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

Duration1h - 1h 30m

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesChinese, English, Dutch

Private tourOnly your group will participate

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.

What's included

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

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

What to expect

Covent Garden
Pass by

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

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.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Pass by

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

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

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

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.
Victoria Embankment
Pass by

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

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

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

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

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.

End point

Additional information

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.

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

5.0 (4)

From

$11.99 per person

Check availability & book

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Instant confirmation
You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.

Operated by VoiceMap Audio Tours · Booked through Viator

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