Top London Arts & Design - page 16

Explore London's first Roman settlement at your own pace with this affordable walking tour. • Meet a slightly crazy Elizabethan Doctor, the most feared man in Tudor England, and an unlucky delivery boy on this history-filled tour that takes you from Londinium to Edwardian London • Hear from producer Steve Matthews whose passion for London has led him to provide guided tours since 2010 • Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before and after your booking date • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

You won't find a part of London as diverse in either history or culture, than this Electric hub that is Brixton. The ethnic diversity of Brixton is reflected in the food, markets, street art, murals, music and atmosphere of community and passion. But Brixton's past reflects the wider history of London: changing times have brought lightning-fast transformations for areas like this one. Taking it from poverty to glamorous a Victorian suburb, to the hub of the Afro-Caribbean community since the 1950's. More recently, the turbulence of the 1980s saw hope emerge as the struggle for identity was realised by the local community. On this tour, you will hear fascinating stories, see iconic landmarks and smell mouthwatering smells of world cuisine. Highlights: - World Famous Markets - Street Art/Mural Art - Afro-Caribbean History - Musical Roots and Culture - Brixton Academy - Pop Brixton - Electric Avenue - Immigration history - Black Cultural Archive - Cultural local icons eg. David Bowie

Let imaginations run wild with the new Children’s Art Tour at the National Gallery! From magical myths to faraway lands, let our guide take you through over 700 years of amazing art. Hear the incredible stories behind some of the world’s greatest paintings and get up close to see every detail, discovering the tiny brushstrokes and splashes of colour that make a work of art. Be inspired to unleash your inner artist with hands-on sketching and activities amongst the masterpieces. Whatever your age, this tour is sure to spark your curiosity and wonder. No lectures, no rushing – just time to explore and enjoy art with the whole family. *This experience is ideal for 5-12 years old children, however children of a younger or older age are welcome.

Experience the ultimate London day tour with us and discover all of the city's top sights in just one unforgettable half-day walking tour, over 30+ London Top Sights! Led by our certified Blue Badge Tour Guides, you’ll uncover the rich history, fascinating stories, and breathtaking sights that make London one of the world’s greatest cities. See sights such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge as well as Witness the Changing of the Guards Ceremony (Check Schedule and Changing of the Guards section). Perfect for families, first-time visitors, and history lovers alike, this tour offers an adventure like no other. And the best part? Kids under 15 go free!

Explore London without stress, long ticket lines, or complicated planning. With the LondonMegaPass, you get access to the city’s most iconic attractions — bundled into one flexible and easy-to-use pass. With the LondonMegaPass, you can select your preferred attractions after booking and organize your itinerary based on your travel plans. Choose the MegaPass option that fits your trip: Essential Pass – Perfect for 2–3 Days See London must-see highlights with a curated selection of top attractions. Ideal if you’re visiting for a short stay and want the essentials without overpaying. Explorer Pass – For 3–5 Days & Deeper Discovery Upgrade your experience with additional premium attractions. Perfect if you want to explore more of London at your own pace. After booking, access your MegaPass account to choose your attractions, reserve your preferred dates and time slots, and present your mobile tickets at the entrance.

Delve into the vibrant Soho music scene on this guided walking tour, where you’ll visit iconic locations tied to legendary artists like The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and David Bowie. Starting at Piccadilly Circus, your journey includes four historic pubs where stories of rock legends and Soho's rich nightlife unfold. Discover where John Lennon met Yoko Ono and see the spot of the Beatles' last outdoor gig. Enjoy insights into the area's music history and the colorful characters who frequented these venues, along with opportunities for drinks and photos along the way. - Guided walking tour through Soho's historic music venues - Visit four iconic pubs and hear stories of music legends - Discover locations tied to The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and more - Moderate physical fitness required; not wheelchair accessible

London has been a center of musical production for hundreds of years, but it’s hard to uncover this history while walking around alone. Learn more by taking a music-focused guided tour of the central city. See where many top musicians from various eras performed, composed, stayed, and made their mark on the city, from Chopin and Handel to Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles.

Discover Beatles history in London! Enjoy fascinating stories, visit iconic locations, and join a fun quest to find the missing song. Perfect for fans and curious explorers—this tour promises music, mystery, and unforgettable memories! Solve puzzles, explore the city, and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt.

