5 (12)
London
Dickens' Christmas Carol Walking Tour of Old London
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Overview
A Christmas Carol and Charles Dickens Old London Walking Tour lets guests step back in time to explore the London that inspired Charles Dickens. This private tour offers a unique and personal experience, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the festive spirit of "A Christmas Carol."
Guests can expect to see the very sites that Ebenezer Scrooge would have recognized. The tour guide will bring to life hidden courts, alleys, and taverns featured in Dickens's stories, offering a glimpse into the world of Victorian London. Key stops include the Inns of Court, the historic Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub, the Royal Exchange, George and Vulture, and Leadenhall Market. Although not explicitly named, the tour evokes the atmosphere of Scrooge's Dismal Tavern.
This private tour includes a professional guide dedicated to providing a bespoke experience. Food and drinks are not included, allowing guests the flexibility to choose their refreshments. Pick-up and drop-off services are also not included; however, the guide will meet guests directly at their London accommodation for added convenience. 
Highlights
Follow Scrooge's Footsteps: Explore real London locations featured in "A Christmas Carol."
Discover Hidden London: Uncover secret alleys, courts, and historic taverns.
Private and Personal: Enjoy a tour tailored to your pace and interests.
Meet at Your Hotel: Start your adventure with convenient pick-up at your London accommodation.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally praise the tour's informative guide, historical insights, and personalized experience, though some desire more time at locations and extra visual support.
Customers enjoyed the guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.
Many loved learning about Dickens and London's history.
Visitors appreciated the flexible and personalized experience.
Some found the tour to be a festive and memorable activity.
A few customers wished for more time at certain locations.
Some felt the tour could benefit from additional visual aids.
The Journey
Inns of Court
Wander through the historic Inns of Court, a labyrinth of legal chambers and courtyards that served as Dickens' workplace as a junior clerk. Discover the inspiration behind his iconic novels like 'David Copperfield', 'Great Expectations', and 'Martin Chuzzlewit' as you explore this atmospheric setting steeped in history and literary significance. The Inns offer a glimpse into Dickens' early life and the world that shaped his imagination.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
Step back in time at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, a historic tavern with cellars dating back to the 13th century. This pub was a favorite haunt of Charles Dickens and a rumored meeting place for the infamous Hellfire Club. Imagine David Copperfield raising a glass within these very walls, as you warm yourself by the fire with a glass of mulled wine. Experience the ambiance and history that drew Dickens to this timeless establishment.
Royal Exchange
Visit the Royal Exchange, located next to the Bank of England. This grand building serves as the backdrop for a chilling scene in 'A Christmas Carol,' where the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come shows Scrooge his colleagues discussing his impending funeral. Stand on the steps where royal announcements are traditionally made and imagine the bustling trading floor of yesteryear. While bankers are now replaced by designer shops and champagne bars, the Royal Exchange remains a powerful symbol of London's financial history and Dickensian drama.
George and Vulture
Delve deeper into the world of Ebenezer Scrooge by visiting Scrooge's Counting House, his supper spot on Christmas Eve, and Charles Dickens' beloved Chop House, the George and Vulture. This atmospheric tavern, mentioned over 20 times in 'The Pickwick Papers,' remains remarkably unchanged. Picture Dickens himself settling into his favorite table and ordering his preferred meal. Just around the corner, Simpsons-in-the-Strand likely inspired Scrooge's favorite eating spot. Discover the tales and flavors of Dickens' London in this historic setting.
George and Vulture
Experience the timeless charm of the George and Vulture, one of Charles Dickens' favorite restaurants and chop houses. Here, Mr. Pickwick and his renowned Club convened, alongside the notorious Hellfire Club. Immerse yourself in the unchanged interior that evokes the very era of Dickens, where history and culinary delights intertwine to create a truly memorable experience.
Scrooge's Dismal Tavern (Implied)
Imagine stumbling upon a dimly lit, unassuming tavern tucked away in a forgotten corner of London. Could this be the very spot that inspired Dickens' vision of Scrooge's dismal and austere tavern? While its true identity remains a mystery, this thought-provoking location invites you to contemplate the darker side of Victorian London and the somber atmosphere that permeated Scrooge's world.
Leadenhall Market
Explore the stunning Leadenhall Market, known for its appearances in the Harry Potter films. More importantly, it features in 'A Christmas Carol' as the place where Scrooge, transformed by his ghostly encounters, sends a boy to purchase the largest turkey on Christmas morning. Wander through the beautiful Victorian architecture and imagine the joyful scene as Scrooge embraces the spirit of Christmas, creating a heart-warming moment in Dickens' timeless tale.
Know Before You Go
This private tour includes a professional guide who will meet guests at their London accommodation. Food and drinks are not included, allowing guests to explore London's culinary offerings independently. Pick-up and drop-off services are not provided, but the meeting point at the accommodation ensures a convenient start to the tour.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers enjoyed warming up with a drink at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub. Consider allowing extra time to savor the atmosphere and perhaps try a traditional mulled wine, just as Charles Dickens might have done!
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