Postcards from Bath #11

Postcards from Bath #11: Trivia

My last post from the city of Bath is a miscellany of trivia: things I noticed that interested or amused me. There are some wonderful (expensive!) shops. One sold antique collectibles along with a few gift items, and the window displays were quite attractive.

In its corner window, it had a representation of the memorable 'Paddington comes to tea with the Queen' sketch that was shown during the Platinum Jubilee Concert earlier this year - a wonderful reminder of our late Queen's marvellous sense of humour.  If you haven't watched it, I can recommend it - it's on YouTube or there is a link HERE. The  suitcase under the chair says: 'Thank you Ma'am for everything', a sentiment many of us would echo.

I was amused to find some rubber ducks for sale too - including HM the Queen again. (You only have to see a handbag and a hat, don't you?) 

I spent a lot of time in coffee shops, and very occasionally it was dry enough to sit outside enjoying one of Bath's many squares and piazzas. My cappuccino declared its love. 

Spotted some 18th century graffiti - 1781? 

Catering for the tourists, there are signs all over the place in different languages warning people not to feed the gulls. Although quite a long way from the coast, Bath must have a problem with scavenging birds. In our seaside towns they often pinch your fries or sandwiches when you're not looking! They must do the same here. 

I also spotted a listed telephone box, near the Royal Crescent. It is a 'K6' design, designed in 1935 to mark King George V's Silver Jubilee. Although red phone boxes are now cherished, in the early days people didn't like their intrusive brightness so in some areas of natural and architectural beauty they were painted battleship grey with just the glazing bars picked out in red. This one is no longer used but has survived the war and stood on this Bath street corner for many years.