Swallow Gardens

[Andrew Firth]

Hi Philip,

Yes, I seem to remember the gates on the opposite side to Pinchin Street. It's more of a "dream photographic opportunity" than something that I'm specifically planning. A bit like managing to get into One Mitre Square before they demolish it, to take some aerial views of the area.

Or getting a shot of the basement stairs at the Happy Days restaurant, which I think I remember reading somewhere were still there, under the floor beneath the serving counter...

Still, that shot of yours is excellent, with a real sense of atmosphere about it!

All the best
Andrew

[Celesta]

This is a great thread. Stephen, those are amazing shots of the archway. The only thing I might add would be a panorama shot, made from the south, on Royal Mint, looking north towards Chamber, to show just how extensive the archway area is. It runs for a long way. Google Street View gives a preview of what a long shot would look like and is a useful tool for a non-Londoner, like me.

Good illustrations, All.

[Lechmere]

Here's a close up of the southern (Royal Mint Street) opening (now closed).

[Lechmere]

And another from Chamber Street showing that it is still arch 45.

[Lechmere]

Inside the arch - via the letterbox

[Roy Corduroy]

The School

Thank you for the snapshots, Lechmere.

The school faced the entry into Swallow Gdns.

Part of Jake's photo from his post showing the Catholic school on the right.


Inside the top floor, then called Tower Hill Primary School. From this site


Then it was the church community center. site

[Roy Corduroy]

Andrew Firth photographer.
From Howie Brown's site.