An Audio Guide of Oscar Wilde's Former London Haunts
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An Audio Guide of Oscar Wilde's Former London Haunts

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(1 reviews)
45m - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this self-guided walking tour, you will relive the highs and lows of the much-loved playwright's time in the city. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this tour, published by Blue Badge guide Brian Cookson.

Oscar Wilde moved to London in the late 1800s, where he would become the city’s most popular playwright. On this walking tour, I'll show you the places the Irish-born writer and poet frequented and share details about his life here and the work he created. You’ll also hear about some of the people he knew and two other earlier trendsetters, Lord Byron and Beau Brummel.

I’ll point out the theatres, shops and hotels Oscar Wilde frequented, many of which remain in the aristocratic areas of Mayfair and St James. I’ll also show you the former site of St James’s Theatre, where two of Wilde’s plays had their premieres. Outside the Theatre Royal Haymarket, you’ll hear how a palm reader rightfully predicted Wilde’s ruin at age 40.

Available options

An Audio Guide of Oscar Wilde's Former London Haunts

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1 Pass by

Start your tour in front of Devonshire House, where you'll embark on a journey through the life and haunts of Oscar Wilde in London.

2
Stop 2 Pass by

Walk through Berkeley Square, where characters from Wilde's novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray" resided, immersing yourself in the world of his literary creations.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

Pass by Maison Estelle, a historic establishment associated with Wilde's time in London, where you can imagine him strolling the streets of Mayfair.

4
Stop 4 Pass by

Outside Brown's Hotel, hear the poignant story of Wilde's conviction and imprisonment for homosexuality, reflecting on the societal attitudes of his time.

5

Stroll past the Royal Arcade, where Wilde's poem "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" was published after his release from prison, symbolizing his struggles and resilience.

6

Continue your walk through Burlington Arcade, soaking in the ambience of the elegant shopping district frequented by Wilde and his contemporaries.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

Pass by the Royal Academy of Arts, where Wilde and James Abbott McNeill Whistler gave lectures, reflecting on their intellectual contributions and friendships.

8

Walk by Hatchards Bookshop, a literary landmark where Wilde and his wife, Constance, were acquainted with the owner, fostering connections within London's literary circles.

9

Pass through Piccadilly Arcade, imagining Wilde browsing for his signature Fedora hat at Lock & Co Hatters, a storied establishment with a rich history.

10

Marvel at the Beau Brummell Statue, commemorating another influential figure of the era, as you reflect on the cultural milieu of 19th-century London.

11
Stop 11 Pass by

Pass by Smithson Plaza, where you'll glimpse architectural marvels and contemplate the changing landscape of London over the centuries.

12
Stop 12 Pass by

Walk past James J Fox, a renowned tobacconist frequented by Wilde and other luminaries, evoking the ambiance of London's past.

13
Stop 13 Pass by

Catch a glimpse of St James's Palace, a historic royal residence that adds to the rich tapestry of Wilde's London.

14

Explore Pickering Place, a hidden gem steeped in history, where you can envision Wilde navigating the vibrant streets of St James's Square.

15

Wander through St James's Square, soaking in the atmosphere of one of London's most prestigious neighborhoods, where Wilde left his mark.

16
Stop 16 Pass by

Stroll along Pall Mall, a thoroughfare lined with exclusive clubs and institutions, reflecting on the social milieu of Wilde's time.

17

Catch a glimpse of The Reform Club, an iconic institution synonymous with Victorian London, as you contemplate Wilde's connections to the city's elite.

18

Conclude your tour outside the Theatre Royal Haymarket, reflecting on Wilde's enduring legacy and the impact of his literary contributions on the world stage.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The walk starts near Green Park Underground Station. Take the Stratton Street exit from the station, then walk up Stratton Street away from Green Park. Turn right at Mayfair Place and the walk will start under the columned entrance to the block on your right.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE

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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour. 

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About London

London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene. From the ancient Tower of London to the modern Shard, the city offers a blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.

Top Attractions

Tower of London

A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are also housed here.

Historical 2-3 hours £28 (adult ticket)

Buckingham Palace

The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.

Historical 1-2 hours £27.50 (adult ticket for State Rooms)

The British Museum

One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.

Museum 2-3 hours Free (special exhibitions may have a charge)

The London Eye

A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.

Entertainment 30 minutes £27-£33 (adult ticket)

Westminster Abbey

A large, mainly Gothic abbey church just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the most notable religious buildings in the UK and the traditional place of coronation and burial for English and, later, British monarchs.

Religious 1-2 hours £27 (adult ticket)

Tower Bridge

An iconic symbol of London, this combined bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames. Visitors can explore the bridge's walkways and the Tower Bridge Exhibition.

Architecture 1-2 hours £11 (adult ticket for the exhibition)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish and Chips

A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).

Dinner Contains gluten and fish

Full English Breakfast

A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Afternoon Tea

A quintessential British tradition involving a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, all served with tea.

Snack Can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets

Sunday Roast

A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Rock climbing Kayaking on the Thames Cycling tours Afternoon tea Spas and wellness centers Punting on the River Cam Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in London, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and events. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be unpredictable.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

London is generally safe for travelers, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings
  • • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air
  • Heathrow Airport • 23 km from city center
  • Gatwick Airport • 40 km from city center
By train

London Waterloo, London King's Cross

By bus

Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon

Getting around

Public transport

The Tube is the fastest and most efficient way to get around London. It operates from early morning until late at night and covers all major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Westminster Camden Town Soho Notting Hill Shoreditch Greenwich

Day trips

Windsor Castle
34 km from London • Half day to full day

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's one of the official residences of the British monarch.

Stonehenge
130 km from London • Full day

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.

Brighton
80 km from London • Full day

Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Festivals

Notting Hill Carnival • Last Sunday and Monday of August London Film Festival • October New Year's Eve Fireworks • December 31

Pro tips

  • Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper and more convenient public transportation
  • Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to skip the queue and save money
  • Explore the city's neighborhoods and markets for a unique and authentic experience
  • Try the local street food and international cuisine at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market
  • Visit the city's parks and gardens for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
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Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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