Gone for a Goosey Gander

Way back when, I went for a wander through the cobbled streets of London’s oldest market dating back to the 14th century ’Leadenhall’ in the heart of the City of London.  Originally a meat market, Leadenhall went on to sell; eggs, butter, cheese, grains, herbs and eventually became a hub for wool, leather and cutlery.  Today, Leadenhall features a range of independent shops including; a tobacconist specialising in Havana cigars, pipes and confectionary.    

Cheese with over one hundred artisan British and European cheeses. Plus, wine and cheese tastings.   

Viandas charcuterie featuring London’s finest Jamon Pata Negra along with a vast array of very well hung Iberico meat and Windsor Flowers a family florist established since 1982.  

The Lamb Tavern whose bar and dining has refreshed city dwellers and workers since 1780, is still going strong today serving the Great British humble ‘scotch egg’ a ‘substantial meal’ making a resurgence due to the governments mind-boggling pandemic rules.  Looking for extra sparkle?  The London City Shoe Shine Co, run entirely by actors can brush up your blue suede shoes, boots and leathers.  

London… if you look up, not only will you see the glorious roof but you may well catch a glimpse of the City’s most famous Goosey Gander ‘Old Tom’.  Old Tom, born in 1797 like most geese was destined for the dinner table.  Tom made a dash for freedom, evading capture he remained a fugitive at large.  Given a reprieve, the lucky goose was left to live in peace to waddle around the market until the ripe old age of 37, fed with scraps from local inn keepers.  

According to the latest government roadmap… non-essential shops are due to re-open for business on 12 April.  If retail therapy is on your ‘to do’ list, do support independent retailers and most important of all… next time you go for a Goosey Gander, don’t forget to look up!

Pictures and words by sarahhedges.london