London’s Spymasters
St James's Park Underground Station (Broadway/Petty France exit)
Guided by Dan Parry
Walk Times
| Day | Walk Type | Start Time | End Time | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27 April 2024 | Special | 2.30 pm | 4.30 pm | Winter | |
| 25 May 2024 | Special | 2.30 pm | 4.30 pm | Summer | Reserve Online |
| 29 June 2024 | Special | 2.30 pm | 4.30 pm | Summer | Reserve Online |
| 13 July 2024 | Special | 2.30 pm | 4.30 pm | Summer | Reserve Online |
| 31 August 2024 | Special | 2.30 pm | 4.30 pm | Summer | Reserve Online |
| 28 September 2024 | Special | 2.30 pm | 4.30 pm | Summer | Reserve Online |
| 26 October 2024 | Special | 2.30 pm | 4.30 pm | Summer | Reserve Online |
| 30 November 2024 | Special | 2.30 pm | 4.30 pm | Winter | Reserve Online |
Step into the shadows of Westminster and discover covert locations where spies, assassins and duplicitous double agents plied their trade. Visiting the smartest corners of London, we peer into a murky world marked by treason and treachery, betrayal and murder.
From the wartime HQ of Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) to the exceptionally discreet apartment of C, (‘M ‘in the Bond films), we walk in the footsteps of officers and agents who shaped history. Some of them managed Enigma – WWII’s greatest secret; others deviously created the biggest deception operation of the war.
AND WHILE WE’RE AT IT, MEET YOUR GUIDE
MORE ON THE WALK…
Some planned covert Cold War actions, a few gave away information on all of the above and one or two recently revealed GCHQ’s modern-day London secrets.
Visiting shadowy locations that are rarely seen, we pass Ian Fleming’s wartime office, the glamorous house once used by SIS as a recruitment centre and the beautiful garden that witnessed an ugly assassination. Guided by Dan Parry
“For decades to come the spy world will continue to be the collective couch where the subconscious of each nation is confessed.” – John le Carre
Want to find out more about wonderful Westminster? Check out our other Westminster tours.
Vivian W. –
A most informative walk through the hidden byways of St James’s and Mayfair. Dan led us past houses that looked quite innocuous from the outside but his fascinating commentary revealed the secrets behind their closed doors – they were offices for the Intelligence Services where spies and double agents plied their trade. Dan has actually interviewed some of these men and women and his talk has the authenticity of lived experience and personal anecdote. Fascinating to me was the way in which the actions of one person can change the course of history, in some cases, saving many lives, in others causing havoc and mayhem.
Andrea Bakas –
Thank you Dan – it was such fun learning about the people, the intrigues & drama around spycraft in central London. I’ve walked those streets & their main attractions before, but now I appreciate the significance of the street corners, buildings, alleyway hotels that I could not have otherwise known played a role in history. Dan is well versed in the WWII & Cold War eras & a skilled storyteller. I also appreciated the pace which was brisk (it was cold!) not rushed with time for questions.
Robyn O’Connell –
Dan truly brought history to life. It was fascinating to bring new meaning to buildings I’ve walked passed a million times, and to discover hidden parts of London I’ve never seen before. Dan has a wonderful way with words, and showed a great depth of knowledge and understanding of the topic. As a result, I think this tour would be suitable for every level of knowledge; you don’t have to be an expert already but if you are, you won’t be disappointed! Dan took all the background noise from the protest happening that day in his stride- I felt we were in safe hands. A captivating and enjoyable walking tour, thanks Dan!
Colin –
Dan Parry is a complete expert on the world of spying which makes for an excellent walk around some of London sites. He is very clear, articulate and well spoken, even competing with overhead helicopters which he was on the day we had the tour! As always with these walks they get you off the main roads to really discover hidden areas of London. Highly recommended
Aimee L –
Dan revealed a side of London hidden to many and right in front of us. Very knowledgeable, he brought the history to life … and even managed well with the added “ambience of a hovering helicopter overhead. Definitely recommend if you are a WW2 and cold war history buff … or a fan of the Westminster/St. James areas of London.
Toni Trickett –
My partner and I really enjoyed this walk. Dan is a font of information, and he kept us entertained with his knowledge and humour. The walk was well planned and paced, and covered interesting facts from World War II and the cold war to the present day. This walk provides an insight into a world most people never think about but exists to keep us all safe.
Anna Hayes –
Dan draws on an encyclopedic knowledge of a vast subject and does a great job of tying interesting tales and tidbits to buildings and sites where the stories took place. Highly recommended!
Neville White –
Dan imparts the story of spy’s in London and abroad in a way that is very informative and also light hearted and amusing, he is very enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
The 2 hour walk is done at a steady pace with many stops that will suit young and old alike.
We saw areas, roads and back alleys that we would never have realised were just off the beaten track, what a great afternoon.
Paul Scott –
Dan’s London’s Spymasters walk is just as absorbing and intriguing as his Pirates, Press-Gangs and Execution Dock walk. I loved every minute of it, and am amazed at the sheer depth of knowledge Dan is able to draw upon as he tells one fascinating story after another, while pointing out London sights I’ve simply never noticed before. I highly recommend both walks, and look forward to going on his Lost Palace of Downing Street walk next to complete the set!
Cleo –
That was amazing! Dan was great, so knowledgable and engaging. He really knew his stuff but made it accessible and interesting. I got a totally fresh perspective on the area of London and loved hearing all the stories. The time flew by, thank you so much!