Whilst the bridge is closed take time to discover new or old favourites

Putney Bridge is currently closed for essential repairs but Putney Town Centre is open for business and would welcome you to come and discover the beauty of Putney, the great range of retail shops, fine restaurants and pubs, relaxing cafes, excellent entertainment and of course the river bank.

Each day during the bridge closure works the Town Centre Manager will identify a gem of Putney which she recommends you visit.

Week 1
Monday 14th July - Putney Bridge
Do you know why and how Putney Bridge came about?
One story suggests that "in 1720 Sir Robert Walpole (the following year considered the first Prime Minister) was returning from seeing George I at Kingston upon Thames and being in a hurry to get to the House of Commons rode together with his servant to Putney to take the ferry across to Fulham. The ferry boat was on the opposite side, however and the waterman, who was drinking in the Swan, ignored the calls of Sir Robert and his servant and they were obliged to take another route." Walpole vowed that a bridge would replace the ferry.[1]

The then Prince of Wales equally "was often inconvenienced by the ferry when returning from hunting in Richmond Park and asked Walpole to use his influence by supporting the bridge."[1]
The legal framework for construction of a bridge was approved by an Act of Parliament in 1726. Built by local master carpenter Thomas Phillips to a design by architect Sir Jacob Acworth, the first bridge was opened in November 1729, to become the only bridge between London Bridge and Kingston Bridge at the time. A toll bridge, it had tollbooths at either end of the timber-built structure.

Putney Bridge has today closed for vehicular traffic for essential repairs. It is open to pedestrians and cyclists if they dismount.

Reference: 1. Putney Bridge on London Historians


Tuesday 15th July – The Avenue Cookery School
Did you know that right in the heart of Putney there is a cookery school, The Avenue Cookery School offering one week and two week courses as well as day and evening classes for all ages from teenagers upwards. The courses are fun and informative – the relaxed atmosphere enables students to learn a huge amount and become confident cooks. Total beginners and accomplished cooks come on our courses and they all leave with new recipe ideas, up to date skills and a refreshed and refreshing approach to cooking.

The school is in Walkers Place less than 100 metres from both Putney High Street and Waitrose.
Next time you are near us come and visit us and see us in action. www.theavenuecookeryschool.com


Wednesday 16th July – EMILE’S RESTAURANT
96 -98 Felsham Road, Putney, London SW15 1DQ
Tel: 020 8789 3323
This well established neighbourhood restaurant delivers a great all-round package of consistently good modern British-Eclectic cuisine side by side with classic French dishes at probably the best value in London - 3 course menu £29.50 or 2 course menu £26.00.
A comprehensive wine list backed up by a separate ‘fine wine’ list also represents terrific value.
Located in a side road and approximately 5 minutes walk from Putney High Street this 100 cover restaurant is laid out over three rooms with simple decor and well-spaced tables.
Parties are catered for on a regular basis and the restaurant also features private dining facilities for up to 47 guests.

For menus, photos and further details please visit our website at www.emilesrestaurant.co.uk




July 17, 2014