Leadenhall Market: London’s Best Kept Secret
Leadenhall Market: A Victorian Gem & One of London’s Best kept Secret
Explore another side of London — the city’s best kept secret! Tucked away from the busy streets and the high-rises of the financial district of London, with a rich heritage and incredible architecture dating back 700 years is Leadenhall Market, a Victorian gem easily missed and less visited by occasional visitors to the city. This remarkable building is also Grade II listed, denoting its significant historic interest.
Visitors to London often frequent London’s landmarks such as The London Fortress, Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, Houses of Parliament or the London Eye, just to name a few but hardly have time to experience the lesser known or tucked away paths. The City’s landmarks are an absolute must visit, for sure. No visit to Charming City London is complete without an experience of the City’s renowned landmarks.
However, if you would love to experience one of London’s best kept secret, a place where Londoners go to get their shoes ‘shined’ or for a quick pint over lunch in an authentic ornate historical marketplace along with all the modern trimmings of fashionable boutiques, fine dining and family-friendly restaurants, then Leadenhall Market is the place to head to. You may even want to discover the hidden passages of the wizardry world within the covered market here!
No matter what you choose to do at Leadenhall Market, you will know that this is none like any other marketplace you may have visited. It’s iconic interior details, cobbled floors and the bright and airy atmosphere will have you in awe from the moment you begin your stroll through the building. For sure, you shall only take beautiful memories of the unrivalled beauty this striking destination presents. Without a doubt, Leadenhall Market‘s unique character and prominent destination ought to secure a firm spot on your itinerary. If you are not convinced, I am certain that Old Tom will capture a soft spot in your heart and compel a visit.
What to expect in this article on Leadenhall Market
In this article, you shall find top reasons that makes Leadenhall Market a notable place to visit in London, beginning with its rich history to the incredible things to do such as shopping, dining and getting your shoes shined at this Victorian marketplace. Practical tips are included on how to locate this marvellous destination as well as landmarks to visit which are located close by. You could skip ahead to a particular section by using the navigation below, if you prefer.
When planning your visit to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, you may be asking: How long to visit the Royal Observatory London? I’d suggest, ideally, that you set aside half a day, anything between 3.5-4 hours to fully experience its rich offerings, which includes a blend of astronomical heritage and maritime history.
Situated at SE10 8XJ on Greenwich Hill, within the heart of Greenwich Park, this iconic institution was commissioned by King Charles II in 1675. Now nearly 350 years old, it is not only a pivotal site for timekeeping and navigation but also forms a part of the Royal Museums Greenwich. This collective heritage includes the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the historic ship Cutty Sark.
The Royal Observatory stands as one of London’s most famous landmarks, epitomizing scientific achievement and famously known as the location of the Prime Meridian Line. The observatory has played a crucial role in the advancement of navigation and astronomy. It is here that Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) was defined, influencing how the world measures time and geographical positioning to this day.
Time, the most precious commodity in life, is the only commodity we truly own, as noted by Baltasar Gracián who once said, “All that really belongs to us is time; even he who has nothing else has that.” A visit to the Royal Observatory brings these words to life and takes me back to my early days as a mum, teaching my little ones about where time measurement started.
Beyond personal memories, the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park is a welcoming attraction for both the young and the old any day of the week. During your visit, you are treated to a remarkable journey through the history of astronomy and navigation, offering numerous activities that capture your attention from the moment you arrive. At the gates, you’ll find the renowned Shepherd Clock, and once inside, there are further highlights that you simply must explore.
As you explore the intersections of time and space at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll discover why the Royal Observatory is worth the time, no matter how long it takes to visit as it is not just a must-visit for history enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in the marvels of our universe.
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Getting to the Royal Observatory Greenwich London
Directions to Greenwich Park
The Royal Observatory is located within the beautiful Greenwich Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks. To reach Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory, you can enter through any of the park’s gates, with the Blackheath Gate on Charlton Way being a popular choice due to its proximity to the observatory. For those using a GPS, the postcode for your destination is SE10 8XJ.
