What we know about the world of spies and spying is limited to what governments, the military and spy organisations want us to know. The information that is released to the general public, through declassification, autobiographies from retired spies, and 'leaks'; only give us the smallest look into the secretive, selective, and seemingly seductive world of spies. This spy tour of London cannot reveal everything, but we can tell you what you need to know.
Aimed with both die-hard spy geeks and people who are curious if the best spies really do drink Vodka Martini's this tour gives you insight into what is known about the people who keep us safe from behind the scenes, and how they manage to do this without being noticed. Beginning in Swiss Cottage, the starting point for a spy story almost too good to be true, which involves the only Brit to receive the Iron Cross, we will take you to the anonymous and infamous sights of London that spies would rather you didn't know.
Waterloo Bridge is the site of one of the most famous Cold-War assassinations, that of Georgi Markov. Markov was killed by a poisoned Ricin pellet fired from a needle tipped umbrella and is one of a handful of assassinations carried out by Russian agents at the request of the Russian intelligence service.
This grand London hotel is steeped in espionage history, including connections to the creator of James Bond, who engaged in real-life intelligence work and has a surprising spy link to the tradition of placing a Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square. During World War II, this hotel was the favourite residence of a spy so secretive that even Prime Minister Winston Churchill was unaware of his identity.
Edith Cavell was a nurse in occupied Belgium during the First World War. Executed by the Germans on charges of spying, which the British government denied, she became a martyr and a symbol of German inhumanity. However, newly declassified documents suggest a very different version of events.
Discover how a Canadian MI6 spy warned the British government about possibly another war with Germany as early as 1919.
This is where some the Directorate of Naval Intelligence was based during both World Wars. Hear how this secretive military organisation was fundamental in the establishment of two of Britain's secret services, how intelligence deciphered here helped bring America into World War One, and how a plan created in this building, using a dead body, went on to not only fool the Germans but inspire the best-reviewed British Musical of all time!
Whitehall is home to the British Government and has been linked to Spying and Spies since the early 20th Century. It is also the location of Downing Street and the Admiralty, both of which have links to the British Secret Service. Home to the first head of the Secret Service, the police force charged with stopping foreign spies in the First and Second World Wars, Whitehall is also the location of Downing Street and the Admiralty.
Stopping at Parliament Square allows us to talk about how Sir Winston Churchill changed the fact of espionage through his decisive leadership during the Second World War.
Parliament Square also gives us a chance to discuss the UK's Parliamentary oversight of our Spy organisations, how we work with our international allies, and how a Spy ended up buried in one of the world's most famous the UNESCO world heritage sites - Westminster Abbey.
From here we will board a famous London double-decker bus and head towards Mi6.
Riverside Walk Gardens is the perfect place to take photos and hear all about the Security Intelligence Service (Mi6), its history, and how it works with its sister organisations the Security Service (Mi5) and Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ).
Whilst here we will also learn about how Mi6 and its headquarters have been used in the James Bond films, and TV series such as Sherlock.
After looking at Mi6 we will cross Vauxhall Bridge and get the train to Waterloo where we will walk the short distance to our final location.
The tour will start outside Watchouse inside the central courtyard of Somerset House.
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.
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.
The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.
One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.
A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.
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.
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.
A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).
A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.
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.
A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.
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.
British Pound (GBP)
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
230VV, 50HzHz
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.
London Waterloo, London King's Cross
Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon
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.
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Car, Bike, Scooter
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 is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.
Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
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