London, the heart of England, is a city steeped in history with a great literary heritage. It is a city that has inspired many of the world’s greatest authors and poets, from Charles Dickens to Virginia Woolf, and continues to do so today. As a result, London is filled with an abundance of literary tours that allow you to step into the world of your favourite novels and poets.
1. Embark on a literary walking tour of London
Walking tours are a popular way to explore the literary history of London. These tours usually take you around specific parts of London that are steeped in literary significance. For instance, you might explore the streets of Bloomsbury, which was the stomping ground for the famous ‘Bloomsbury Group’, including Virginia Woolf and E.M. Forster. Alternatively, you could take a stroll through Dickens’ London, where you will get a glimpse into the world that inspired novels such as ‘Oliver Twist’ and ‘A Christmas Carol’.
Walking tours offer a great way to explore the city at your own pace, with the added benefit of an expert guide who can provide insightful commentary and anecdotes. Not only will you uncover the secret literary history of London, but a good guide will also introduce you to hidden gems and secret spots that you might otherwise miss.
When booking a walking tour, remember to check the duration and the size of the group. Smaller groups tend to offer a more personal experience, and the tour might be more enjoyable if it isn’t too long.
2. Experience the underground literary history of London
The London Underground, affectionately known as the ‘Tube’, is more than just a transport system. It is also a treasure trove of literary history. There are several guided tours that delve into the literary connections of the Tube. From the Tube stations named after fictional characters (like Sherlock Holmes and Harry Potter), to those linked with famous authors, there’s a lot to discover.
These tours aren’t just informative, but they’re also fun. You’ll journey through London’s underground network, popping up in different parts of the city to explore literary landmarks and locations.
Do keep in mind that these tours often require a certain level of fitness as you will be navigating steps and escalators across various Tube stations. Also, remember to book in advance to secure your place on the tour.
3. Dive into the world of Shakespeare with a guided tour
No literary tour of London would be complete without a visit to the world of William Shakespeare. Shakespeare’s Globe is a must-visit spot for any literature lover. It offers guided tours where you can learn about the history of the theatre, the life of Shakespeare, and the London in which he lived.
Also available is a walk that covers all the Shakespearean spots around Bankside and Borough. Starting at London Bridge and ending at Blackfriars Bridge, you’ll visit the reconstructed Globe Theatre, the site of the original theatre, and more.
These tours are usually led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about Shakespeare and his works. Some tours even include a live performance element, which adds a unique and enjoyable aspect to the experience.
4. Explore London’s literary pubs
Finally, you can wind down your literary exploration of London with a visit to some of its historic pubs. London’s pubs have long been a haven for writers, and many of these establishments have fascinating literary connections.
There are guided pub tours that take you to pubs frequented by famous authors. Imagine having a pint in the same pub where George Orwell used to drink, or visiting the place where Dylan Thomas left his manuscript of Under Milk Wood.
These tours are an opportunity to enjoy London’s pub culture while also immersing yourself in its literary history. Many of the pubs have retained their historic charm, and stepping into them feels like stepping back in time.
5. Book a bespoke literary tour for a personalized experience
For a truly unique experience, consider booking a bespoke literary tour of London. These tours are tailored to your specific interests and preferences and can cover a wide range of authors, genres, and periods.
Whether you’re a fan of Dickens or Woolf, the Romantics or the Modernists, there’s a bespoke tour out there for you. You’ll be able to explore the city at your own pace, stopping to delve deeper into the places that interest you the most.
A bespoke tour can be a wonderful way to connect more deeply with the literary history of London. It can also be an opportunity to discover new authors and works that you might not have encountered before.
No matter which tour you choose, remember that the joy of a literary walk around London lies not just in the destinations, but also in the journey. So take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and let the city’s literary magic unfold before you.
6. Discover the Harry Potter Series’ Influence on London’s Literary Scene
For all the "Potterheads" out there, the magic of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series has left an indelible mark on London’s literary landscape. As such, a Harry Potter-themed literary walking tour is a must-do for fans of the series.
These guided walks take you through key locations in the city that were either directly mentioned in the books or served as filming locations for the movies. Notable stops include King’s Cross station, where you can try to pass through the magical Platform 9 ¾; the reptile house in London Zoo, where Harry first discovers his ability to speak Parseltongue; and the enchanting Leadenhall Market, which was used to represent parts of Diagon Alley.
Additionally, these walking tours typically include a trip to Westminster Abbey, where several scenes from the movies were filmed. You might also get a chance to walk along Regent’s Canal, which is featured in the series.
What makes these tours special is the tour guide – usually a die-hard Harry Potter fan themselves – who provides fun facts, trivia, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that can only enhance your appreciation for the series. Just bear in mind, these tours tend to be popular so booking in advance is recommended.
7. Trace the Steps of Famous Authors at St. Paul’s Cathedral and Windsor Castle
Many of London’s iconic landmarks hold a significant place in its literary history. One such place is St. Paul’s Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that has inspired countless authors and poets. Another is Windsor Castle, which not only serves as a royal residence but also as a backdrop for numerous works of literature.
Several walking tours highlight these landmarks’ connections to literature. For instance, you can take a guided tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral that focuses on its influence on writers such as John Donne and William Wordsworth. At Windsor Castle, there are tours that explore its literary associations, from Shakespeare’s ‘The Merry Wives of Windsor’ to Sir Walter Scott’s ‘Ivanhoe’.
Having a knowledgeable tour guide is key in these tours. They provide a deeper insight into the significance of the landmarks and their influence on literature, enhancing the overall experience. Do take note of the tour rating before booking to ensure it meets your expectations.
In conclusion, embarking on a guided walk that explores the literary history of London is a unique way to experience the city. London’s rich literary heritage offers countless opportunities for walking tours, from navigating the tube station to tracing the steps of beloved authors and characters. Whether you’re a fan of Harry Potter, a devotee of Shakespeare, or a lover of historic pubs, there is a tour London offers to suit your interests.
Remember, the beauty of these guided walks lies not only in the destinations but also in the journey. Walking the same streets as Dickens or Woolf, visiting the settings of your favourite books, or simply soaking up the literary atmosphere of the city can make for an unforgettable experience.
So next time you’re in the heart of England, consider taking a walk through its literary history. You might just find yourself seeing London through a whole new lens.