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Offered languages
- English
- English
- Dutch
- Dutch
If you like humorous history, quirky facts and hidden surprises, this self-guided walk right in the centre of London is for you.
Having lived in London all my life, I decided to uncover its wacky history. I'm also an avid traveller and understand the importance of experiencing a city with a local guide. But more importantly, I love sharing this city's amazing history!
On this tour, you’ll learn about the secret behind the flow of the River Thames, the origins of the name “Covent Garden”, and the story of a drink most wouldn't associate with Britain. You'll also discover how the Americans stole coffee from the British, see the only street in London that confuses taxi drivers and learn about London's most notorious 18th-century brothel and the now-extinct police force that shut it down.
Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or are a local curious about the city's alternative tales, this tour is a valuable introduction to the city's alternative history.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Itinerary
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Covent Garden (Pass by)
Explore the bustling market and discover the origins of its name, which comes from "Convent Garden" due to its history as a convent’s garden in medieval times.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Known as the "Actors' Church," this is where many famous actors have been memorialized. It's also the location of London's first recorded punch-up.
Admission ticket free -
Theatre Royal Drury Lane (Pass by)
The oldest theatre site in London, with a rich history of performances and ghostly apparitions, including the infamous "Man in Grey."
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Learn about the intriguing cases and famous trials that took place here, reflecting the quirky side of London's legal history.
Admission ticket free -
Lyceum Theatre (Pass by)
Famous for its productions, including "The Lion King," and its connection to the early days of electricity in theatre lighting.
Admission ticket free -
Somerset House (Pass by)
Discover this grand building's transformation from a Tudor palace to a Navy office, and its role in the development of the British postal system.
Admission ticket free -
Victoria Embankment (Pass by)
Walk along the riverside promenade and hear about its construction, which involved diverting the River Thames and revealed hidden river secrets.
Admission ticket free -
Waterloo Bridge (Pass by)
Known as "The Ladies' Bridge," it was largely built by women during World War II and offers spectacular views of London.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Home to the last remaining Victorian gas lamp in London, powered by sewer gas, earning it the nickname "The Lamp that Lights Itself."
Admission ticket free -
The Savoy (Pass by)
The first public building in the world to be lit entirely by electricity, with a history of luxurious guests and infamous parties.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour is wheelchair accessible with one caveat: part of the final portion of the tour after Waterloo Bridge has staircases – wheelchair users can stay on bridge-level and proceed to the final two stops which are on the same level.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Cancellation Policy
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Rating
You will not receive a refund if you cancel.
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