The fascinating thing with London is that is has a vast amount of history and beautiful architecture can easily be found. Recently I came across this magnificent building, and was so taken back by it grandeur. Sadly it was cordoned off but I saw a security guard and had a great chat with him. Turns out this Grade II listed Art Deco building built in 1936 used to the Gillette factory and European headquarters. If you look carefully at the front entrance, you'll see the Gillette name there. It's now disused and is turned into a film studio. The security guy told me some Hollywood blockbusters were made here but I can't remember the names, and I think Amazon is currently making a film here, something about dystopia, so look out for that in future.
The reason I love speaking to locals and staff is the amount of local knowledge you pick up. One of the most iconic feature of Gillette Corner is the four face clock tower, a bit like a local Big Ben as you can see if from quite far away. The clock face is neon illuminated and the security guy said some years a go a bird flew into the neon clock face and damaged the clock .... not sure if the bird survived, I imagine not. Anyway, because this is a Grade II listed building, plus it's so iconic, the building owners have to repair it. The repair cost is estimated to be over £100 thousand!!!!
