Strolling along the iconic South Bank, one can’t help but feel the weight of history beneath their feet. From the towering spires of ancient cathedrals to the whispers of literary greats, this self-guided audio tour promises to unravel the area’s captivating past. Narrated by a local expert, the journey takes explorers through 400 years of London’s most intriguing stories, uncovering hidden gems and unearthing the neighborhood’s once-murky reputation. With lifetime access and offline capabilities, this immersive experience empowers visitors to explore Southwark’s rich heritage at their own pace, painting a vivid picture of the city’s storied evolution.
Key Points
- A self-guided audio tour that takes you on a 75-minute journey through 400 years of London’s South Bank history.
- Narration by a local Blue Badge Guide, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
- Discover hidden gems like ‘Nancy’s Steps’ from ‘Oliver Twist’ and the oldest operating theatre.
- Follow in the footsteps of literary greats like Chaucer and Shakespeare along the tour route.
- Virtual tour option available for an immersive home experience.
Tour Overview
This self-guided audio tour takes you on a captivating 75-minute journey through 400 years of London’s South Bank history.
With a local Blue Badge Guide as your narrator, you’ll explore ancient inns, churches, hospitals, markets, and prisons, uncovering the area’s murky reputation outside the City of London.
You can experience the tour at your own pace, with complete control and unlimited use before and after your booking date.
You even have the option to take a virtual tour from home.
Whether you’re walking the route or exploring virtually, you’ll be immersed in the sights and sounds of Southwark, from Chaucer and Shakespeare to the infamous ‘Oliver Twist’.
Tour Highlights
From ancient inns to iconic landmarks, this self-guided audio tour immerses you in the captivating history of London’s South Bank.
Marvel at centuries-old churches, hospitals, and prisons that have shaped the area’s murky reputation outside the City of London. Hear from your local Blue Badge Guide narrator as you follow in the footsteps of literary greats like Chaucer and Shakespeare.
You’ll explore at your own pace with complete control, using the VoiceMap app to guide you. Discover hidden gems like ‘Nancy’s Steps’ from ‘Oliver Twist’ and the oldest operating theatre in Britain.
With the option to use the virtual tour at home, you can learn about this rich cultural experience anytime.
Tour Route
Follow in the footsteps of literary luminaries like Chaucer and Shakespeare as you embark on a walking tour from London Bridge to the Tate Modern, uncovering Southwark’s murky reputation outside the City of London along the south bank of the Thames. Discover ancient inns, churches, hospitals, markets, and prisons that have stood the test of time. Marvel at ‘Nancy’s Steps’ from ‘Oliver Twist’, Southwark Cathedral, the oldest operating theatre in Britain, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. This self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace, with complete control over your experience.
| Site | Historical Significance |
|---|---|
| London Bridge | Crossing point over the River Thames since Roman times |
| Southwark Cathedral | Oldest gothic cathedral in London, dating back to 1106 |
| The Old Operating Theatre | Oldest surviving 19th-century operating theatre in Europe |
| Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre | Faithful recreation of the original 16th-century theatre |
| Tate Modern | Iconic modern art gallery in a former power station |
Tour Inclusions
Immersing oneself in the self-guided audio tour grants lifetime access to the experience in English, delivered through the intuitive VoiceMap app for Android and iOS devices.
Catered for offline use, the tour provides access to the comprehensive audio narration, interactive maps, and geospatial data, empowering explorers to embark on their journey at their own pace.
No need to worry about lugging around a smartphone and headphones – the app has got you covered.
With complete control over the experience, you can dive into the 400-year history of London’s South Bank, discovering iconic landmarks and hidden gems at your leisure.
The only things you’ll need to bring are your sense of adventure and curiosity.
Tour Exclusions
While the self-guided audio tour provides a comprehensive experience, there are a few key exclusions to keep in mind.
The tour doesn’t include any tickets or entrance fees to the museums, attractions, or other sites along the route. Explorers will also need to bring their own smartphone and headphones to access the tour’s audio and maps.
Plus, the tour doesn’t cover transportation costs or provide any food and drinks during the journey. So, visitors will need to budget and plan accordingly to fully enjoy the 400-year-old sights and stories of London’s vibrant South Bank.
But with the flexibility to explore at their own pace, the tour offers an immersive and authentic way to discover this historic neighborhood.
Availability and Pricing
The self-guided audio tour of London’s South Bank is available at convenient starting times, with prices that won’t break the bank. Visitors can reserve their spot in advance and pay later, with the tour costing just €7.34 per person.
| Tour Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 75 minutes |
| Availability | Check website for starting times |
| Payment | Reserve now, pay later |
| Price | €7.34 per person |
| Inclusions | Lifetime access, VoiceMap app, offline access |
The tour allows you to explore the South Bank at your own pace, discovering its rich history and hidden gems. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this self-guided experience is a must-try.
Exploring Southwark’s History
As visitors embark on the self-guided audio tour, they’ll uncover Southwark’s murky reputation, venturing beyond the City of London to the south bank of the Thames.
This historic neighborhood boasts ancient inns, churches, hospitals, markets, and even prisons, each with a tale to tell.
Along the way, they’ll encounter sites like ‘Nancy’s Steps’ from ‘Oliver Twist’, Southwark Cathedral, the oldest operating theatre in Britain, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
The tour offers a captivating glimpse into the area’s colorful past, from its connections to literary giants like Chaucer and Shakespeare to its seedier underbelly.
With complete control over the pace, visitors can enjoy Southwark’s rich history at their own leisure.
Accessing the Audio Tour
To access the self-guided audio tour, visitors simply need to reserve their spot online and download the VoiceMap app onto their smartphone.
With the app at the ready, they can then dive right into exploring Southwark’s rich history at their own pace, armed with engaging commentary from a local Blue Badge Guide.
The tour offers complete control, allowing explorers to stop, start, and revisit segments as they wish.
And the best part? The audio files are available for unlimited use, so visitors can return to the experience again and again, even after their initial booking date.
It’s the perfect way to uncover the hidden gems of London’s South Bank at one’s leisure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Pause and Resume the Audio Tour at Any Time?
Yes, you can pause and resume the audio tour at any time. The tour is designed to give you full control, allowing you to explore at your own pace without interruption.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be ideal for those with mobility issues, as it involves a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain. However, the self-guided nature allows visitors to take breaks and move at their own pace.
Can I Access the Tour on Multiple Devices?
Absolutely! You can access the tour on multiple devices. The tour comes with lifetime access, so you can use it on your smartphone, tablet, or any other compatible device whenever and wherever you want to explore the London South Bank.
Are There Options to Customize the Tour Experience?
The tour offers flexibility to customize the experience. Users can explore at their own pace, use the virtual tour option, and enjoy unlimited access before and after booking. This allows them to personalize their South Bank journey.
How Do I Get Assistance if I Encounter Any Issues During the Tour?
If you have any issues during the tour, you can easily reach out to the tour provider through the VoiceMap app. They’re responsive and ready to assist, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the South Bank at your own pace.
Recap
Set out on a captivating journey through Southwark’s rich heritage. Uncover the neighborhood’s hidden gems, from ancient churches to literary landmarks.
With the self-guided audio tour, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, enjoying the area’s centuries-old history.
Whether you’re a London local or a first-time visitor, this tour promises an immersive and enlightening experience.