Tips on Public Transport and Parking Options
Public Transport: Greenwich is well-serviced by public transport. You can take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, which is a scenic 15-minute walk from the park. Alternatively, Greenwich and Maze Hill rail stations are both within walking distance of the park, offering connections to central London and surrounding areas.
Several bus routes also stop near Greenwich Park, including numbers 53, 54, 202, and 380.
Parking: Parking in Greenwich can be challenging, especially on weekends. There are limited paid parking spaces available within Greenwich Park, accessible via Blackheath Gate. Nearby, you can also find pay-and-display options along Greenwich High Road.
For a hassle-free visit, consider arriving early or using public transport, which is both convenient and eco-friendly.
PRO TIP: I’d suggest taking the DLR to Cutty Sark Station as it is a quick 20-minute journey from central London. The scenic walk to the Royal Observatory takes you through part of Greenwich Village, and other attractions in Greenwich which you may want to explore also.
How Long to Visit at the Royal Observatory Greenwich?: Key Attractions + Recommended Time for Each
The Prime Meridian Line: What is the Prime Meridian Line?
The Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory Greenwich is the globally recognized line of longitude from which all other lines of longitude are measured and time zones are calculated. This line, marked by a striking stainless steel strip, represents the world’s zero-degree longitude. Established in 1851 by Sir George Airy, the Greenwich Meridian was chosen as the official Prime Meridian of the world in 1884, making Greenwich the universal time standard known as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
How long to visit the Prime Meridian area at Royal Observatory London?: Estimated duration: 15-20 minutes
TIP: Experience straddling both the eastern and western hemispheres simultaneously. This moment, captured with a photo, is not just a fun opportunity but a profound reminder of how Greenwich shapes the way the world views time and space.
The Shepherd Clock: The historical significance of the Shepherd Clock
The Shepherd Gate Clock, mounted on the wall outside the Observatory gate, is one of the world’s first public displays of Greenwich Mean Time. Installed in 1852 and linked directly to the Royal Observatory’s time ball, the clock was critical in providing accurate time to sailors on the Thames and navigators far and wide. This innovation by Charles Shepherd revolutionized how time was synchronized and disseminated, playing a crucial role in managing time across the UK’s vast railway network and influencing global timekeeping practices. Be camera ready, as this is one of the most Instagrammable spots at the Royal Observatory Greenwich.
How long to visit the Shepherd Clock area and Photos?: Estimated duration: 10-15 minutes
PRO TIP: If you are visiting the Royal Observatory during peak tourist season, be sure to allocate additional time if you want a photo next to the Shepherd Clock — there’s usually a queue as almost everyone wants to take a photo next to this iconic timepiece.
Flamsteed House at the Royal Observatory
Flamsteed House at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich holds a pivotal place in the history of navigation and astronomy. Originally commissioned by King Charles II in the 1670s, the observatory was established to enhance maritime navigation for seamen and traders. Recognizing the need for a sophisticated navigation system, King Charles enlisted Sir Christopher Wren, a distinguished architect, to design what is now known as Flamsteed House.
Flamsteed House is not only a functional scientific facility but also an architectural marvel. Its design reflects the early scientific spirit of the Age of Enlightenment, marrying both utility and aesthetic appeal. Within this premier historical and educational site, Flamsteed House is home to Time and Longitude Galleries as well as an educational hub, inspiring deep engagement with astronomy, providing insight into the scientific challenges and solutions that have profoundly shaped our understanding of the world.
Time and Longitude Galleries at Flamsteed House, Royal Observatory, London
Within Flamsteed House, you can explore the Time and Longitude Galleries. These galleries are notable for housing the revolutionary “sea clocks” created by John Harrison, including his celebrated H4 chronometer. Harrison’s innovations were vital in solving the problem of determining longitude at sea, a major challenge of the 18th century that engaged the minds of numerous mathematicians and clockmakers.
In addition to Harrison’s chronometers, the galleries also display modern navigational tools, such as the GPS receiver used by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston during his record-breaking solo circumnavigation of the globe in 1994.
