As our “Move and Muse” project officially comes to an end for the season, we’re left with countless memories, moments of discovery, and steps taken through London’s rich history. Organized by London Advocacy and funded by the Transport for London, this project aimed to encourage active living while offering an engaging way to learn this historical city’s past. Over the last few months, we have witnessed not just a growing interest but also an increasing community spirit among participants, eager to walk and learn with us. Let’s take a moment to reflect on some of the highlights from our past walks.

We began our summer series in Kensington, taking a deep dive into Prince Albert’s vision of fostering art and science. We started at the magnificent Victoria and Albert Museum, where our participants gained insights into the rich collection of art and design. We also had a chance to look at the famous portrait of Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II, also known as Fatih or the Conqueror. The highlight of our tour was exploring Albertopolis, the cultural district envisioned by Prince Albert himself. Surrounded by iconic sites and the Prince Albert Memorial, we were immersed in the legacy of a prince whose dream shaped an entire city.

In July, our journey led us from Hyde Park to St James’s Park. Amidst the lush green spaces of Hyde Park, we touched on its deep historical ties with the monarchy. Did you know that back in the days Hyde Park was actually used as a hunting ground for royals? As we walked, our group took in the serene surroundings of Green Park and even got a glimpse of Buckingham Palace. While we didn’t receive a royal tea invitation, it was still a majestic walk! We wrapped up with a peaceful stroll through St James’s Park, and finishing near the historic St James’s Palace.

We wrapped up in October with a tour through Southwark, celebrating the cultural soul of London. Stopping at Shakespeare’s Globe, we could almost picture the historic performances that once took place on those very grounds. From London Bridge to the vibrant Borough Market, the day was filled with history, food, and interesting stories from London’s past. Let me tell you one. The original London Bridge is actually now standing in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. When Londoners wanted to build a new bridge, but also gain profit from the old one, they decided to sell it. Much to their luck, Robert McCulloch, an American entrepreneur, decided to buy the London Bridge and constructed it in a city he just newly built. And, of course, no Southwark tour would be complete without seeing the Golden Hinde, a legendary ship who travelled through the whole world, and the HMS Belfast docked along the Thames.

The response to these sessions has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are truly grateful for your engagement and support throughout this journey. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in March for more opportunities to walk through history together. Until then, keep an eye on our Eventbrite page and remember to book your tickets early—spaces fill up fast!