Walking Tours: Discover West London
West London is often celebrated not only for its vibrant culture but also for its stunning array of gardens, parks and historic sites. With warmer weather and longer days now upon us, there’s no better time to venture outdoors and explore the scenic green spaces and fascinating neighbourhoods that define this area. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting, these guided tours offer a unique opportunity to experience the best of West London. From the charming communal gardens that became iconic in the film Notting Hill to the rich history woven through Kensington and North Kensington, here’s our round-up of some must-try walks.
Blooms with a View Walking Tour
Date: Friday, August 23, 2024
Time: 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Location: St. James’s Park
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Take a closer look at the vibrant blooms and majestic trees of St. James’s Park. Led by Royal Parks Apprentice graduate and writer Fiona Kirkwood, this tour offers an exploration of the park’s unique flora. Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating botanical facts and historical anecdotes, such as the medieval fruit with an unexpected name mentioned by Chaucer and Shakespeare. This walk also includes a special Q&A session with the park’s Head Gardener, making it perfect for gardening enthusiasts.
Hidden Stories of St. James’s Park Walking Tour
Date: Friday, September 6, 2024
Time: 1:15pm – 2:45pm
Location: St. James’s Park
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Step into London’s oldest Royal Park, where history comes alive. With Buckingham Palace and Downing Street nearby, this tour will immerse you in tales of royal intrigue, exotic animals, and dark secrets that lie beneath the park’s surface. After you’ve taken in the park’s incredible heritage, you will end your walk with the resident pelicans’ daily feeding.
Artists’ Houses Walking Tour
Dates: Thursdays and Sundays on selected dates
Time: 11:00am – 12:30pm
Location: Holland Park, Kensington
Free Admission – Book Now
Explore the Victorian studio-houses of Holland Park Road and Melbury Road, once home to some of the leading artists of the late Victorian period. This guided tour takes you through the stories of renowned artists like G.F. Watts and Leighton, and the architects who designed their unique homes. As you walk through this historic area, you’ll gain insights into the artistic community that flourished here, making it a must-do for art and architecture lovers.
Free Notting Hill Walking Tour
Duration: 2.5 Hours
Free Admission – Book Now
Immerse yourself in the charm and culture of Notting Hill, known for its pastel-coloured houses and bustling markets. This free walking tour reveals the secrets behind the district’s luxurious homes and famous residents. Fans of the movie ‘Notting Hill’ can visit iconic film locations and experience the area’s vibrant atmosphere firsthand.
Notting Hill Tour
Date: Saturdays
Time: 10:30am & 2:00pm
Location: Notting Hill Gate Station
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On this two-hour Notting Hill walking tour, you’ll explore the highlights of this trendy urban village in West London. Notting Hill is world-famous for its annual street carnival and Portobello Road Market, featured in the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts film. You’ll visit iconic film locations, see the homes of celebrities, and learn about the area’s transformation over the years. You will enjoy the atmosphere of one of the most famous street markets in the world (Portobello Road Market) and get some recommendations on where to eat and drink.
North Kensington Walking Tour
Date: Saturday, August 3, 2024
Time: 11:00am – 1:30pm
Location: North Kensington
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Explore the unique architecture and built heritage of North Kensington on this walking tour. Led by architect Áine Grace, this tour delves into the area’s diverse and architecturally varied neighbourhoods. Discover the stories of communities and individuals who have shaped its identity, from its rural origins to its development into an industrial centre and suburban neighbourhood. The tour also examines the significant changes in North Kensington throughout the 20th century, making it a fascinating exploration of the area’s social and architectural evolution.
Regent’s Canal and Little Venice Music Walk
Duration: 3 Hours
Group Size: Small groups of up to 6 people
Location: Regent’s Park to Little Venice
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From white-stuccoed Victorian terraces, Regency villas and gorgeous gardens, to one of London’s most thriving houseboat communities, this Little Venice Canal Walk is a true gem of peace and tranquillity. This tour combines scenic views with musical history, connecting you with the iconic artists connected to the area, from the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Cliff Richard, Blur, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Clash.
Jason’s Canal Tour
Duration: 45 minutes
Location: Little Venice to Camden Lock Market
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A journey through London’s historic waterways on Jason’s original 1906 canal boat. This scenic tour takes you from the picturesque Little Venice, past Regent’s Park and London Zoo, and into the vibrant Camden Lock Market. Enjoy live commentary on the canal’s history or opt for a quiet, commentary-free return trip. This unique boat tour offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it a must-do for both locals and visitors.