These galleries provide a fascinating insight into the historical efforts and scientific advancements that underpinned maritime exploration.
How long to visit the Time and Longitude Galleries and Flamsteed House, Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 45 minutes to an hour.
Witness the Time Ball at Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London
Another must-see at Flamsteed House is the operation of the bright red Time Ball, a historic feature that has been reliably signaling the time since 1833. Positioned atop Flamsteed House, this iconic ball originally served a vital role in distributing time to ships on the Thames River and to many Londoners.
Each day, the time ball follows a precise routine: at 12:55, it rises halfway up its mast; at 12:58, it ascends fully to the top; and at precisely 13:00, it dramatically drops. This visible signal allowed ship captains to accurately set their chronometers before setting sail, ensuring precise timekeeping critical for navigation. Witnessing this daily event offers a tangible link to the maritime history that shaped Greenwich and its global importance.
How long to visit the Time Ball drop at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 15 minutes.
PRO TIP: Try and arrive a little earlier than 12:55 PM to secure a spot for a good view of the Time Ball drop, where you could also capture the perfect photo or video.
The Peter Harrison Planetarium
Situated next to the Royal Observatory, the Peter Harrison Planetarium offers a captivating gateway to the stars, which requires a stand-alone experience ticket, distinct from the admission ticket to the Royal Observatory. This modern marvel uses cutting-edge technology to bring the universe to life through a variety of immersive shows that cater to both avid astronomers and curious novices.
This unique experience takes you on a visual journey across the cosmos, exploring distant galaxies, witnessing the birth of stars, and delving into the mysteries of black holes.
Equipped with one of the most advanced digital laser projectors, the planetarium provides a stunningly crisp and vibrant visual experience that fills the dome with the wonders of the universe. The state-of-the-art sound system enhances the immersive experience, wrapping audiences in a cosmic symphony of sights and sounds.
How long to visit the Peter Harrison Planetarium experience at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 30-40 minutes.
The View from the Royal Observatory Greenwich
One of the most breathtaking aspects of a visit to the Royal Observatory Greenwich is “The View.”
Perched atop Greenwich Hill, the Observatory offers a panoramic vista across London. From this vantage point, or nearby point from General James Wolfe’s statue, you can gaze out over the sprawling cityscape that stretches towards the horizon, encompassing iconic landmarks such as the Thames River, the modern skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, and the historical silhouette of the maritime Greenwich.
This picturesque view is not only a feast for the eyes but also a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle against the twilight sky. Additionally, “The View” provides a unique geographical context to Greenwich’s maritime history, highlighting its strategic location overlooking the river that has been so vital to London’s development.
How long should you visit the panoramic experience at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 15 minutes or as long as you like.
Educational Activities at The Royal Observatory Greenwich, London
The Royal Observatory is committed to making astronomy accessible and engaging for all ages. It offers a wide range of educational programs and interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and discovery. These include family-friendly workshops, telescope viewings, and engaging talks that bring the wonders of the universe closer to earth.
For younger visitors, the Observatory provides specially designed activities that spark curiosity and inspire a love of science. These include interactive puzzles, games, and storytelling sessions that make learning about space fun and memorable.
Add to Your Visit to the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London
Greenwich Park and Surrounding Attractions: Your visit to the Royal Observatory also positions you perfectly to explore other nearby attractions. The iconic Cutty Sark, the world’s sole surviving tea clipper, the World’s largest National Maritime Museum (free entry) and the elegant Queen’s House (free entry), renowned for its fine architecture and art collections, are all within walking distance.
Combining Your Visit with a Walk Through Greenwich Park: Greenwich Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks, offers more than just a beautiful setting. It is a place where history, nature, and leisure converge. After visiting the Observatory, take a leisurely stroll through the park to enjoy its tranquil landscapes, the rose garden, and stunning views of the London skyline. This is the perfect way to relax, have a picnic, and reflect on the rich history you’ve just encountered.
