Westminster Behind the Abbey
more details and highlights
​Away from the noise and crowds of Parliament Square, we’ll be walking through some beautiful Georgian streets. You’ll meet some of the characters who have lived and worked here – politicians of course, but also criminals, chancers, creatives and campaigners ….
Where: Westminster
Duration: 1.5 hours
Distance: 2 kilometres - 1.2 miles
Meeting point: Westminster Abbey bookshop
Finishes: Deans Yard/The Sanctuary SW1
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Who will enjoy this tour? Perfect for anyone interested in discovering a different side of Westminster. The route takes you off the traditional tourist trail, giving fresh views of the famous buildings that draws people from around the world. Plenty of social and political history, with entertaining stories that will keep everyone entertained.
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Booking: 07912 583505 or mariehelly@yahoo.co.uk On demand
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Accessibility: can be enjoyed by wheelchair users with some small adjustments. Let us know your needs ahead of time.
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Tufton Street
Tufton Street has been home to an eclectic mix of residents. On this tour you will meet the man who tried to steal the crown jewels, the woman who founded the Mother's Union and hear about the "other" influential black door in British politics - the anonymous people who have changed history at number 55.
Smith Square
The serene Smith Square has witnessed big moments across the twentieth century. We'll hear about some of the turbulent events the Georgian buildings have witnessed. The baroque church of St John's is the main attraction; built to save the Church of England; bombed by Suffragettes and the Luftwaffe. Across the road trade unions, the Conservative Party and the Labour Party lived eyeball to eyeball, facing off across the historic cityscape for half a century.
Dean's Yard
We visit the secret oasis of Dean's Yard, right behind Westminster Abbey. Home to Westminster Public School, young choristers and the Church of England. Also an ancient place of sanctuary since Edward the Confessor in the eleventh century. We will hear about some of the people who have lived, hidden and been imprisoned in the precincts of the ancient Abbey.
