Overview
Only by traversing central London on foot to the accompaniment of a pertinent commentary can one really appreciate the capital’s most winning feature – its variety.
Variety of architecture, status, economy and mood, but there is another layer of diversity because each neighbourhood, each cluster of streets, has its own set of features and ‘feel’. Most districts have fallen at some stage in their history, most have risen again; some have repeated that cycle, several times, providing engaging narratives for historians and guides. Witnessing these characteristics change from one district to the next is enlightening.
We start in the heart of the City, against an ever intensifying backdrop of glass towers, and pass through Smithfield, Holborn, Covent Garden, Soho and Mayfair. Along the way we see a remarkable number of Stuart and Georgian buildings, a Tudor courtyard, the Roman wall, monuments to Victorian and Edwardian commerce, aristocratic mansions, fantastically elaborated pubs and and much high-quality contemporary architecture.
As a really satisfying London experience, nothing can replicate walking from one side of the city to the other. And, like our ever-popular London Backstreet Walk, the itinerary winds largely through quiet byways, hidden alleys, lesser streets and pedestrian precincts. This day provides not only a unique and fascinating insight into the history and architecture of London but also the satisfaction of accomplishing a journey.
Start
9.30am, Bank Station.
Finish
Marble Arch by 6.00pm (Bond Street c. 5.00pm is an alternative).
Price
£200, including a good lunch and three other refreshment stops (it may be quicker and easier for one of them to be independent).
More information about Culture Days gift vouchers.
Group size
Between 10 and 18 participants.
Fitness
Walking: 7 miles (6 if you opt for the earlier finish). Our rule of thumb is that you should be able to walk at about 3 mph for at least an hour at a time.
Are you fit enough to join the tour?
Cancellation
We will return the full amount if you notify us 22 or more days before the event. We will retain 50% if cancellation is made within three weeks and 100% if within three days. Please put your cancellation in writing to info@martinrandall.co.uk. We advise taking out insurance in case of cancellation and recommend that overseas clients are also covered for possible medical and repatriation costs.