Estimated Duration: 1-2 hours
READ the Complete Guide to Off-Beat, Free, and Ticketed Things to do in Greenwich, London.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Visit and How to Avoid the Crowds
Weekdays and Early Mornings: The Royal Observatory Greenwich is a popular attraction throughout the year. To make the most of your visit, consider coming on weekdays or during the morning hours right after opening. The quieter times typically offer a more intimate viewing of the exhibits and a better interaction with the features without the pressure of large crowds.
Spring and autumn months generally see fewer visitors compared to the bustling summer season.
The Royal Observatory Tickets and Hours
The observatory is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours may vary during holiday periods or for special events.
Entry to the Royal Observatory grants access to the Meridian Courtyard, the historic Flamsteed House, and the Time and Longitude galleries. Discounts are available for children, students, and retirees. Family tickets offer additional savings for group visits.
To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass. This pass not only simplifies your experience but also offers comprehensive access to Cutty Sark, enhancing your exploration of Greenwich’s rich maritime heritage. The Day Pass offers excellent value, allowing you to save more compared to purchasing stand-alone tickets.
Facilities and Accessibility
Facilities include accessible restrooms, baby changing facilities, and a café offering light refreshments with a stunning view of Greenwich and the Thames.
The venue is wheelchair accessible, and assistance dogs are welcome. Loaner wheelchairs are available at the ticket desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact their Official website for specific accessibility queries.
FAQs
The Royal Observatory is the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian Line, where the eastern and western hemispheres meet.
It houses the historic Shepherd Clock and the Peter Harrison Planetarium, which offers advanced astronomical education through state-of-the-art visual technology.
It is called the Royal Observatory because it was commissioned by King Charles II in 1675, explicitly for the improvement of naval navigation and originally led by the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed.
The Royal Observatory was founded in 1675, making it over 340 years old.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and a smoother visit experience.
The Royal Observatory at Greenwich was founded in 1675 by King Charles II.
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in sum…
A visit to the Royal Observatory is not just a journey through the realms of time and space but also a voyage through history and innovation. From standing on the Prime Meridian Line to exploring the universe in the Peter Harrison Planetarium, the observatory offers a unique blend of education and inspiration.
To make the most of your experience, visit during off-peak season and purchase the money-saving Day Pass, which enhances both convenience and value. Dedicate a good part of a day, or at least half a day to fully immerse yourself in this fascinating site, where the past connects with the present and offers insights into how the science of yesterday shapes our today and tomorrow.
Happy and Safe Travels Always, Wherever Travel Takes You, xx
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1 | The origins and history of Leadenhall Market, London
The stunning Leadenhall Market has a rich history dating back to 1321, at the heart of what we now know to be Roman London. Underneath the arches and cobblestones of Leadenhall Market today are the remains of the Roman Forum and Basilica. As well, Bishopsgate, Cheapside and Leadenhall Street follow the Roman roads that once existed.
History tells us that the Romans loved their markets! It is thought that a market existed at this location since their settlement but not much is known about the market place after they left. Thereafter, the Anglo-Saxons returned and used the same location to set up a marketplace to boost the economy.
1.1 | Medieval history of Leadenhall Market
Fast forward to early 1300s, there is a mention of a thriving market place within a manor house owned by Sir Hugh Neville. It is believed that Sir Neville acquired the Leadenhall manor under the then feudal system and the property itself may have been of little use to him as residence. Consequently, he opened up the manor to tenants and as a marketplace so he could receive the best financial returns possible at that time. The manor was used as a meat, poultry and game market.
Eventually, the Leadenhall manor fell into the ownership of Lord Whittington, the Lord Mayor of the City of London. In 1411, he gifted the manor to the City of London.
1.2 | Leadenhall Market through the centuries
In 1440, Simon Eyre, the then Lord Mayor commissioned the skills of John Croxton, a master mason to redesign the manor house. The manor house was converted to two levels, and housed a large public granary along with lots of storage spaces. Trade was brought into the building, away from the streets nearby. The marketplace became the focal of medieval economy. By 1600s, trading involved cheese, milk, butter and eggs alongside poultry, meats, grains, leather and metal ware.
