Diane Williams
Regional Qualification(s):
London
Language(s):
English
Phone Number(s):
07766 050702
Website:
Contact guide
Introduction:
London is not just a city. It’s a dazzling variety of experiences waiting to be enjoyed. And to really make the most of your visit, it helps to know someone in the know.
As a qualified London Blue Badge guide I’ll bring the picture postcards to life. At the Tower of London, we’ll walk through 1000 years of royal history, uncovering dark stories of treachery, murder and execution. At Westminster Abbey we’ll see the spot where monarchs are crowned and where they are laid to rest.
If museums and galleries are your thing, I’ll take you straight to the highlights of the vast British Museum Collection and the star attractions of the National Gallery or Tate Modern. Or join me at the National Portrait Gallery and come face to face with some of the most famous (and infamous) people in history.
Love to stray off the beaten track? So do I. How about a walk in the old City to discover hidden courtyards and alleyways most Londoners have never seen? Or cross the river to track down the bear pits, taverns and theatres of Shakespeare’s Southwark. Or discover one of London's unique neighbourhoods like Bloomsbury, Spitalfields or Marylebone - all with their own distinct character and fascinating stories to explore.
I also offer themed walks including:
Bloody London- a gruesome foray into the world of murder, executions, body snatchers and more.
Dickens' London - discover the places, people and experiences that shaped the life and work of Britains' most famous author.
Scandals of Soho - strictly adults only, this tour introduces you to this fascinating (and notorious) district, the home of legendary artists, writers, revolutionaries and eccentrics.
Scandals of Mayfair - follow in the footsteps of Mayfair's most infamous:cunning courtesans, the "mad, bad and dangerous to know" poet, and a host of other shady characters.
I look forward to meeting you and helping you discover your London.
Personal Interests:
| History especially royalty. Shakespeare, Dickens and literary London. Markets. Pubs and afternoon tea. And seeking out London’s hidden gems. |
Special Interests:
| Castles & Palaces | Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens. Hear stories of intrigue and executions, royal romances and daily life at Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and Hampton Court. |
| Literature | Discover the London that inspired our greatest writers including Shakespeare's Southwark and the North bank where the young Charles Dickens survived desperate poverty to become the most successful writer of his time. |
| Shopping | From the chic boutiques of Mayfair and the King’s Road, to the eclectic crafts and fashion of Spitalfields and Brick Lane markets, you’ll find lots to tempt you in London. |
| History & Prehistory | You’ve seen them in books and in the movies. But nothing beats seeing these iconic London sights for yourself: Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Changing of the Guard, The British Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral. |
| London Areas in Depth | Discover London's most fascinating neighbourhoods: Bloomsbury - a unique neighbourhood which has inspired generations of writers such as Dickens, Orwell and Peter Pan creator, JM Barrie as well as artists, academics and medical pioneers. Marylebone - elegant streets and green squares, home to aristocrats and artists, painters and pop stars and one of London's best but least known galleries. The City of London - 21st century skyscrapers. medieval alleyways and a thousand years of history to explore in London's buzzing financial district. Spitalfields - walk through atmospheric, Instagrammable streets. Discover stories of Roman settlers, Huguenot refugees and London's most infamous serial killer. Then enjoy a bite to eat and some retail therapy at the fabulous covered market. |
| Conferences & Incentives | I love guiding corporate/college groups. As well as the usual sights, I am happy to tailor tours according to your interests or location. |
Driver Guide:
No
