You’ll find the Ragged School Museum in a group of three canalside former warehouse buildings which were once the largest “ragged” or free school in London. Copperfield Road Free School was established by the London missionary and philanthropist Dr Bernado in 1877. It provided a basic education to tens of thousands of children until it closed in 1908. The museum includes several galleries, an authentic Victorian classroom where you can sit at a desk and experience a lesson, and an East End Kitchen from the 1900s, demonstrating what life would have been like in a simple, one-room home with no electricity or running water.

Somehow, Copperfield Road seems an appropriate address; Twist Lane might have been better.

Photo credit Gordon Joly via flickr

Remembrance Sunday falls annually on the second Sunday of November, closest to 11th, to mark the Armistice, the day the guns fell silent, at 11am on 11th November 1918. The red poppy, which seemed to thrive on the Western Front, has become a symbol - worn by people throughout the UK as a mark of respect. Services take place in towns and villages all over the land, to honour all who have suffered or died in war. The National Service of Remembrance is held at the Cenotaph in Whitehall. In addition to a march past by veterans and troops from each of the armed forces, tributes are paid by the Monarch or a representative, other members of the Royal Family, members of the Government, political and faith leaders, senior representatives of the armed and civilian services and high commissioners of Commonwealth countries.

The National Service is coordinated by a Government Department, but a good starting point for more information is the Royal British Legion.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea was founded in 1682 by Charles II as a retirement home for soldiers. The architect was Christopher Wren. Today, it is home to about 300 veterans, who have served in the British Army all over the world over the last 60 years or so. Known as Chelsea Pensioners, they can be seen out and about in London in their distinctive red uniforms and three-cornered hats. Tours of the hospital can be arranged, and there is a museum. Particular highlights include the great hall and the Wren chapel. Among those buried on the site are ex-Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and her husband Denis, in the Margaret Thatcher Infirmary, which opened in 2009. The Royal Hospital's extensive grounds are also the location for the annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Science Gallery London is not a traditional museum with a permanent collection on show. Quoting from their website, “Our programme brings together scientific researchers, students, local communities and artists in surprising and innovative ways. We present three themed seasons every year, incorporating exhibitions, events, performances, live experiments, open discussions and festivals, all with scientific engagement at their core.” Science Gallery London is part of the Global Science Gallery Network.

Sir John Soane (1753-1837) architect and collector, left his house and museum to the nation. In his lifetime Sir John - whose works included the Bank of England and the Dulwich Picture Library - amassed a collection of architectural drawings as well as classical and medieval works of art, artefacts, sculptures, paintings (including works by Canaletto, Hogarth and Turner) and other items. His house has astonishing interiors and was used almost as a laboratory for his ideas.

Excellent website!