Secrets of St James

Obsessive aristocrats, eccentric scholars and extravagant monarchs. This walk tells the history of one of London's most fashionable areas, St James, and introduces some of the remarkable characters who walked the elegant streets, men like Sir Robert Walpole, the first Prime Minister; his son, Horace, outrageous letter writer, collector and author; and the Prince Regent (later, George IV) who built the most luxurious house in London and tore it down a few years later. Meet women like Nell Gwyn, Charles II's favourite mistress and Ada Lovelace, pioneer of computing 200 years ago.  And glimpse the steamy underside of life, including the story of notorious James Graham, London's first sexologist 250 years ago!  Come and see where they all lived and what they left behind! (Starting point near Green Park station.)

Regency books
Some 18c buildings in St James Square
The Queen's Chapel at St James Palace
  • Length of walk – 1.5-2 hours
  • Area covered – St James from Burlington House to Waterloo Place
  • Meeting place – Burlington House in the Royal Academy courtyard next to statue of Sir Joshua Reynolds in the middle
  • When available – on request or see calendar
  • Price - prices start at £12 per head or £10 for concessions* on scheduled walks*
  • TO BOOK - use the Booking tab above