I love finding unique things to see and do and get off the beaten track a bit. I’ve read so many historical books based in England that I’m very familiar with duels and historical figures like Beau Brummell. A duel is fought between two opponents and each has a second (a backup). They use swords or pistols to settle the disagreement and retain their honour. Beau Brummell was a dandy who established a tailered mode of dressing for gentlemen in particular the cravat (a neck tie). He is known for the “cut direct” and could ruin a reputation by doing this. The “cut direct” is a deliberate and public social snub where one person stares an acquaintance in the face and pretends not to know them.
Why do I have both of these topics on one post? No particular reason other than a statue of Beau Brummell was a couple streets away from Pickering Place and due to my reading habit I associate both with Regency England.
However, it is whispered that Beau Brummell did fight a duel once at Pickering Place but that is just whispers.
Pickering Place is located near St James Park and I had a bit of trouble finding it on Google Maps. Searching for “Pickering Place” takes you to a different location. Search for “3 St James’s Street“.
Pickering Place is the smallest square in Britain and the place where the last duel was fought. When you’re out strolling about check it out!
Happy Travels!
More London Adventures
A Journey Off The Beaten Path
Jackie is “Mom” to one amazing son, an IT professional and an obsessed traveller. She spends her time reading, golfing at Ladies League and implementing software projects. Jackie has travelled to 7 continents, 5 oceans and 103 countries and she is always planning the next destination and adventure!