Leadenhall Market had gone through many changes over the centuries and survived the tumultuous civil unrest during King Henry VI reign, and The Great Slump in the mid 15th century. Most importantly it survived the Great Fire of London in 1666.
Following the Great Fire of London, Sir Horace Jones was commissioned to redesign the stone building. He designed and built Leadenhall Market in 1881 that continues to exist today. The nearby markets of Billingsgate and Smithfield were designed by Sir Jones also. The architecture embodies space, and light with wrought iron and glass. More recently, in 1991, Leadenhall Market underwent extensive renovations but the eye-catching Victorian architecture of brightly painted wrought iron beams of the main roof was preserved.
Recommended: 7 Key benefits of the London Pass that you need to know.
2 | Leadenhall Market today
This large covered area of what was once a marketplace has evolved to be a modern retail hub. Set amidst a Victorian roof, cobbles and preserved buildings and architecture, Leadenhall Market provides a wide range of shopping and a variety of dining options. Located in the centre of the financial district of London also means that it is a busy hub for people in smart suits and the savvy financier.
The many entrances are decorated with stone carvings of dragons, swags and shields of varying sizes. The larger stone pediments reflect the main entrances to the market. Some have the market’s name and date inscribed upon them.
2.1 | Fashionable boutiques and Fine dining at Leadenhall Market, London
Housed within the Victorian architecture are upscale shops such as Barbour, Reiss, Hobbs, Waterstones and many more.
In addition, there is a selection of restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs offering unique dining experiences from fine dining, mid-range dining or to take-aways and sandwiches. There is Cheese of Leadenhall for cheese lovers and for wine lovers, the Brokers Wine Bar is an excellent choice.
The Lamb Tavern is highly recommended. It is a traditional pub, a restaurant and lately, popular as a wedding venue. Occupying three-floors of impressive decor, this grand old pub serves traditional British food and ales. The Lamb Tavern has been a public house since the Market buildings were completed in 1881.
Visiting this beautifully clean and vibrant Victorian setting ordinarily on a working day or at Christmas is highly encouraged. Truth be told that it is extraordinarily special at Christmas. It is lit-up bright with Christmas lights and a 20-foot high Christmas tree takes the centre-stage of this Victorian market setting. Shoppers with Christmas shopping bags, the vibrancy of modern dining, the bars and pubs overflowing with beer drinkers in smart attire amidst chatter and laughter. Added to this are the Christmas crafts, music and the aroma of mulled wine. It is hard to imagine the smell of meat and poultry that this Victorian market once was!
2.2 | The Shoe-shiners of Leadenhall Market
When I visited Leadenhall Market a couple of years ago, I was fascinated to discover that it was home to talented actors who run the London City Shoe Shine Co. in between their engagements at West End.
These actors have been shining shoes in this Victorian setting since 1991, come rain or shine! Although, if the leather shoes are wet on a rainy day, you will probably not find the shoe-shiners sitting at their station.
The actors work in pairs and this beautiful advent afternoon was no different to any other. There was a steady flow of customers, mostly regulars, I suspect. As Leadenhall Market is situated in the centre of the banking industry and bankers were traditionally their most regular customers.
I saw a window of opportunity to steal a quick chat with them, with an assurance that they remain anonymous. It was an interesting chat, one of them have an upcoming role in a movie while the other is involved mainly in theatre performances. Soon, two customers arrived, and I stayed to watch briefly.
The shine-box method
I was captivated with the use of the old-fashioned shine-box method – where the customer raises one foot onto the footplate for it to be shined and then the other shoe gets done afterwards. These modest shoe shiners exuded a relaxed sense of style and their buoyant energy in a carefully crafted skill of vigorous hand-movement, first brush, then focusing on the toe for extra shine – a pair of shiny shoes will always set a man apart as a man that knows how to take care of himself – appearance matters! Definitely! Don’t you think so?
2.3 | Leadenhall Market is a popular filming location
For the ardent Harry Potter fans, you will be delighted to know that there were several scenes which were filmed at Leadenhall Market. One of the most memorable scene is when Hagrid and Harry Potter go shopping for wands. This scene was filmed outside of Leadenhall Market.
