You’re right to do a double take. London’s most elegant postcode has a wicked glint in its eye. Behind the white stucco and garden squares lies a neighbourhood purring with secrets. This is where Mozart wrote his first symphony.
And where the Beatles’ story took a tragic turn.
Where the Titanic was dreamed up – and where her fate was sealed.
Your guide is Andy Hotels, resident historian at Brown’s Hotel and London’s expert on the secret lives of its grand addresses. He’s the ghost at the banquet, perfectly at home in the world of chandeliers and clubland whispers – the man who knows which drawing room plotted which scandal.
By way of a taster: Ian Fleming’s bachelor pad – where James Bond was born. And point counterpoint the haunt of his villainous Hugo Drax. The next move on the backgammon board is Andy’s murmured confidence: “later, while Ian Fleming was creating his unflappable secret agent, his own marriage was coming apart at the seams. His wife Ann was in the throes of a torrid affair with the Labour leader Hugh Gaitskell. Knowing that, a line like ‘The bitch is dead now’ from Casino Royale takes on a chill that feels a little too close to home.” High stakes indeed.
You’ll hear of lords who vanished, thieves who got away with it, spies who didn’t, and society’s glittering elite who tried to keep their secrets under wraps.
A walk through Belgravia is a stroll through style and scandal – a world of Aston Martins and missing earls, glamour and intrigue at every turn.
IT ALL COMES DOWN TO THE GUIDING
AND A VERY CLASSY ENDING POINT
The walk ends at Little Big Ben, by Victoria Station.
Mark Litterman –
My wife and I found Andy’s walk in Belgravia fascinating. The pace was good, his talks at each of the stops was interesting but not overwhelming. Most importantly I had a much better understanding of the history of Belgravia after we completed the walk.
Ann-Charlotte Gustavsson –
Super 🎉!!
Jill P –
I thoroughly enjoyed Andy’s Belgravia tour today. He regaled us with interesting anecdotes and fascinating historical facts. He brought all the characters to life and I learned a great deal about an area I didn’t know too well. Andy’s both knowledgeable and personable – I’d highly recommend any of his tours. Thanks so much, Andy!
Richard –
Gosh, that was fun. From organising great weather to the surprise ending (no spoilers) this was a well constructed and well delivered walk from start to finish. Andy’s relaxed style helped in the presentation of amusing anecdotes at each of the stopping points, while recognising and reinforcing the classy surrounds. I really enjoyed the morning. Thanks Andy.
Malcolm Dewhurst –
Who would have thought of such goings on in this exclusive part of London. Take in the air and fasten your seatbelts. Andy delivers his entertaining tales with wit and wisdom.
Tania –
Great walk, lots of interest facts.
Sue Littleford –
This was my first walking tour and I found it really informative. Andy, the guide, was very knowledgeable and also added humour to the tour as well. Would book another one.
Emma Parker –
Belgravia is an area I do not know enough about so was excited to be invited on this tour. Andy was great – from arrival to the end, he was entertaining and delightful. I learnt so much about the area and he managed to get the whole group chatting to each other which was wonderful.
Emma-Louise Browning –
Andy is very knowledgeable and personable and the walk is great fun and very informative
Kitt Garrett –
Andy’s tours are both a fun and informative way to explore a neighbourhood and or theme.
His book about Brown’s Hotel is a must for anyone who loves history and hotels.