A first time visit to the city of London never fails to instil excitement. The English capital is probably one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, drawing in around 30 million visitors a year. Its scale however, can mean your debut introduction is limited to only a few areas. Whether that be Soho and Oxford Street or simply the neighbourhood surrounding the Park Avenue Inn Craven Hotel, a first time visit can leave a good few gap in your London checklist.
Cue the Secret London Tour, a 2 hour guided walk that will introduce you to some of the best kept secrets of the city. Guests can learn about the history, landmarks and often overlooked areas that not only still stand today, but tell thrilling stories from the city’s past, all through a talented guide and raconteur who will ignite the imagination and spark curiosity. So, what are you waiting for? Below is everything you need to know about this one of a kind introduction to London.
Intro To the Secret London Tour
Taking place over roughly an hour and 50 minutes, the Secret London Walking Tour introduces visitors to fascinating stories from throughout history, exploring ancient buildings that still stand today and otherwise unassuming streets that have tremendous historic importance for the development of London. To add even more allure, the tour is guided by tour hosts well versed in the city’s history, not without showmanship either. Expect to hear the words of famous Londoners, often performed with gusto by your tour guide and drawing you into the intriguing world of historic London. This is a tour that strays from the dryness of facts and dates and explores the character and stories behind the famous… and the infamous.
Times And Location
Best get a decent breakfast in Paddington down you before heading out, you can expect to walk a good few kilometres during the Secret London Tour. Taking place on selected Wednesdays (1.30 pm) and Saturdays (2 pm), the Secret London Tour begins close to Mansion House Station in the historic City of London. The tour ends at Cloth Fair, close to the Barbican Estate. Make sure to check train times and try to arrive a little early to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
What You’ll See
The Secret London Walking Tour offers insight into some of the oldest buildings in the city of London. You’ll see the only remaining house that was owned by Benjamin Franklin, Elizabethan era manor houses and notably, the beautiful Postman’s Park, where a mural pays tribute to the victims of “heroic self-sacrifice” – people and animals that gave their lives in order to save others.
Who You’ll Meet
Amongst the voices you’ll hear from London’s history, Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, Sherlock Holmes (although that one’s fictional) stand out amongst the famous names you’ll meet. Less famous names include the victims of the Great Plague, witnesses of the Great Fire of London and many other historic locals brought to vivid life over these 2 hours.
