The Nomad presents Donnie Darko @ Brompton Cemetery

I have slightly exhausted the outdoor cinema experience in recent years. But one night i've missed out is the Brompton Cemetery film hosted by The Nomad every September. Although on reflection, last years offering -  The Shining -  may have been a little too jumpy for me in this environment! Donnie Darko was just the right kind of eerie - i don't care what anybody says though, that is one scary ass rabbit!!

The Nomad are slick. They know how to organise a good gig, without it being too in your face. Even the fizzy rain couldn't dampen my spirits, thanks to a roll of recycling bags (thank you Wandsworth council) and a thermos of coffee, that actually had more liquor in it than the hot black stuff! I also experienced my first ever fish dog, from the Hix van, with fresh doughnuts and hot, salted caramel sauce as dessert - to die for (bad joke?!). Overall a very cool night, in a beautiful cemetery that warrants a visit all in itself.

Hampstead Cemeteries

It may seem a little macabre, but i really love to explore grave yards (it's not as weird as it sounds - honest!). You see, i've never found them creepy, although i'm yet to test this with a night visit... I just think they can be really beautiful and peaceful. They always tell great stories too. Of course, there is always the inherent sadness, but then it can be uplifting as well - there's always so much love and appreciation to be found in the epitaphs and messages. 

On a Sunday drive to Hampstead, i was enticed by the history seeping from the gates of St John's and St Mary's church yards. I love the way the earth really does reclaim these old head stones and is it just me, or does the sun seem to bounce more brightly off them? The colours and textures are really inspiring and ironically, full of life.

St Mary's R.C Church

St John at Hampstead