Delve into the architectural heritage of Westminster on this guided walking tour that unveils the stories behind iconic landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Led by Samantha, a professional architect with over a decade of experience, this tour offers insider knowledge that highlights how architecture has shaped Britain's identity over the centuries. Explore hidden meanings embedded in the designs and understand the historical context that influences modern-day power dynamics. This experience also includes insights into the ceremonial aspects of architecture, culminating at Buckingham Palace. - Duration: Approximately 1.5 - 2 hours, starting at Westminster Abbey - Gain insights from a professional architect with international experience - Choose between tours that include the Changing of the Guard or an extended architectural exploration - Discover the stories and symbolism behind Westminster’s most photographed buildings

Explore Stratford-upon-Avon on a relaxing day trip from London. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and Shakespeare’s New Place – with the freedom to explore at your own pace. Travel via luxury, air-conditioned coach. Highlights: Discover Stratford-upon-Avon, the historic market town and birthplace of William Shakespeare Step into Shakespeare’s world as you visit his family homes Enjoy entry to Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and Shakespeare’s New Place Free time in Stratford-upon-Avon to explore the town or stroll along the River Avon Travel in comfort aboard a luxury, air-conditioned coach with return transport from London

If you enjoy the freedom of independent travel and the structure of guided tours, you should try a self-guided tour with a scavenger hunt component. Get to know London better as you follow the clues around Covent Garden and Soho, two historical and culture-rich neighborhoods. See the sights while having fun with your family or friends—this is an ideal activity for kids.

Explore London’s camp history on a private self-guided tour through Mayfair and Soho. Created by a leading LGBTQI+ historian, this GPS-enabled experience lets you discover sites from Beau Brummell’s home to David Bowie’s breakthrough and The Ritz. Enjoy offline access to audio and maps, and explore at your own pace without group constraints.

From bustling Bankside to the tranquil courtyards and alleyways of Blackfriars, this walk offers a fascinating insight into the story of London and all its contrasts. This is a story led London walking tour that follows the world of theatre, entertainment, and everyday life in Shakespeare’s time. Beginning at the George Inn in Southwark, this walk takes you through Bankside, which was once a “liberty” beyond the City’s control. Playhouses, taverns, and crowds shaped a vibrant cultural scene. Along the way, we pass the sites of the Globe Theatre and Rose Theatre, and hear how theatre worked as both entertainment and business. Crossing the Millennium Bridge into the City of London, we delve into the atmospheric alleyways of Blackfriars before emerging at St Paul's Cathedral. This is a small group tour, allowing you to fully relax and immerse yourself in the stories.

Covent Garden's history is woven into the very fabric of London's identity. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll discover the surprising origins of this world-famous district, uncovering a past filled with bustling markets, theatrical scandals, and revolutionary policing innovations that lie hidden beneath the touristy veneer. You’ll explore the elegant piazza designed by Inigo Jones in the 1630s as London’s first formal square, and wander through the market building where fresh produce was traded for over 300 years. You’ll find out how the aristocratic vision for the area gave way quickly to a vibrant market culture that defined Covent Garden for centuries. I’ll tell you how the area transformed from daytime marketplace to London’s most notorious red-light district after sunset, with taverns and brothels earning it the nickname the “Square of Venus.“ You’ll also hear stories about famous actors, writers, and musicians who lived and worked here, from Charles Dickens to Mozart.

Explore Trafalgar Square like never before with a unique walking-and-sketching history tour that encourages creativity and observation - through learning about history. Perfect for all skill levels, this tour invites you to slow down and engage with one of London’s most iconic locations through sketching and storytelling. Enjoy a relaxed pace as you uncover the history, art, and architecture of the square, guided by creative prompts and expert insights. Join a small group for a personalised experience that allows you to connect with the city in a meaningful way. - Small group tours to ensure a personal and creative atmosphere - Guided sketching moments at inspiring viewpoints around Trafalgar Square - Gentle storytelling about the art, architecture, and history of the area - All materials provided, including a sketchpad and pencil, or bring your own favourites

Come and join us for our unique pub tour and fabulous singalong! Join us on our London Pub Crawl and Cockney Sing-Along for the ultimate London evening experience! You will get to experience some of London's Historic pubs, hear about the history of Covent Garden, Kings, royal prostitutes and London Theatre. You will have the option to try some delicacies imported from abroad, or try some classic British bar snacks! To finish off we will head to London's best Cockney Singalong with other Londoners for a truly authentic experience. We will visit five distinctive pubs along the way, each with a different vibe and story to tell. Each pub we visit will have a very different atmosphere and history but all share a fine offering of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in wonderful and ornate buildings. Have a drink in a pub still originating from the 13th Century! Visit a pub frequented by Charles Dickens and host to many a bare-knuckle boxing match.

