London's Alternative History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

London, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (4 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    VoiceMap Application
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    Lifetime access to 'London's Alternative History Tour'
  • inclusion
    Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Transportation
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    Food/drinks
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    Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
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    Smartphone

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.

Meeting point

1-7 Covent Garden, London , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1
Covent Garden

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.

2

St Paul’s Church Covent Garden

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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.

3
Theatre Royal Drury Lane

The oldest theatre site in London, with a rich history of performances and ghostly apparitions, including the infamous "Man in Grey."

4

Thames Magistrates' Court

Learn about the intriguing cases and famous trials that took place here, reflecting the quirky side of London's legal history.

5
Lyceum Theatre

Famous for its productions, including "The Lion King," and its connection to the early days of electricity in theatre lighting.

6
Somerset House

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.

7
Victoria Embankment

Walk along the riverside promenade and hear about its construction, which involved diverting the River Thames and revealed hidden river secrets.

8

Waterloo Bridge

Known as "The Ladies' Bridge," it was largely built by women during World War II and offers spectacular views of London.

9

Carting Ln

Home to the last remaining Victorian gas lamp in London, powered by sewer gas, earning it the nickname "The Lamp that Lights Itself."

10

The Savoy

The first public building in the world to be lit entirely by electricity, with a history of luxurious guests and infamous parties.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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    Public transportation options are available nearby
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    Service animals allowed
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    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    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.
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by VoiceMap Audio Tours

What our experts say

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    Start at Covent Garden for a coffee
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    Visit the nearby Royal Opera House
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    Explore the quirky shops on Neal Street
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    Check out the Southbank for views
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    Bring headphones for a better experience

More About this Experience

Introduction

London's Alternative History Tour is a self-guided audio walk that offers a delightful and fascinating exploration of the city's hidden secrets and alternative history. Unlike traditional history tours, this experience is filled with humor, quirky facts, and intriguing mysteries that will captivate your imagination. Utilizing state-of-the-art GPS technology, the tour is played automatically as you walk and can be downloaded and used at your convenience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a curious local, this tour will provide a unique introduction to the hidden side of London's history.

What to expect?

During this 60-minute adventure, you can expect to uncover the untold stories behind famous areas and landmarks in London. From discovering the secrets behind the flowing River Thames to unraveling the origins of Covent Garden's name, this tour will showcase the unconventional side of the city. You'll even have the chance to solve the mystery of the world-famous Theatre Royal Drury Lane. With the guidance of acclaimed local guide Joey Leskin, you'll effortlessly navigate the streets while immersing yourself in the captivating stories and fascinating anecdotes that make London's alternative history come alive.

Who is this for?

London's Alternative History Tour is designed for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone seeking a unique and entertaining experience in the heart of London. This tour is accessible to all, regardless of age or background, and is ideal for individuals, couples, or groups looking to explore the city's hidden gems. Whether you have a penchant for history, a love for mysteries, or simply enjoy a good laugh, this tour is sure to captivate and entertain.

Why book this?

What sets London's Alternative History Tour apart is its ability to unveil the lesser-known stories of London in an engaging and entertaining manner. This self-guided audio walk allows you to immerse yourself in the history of the city at your own pace, without the need for a guide or strict schedule. With the VoiceMap mobile app, you'll have everything you need at your fingertips. Explore the city's streets, soak in the atmosphere, and uncover London's alternative history in a way that is both informative and enjoyable.

Good to know

As you embark on this self-guided tour, keep in mind that it has a total walking distance of around 2 kilometers and takes just over an hour without stopping. However, you can pause and resume the tour as many times as you like, allowing for breaks at the numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs along the route. The tour begins in Covent Garden and meanders through the area, finishing not far from the starting point. Don't forget to visit The Coal Hole pub, a historical venue where you can unwind and enjoy a well-deserved drink. Once you've downloaded the tour, it's yours to keep, enabling you to revisit the alternative history of London whenever you please.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced London's Alternative History Tour have expressed their delight in discovering the hidden side of the city. They praise the engaging narration, humorous anecdotes, and the opportunity to explore well-known areas with a fresh perspective. Visitors have particularly enjoyed the audio format, as it allows for freedom and flexibility in exploring at their own pace. Many have commended the tour for its unique approach to history, making it an experience that goes beyond the typical tourist experience. Overall, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants describing the tour as both educational and entertaining, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for London's alternative history.

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