Free guided walks around London this weekend

Whether you have an interest in history and art, enjoy green spaces and want to be outdoors or are simply after a free activity for the family – the walks cover a variety of fun and interesting themes.

A number of new walks have been introduced, including Urban Tree Trail which provides the opportunity to find out more about how ecosystems are managed in an urban landscape.

The weekend’s walks include:

Saturday 12 May 2018

Urban Tree Trail

This walk looks at street trees and other kinds of green infrastructure in London, exploring the importance of trees and discussing the environmental, economic and social benefits they can deliver. The walk is aimed at anyone with an interest in trees and the natural environment.

Goodnight Mister Tom

This family focused walk, inspired by the much loved children’s book “Goodnight Mister Tom” by Michelle Magorian, tells the story of Willy Beech who is evacuated outside of London during World War II. The walk explores the City of London and hears what life was like for those who remained in the capital during the Blitz

A Sensory and Dementia Friendly Walk

All are welcome to join this gentle sensory stroll to learn more about the history, flora and fauna of Dulwich Park. You will learn more about how to support people living with dementia to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the outdoors. The walk is primarily aimed at people who have dementia and their carers, friends and family but everyone is welcome.

Sunday 13 May 2018

#BehindEveryGreatCity Suffragette City

Much of the Suffragettes’ fight for “Votes for Women,” took place in Central London. We will discover where it all happened, as we walk through some of Westminster’s side streets and some famous landmarks including Trafalgar Square, Downing Street, Whitehall & the Houses of Parliament. Participants will meet the brave women who are fighting for the vote and the scheming politicians who are trying to stop them.

From Prejudice to Pride

This walk takes us through the heart of London’s modern LGBTQ+ community in Soho following the history and struggles of ‘the love that dare not speak its name’ and the challenges individuals have faced to have their gender identity recognised. The walk will take a look at some raffish and bohemian bars and meeting places from the 1930s as we learn about the fight for equality.

Walthamstow Wetlands

Set to be Europe’s largest urban wetland, Walthamstow Wetlands is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It also forms part of the Lee Valley Special Protection Area. Walthamstow Wetlands provides a special home to many species. Here participants will enjoy some peace and quiet whilst getting close to nature, observe birds both resident and rare.