London's Alternative History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
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.
Options
London's Alternative History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
What's included in London's Alternative History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Covent GardenPass-by Only
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.
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 LanePass-by Only
The oldest theatre site in London, with a rich history of performances and ghostly apparitions, including the infamous "Man in Grey."
Inclusions
- 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
- 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.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- 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.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
VOICEMAP CODE ─── Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour. This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code. DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS ─── Once you've received your code, please follow these steps: 1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app 2. Create an account 3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes 4. Enter your code then select Download Now PLEASE NOTE ─── • You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point. • This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next. • When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point. • Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour. SUPPORT ─── For technical support and other queries, please email [email protected]