You may also recall the area of London which led to the wizarding pub, the magical shopping street of Diagon Alley (in the first Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone) and the Leaky Couldron (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire). The highly recognisable blue door entrance to the Leaky Couldron at 42 Bull’s Head Passage is actually an opticians office at Leadenhall Market.
Recommended: An interactive Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour
Leadenhall Market has also been used as a filming location in other movies for example:
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy;
The Imaginarium of Doctor Pernassus;
Hearafter;
Love Aaj Kal
3 | The Story of Old Tom at Leadenhall Market
As we know, Leadenhall Market was once a place for the sale of poultry, and this required for chickens and geese to be slaughtered in the market. However, Old Tom, the little goose had a different tale to tell.
One day, in early 1800s, thousands of geese were brought to the Market to be slaughtered but one little gander from Belgium managed to escape. The story goes that he was not only clever to escape his fate on one occasion but he did so over several occasions on a number of days. Eventually, he was allowed to live happily and was named “Old Tom”. Old Tom became a beloved resident of Leadenhall Market. He was fed by the market workers with scraps of food and lived to the age of 37. Old Tom passed of natural causes in 1835 and was given a proper burial. He is buried inside the Market.
Old Tom was much loved and his Obituary appeared in the Times Newspaper, on April 16, 1835:
In memory of Old Tom the Gander
Obit 19th March, 1835, aetat, 37 years, 9 months and 6 days
This famous gander, while in stubble,
Fed freely, without care or trouble;
Grew fat eating corn and sitting still,
And scarce could cross the barn-door sill;
And seldom waddle forth to cool,
His belly in the neighbouring pool;
Transplanted to another scene,
He stalk’d in state o’er Calais-green,
With full five hundred geese behind;
To his superior care consign’d;
Whom readily he would engage,
To lead in march ten miles a-stage,
Thus a decoy he lived and died,
The chief of geese, the poulterer’s pride.
You could always raise a glass to Old Tom when you visit Leadenhall Market. His burial spot is marked by the Old Tom’s Bar at 10-12 Leadenhall Market.
Old Tom’s Bar serves traditional British dishes and craft beers.
Recommended: Secrets of London Walking Tour
4 | Best London attractions nearby to Leadenhall Market
While visiting Leadenhall Market, you may also wish to make a day of it by visiting other attractions in the financial district and nearby. The following attractions are located within a few minutes of each other and easily reached by foot. Click on the links to learn more.
Borough Market & Southwark Cathedral at London Bridge
Tower of London & Tower Bridge
St Paul’s Cathedral & Paternoster Square
5 | Practical tips and Useful information
Since ancient times, the City of London had been a trading centre and has grown from strength to strength to be the wealthiest square in the world. Passionately known simply as “The City”, the neighbourhood is one of London’s most fascinating and historic of places. Modern architecture of high-rises such as The Shard and the iconic design by Norman Foster, Gherkin or the unusually famed Walkie Talkie sits alongside Roman ruins and architectural marvels from various era including the glorious St Paul’s Cathedral by Christopher Wren. The City is home to some of the finest hotels and restaurants along with upscale shops.
If you plan to visit this part of London, you will note two entirely differing cultures depending on when you elect to sightsee. During the week, The City is abuzz with white collar workers hurrying along to get on with their business and at weekends, it becomes a quiet haven for visitors to explore.
5.1 | Where is Leadenhall Market located?
This prominent destination is located at the triangle that is made up of Gracechurch Street, Fenchurch Street and Leadenhall Street.
Address: Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 1LT
5.2 | Opening hours
Public areas are open 24/7 for 7-days a week.
For shops and restaurants, opening hours varies, please check individual stores.
5.3 | Transport:
Trains
London Fenchurch Street Station (8-minute walk)
London Cannon Street Station (8-minute walk)
Liverpool Street Station (13-minute walk)
Moorgate Station (13-minute walk)
Underground
Monument Station (4-minute walk)
Bank Station (6-minute walk)
Aldgate Station (8-minute walk)
Moorgate Station (13-minute walk)
