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

4 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 4 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | London, England

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On average, this is booked 23 (0) days in advance.

60 to 90 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Offered in: English
and 2 more
Dutch, Mandarin

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
See 1 moreSee 4 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

The Piazza
1-7 Covent Garden, London WC2E, UK

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Strand
London WC2R 0EZ, UK

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free

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.
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St Paul’s Church Covent Garden (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.
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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."
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Thames Magistrates' Court (pass by)

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

Famous for its productions, including "The Lion King," and its connection to the early days of electricity in theatre lighting.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Carting Lane (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."
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The Savoy (pass by)

The first public building in the world to be lit entirely by electricity, with a history of luxurious guests and infamous parties.
Read more
Show 9 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the London’s Alternative History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-110804P43

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
4 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 4 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
4
4 stars
0
3 stars
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2 stars
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1 star
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On average, this is booked 23 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • 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

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • 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.
  • Operated by a business

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Free Cancellation

100% refund
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST).

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