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Free West End Walking Tour: The History of London's Theatreland

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Duration: 2 hours
Languages: English
PRO
Registered on 17 January 2023
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London with a Local was created in 2018 out of a desire to bring something different to those visiting (or living in) this wonderful, hectic, ever-changing City. We wanted to provide the best quality tours at a price that works for everyone. London is expensive – believe us, we know. Our aim was to provide at least one part of your time here where you feel like you are truly getting your money's worth. London With A Local is made up of a mix of born and bred Londoners, who can give you a picture of how it feels to grow up in the midst of the chaos, and those who decided to become Londoners after visiting as a tourist and falling in love. They combine a knowledge of the secrets that have been passed down through generations, with the hunger and excitement that comes with embracing a new place as your home. Our tours, of course, visit the iconic architectural structures that London the most recognisable city on Earth, but also allow a peak behind the curtain, away from the glitz and glamour of the West End, to give you the opportunity to see the “real” London, far from the tourist trap souvenir shops, to where the true treats and treasures, so often hidden away from tourists, reside. In short, we want everyone who gets the opportunity to join us on a tour, to feel like they are getting to know the essence of this great city. As well as experience in guiding and a knowledge of the history and politics of Britain, our expert guides all come from a performance background. We are actors. We are musicians. We are comedians. We are dancers and directors. Above all, we are storytellers and our aim is not just to reel off a load of dates that will be forgotten in a split second, but to paint you a picture of the people and events that built the foundations that we tread upon.
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

 

Starting in the vibrant Covent Garden and concluding near Trafalgar Square, join us as we explore over 300 years of London's theatrical history, from candlelit performances to the neon brilliance of Shaftesbury Avenue today.
 

Please note that this tour does not include entry into any theatres; instead, we’ll stroll through the heart of London's dazzling West End, delving into its origins and the influential figures who contributed to its development.

Guided by a dedicated expert, this chronological trek through Theatreland will unveil the stories behind iconic venues like the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the oldest theatre site in London, rich with tales of drama, royalty, and whispered ghost stories. 

The tour concludes outside His Majesty’s Theatre, renowned as the stage for The Phantom of the Opera, Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s most celebrated production. 

Throughout this complimentary walking tour, you'll discover the secrets behind legendary actors, visionary directors, brilliant set designers, ground-breaking architects, and iconic shows that have shaped British theatre. 

Whether you're a lifelong fan of the stage or simply a curious explorer, this theatre walking tour guarantees drama, enchantment, and a dash of theatrical magic at every turn.

Book your spot now and let Theatreland take the spotlight! 


Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:
London WC2E 7BB, UK
Your guide will be standing in front of the entrance to the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden. The guide will be holding a red umbrella, but if you cannot see them, please call +447709703141
1
Outside visit
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
2
Outside visit
Lyceum Theatre
3
Outside visit
Savoy Theatre
Tour map

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).


Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group bookings.
Pets
Suitable for bringing pets.

What should I know?

Minimum attendees
Does not require a minimum number of people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour does not require payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Electronic or card payment accepted.
Free West End Walking Tour: The History of London's Theatreland
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