In A Romance of a Shop, South Kensington is mentioned as a more desirable location for their business than the studio on Baker Street. After one of Gertrude and Conny’s searches for a potential location, they came back with an interest in a studio on Baker Street. However, the girls did not return without their criticisms, saying, “‘It certainly is the most likely place we have seen,’ said Gertrude, as she sipped her tea, and blinked at the fire with dazzled, short-sighted eyes. ‘But such miles away from South Kensington,’ grumbled Conny…” This quote can be found in Chatper IV. The only other mention was found much later in the book as Gertrude was mulling over the list of potential suitors Frank liked to speak of. In Chapter XII, the text reads, “He talked freely of the charms of Nellie and Carry and Emily; there was a certain Ethel, of South Kensington, whose praises he was never weary of sounding.”
South Kensington experienced the most growth and development from 1841 to 1881. This area of London was created as the heart of the arts and sciences in London. Today, many tourists spend time there drinking tea, eating at cafes, and visiting museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Below is an image of the Natural History Museum, located in South Kensington.
