cases such as: Blazing Car Murder, Brides in the Bath, the Button and Badge Murder and the Sydney Fox matricide case; Sir Bernard Henry Spilsbury was the eldest of four child ....More
An English Pathologist, working on some of the most famous murder cases such as: Blazing Car Murder, Brides in the Bath, the Button and Badge Murder and the Sydney Fox matricide case; Sir Bernard Henry Spilsbury was the eldest of four children.
The Pathologist was born to James Spilsbury a Chemist and Marion Elizabeth Joy on the 16th May 1877, 35 Bath Place Leamington Spa was his birth place.
Spilsbury had a critical part in the development of Operation Mincemeat; this was a deception operation which saved thousands of our allies during World War II. Bernard went on to marry and have four children: one daughter and three sons. Tragically during the time of war his two eldest sons died; one in the Blitz, the other from TB.
Spilsbury specialised in the science of forensic pathology, sadly the death of his sons and his deteriorating health became too much. He committed suicide via gas in his laboratory at the University College in London.
Sir Frank Whittle and the Jet Engine
Growing up in Leamington Spa, Sir Frank Whittle was the eldest son to Moses and Sara Alice Whittle; his father a practical engineer and mechanic certainly plays a drastic influence on his later achievements.
Attending Milverton School ....More
Growing up in Leamington Spa, Sir Frank Whittle was the eldest son to Moses and Sara Alice Whittle; his father a practical engineer and mechanic certainly plays a drastic influence on his later achievements.
Attending Milverton School for two years, Whittle achieved a scholarship to a secondary school which is now known as North Leamington School; however with his fathers business faulting Frank had to leave.
However, this gained him much experience within engineering which in due cause helped; in his meantime Frank read about Turbines, the theory of Flight, astronomy and Engineering.
At 15 he joined the RAF to become a pilot; he later achieved this goal which lead him to the fundamental concepts of designing a jet engine. He worked with Dr Hans Von Ohain inventing the first jet engine, in which the prototype was first run in 1937.
The power Jets became national in 1944 and less than five years later; he retired from the RAF and received a Knighthood. He then became a technical advisor for BOAC before becoming a US NAVAIR Research Professor. Sadly in 1996 Sir Frank Whittle died as of Lung Cancer.
Sir Frank Whittle remains a main proprietor in our history; a Jet Engine can be found in North Leamington School at Sandy Lane which commemorates his work.
The Home of Modern Tennis
The history of tennis can date back to the ancient Egyptian times; but it wasn‘t until the mid 1800's that the modern sport was developed. Major Harry Gem a solicitor and his friend Aguurio Perera Spanish merchant combined the Spanish Pelot ....More
The history of tennis can date back to the ancient Egyptian times; but it wasn‘t until the mid 1800's that the modern sport was developed. Major Harry Gem a solicitor and his friend Aguurio Perera Spanish merchant combined the Spanish Pelota with the game of rackets.
In 1872 the pair moved to Leamington Spa; a few years later with two doctors from Warneford hospital, founded the World's First Tennis Club. The land in which this magnificent history was created has been preserved.
Tony Banger Walsh
Tony Walsh began his career as one to be the biggest name in the wrestling game; "I remember lying on the canvas hearing the crowd cheering, booing and shouting - this was where I belonged."
As he furthered into his career he quickly r ....More
Tony Walsh began his career as one to be the biggest name in the wrestling game; "I remember lying on the canvas hearing the crowd cheering, booing and shouting - this was where I belonged."
As he furthered into his career he quickly realised, to be at the top of his game; he had to follow their rules. Behind the scenes of wrestling it was all fixed, "Before an evening's bill we were told how and what round each fight ended…."
He soon became a big entertain, an idol; but with that came pressure and he ended his wrestling career, the work that gained his nickname 'Banger'.
He became involved with businessman, George Hendry working as security for clubs: this eventually earned him control of a nightclub; never the less Mayfair Security was founded. Word spread that the wrestler owned the firm and they controlled all major public houses in Leamington and Coventry.
Having to supply over 100 personnel to one contract, Walsh found himself in control of national clubs and even a Michael Jackson Concert. Mayfair Security now turns over around £2,000,000. The company is still a leading security firm which headquarters lies in Leamington Spa
Spas in Leamington
Leamington Spa is prominent for it spa water, the alleged healing water has been known since the times of Romans.
The first spring was recorded in 1480 outside the parish church, the next was over three hundred years later when B ....More
Leamington Spa is prominent for it spa water, the alleged healing water has been known since the times of Romans.
The first spring was recorded in 1480 outside the parish church, the next was over three hundred years later when Benjamin Satchwell and William Abbott discovered the second on the corner of Abbott St and Bath Street; beginning the commercialization of the now famous spa water.
