Artesian Tours of London’s Streets

Recently I have found myself becoming a retrospective tourist. I’ve taken a sightseeing bus tour, wandered the waxy halls of Madame Tussauds, and even attended a Jack the Ripper walk, visiting the locations of his 19th century murder-spree.

Ironically, Madame Tussaud’s was the only experience that was truly gruesome. Spending two hours crammed in like a sardine, being forced to listen to people saying things like ‘Oooo, Helen Mirren looks good for her age!’, without ever alluding to the fact that you could stick a wick in her head and use her as the Olympic torch left me wondering if some people actually knew where they were.

The tours, however, were great fun. In fact, the only downside that may put some people off (apart from the fact you have to pay, of course) is that you have to do it at someone else’s pace. But not anymore, thanks to le cool’s Artesian Wanders project. Sponsored by FIJI water, you simply download a map (interactive smart phone or regular printed versions are both available) and some audio podcasts, then pop your comfy shoes on to take your own walking tour above London’s forgotten underground rivers.

Their Winter walk follows the path of the Neckinger River in SE1, beginning at the George Inn (Shakespeare, Dickens and Pepys all got their liquid inspiration there), and taking you through Borough Market, London Bridge and Bermondsey, unveiling hidden gems along the way. These include everything from galleries, shops and pubs to cultural and historical sites which Londoners may pass every day without thinking twice about. ‘Just like the water flowing secretly beneath your feet,’ according to the podcast narrator.

One section I listened to took in everything from the squeamish tales of the oldest operating theatre in Europe (now housed in its own museum) all the way to tallest building in Europe, The Shard. London Bridge workers will know that these iconic buildings are but metres apart, but that’s the beauty of the tour – it focuses your attention on the groundbreaking sights you may have taken for granted. If that’s not enough, you’ll be pleased to know that you can also enjoy a number of special offers along each route. From cheap pizza deals, free FIJI bottled water or reduced museum admission, it’s not bad given you didn’t pay anything to begin with.

I will confess I haven’t done the whole thing, but that also means I can’t possibly tell you what the best bits are. Speaking of which, don’t take their word for what the best sights are – you are encouraged to share things not already covered by the narrator as you take the tour and post them on le cool’s Facebook/Twitter pages for the chance to win prizes. Whether you decide to take a loved one, your co-workers or just your lonesome, there is no better time of year to soak up the atmosphere of London – both old and new – whilst learning a thing or two on the way as well.

Artesian Wanders

Image by Tom Medwell