London's Alternative History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Highlights
- Experience London's hidden and quirky history
- Discover the secret behind the flowing of the River Thames
- Learn about the origins of the name Covent Garden
- Uncover the mystery of the world famous Theatre Royal Drury Lane
- See London's last original Victorian gas lamp
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Duration 1-1.5 hours
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Audio guided in English & Dutch
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Offline access to audio/maps
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Lifetime access to tour
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Wheelchair accessible
Experience the hidden sides of London with the captivating London's Alternative History Tour Self-guided Audio Walk. This delightful wander through the heart of the city will entertain you with humorous history, quirky facts, and even mystery-solving. Using state-of-the-art GPS technology, the tour "autoplay" as you walk, guided by the voice of acclaimed local guide Joey Leskin. Discover the secrets behind the flowing of the River Thames, the origin of Covent Garden's name, and the mystery of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. With a total walking distance of around 2km and lasting just over an hour, this tour can be done at your own pace. Plus, with the VoiceMap mobile app, the tour can be downloaded and used offline. Whether you're a curious local or a first-time visitor to London, this self-guided audio walk is the perfect way to uncover the hidden gems and alternative history of the city.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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1 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English, Dutch, Mandarin Chinese,
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover London's quirky history on a self-guided audio tour, exploring hidden tales and surprising facts at your own pace.
Included
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VoiceMap Application
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Lifetime access to 'London's Alternative History Tour'
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Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Excluded
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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.
1-7 Covent Garden, London , United Kingdom
End Point
Strand, London WC2R 0EZ , United Kingdom
What to expect
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.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
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.
The oldest theatre site in London, with a rich history of performances and ghostly apparitions, including the infamous "Man in Grey."
Thames Magistrates' Court
Learn about the intriguing cases and famous trials that took place here, reflecting the quirky side of London's legal history.
Famous for its productions, including "The Lion King," and its connection to the early days of electricity in theatre lighting.
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.
Walk along the riverside promenade and hear about its construction, which involved diverting the River Thames and revealed hidden river secrets.
Waterloo Bridge
Known as "The Ladies' Bridge," it was largely built by women during World War II and offers spectacular views of London.
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."
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
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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
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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.
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Wheelchair accessible
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.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is