Naughty London: Unsavoury History Walking Tour

London’s history isn’t all royal weddings and grand palaces. Sometimes, it’s a bit more cheeky, a little naughty, and packed with tales that aren’t part of the standard tourist script. The Naughty London: Unsavoury History Walking Tour offers a chance to uncover some of the city’s less polished stories — from pirates and prisons to Tudor scandals and Victorian engineering. Priced at just $22.90 per person for a lively two-hour stroll, it’s a budget-friendly way to see a different side of London.

What immediately draws us to this tour is its focus on hidden, lesser-known stories that add depth to London’s otherwise familiar image. Plus, the reviews highlight a guide — Natalie — who is described as quirky, clued-up, and capable of making historical facts entertaining.

One thing to keep in mind: as this is an outdoor-only experience, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for whatever weather London throws your way. Also, since the tour is limited to six participants, it offers a more intimate, engaging experience than some larger group tours.

This tour is perfect for those curious about London’s shady past, history buffs looking for fresh stories, or travelers who enjoy storytelling with a humorous twist. If you’re after a traditional, polished history lesson, this might not be your best fit — but if you want lively, authentic tales told by someone who clearly loves her city, it’s a winner.

Key Points

• Affordable and engaging: The tour costs just over $22 and offers an entertaining way to learn about London’s dark corners.
• Expert guide: Natalie’s storytelling is highlighted as fun, knowledgeable, and insightful.
• Themed stops: From pirate links to Tudor scandals, each stop reveals a different unsavoury side of London.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to six people, ensuring personalized attention and lively conversations.
• Weather-friendly: Outside-only tour, so dress accordingly.
• Rich stories: Includes tales of ships, prisons, royal connections, and Victorian engineering, making the history lively and memorable.

Exploring London’s Shadowy Past — What to Expect

This walking tour takes you along the South Bank, starting just outside the City of London Information Centre. From there, you’ll walk alongside the Thames, from Millennium Bridge to Tower Bridge, with a series of stops that reveal London’s darker stories. The tour’s structure allows for a leisurely two hours packed with stories, facts, and local legends.

The Route and Stops

Starting Point: Outside the City of London Information Centre, your guide Natalie — a lively storyteller with a penchant for quirky facts — will greet you. She’s known for her engaging approach, making complex history accessible and entertaining.

First Stop: The tour kicks off with a look at Francis Drake’s ship, which holds a world record — details that intrigue maritime enthusiasts and history buffs alike. We loved the way this story connected the famous explorer to London’s seafaring past, highlighting how piracy and exploration often intertwined.

Next: You’ll learn about the connection between the Bishop of Winchester and the Harry Potter universe. While seemingly whimsical, this stop uncovers fascinating links between medieval ecclesiastical power and modern pop culture, adding a playful layer to the tour.

Medieval Palace: Amidst the alleys of Southwark, discover a medieval palace right in the heart of a lively modern neighborhood. It’s a rare glimpse into London’s past when aristocrats ruled the area, offering a tangible connection to medieval history.

Prison and Royal Tales: The tour also touches on Southwark Prison, shedding light on London’s darker penal history, and links to Scottish royalty. This adds a layer of intrigue and shows how these stories intertwine with the city’s broader history.

Tudor and Victorian Stories: Expect to hear about the infamous Princes in the Tower and Tudor theatres that played host to scandal and intrigue. Victorian engineering marvels also make an appearance, illustrating London’s technological advancement.

The Experience and Atmosphere

Expect lively storytelling, with your guide weaving facts with humor. Reviewers note that Natalie knows her stuff and is great at answering questions, which makes the experience more interactive. The tour’s outside setting means you’ll get fresh air and potentially some great views of London’s iconic landmarks.

One reviewer, Olga, shared: “Natalie helped me to see South Bank in a new light,” emphasizing how her enthusiasm and knowledge shine through. Another highlighted that the tour’s stories are “hidden gems of historical facts,” adding depth to what might otherwise be familiar sights.

The Practical Side — What You’ll Need to Know

Duration & Timing: The tour lasts 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. It’s advisable to check ahead to book a slot that fits your schedule.

Price & Value: At $22.90, this tour offers a substantial amount of storytelling and insight for a very reasonable price. Considering the small group size, you’ll get plenty of personal attention and the chance to ask questions.

What to Bring: Since it’s an outdoor experience, wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water. The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Meeting Point & End Location: The guide meets you just outside the City of London Information Centre. The tour concludes back at the starting point, making it convenient for further exploration or transport connections.

Group Size & Language: Limited to six participants, which enhances interaction. The guide speaks English, and the tour is best suited for those over 16 years old.

Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning for your trip.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and humor of guide Natalie. One traveler, GetYourGuide, shared: “She provided a fun and informative tour, with hidden gems of historical facts thrown in…she was clued up on any questions.” Such feedback underscores the value of a guide who’s both well-informed and engaging.

Another important aspect is the value for money. At just under $23, you’re paying for an intimate, story-packed walk through some of London’s lesser-known tales. The reviews suggest that both history lovers and casual travelers will walk away with fresh perspectives and memorable stories.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer storytelling over dry history books. It’s perfect if you’re interested in London’s darker, mischievous side — pirates, prisons, royal scandals, and Victorian engineering. Since it’s a small group, it’s also suitable for those who enjoy a personalized experience and being able to ask questions freely.

It’s not suitable for children under 16, so if you’re traveling with teenagers, this might not be the best choice for them. The outdoor nature makes it perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of walking and weather exposure.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun, insightful, and authentic look at London’s unsavoury secrets, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience. A great way to add some quirky historical stories to your London trip, especially if you’re interested in the city’s more scandalous past.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with specific start times to be checked in advance.

Where does the tour start?
It begins just outside the City of London Information Centre, making it easy to find and access.

What is included in the price?
Since this is an outside-only tour, there are no inside visits, but the price covers the guided storytelling and walking route.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 16 years old, as the stories are geared towards older audiences.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Since it’s outdoors, dress for the weather, and bring water if needed.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Will it be rain or shine?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Naughty London: Unsavoury History Walking Tour offers a unique peek into London’s seedier past, told with humour and insight by a passionate guide. It’s especially suitable for those who want to add some quirky stories to their London itinerary without breaking the bank. The small group setting ensures a personal, engaging experience, making it perfect for curious travelers who love authentic stories and engaging guides.

For anyone interested in London’s secret tales, pirates, prisons, or royal scandals — this tour is a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective. It’s a balance of entertainment, education, and history — all wrapped up in a lively two-hour walk through Southwark’s less polished past.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides who can turn history into stories you’ll remember, and if you’re keen on exploring London’s darker, more mischievous side, then this tour is definitely worth considering. Plus, at a friendly price point, it offers great value for a memorable, offbeat experience.