I have lived, and worked, in London for over 35 years and absolutely love sharing facts and history about the City with visitors and locals. I like to make my tours fun, as well as informative, and I am really passionate about our 2,000 years of history here in London.
Q. What inspired you to become a guide?
I had been on walking tours in London for many years and used to find I retained the information, which I would then share with friends if we visited that particular area. I decided to train as a Guide myself, and haven't looked back.
Q. Tell us a story from one of your tours.
When I had 12 guests on the Borough Market Food Tour. They were all so friendly and everyone got on so well that it became more and more sociable as we went around the food stops. By the time we got to the final stop, the pub, it was wonderful to see them all recommending places in London for the other guests to try, and having so much fun swapping stories. It didn't feel like work!
I can't get enough of London and try to learn something new every day.
I am a big hiker and love to pull on a backpack and head out on a multi-day hiking trail whenever I can.
I am always friendly and love to chat. Guiding is my perfect job!
Q: Best time of year to enjoy London?
Springtime. Late April, May and June are beautiful times in the city with the flowers coming into bloom and not as many tourists as in July and August.
Q: What do you tell your visiting friends to see in London?
I would recommend everyone visit Westminster Abbey, which is spectacular and has almost 1,000 years of history, as well as the Tower of London. Many of the main museums and art galleries are free and they are fantastic places to visit, and a good option in rainy weather. If you like World War II history then you absolutely must visit the Churchill War Rooms. Everyone who visits them is really impressed.
Q: What about the culture in London should people not miss?
Enjoying a drink in a traditional pub, especially a local ale or cider. If you eat lunch or dinner in the same pub and opt for fish and chips, you will have ticked off two London traditions.
Q: What are some unmissable foods and drinks?
London has a really international food and drink scene. I would recommend Borough Market for oysters, traditional cheeses, sausage roll and the best apple crumble. Or take a walk around China Town and visit one of the many Chinese restaurants there. If you get chance to try some English wine then you will be pleasantly surprised.
