London by Gaslight, A walk led by Elan Walks

Discover the magical gas lamps of Westminster and marvel at their fascinating history and world-changing legacy.

London was the first city in the world to be lit by gas-lamps and gaslight have continued to illuminate our streets for over 200 years. Their invention revolutionised night life in London and all major towns and cities throughout the world.

On this tour you will hear about the history of the lamps, see where they were first demonstrated, learn how they became bigger and brighter over the years, and understand their place as an important part of our heritage that should be preserved for future generations.

This tour also takes us past some of the most historic building in London including Westminster Abbey, Spencer House, St James’s Palace, the National Gallery and the Savoy Hotel.

I challenge you not to be enchanted by our beautiful gas-lamps some of which are over 100 years old.

Feedback from Clients

“A lovely tour, seeing the gas-lamps made me feel happy as a child, I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the history of London.” - Rosa V.S.

“Helen is an exceptional guide, pacing her tours perfectly both in speed and with regard to the knowledge she imparts. Year-round I have been addicted, and can't recommend Elan Walks highly enough” – Belinda Adams

Information about this Walk

The starting point of the walk is under the gas-lamp in front of the Westminster Abbey shop, to the RHS of the front entrance to Westminster Abbey.This is a 5 minute walk from Westminster tube station.We finish the walk on the Strand where those who wish can share a drink or food in a lovely Edwardian pub that naturally still has a gas-lamp outside.This is a 5 minute walk from Charing Cross Rail and tube Station.This walking tour is 2 hrs 30 minutes.This walk is mainly on flat pavements, there are 2 flights of steps that could be avoided if necessary on request.

This event helps raise funds for The Victorian Society - the only charity dedicated to fighting for our Victorian and Edwardian heritage. Funds raised from events and memberships allow us to employ expert caseworkers to reply to thousands of planning applications a year in our role as a statutory consultee in the planning system.

We help tackle the climate emergency by campaigning for the sensitive reuse of historic buildings to generate much lower carbon emissions than demolition and rebuild. Join us today and safeguard our unique cultural heritage for future generations! For further information, click here.

About Elan Walk

Elan Walks are small group guided walks created by Helen for people with curious minds, who love to walk and explore London’s treasures and delights hidden in corners or in plain sight. Come and discover something new about London, or see familiar places in a different light with Elan Walks.

Tour Director Helen has lived in London for 30 years working as an actor, tour guide and stand up comedian, she is also a prize winning poet. Her love of London's rich history, its arts, architecture, food, green spaces, wildlife and constant reinvention will probably keep her here for 30 more years.

Cancellations

Cancellations will be accepted up to a week before the event. A refund will be issued but will be subject to a £10 deduction per ticket for administrative costs.

Disclaimer

You participate in events at your own risk, and neither the Society nor its officers or servants accept any liability of any kind whatsoever, howsoever arising. The Victorian Society reserves the right to cancel, alter or postpone events if necessary.