How to remember monarchs of England and Great Britain?

Do you like history but you are struggling to remember the facts? A useful mnemonic rhyme for memorising the order of succession to the English Throne, from William the Conqueror (in 1066) right through to the present days of Elizabeth II can helps you. 

Many versions existed through the times and many generations of students use them in the schools, while learning by heart was still popular method.The origin of the rhyme is unknown but it may be about a century old as different endings seem to have been extended to cover the last few monarchs.

Willie, Willie, Harry, Stee,
Harry, Dick, John, Harry Three,
One-To-Three Neds, Richard Two,
Harrys Four-Five-Six... then who?

Edwards Four-Five, Dick the Bad,
Harrys (twain), Ned Six (the lad),
Mary, Bessie, James you ken,
Then Charlie, Charlie, James again...

Will & Mary, Anne of gloria,
Georges (Four), Will Four, Victoria,
Edward Seven next, and then
Came George the Fifth in 1910...

Ned the Eighth soon abdicated,
So George Six was coronated,
Then Number Two Elizabeth...
And that's all, folks until her death!!!

London's villages

Before the 19th century and the expansion of the railways London was contained within the City, Westminster and Southwark. The communities that were outside these areas were villages. As transport extended, the villages became a part of the conurbation. Here are a few of the villages that are still discernible within the greater conurbation.

Hampstead map by artist Jonathan Addis

Hampstead

When you arrive at Hampstead on the underground you are 64 metres below the ground level in the deepest station in London, and on reaching the surface you know you are in a different atmosphere.
For many years, Hampstead has been a haven for arts of all descriptions. John Constable who did many paintings of the heath is buried in the churchyard of St. John's, as is John Harrison, the self-taught clockmaker who is attributed with defining 'Longitude' by means of his chronometer.

The history of 'Union Jack' flag

Today, the British flag, the popular "Union Jack", is one of the most global and most easily recognizable symbols? It is so popular that can be easily found not only all around the United Kingdom, but even abroad - on fashion clothing and accessories, gifts, mugs, posters, stationery...

Lets go back in time and see how is the 'Union Jack' is born. Until early 17th century, England and Scotland were two independent counties that shared a small territory of the island, often involved into mutual conflicts and wars. After the death of the English ruler, Queen Elizabeth I, who died unmarried and childless. The England throne was succeeded in 1603 by James VI, King of Scotland, queen's cousin. He became James I, King of England and  England and Scotland now shared the same monarch under what was known as a 'union of the crowns'.