Two years after the rediscovery, Abbotts Baths was established. This acted as a catalyst for others to create baths; in 1790 a third spring was discovered and Wise Baths opened, the fourth spring was at Robbins Well in Victoria Terrace and obviously Robins Well Baths opened.
In 1814, the Royal Pump Rooms and Baths were opened, many travelled to see the rich structure and experience the healing from the salty spa pools.
The spa water is still available to be sampled at a fountain outside the Royal Pump Rooms.
Bright Obelisk
In the late 1800's there was much concern about the town's drinking water; the water was coming from the wells and river, clearly polluted. An order from London had banned the drinking water as unfit for consumption.
In 1870, a L ....More
In the late 1800's there was much concern about the town's drinking water; the water was coming from the wells and river, clearly polluted. An order from London had banned the drinking water as unfit for consumption.
In 1870, a Local Government Board medical office, Dr Frankland declared the water to be unfit to drink.
Henry Bright was instrumental in a group who planned to sink boreholes to tap underground sources of water. He was elected to the Local Board of Health in 1872 and persuaded the Board to adopt the borehole plan. In 1877 a new waterworks was begun, and Bright, by then Mayor of Leamington, laid the foundation stone at the works.
The drinking fountain is now sealed off, but the obelisk still stands today near to the town hall.
Czechoslovakia War Memorial
In the early 1940s SS-Obergruppenfuhrer Reinhard Heydrich was the Nazi in command of Czechoslovakia. He was extremely ruthless (he had been appointed to crush the Czech Resistance). His nickname "The Butcher of Prague" leaves little to the ....More
In the early 1940s SS-Obergruppenfuhrer Reinhard Heydrich was the Nazi in command of Czechoslovakia. He was extremely ruthless (he had been appointed to crush the Czech Resistance). His nickname "The Butcher of Prague" leaves little to the imagination.
However plans were afoot in London to assassinate him (The exiled Czech government were based in London.). Four parachutists, Lieutenant Adolf Opalka (who led the mission), Sergeants Josef Valcik, Jan Kubis and Sgt Josef Gabchik were flown and dropped over Czechoslovakia in 1942 to assassinate the Butcher (under code name Operation Anthropoid). All four soldiers were based in Leamington during their training between 1941 - 1942 and ties to St Pauls Church in Leamington suggest that they were based at this small Church of England Church during their training.
Once in Prague, they managed to attack Heydrich's open top car as his chauffeur drove him through the outskirts of Prague at Holesovice on May 27th 1942 . They waited at a very tight bend in the road where the car had to slow down, and then attempted to shoot him. However the gun jammed. Heydrich was furious and ordered his chauffeur to stop so he could shoot back. The backup plan of hand grenades blew bits of car into Heydrich who died in hospital 10 days later. Himmler even sent his personal physician trying and save him. The Nazi reprisals were terrible, they found the paratroopers hidden in a church crypt and killed them all, as well as the bishop who gave the shelter. They then proceeded to wipe out two whole villages (randomly selected) killing most of the population and bulldozing the buildings.
Leamington paid tribute to the brave soldiers who gave up their lives by constructing a gorgeous water feature in Jephson Gardens. The names of 8 Czechs including the 4 named above can be found around the outside of the parachute.
In 1968 a Czech Memorial Fountain was revealed, honouring those who served in the Czech Free Army and those who participated in Operation Anthropoid.
Ambassador Stefan Fule commented, "Leamington Spa was very nice to our soldiers and ex-servicemen in the Second World War who were forced to return home in 1948. Leamington became their second home."
Norman Painting
The actor who played Phil Archer in the BBC Radio 4 Soap Opera 'The Archers', was the longest surviving member of the cast; the series began on the 1st January 1951. Receiving an entry in the Guinness book of records for the longest c ....More
The actor who played Phil Archer in the BBC Radio 4 Soap Opera 'The Archers', was the longest surviving member of the cast; the series began on the 1st January 1951. Receiving an entry in the Guinness book of records for the longest continuous role.
Painting was born in Leamington Spa 23rd April 1924 and had been in the studio recording the soap just two days prior to his death. The last session was broadcast on 22nd of November 2009.
Painting has penned about 1,200 episodes under the pseudonym Bruno Milna. Artistic disagreements with an editor, plus his disillusionment with the BBC management, meant that he decided to retire from writing scripts in 1982 and to stick to just performing them.
Norman had received an OBE in 1976 and further congratulated in September 2008 receiving a star on the Walk Of Stars, Broad Street, Birmingham.
At 85 years old, Norman Painting died from Heart Failure; he had previously stated that he was suffering from bladder cancer.
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The Newbold Comyn Arms
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