It is hard to picture now, but between 1887 and 1911 a rollercoaster looped out over the water here as part of an amusement park.

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Rooms are appointed in warm stained wood and leather with brass trimmings, have big walk-in showers, free wi-fi, Illy espresso makers and huge picture windows (ask for one overlooking 57th Street or for a Park View room on the highest floors of the 29-storey tower).

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However, Dr Noah Barou, secretary of the British Section of the World Jewish Congress, said the Runnymede Park disembarkation was a "very painful and heartbreaking picture".

BBC: Exodus 1947 ship