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

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Overview

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.

Meeting and Pickup

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.

Language Offered

Mandarin-AUDIO

Mandarin-WRITTEN

English-AUDIO

English-WRITTEN

Dutch-AUDIO

Dutch-WRITTEN

Itinerary

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
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 Lane
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.

Inclusion

VoiceMap Application

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Lifetime access to 'London's Alternative History Tour'

Exclusion

Smartphone

Transportation

Food/drinks

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Cancellation Policy

Check mark icon Refundable tickets

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

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.

Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

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