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How do I join a Big Smoke Walk?
It's easy to join one of my scheduled walks. All Big Smoke Walks start
at London Underground stations. Simply turn up at the advertised time and
place and pay me at the start of the tour. At the end of each walk I will
point out where the nearest tube and bus stops are.
How much does it cost?
The charge for scheduled walks is £7 per person.
What about groups?
Charges for booking a group walk vary depending upon the size and needs of
the group. However there is a minimum charge of £50. If you are considering
a walk for your group, please contact me to discuss possibilities.
What if it rains?
Big Smoke Walks happen whatever the weather, rain or shine. Let's be frank
here, nobody comes to London for the weather! Simply bundle up warm, grab
your brollies and prepare to experience that world famous London atmosphere!
I notice that you say something about limiting numbers. What's that all
about?
Some walks companies regularly take more than 100 people around at one time!
But Big Smoke Walks are strictly limited to no more than 25. Usually, there
are about 15-20 people. We can get across roads quickly and safely, and we
can fit more comfortably into the narrowest alleys, the tiniest gardens and
the coziest pubs. You can all hear me, and I have the chance to get to know
all of you a bit too. It's simply more fun for everyone!
I'm a senior, reasonably fit, but my knees aren't quite what they used
to be. How strenuous are the walks?
The City of London covers just over one square mile, but its timeline stretches
back almost 2000 years. Consequently, Big Smoke Walks generally cover more
history than mileage. I regularly guide groups of seniors, including intrepid
80 year olds! Walks do involve being on your feet for most of the duration,
however we usually stop for a refresher break at a comfortable pub or coffee
shop midway during the walk. And there are often benches at stops along the
way. Walks are paced at a gentle stroll, and wherever possible we avoid steep
slopes and long staircases.
What's with all the dragons?
Since the mid-seventeenth century dragons have been the heraldic beast of
the City of London. Usually portrayed in silver, with the red cross of St
George on their wings, they act as the supporters for the City’s coat
of arms. In this form, they are emblazoned all over the City: on public buildings,
street signs, traffic bollards and even rubbish bins.
But there are lots of individual dragons lurking about in the City too, each
with his own history and character. They stand guard at bridges and challenge
you at entry points to the City. They peer down on you from high atop monuments
and church steeples!
People often say that London got it’s nickname, ‘The Big Smoke’,
from the smog and pollution created by the industrialisation of the city in
the nineteenth century. But, between you and me, I suspect it might really
be down to the dragons!
To learn more, take the City of London Dragon Photo Safari.
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