Hi, I’m Richard, and I have a passion to bring the history of London to life.
I deliver original walking tours and virtual tours around London. I love showing off the great thoroughfares, squares and buildings as well as revealing the lesser known courtyards and alleyways.
I like to put over the drama of historic events. But what most inspires me is bringing out the stories of the people through history who gave London’s buildings and streets life.
As well as my scheduled tours I am available for private group virtual tours, walks or talks. Just send me an email with the details.
Most of my tours are now also available as Virtual Tours, brought to you in the comfort of your own living room for £10.00 (£16.00 for two or more sharing one device).
Walking Tours: £15 Adult; £10.00 concession
See my currently scheduled tours on this page, with a full list under the “Tours” tab.
See my upcoming events…
New this year: Walking Tour - A Great Political Maze: Mayfair in the Eighteenth Century
The tumultuous politics of the eighteenth century seen through Mayfair's Squares, grand buildings, Parish church, and power brokers of the day.
Thursday 10 July, 2.30pm: Details/Book
Walking Tour - The Pattern of Human Existence: London’s Livery Companies
Taking in some of the great Companies, showing their all-encompassing past impact and continued relevance with some superb Hall buildings.
Thursday 17, July, 4.00pm; Details/Book
Walking Tour - From Sherlock's Sitting Room To Nell Gwynne's Den: Pub Walk
Tracing history through Covent Garden pubs: their historic drinkers, great stories behind pub names and fantastic old pub buildings.
Tuesday 29 July; 2.30pm; Details/Book
Walking Tour - The Route of the Condemned through Holborn… via its Pubs.
Following part of the route to Tyburn via fine and historic pubs and exploring the gruesome history of the Tyburn Fair and that last drink.
Wednesday, 13 August, 2.30pm: Details'/Book
Walking Tour - A Dreadful Bow of Flame: The Great Fire of London
We trace the course of the Great Fire and the events of those 3 -4 days and attempt to see through the smoke of the myths surrounding it.
Thursday 28 August, 2.30pm: Details/Book
Tuesday 2 September, 2.30pm: Details/Book
Walking Tour - London’s Ragged and Reformers
Exploring Victorian London’s underbelly: including a Ragged school, social housing, and atmoshperic graveyard in Marylebone.
Thursday 18, September, 2.30pm: Details'/Book
From My Five Star Reviews
“Fascinating tales of the area told by Richard Watkins.”
“Although a Londoner myself, I learned so many new fascinating, important and often amusing things about the places and people associated with them. Richard is a very engaging guide and very well informed. Highly recommended.”
“As ever, Richard delivered a well-researched walk with verve & full of interest; subsequently folllowed up with useful links and references.”
“His clarity, enthusiasm for the subject and ability to recount the little-known details kept us wanting to come back for more.”
“Wonderful virtual tour… Well recommended.”