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Belgravia's Literary Past


The best way to cure the winter blues? Cosying up with a book, a warm cup of tea and getting lost in the world of fiction. At The Hari, we celebrate the culturally curious traveller, and it just so happens that our neighbourhood has been home to some of- if not the most- iconic British writers.

Look below if you need recommendations for your next read or are simply curious about the storytelling past of our inspiring neighbourhood!

22 Ebury Street, late 1930s Ian Fleming


Ian Fleming is the creator of the legendary James Bond character. His post-war spy novels became international best-sellers and left a lasting mark on British culture.

The series follow James Bond – or 007 -a British intelligence officer navigating dangerous MI6 missions, fighting villains and leading a stylish, action-packed life. Begin with Casino Royale (1953), and don’t worry because there are eleven other novels to dig into!

For younger readers, Fleming wrote Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1964), about a magical car and a heartwarming tale of family adventures. Lean into the cosy season and bring everyone together for a thrilling reading session!

23 Hans Place, 1814- 1815 Jane Austen


Jane Austen, the author of some of greatest romance novels in English literature, lived at her brother’s home in Belgravia. Her works are celebrated for their charming and detailed depictions of love, family, and 19th-century social life.

They have been adapted countless times for the screen, with each version captivating a new generation of readers and viewers. The timeless appeal of her stories lies in her characters- their hopes, anxieties and expectations feel relatable even today.

We recommend starting off with Pride and Prejudice (1813) – a witty and delightful tale of love and misunderstandings. Or try Emma (1815), a cleaver story of matchmaking and relationships in a small English community.

24 Chester Square, 1846 -1851 Mary Shelley


Known as the ‘mother of science fiction’, Mary Shelley wrote the gothic classic Frankenstein (1818). The novel follows Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who stretches the boundaries of science by creating a sentient being. His experiment leads to tragic consequences for the young scientist’s life.

In a pioneering move, Shelley introduced archetypes of the ‘mad scientist’ and the ‘man-made-monster’. It explores themes of scientific and technological innovations, many of which still resonate with of our modern fears!

This moody read is certainly fit for the colder months. Once you finish the book, watch the many adaptations of the story and explore the genre that it inspired!

50 Smith Street, 1946 – 1962 P.L Travers


P.L Travers, the mind behind the Mary Poppins book series was born in Australia but lived most of her life in Chelsea, London.

The Mary Poppins series follow a magical nanny who is carried by the east wind to 17 Cherry Tree Lane to take care of the Banks children. It is rumoured that her real-life Chelsea address inspired the fictional Banks family home in the Disney film adaptation.

In a wonderful exploration of childhood and imagination, the Mary Poppins books are the perfect for children and adults alike, especially to keep the magic of the festive season alive well into the new year!

A WALK THROUGH BELGRAVIA Audio Tour


Blue Plaques Talk Back


Prefer to see the authors houses in person? Embark on a tour with Storystock Sounds; where history is brought vividly to life through an immersive audio journey inspired by the city’s iconic Blue Plaques.

More than simple markers on a wall, these plaques become portals, inviting listeners to step into the lives, ideas and moments that shaped London across the centuries. From tucked-away streets to familiar façades, each story reveals a layer of the city that might otherwise pass unnoticed.

Curated as a self-guided walking route, the experience leads you through an intriguing audio landscape. Follow the map, find the house, press play, and let London do the talking. It’s an intimate way to explore the capital, one story at a time.

All you’ll need is a smartphone or tablet and a pair of headphones. Each walk features seven carefully crafted audio stories, each lasting around three to four minutes, perfectly paced for a thoughtful wander through the city’s past.

History, after all, is best discovered on foot.

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