When Hitler Took on London: Discover the Capital's Hidden WWII Story
Overview
Today it's hard to imagine the destruction, but WW2 transformed the British capital into a battlefield - over a million buildings suffered bomb damage, and 1 in every 6 Londoners was made homeless. How did the people living through it shelter from Nazi bombers and flying rockets? What did they do to let off steam? Where did the government wage war from? And how did Londoners choose to rebuild their war-torn city once victory was won? This tour will answer these questions and more, introducing you to the brave man who drove an unexploded bomb out of central London, the best underground station to head to during an air raid, and Winston Churchill's secret toilet.
We'll make 15+ stops in Westminster, along the river and Fleet Street, concluding at St. Paul's. This tour is perfect for people who are curious about history, want to explore a wider area of London and enjoy a good walk—comfy shoes and a big breakfast beforehand are a must!
This activity includes:
- Victoria Embankment Gardens
- St James's Park
- St. Paul's Cathedral
- Old Admiralty Building
- St Clement Danes Church
- Westminster Abbey
- Westminster Bridge
- Churchill War Rooms
- Parliament Square Garden
- Old War Office Building
On arrival
I will be holding a red umbrella by the large Mary Seacole memorial statue in St Thomas' Riverside Gardens, which is next to St Thomas's hospital.
The best underground stop to use to get to the gardens is Waterloo (10 mins walk away). If you would like to use the bathroom before the walk, when you get off the tube follow the sign to 'Trains' so you come out into the main train station concourse - there is a loo opposite platform 18 which is free to use. If you do this, leave the train station using exit number 5 (for Waterloo Bridge & South Bank).
Other undergrounds nearby: Westminster (7 mins away but a lot busier) and Lambeth North (11 mins away).
Things to note
Meeting time:
Please arrive by 10.20 at the latest so we can set off promptly at 10.30 (and because London transport isn't known for being punctual!)
End point:
St Paul's Cathedral at 1.15pm
What to bring:
- Wear comfy shoes - we'll be walking just over 3 miles (5 km)
- Raincoat, extra jumper, sun cream and hat, depending on the forecast (British weather is changeable, but you probably knew that already!)
- Water
Free Cancellation
You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.
