Free film tour as Shepherds Bush serves up a cultured Christmas

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Local residents are being offered the chance to go on a free movie-themed walking tour in Shepherds Bush next week in an effort to highlight the area’s vibrant culture.

The free tour on Sunday December 4, entitled ‘West Side story’, will look at the history of the film industry in W12, from the establishment of Lime Grove Studios early in the 20th Century through the J. Arthur Rank years, and will visit locations used in modern movies (such as ‘Calendar Girls’, ‘Shiner’ and ‘Maybe Baby’), reflecting the area’s continuing importance in film and television production.

The tour is being organised by the Hammersmith & Fulham visitor development team and led by Simon Rodway, a Blue Badge guide who lives in Hammersmith. It is just one of a host of events and activities on offer in Shepherds Bush over the coming month, as the area seeks to offer people a more sophisticated way to enjoy the festive season.

Explains Catherine Knight, the borough’s visitor development officer: “People visiting Shepherds Bush in December will be able to enjoy a brand new play at the Bush Theatre, When You Cure Me, which the Evening Standard has called ‘a superlative evening.’ Or they can see a special Christmas performance of Bush Hall’s cabaret night Medium Rare, which has been described by The Guardian as ‘the way cabaret should be’ and ‘a well-kept west London secret.’ They can take in a stand-up comedy night at Ginglik featuring Perrier award nominee Mark Watson. Or they can watch performances at the Shepherds Bush Empire by bands including Blondie, Mercury Rev and Ocean Colour Scene.

“For those looking for a stylish place to hold a Christmas meal or party, too, Shepherds Bush is ideal – offering everything from the chic Bush Bar & Grill, to the gourmet and turkey-free vegetarian restaurant Blah Blah Blah. The neighbourhood’s boutique hotel, K-West, even offers a party package including a free hangover breakfast and complimentary access to the jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms.

“We’re hoping that people will come along on the walking tour, realise just what a cutting-edge and sophisticated place Shepherds Bush is, and immediately come back for more.”

Local residents wishing to join the West Side Story walking tour should meet at 11am on December 4 at Shepherds Bush Central line tube station on Shepherds Bush Green. Anyone requiring more information should call 020 8735 4171.

November 28, 2005