From US$12 per person
Book tickets on Viator (opens in a new tab): London's Alternative History: A Self-Guided Audio TourYou book and pay on viator.com. Inclusable may earn a commission.
5.0 / 5 from 4 reviews on Viator
- Per booking
- Up to 15 people
- Languages
- Chinese, English, Dutch
- Rating on Viator
- 5.0 / 5 · 4 reviews
About this tour
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.
Accessibility, as stated by the supplier
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
“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.”The supplier’s own words
Provided through Viator and not verified by Inclusable. Ask the supplier about your specific needs before you book.
Itinerary
View itinerary · 10 stopsHide itinerary
- 1
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.(pass by)
- 2
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.(pass by)
- 3
The oldest theatre site in London, with a rich history of performances and ghostly apparitions, including the infamous "Man in Grey."(pass by)
- 4
Learn about the intriguing cases and famous trials that took place here, reflecting the quirky side of London's legal history.(pass by)
- 5
Famous for its productions, including "The Lion King," and its connection to the early days of electricity in theatre lighting.(pass by)
- 6
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.(pass by)
- 7
Walk along the riverside promenade and hear about its construction, which involved diverting the River Thames and revealed hidden river secrets.(pass by)
- 8
Known as "The Ladies' Bridge," it was largely built by women during World War II and offers spectacular views of London.(pass by)
- 9
Home to the last remaining Victorian gas lamp in London, powered by sewer gas, earning it the nickname "The Lamp that Lights Itself."(pass by)
- 10
The first public building in the world to be lit entirely by electricity, with a history of luxurious guests and infamous parties.(pass by)
Know before you go
- 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.
Included
- VoiceMap Application
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- Lifetime access to 'London's Alternative History Tour'
Not included
- Smartphone
- Transportation
- Food/drinks
- Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Location & contact
- Area
- London
- Meeting point
- 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
- Contact
- Questions about access or your booking go through Viator, which handles the booking and passes your request to the operator.
From US$12
Book and pay on viator.com