Marylebone is defined by its spectacular garden squares, each with its own character and history. On this self-guided audio tour of the elegant London district, you’ll explore the graceful Georgian and Regency architecture that frames these green havens. You’ll also hear fascinating stories about the aristocrats and artists who’ve called these squares home over the centuries. The tour starts at the Victorian-era Coach Makers’ Arms Pub on Marylebone Lane. You’ll stroll through Manchester Square with its grand mansions, and into Portman Square with its generous gardens. Along the way, you’ll learn how these squares were developed as speculative ventures by wealthy landowners like William Portman, transforming what was once a rural village into one of London’s most desirable residential areas. You’ll come across embassies, historic churches, and the iconic locations where cultural giants once lived. The tour ends at Marylebone Railway Station.

Trace London's development through its landmarks from the 17th Century to today. Explore at your own pace with this affordable self-guided walking tour. • Learn about the contemporary architects whose unconventional work makes London's skyline so distinctive • Hear from producer, Dr. Alan Montgomery, one of Context Travel's local expert tour guides • Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Discover the mystery of Stonehenge on a convenient half-day tour from London, perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience one of the world’s most iconic prehistoric sites. Travel comfortably with return transportation from central London and enjoy a stress-free journey through the English countryside to the legendary stone circle. Upon arrival, explore the monument at your own pace using a multilingual audio guide that reveals the fascinating history, myths, and archaeological discoveries behind this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk the pathways surrounding the ancient stones, visit the modern Visitor Centre to see exhibitions and Neolithic house reconstructions, and learn about the people who built this remarkable monument over 4,500 years ago. With entrance tickets included and everything organized for you, this tour offers an easy and enriching way to experience one of Britain’s most famous landmarks.

Discover London from the water with a Thames Sightseeing Cruise with Flexible Time and Departure Pier. Enjoy a relaxing journey along the River Thames and admire iconic landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and the Shard. With flexible departure times and multiple boarding piers, you can plan your cruise around your day and explore at your own pace. Perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers, this cruise offers a unique perspective of London, great photo opportunities, and a memorable sightseeing experience. Highlights: • Flexible departure times and multiple boarding piers • Cruise along the River Thames with stunning city views • See London landmarks like Tower Bridge, London Eye, and Parliament • Relax on a scenic and comfortable river cruise • A unique and memorable way to explore London

Visit Vincent van Gogh's vibrant world with stunning 360-degree digital projections. This exhibition brings masterpieces to life, offering an unmatched sensory experience. Visitors can walk through giant, floor-to-ceiling displays of Van Gogh's iconic works, where every brushstroke and color is magnified in vivid detail, creating a mesmerizing journey through his most famous pieces like 'Starry Night' and 'Sunflowers.' In addition to the immersive projections, the experience includes a captivating virtual reality tour that transports guests into Van Gogh's most renowned paintings, providing a new perspective on his art. Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, such as creating your own digital artwork and exploring Van Gogh's techniques. The exhibition also features informative panels about Van Gogh's life, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the artist's genius. This is a must-see for art lovers and anyone looking for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Skip the lines to explore the Gallery's treasures and choose to use a digital guide Take a stroll around the city, exploring landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben A donation is included to support the National Gallery as an advocate for the art

Embark on a fun walking tour inspired by the beloved Paddington Bear, the beloved children’s book character. Follow in Paddington’s paw prints and explore all of his favorite spots, including the Paddington statue and 32 Windsor Gardens. Along the way, stop for photos in front of Paddington Bear-themed artworks and tributes.

The National Gallery is home to one of the world’s finest collections of Italian Renaissance works, from devotional Christian panels to mythological masterpieces and timeless portraits. Journey to the golden age of Italian art on this guided tour and meet the artists who changed Western painting forever. •Discover the Wonders of the Italian Renaissance on an expert-led tour. •Get close to the masterpieces of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, Piero della Francesca, and Titian. •Complete your journey in Italian culture with an Aperitivo experience at Locatelli.