An Audio Guide of Oscar Wilde's Former London Haunts

5.0 (1 reviews) London, England
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Duration45m - 1h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
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TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

On this self-guided walking tour, you will relive the highs and lows of the much-loved playwright's time in the city. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this tour, published by Blue Badge guide Brian Cookson.

Oscar Wilde moved to London in the late 1800s, where he would become the city’s most popular playwright. On this walking tour, I'll show you the places the Irish-born writer and poet frequented and share details about his life here and the work he created. You’ll also hear about some of the people he knew and two other earlier trendsetters, Lord Byron and Beau Brummel.

I’ll point out the theatres, shops and hotels Oscar Wilde frequented, many of which remain in the aristocratic areas of Mayfair and St James. I’ll also show you the former site of St James’s Theatre, where two of Wilde’s plays had their premieres. Outside the Theatre Royal Haymarket, you’ll hear how a palm reader rightfully predicted Wilde’s ruin at age 40.

What's included

  • Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
  • Smartphone and headphones

What to expect

  1. Pass by
    Start your tour in front of Devonshire House, where you'll embark on a journey through the life and haunts of Oscar Wilde in London.
  2. Pass by
    Walk through Berkeley Square, where characters from Wilde's novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray" resided, immersing yourself in the world of his literary creations.
  3. Pass by
    Pass by Maison Estelle, a historic establishment associated with Wilde's time in London, where you can imagine him strolling the streets of Mayfair.
  4. Pass by
    Outside Brown's Hotel, hear the poignant story of Wilde's conviction and imprisonment for homosexuality, reflecting on the societal attitudes of his time.
  5. The Royal Arcade
    Pass by
    Stroll past the Royal Arcade, where Wilde's poem "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" was published after his release from prison, symbolizing his struggles and resilience.
  6. Burlington Arcade
    Pass by
    Continue your walk through Burlington Arcade, soaking in the ambience of the elegant shopping district frequented by Wilde and his contemporaries.
  7. Royal Academy of Arts
    Pass by
    Pass by the Royal Academy of Arts, where Wilde and James Abbott McNeill Whistler gave lectures, reflecting on their intellectual contributions and friendships.
  8. Hatchards
    Pass by
    Walk by Hatchards Bookshop, a literary landmark where Wilde and his wife, Constance, were acquainted with the owner, fostering connections within London's literary circles.
  9. Piccadilly Arcade
    Pass by
    Pass through Piccadilly Arcade, imagining Wilde browsing for his signature Fedora hat at Lock & Co Hatters, a storied establishment with a rich history.
  10. Beau Brummell Statue
    Pass by
    Marvel at the Beau Brummell Statue, commemorating another influential figure of the era, as you reflect on the cultural milieu of 19th-century London.
  11. Pass by
    Pass by Smithson Plaza, where you'll glimpse architectural marvels and contemplate the changing landscape of London over the centuries.
  12. Pass by
    Walk past James J Fox, a renowned tobacconist frequented by Wilde and other luminaries, evoking the ambiance of London's past.
  13. St. James's Palace
    Pass by
    Catch a glimpse of St James's Palace, a historic royal residence that adds to the rich tapestry of Wilde's London.
  14. Pickering Place
    Pass by
    Explore Pickering Place, a hidden gem steeped in history, where you can envision Wilde navigating the vibrant streets of St James's Square.
  15. St. James' Square
    Pass by
    Wander through St James's Square, soaking in the atmosphere of one of London's most prestigious neighborhoods, where Wilde left his mark.
  16. Pass by
    Stroll along Pall Mall, a thoroughfare lined with exclusive clubs and institutions, reflecting on the social milieu of Wilde's time.
  17. Reform Club
    Pass by
    Catch a glimpse of The Reform Club, an iconic institution synonymous with Victorian London, as you contemplate Wilde's connections to the city's elite.
  18. Theatre Royal Haymarket
    Pass by
    Conclude your tour outside the Theatre Royal Haymarket, reflecting on Wilde's enduring legacy and the impact of his literary contributions on the world stage.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The walk starts near Green Park Underground Station. Take the Stratton Street exit from the station, then walk up Stratton Street away from Green Park. Turn right at Mayfair Place and the walk will start under the columned entrance to the block on your right.

End point

The tour ends at Theatre Royal Haymarket.

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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

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